APR (Annual Percentage Rate) Comparing the cost of Home loans When you see a loan rate advertised, you’ll also see a corresponding APR (4.5%/4.762% APR). This Annual Percentage Rate is the total cost of your loan (interest and fees) expressed as a single number. The purpose is to give you one number for comparing multiple loans.…
The FHA loan program
The FHA loan program was designed to help those who have trouble getting a home purchase a new home. In fact, the FHA loan program is the oldest loan program in the US. It’s been helping people get homes from close to 90 years. Created during the great depression and insured by the Federal Housing…
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Buying a home is an exciting process however you must ensure you have the details worked out for your loan to secure the home of your dreams. Getting all the details worked out for financing ahead of time will make the entire process much more enjoyable and stress-free as moving forward. Applying & Getting…
Renting vs. Owning a Home
There’s more to comparing the costs of renting and owning a home than the dollar cost of payments. Even with numbers like these, some still say renting is better: “Investing in a home is riskier than renting.” No risk, no reward. Besides, even studies conducted by the Federal Reserve show that owning can provide a net…
USDA Rural Housing Loans
What is preventing you from getting that dream home you’ve been watching for the past month? Is your credit score low? Do you not have a down payment? A USDA loan may be the difference you’ve been needing. USDA loans are guaranteed by the Rural Development Wing of the Department of Agriculture. These loans target…
Mortgage Rate Education
Know what factors influence the actual rate for your loan. Securing the lowest possible rate has less to do with scouring ads and more to do with the particulars of your transaction. Lenders typically pick the best scenario as the basis for advertisements. Unfortunately, best-case doesn’t apply to every loan. Here are some factors that…
Mortgage DOs and DON’Ts
Here are Mortgage DOs and DON’Ts to follow during your loan process. DO: Keep All Records in Good Order. Availability– Keep your financial records close at hand in case updates are requested. Income– Be aware that underwriters typically verify your income and tax documents through your employer(s), CPA, and/or IRS tax transcripts. Hold onto new…
Planning Ahead for the Mortgage Application
Preparing in Advance Will Save You Time and Trouble Once You’ve Started Making Offers. INCOME Provide Your Last two paystubs along with your W2s and Federal tax returns for the last two years (include all schedules). State returns are not needed. If you are self-employed, ask me for the additional documentation requirements. If you receive…
Mortgage Rate Lock
Rate Locks: Why do longer ones cost more? It’s all about risk. Between the times you make application and close your Home loan, interest rates will do what they always do – change. At times, the rate of change is exceptionally volatile, even from one minute to the next. “Locking in” your interest rate protects…
