This article explains how mortgage companies play a crucial role in providing funds for people to buy homes. They operate in two main markets: the primary market where loans are given to borrowers, and the secondary market where these loans are traded as securities. Government-sponsored entities like Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae are key players in the secondary market. Securities markets also play a big role in pricing mortgage-backed securities, which affects mortgage rates nationwide. Various entities like banks, insurance companies, and real estate investment trusts are involved in the mortgage industry.