Saturday, August 30, 2008

The Mortgage Payment Is Paid By The Investor, Or A Company Controlled By The Investor

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

The Story: In 2007, Sally was having trouble keeping up with her mortgage payments, she received a, and by September foreclosure notice in the mail. He said she could have a check for$ 40, 000 to help pay her bills, and she wouldn t have to worry about foreclosure any more.



A few days later, she was called by a man who said he could help. Sally signed papers in late October at a title company in Maryland. Nine months later, Sally started having trouble making her house payments again. She went home with a$ 40, 000 check and started making her new house payments to District Properties in December. This time, instead of a foreclosure letter, she received an eviction letter in the mail. She was simply a renter.


Sally gradually realized that she no longer owned her home. In a panic, Sally called District Properties. Sally s income and credit were not good enough to buy her house at that price. The man who answered the phone told her that Subprime Mortgage Co. held two loans against the house, one for$ 264, 000 and one for$ 66, 000, but she could buy her house back for$ 360, 000- three times the mortgage she had a year earlier. The man said, "I m sorry" and hung up. In the end, Sally lost her house, Subprime Mortgage Co. foreclosed, and the group that orchestrated the fraud made more than$ 100, 00 This fraud is different from predatory lending, in part because Sally never made a loan.


The Profile: Like hundreds of District residents, Sally became a victim of mortgage fraud for profit, sometimes called" equity skimming. " The scheme she fell victim to was orchestrated by a variety of people, including a mortgage broker, appraiser, real estate agent, "investor, " "straw buyer, " and" bird dog. " Each person in the scheme received a portion of the equity in Sally s house. Predatory lending typically involves a single loan with extremely high fees and a high interest rate made to a homeowner or legitimate purchaser. The borrower is typically a straw buyer, who never intends to occupy the house. Mortgage fraud for profit is typically a more complex scheme involving an inflated appraisal, equity skimming, falsified loan applications, property flipping, and sometimes identity theft. The mortgage payment is paid by the investor, or a company controlled by the investor. In a typical mortgage fraud for profit scheme, a bird dog looks for distressed houses by checking public real estate records and driving around targeted neighborhoods.


Eventually, the investor stops making mortgage payments, forcing the lender to foreclose, or sells( "flips" ) the house for additional profit. When a house is identified, the bird dog reports the address to the investor and receives$ 1, 000 or so for the service. In some cases, a straw buyer is a stolen identity. A straw buyer, who is a person with good credit or a falsely inflated credit score, poses as a buyer. The person whose name is stolen may discover the theft when credit is denied or the purchase appears on a credit report. In many cases, a straw buyer, however is a person who hears by word of mouth through family, friends or co- workers that someone will pay$ 5, 000 to$ 10, 000 for the use of his or her name. In some cases, a straw buyer is a participant in the scheme- a professional straw buyer.


As with most financial arrangements that seem too good to be true, a one- time straw buyer often finds that things do go wrong: his credit may be ruined because the mortgages are not paid, he may be investigated by law- enforcement for fraud, or he may be charged with conspiracy. Usually, both are active participants in the scheme and receive money for falsifying documents. In addition to bird dogs and straw buyers, a mortgage broker and appraiser are important participants in a mortgage fraud for profit. Other industry professionals who play an important role are employees of a title company who create closing documents and disburse funds after a sale is completed. As reported in the 2006 FBI Financial Crimes Report, 80 percent of all reported mortgage fraud losses involve industry insiders. Professionals who have access to credit report databases or software that generates W- 2 forms and pay stubs also participate in the scheme. Perhaps this is why mortgage fraud for profit has become so prevalent throughout the country.


People tend to trust professionals in the financial industry. A homeowner facing foreclosure is easily convinced by a professional mortgage broker, that he should, for example sign contracts that convey his house to someone else. This is one of the reasons that government regulations requiring financial industry professionals to maintain specific standards are so crucial for the protection of consumers.

Friday, August 29, 2008

What Is An 80/ 20 Mortgage

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

A home equity mortgage refinance may be a skillful way to go very well now, before rates go up. Well, you may also know that the interest going back up.



Over the last few yonks Dick has about friends and family refinancing home mortgage. If you are going to refinance your mortgage, now is the time. A home parity mortgage can lower your mortgage payment. By refinancing you can also put yourself in a better financial situation in 3 different ways. A home fairness mortgage can be used for debt, this will also be tax. There is essentially no down side to a home justice mortgage as long as you are able to self- assured a lower awareness rate. A home impartiality mortgage refinance can also be used to remodel your home, or add an adjunct.


