Getting a new mortgage loan on your home to replace the first one is known as refinancing. The most common reason to refinance a mortgage is to get a better term and lower interest rate, both of which will save you money in the short and long term. What is Refinancing? Here’s how a refinance… Read More »
For many mortgage holders, the idea of refinancing is unappealing. Each time you refinance, the clock resets. Basically, you could be turning back the mortgage clock 30 years every time you do a refinance. In some cases, particularly if you are just a few years away from paying off your loan, refinancing may be a… Read More »
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial first step in home buying. Many potential first time home buyers make the mistake of running out to look at homes before getting pre-approved for a first time home buyer mortgage. This is understandable but is a mistake. A mortgage pre-approval is necessary for two reasons. First,… Read More »
The terms “affordability” and “ultra-luxury housing market” may not immediately seem like they go together, but the truth is that as the U.S. housing market continues its recovery and median sales prices keep trending upward, more and more cities and towns across the country, even some not necessarily considered elite enclaves, will likely see their… Read More »
More and more renters are considering home-ownership. Banks and mortgage lending companies have announced new finance options for first time home buyers. In many instances, the guidelines have been loosened and the credit rules have been eased. This year appears to be a great year for consumers to stop renting and make the plunge to… Read More »
For recent graduates, young professionals or folks considering a career change, affordability of housing often becomes the deciding factor in where they choose to look for a job. Of course, we all want to make the highest possible salary, but a souped-up paycheck in a city with sky-high rent won’t do you much good since… Read More »
Since the end of the great recession, home prices in America have rebounded substantially. Since the dark days of 2009, prices have steadily climbed and are up over 50% on average from the lowest point. This is great news for homeowners whose homes may be worth more than their pre-recession values, but less great news… Read More »
Working well with your mortgage loan officer is critical to your home ownership dreams. He or she is the one that can make your mortgage a reality or deny the application outright. So, it is essential to have good communication with your loan officer from the start and before you sign mortgage disclosures. But many… Read More »
Home-owners have seen the equity in their home increase the last few years, and interest rates are on the rise. Rather than refinancing their first mortgages and possibly getting a higher interest rate, more home owners are opting for a home equity loan that provides a clear and simple path to receive cash back cost-effectively.… Read More »
Are interest rates on FHA home loans still competitive? Are first time house buyers still considering FHA loan programs in today’s market? FHA recently released details about the health of its Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund this week, which revealed enough economic net worth and enough capital reserves. But despite these facts, FHA has still said… Read More »
