Mortgage rates fell abruptly Monday, a day after the federal government announced that it was taking control of home lending giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

The federal government will soon launch a new plan to help to modify more delinquent loans and aid the homeowners who have the trouble making the payment.

Federal lawmakers enacted tax legislation they hoped would make the process a bit more affordable.

If you're looking for a way to refinance your mortgage, you might want to consider a loan that's backed by the Federal Housing Administration or, if you're a U.S. military veteran, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Loans backed by these two federal government agencies are especially attractive today because the loan amount limits have been raised, and some loan programs are open to homeowne...