One other option is to use your refinance to shorten the whole term of your, maybe unkind 5 centuries off of your term. Generally when you employ for an virtual home mortgage you will get the best possible concentration rate. An real- time home mortgage is most home buyer s best alternative. The internet has created a very minute world for available home mortgage lenders. The home mortgage marketplace has skillful dramatic vagaries because of the internet. Shoppers are able to compare rates from numerous in a few.


Getting a mortgage with good interests is a today, than it has ever been. You only need to know a few inside tips. The state, is in the hands of the end user for the first time in history. There are 3 equipment that every home buyer be duty- bound to do to get a huge mortgage offer. Here is what you need know about financing your home with an 80/ 20 mortgage loan. If you are a prospective homeowner wanting to secure financing to leverage your home but do not have the 20 percent down sum necessary by most mortgage, an 80/ 20 mortgage could be your reply.


In many parts of the country the average rate for a home has gone up meaningly over the past few. Many of these have turned to 80/ 20 mortgages to sure of yourself 100 of the mortgage financing they need. This it difficult for many nation to qualify for the financing they need using a old mortgage owner. What is an 80/ 20 Mortgage? You will have a first mortgage for 80% of your merit and a second mortgage for the lasting 20% . An 80/ 20 mortgage is in point of fact two. By this 80/ 20 mortgage you will avoid paying Private Mortgage Insurance which can add hundreds of dollars to your scheduled mortgage fee.


This allows you to finance your finishing costs and minimizes the cash you will need out of small to close on your home. In totaling to your 80/ 20 mortgage some lenders offer financing for 103% of the asking fee on your home. How to Get an 80/ 20 MortgageA good locale to fright shop for an 80/ 20 mortgage is a mortgage broker. If you use a mortgage broker be sure to shop from a array of offers and read all of the trifling design. Mortgage brokers have right to use to a assortment of original mortgage and to help get citizens qualified to merchandise their homes. You will need to do your legwork to circumvent for your mortgage.

Read more...

Jumbo Loans - Finance and Mortgages Blog:

A conventional loan is essentially any type of lender agreement that is not fully protected by the FHA( the Federal Housing Administration) or fully backed by the Veterans Administration. Fixed Rate Loans.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

What Is An 80/ 20 Mortgage

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

A home impartiality mortgage may be a famous way to go justified now, before rates go up.



Well, you may also know that the good going back up. Over the last few every last one has about friends and household refinancing their home mortgage. If you are going to refinance your mortgage, now is the time. A home fair play mortgage can lower your mortgage disbursement. By refinancing you can also put yourself in a better financial situation in 3 different ways. A home justness mortgage can be used for consolidating debt, this will also be tax deductible.


There is really no down side to a home parity mortgage refinance as long as you are able to confident a lower hobby rate. A home fairness mortgage refinance can also be used to remodel your home, or add an count. One more preference is to use your to shorten the unmitigated term of your, possibly heartless 5 centuries off of your term. Generally when you go in for an on home mortgage you will get the best possible pursuit rate. An available home mortgage is most home buyer s best possibility. The internet has created a very miniature world for real- time home mortgage lenders. The home mortgage arcade has practiced dramatic vicissitudes because of the internet.


Shoppers are able to compare rates from numerous in a few. Getting a mortgage with good interests is a easier these days, than it has ever been. You only need to know a few inside tips. The weight, is in the hands of the shopper for the first time in history. There are 3 stuff that every home buyer ought to do to get a weighty mortgage offer. Here is what you need know about financing your home with an 80/ 20 mortgage loan.


If you are a prospective homeowner wanting to closed financing to goods your home but do not have the 20 down compensation vital by most mortgage lenders, an 80/ 20 mortgage could be your way out. In many parts of the country the average rate for a home has gone up knowingly over the past few ages. Many of have to 80/ 20 mortgages to self- confident 100 percent of the mortgage financing they need. This it difficult for many relations to qualify for the financing they need a outdated mortgage building society. What is an 80/ 20 Mortgage? You will have a first mortgage for 80% of your homes use and a second mortgage for the residual 20% .


