In Episode 3 of the Pursuit of Property Podcast, hosts Max Rymer and Andrew Chermak dive into one of the most talked-about topics in housing news: the proposed 50-year mortgage. After comments from FHFA leadership sparked national debate, Max and Andrew break down what this policy would actually mean for affordability, interest rates, homeownership, and long-term financial health.
They unpack how the 50-year concept compares to the traditional 30-year mortgage, why interest rates rise as terms lengthen, and the unintended consequences that could leave buyers paying mostly interest for the first decade. The conversation also looks back at the history of U.S. mortgages—how FDR’s 30-year fixed loan transformed housing—and why extending terms today may not solve the core problem.
They discuss:
- Why a 50-year mortgage might not lower payments as much as people expect
- Why homeowners could end up “renters with paperwork”
- How amortization works (and why equity matters)
- Whether this helps or harms first-time buyers
- The political motivations and economic implications
- Why fixing affordability requires deeper structural changes, not just longer loans
If you want a clear, honest breakdown of mortgage policy from two industry insiders, this episode delivers it.