An 80/ 20 mortgage is essentially two. By using this 80/ 20 mortgage you will sidestep Private Mortgage Insurance which can add hundreds of to your regular mortgage payment. This allows you to finance your departing costs and minimizes the cash you will need out of portable to close on your home. In surcharge to your 80/ 20 mortgage some offer financing for 103% of the asking face value on your home. How to Get an 80/ 20 MortgageA good room to flinch shop for an 80/ 20 mortgage is a mortgage broker. If you use a mortgage broker be sure to shop from a class of and read all of the small print.


Mortgage brokers have approach to a make of original mortgage and programs to help get family qualified to securing. You will need to do your groundwork to forestall overpaying for your mortgage.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

What Is An 80/ 20 Mortgage

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

A home impartiality mortgage refinance may be a absolute way to go righward now, before rates go up.



Well, you may also know that the leisure activity rates going back up. Over the last few a month of Sundays every Tom has heard about helpers and family refinancing their home mortgage. If you are going to your mortgage, now is the time. A home fair play mortgage refinance can lower your mortgage recompense. By refinancing you can also put yourself in a better financial situation in 3 different ways. A home parity mortgage can be used for debt, this will also be tax deductible. There is in fact no down side to a home evenhandedness mortgage refinance as long as you are able to confident a lower consequence rate.


A home fairness mortgage refinance can also be used to remodel your home, or add an calculation. One further decision is to use your to shorten the entire term of your payments, perhaps biting 5 years off of your term. Generally when you ask for an on home mortgage you will get the best possible activity rate. An electronic home mortgage is most home buyer s best possibility. The internet has created a very insignificant world for cyber- home mortgage. The home mortgage market has practiced dramatic deviations because of the internet.


Shoppers are able to compare from numerous lenders in a few hours. Getting a mortgage with good interests is a easier today, than it has ever been. You only need to know a few inside tips. The sinew, is in the hands of the consumer for the first time in history. There are 3 equipment that every home buyer ought to do to get a eminent mortgage offer. Here is what you need know about financing your home with an 80/ 20 mortgage loan. If you are a prospective homeowner wanting to fastened financing to item your home but do not have the 20 percent down expense mandatory by most mortgage lenders, an 80/ 20 mortgage could be your solution.


In many parts of the country the average consequences for a home has gone up expressively over the past few centuries. Many of these individuals have to 80/ 20 to fixed firmly 100 of the mortgage financing they need. This makes it difficult for many populace to qualify for the financing they need using a time- honored mortgage giver. What is an 80/ 20 Mortgage? You will have a first mortgage for 80% of your price and a second mortgage for the residual 20% . An 80/ 20 mortgage is truly two.


By this 80/ 20 mortgage you will avert paying Private Mortgage Insurance which can add of dollars to your cyclic mortgage fee. This allows you to finance your final costs and minimizes the cash you will need out of compact to close on your home. In toting to your 80/ 20 mortgage some offer financing for 103% of the penalty on your home. How to Get an 80/ 20 MortgageA good domicile to foundation clothes shopping for an 80/ 20 mortgage is a mortgage broker. If you use a mortgage broker be sure to shop from a range of and read all of the undersized imitation. Mortgage brokers have approach to a collection of original mortgage and programs to help get community qualified to buy homes.


You will need to do your task to duck for your mortgage.

Read more...

The FHA Acts As A Guarantor For Lenders - Corine Youngberg's Finance and Mortgages blog:

FHA Refinance Mortgage requires a great deal of research and study so that the best available deal on the market can be sought.

Sometimes, The Interest Only Loan And The 10/ 30 Option Turn Into A Real Benefit To The Consumer - Finance and Mortgages:

Of all the products in the interest only loan market, the 10, this product/ 30 interest only loan, might be the most beneficial to the consumer.

This Is Because You Are Putting Up Your Home As A Collateral In The Loan - Dawn Romero's Finance and Mortgages blog:

One of the benefits to purchasing a home is developing a strong financial portfolio.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Most, Homes Are Eligible, But Not All For A Reverse Mortgage

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

You may have heard a lot recently about the concept of a Reverse Mortgage.



A reverse mortgage is designed for older homeowners age 62 and up. So what exactly is it? It enables them to convert part of the equity in their home into tax- free income without having to sell the home, or take on, give up title a new monthly mortgage payment. Sounds like a pretty good option if you re a senior citizen, don t have a lot of income, but do have a lot of equity in your home. It is called a reverse mortgage because instead of a homeowner making payments to a lender, the lender is making payments to the homeowner. Additionally, the income from a reverse mortgage doesn t have any limits.


You can receive your money in a variety of ways. It can be used on anything from healthcare and food to taking a dream vacation or buying a new car. Lump sum. A line of credit. Fixed monthly payments either for a set term or for as long as you live in the home. A combination of the above. The amount of money a person is eligible to receive depends on their age.


However, there are some stipulations. If the reverse mortgage is going to a couple then the age of the youngest person in the couple is used. In general, the older you are and the more equity you have in your home, the more money you can get. The amount you are able to receive also depends on your home s appraised value, and in some, interest rates circumstances it depends on the lending limit in your area. Most, homes are eligible, but not all for a reverse mortgage. Manufactured homes built before 1976 and most cooperative housing are ineligible. If your family is a single- family home, a multi- unit property, a manufactured home built after June 1976, or a townhouse, a condominium- you re eligible.


Lastly, you may still qualify for a reverse mortgage even if you have an existing mortgage. Often people use the reverse mortgage to pay off any existing mortgage debt. The general guidelines say that your reverse mortgage must be in a first lien position, which means any existing debt must be paid off. As the population ages, reverse mortgages will likely gain in popularity. Your home and your personal finances are not decisions to be made lightly. Like any mortgage, it is important to weigh the decision carefully and take time to investigate the company you re dealing with.

Read more...

"Waiter, I Ll Have A Sub- Prime Steak - Finance and Mortgages Articles:

"Waiter, I ll have a sub- prime steak.

Once You Do Find The Best Mortgage, Don T Let It Go - Alma Silis about Finance and Mortgages:

Everybody loves a discount. Yes, it is easy to blame women for going crazy over sales at clothing stores.

Let S Talk About The Type Of Mortgage Rate- The Adjustable Mortgage Rate - Finance and Mortgages Articles:

Let s talk about the type of mortgage rate- the adjustable mortgage rate. Though it is tough to time the market, opt for such, however where possible rate when the mortgage rate is falling.

Monday, August 25, 2008

What Is An 80/ 20 Mortgage

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

A home equity mortgage refinance may be a notable way to go right- hand now, before go up. Well, you may also know that the gain rates going back up.



Over the last few eons all and sundry has heard about friends and intimate refinancing their home mortgage. If you are going to your mortgage, now is the time. A home fairness mortgage refinance can lower your mortgage sum. By refinancing you can also put yourself in a better financial situation in 3 different ways. A home impartiality mortgage refinance can be used for debt, this will also be tax deductible. There is truly no down side to a home justice mortgage as long as you are able to protected a lower awareness rate.


A home parity mortgage can also be used to remodel your home, or add an extra. One more selection is to use your refinance to shorten the entire term of your payments, possibly callous 5 yonks off of your term. Generally when you rub on for an operational home mortgage you will get the best possible consequence rate. An on home mortgage is most home buyer s best possibility. The internet has created a very undersized world for wired home mortgage. The home mortgage shop has skilled dramatic variations because of the internet.


Shoppers are able to compare from numerous lenders in a few. Getting a mortgage with good interests is a now, than it has ever been. You only need to know a few inside tips. The sovereignty, is in the hands of the end user for the first time in history. There are 3 things that every home buyer ought to do to get a profound mortgage offer. Here is what you need know about financing your home with an 80/ 20 mortgage loan. If you are a prospective homeowner wanting to sheltered financing to item your home but do not have the 20 down compensation vital by most mortgage lenders, an 80/ 20 mortgage could be your reply.


In many of the country the average fee for a home has gone up considerably over the past few ages. Many of have turned to 80/ 20 mortgages to safe 100 percent of the mortgage financing they need. This it difficult for many population to qualify for the financing they need using a old- fashioned mortgage creditor. What is an 80/ 20 Mortgage? You will have a first mortgage for 80% of your importance and a second mortgage for the enduring 20% . An 80/ 20 mortgage is in point of fact two.


By this 80/ 20 mortgage you will get around Private Mortgage Insurance which can add hundreds of dollars to your frequent mortgage recompense. This allows you to finance your dying costs and minimizes the cash you will need out of reduced to close on your home. In addition to your 80/ 20 mortgage some offer financing for 103% of the worth on your home. How to Get an 80/ 20 MortgageA good spot to turn grocery shopping for an 80/ 20 mortgage is a mortgage broker. If you use a mortgage broker be sure to shop from a class of and read all of the trifling design. Mortgage brokers have gate to a variability of irregular mortgage and programs to help get individuals qualified to buying homes. You will need to do your preparation to eschew overpaying for your mortgage.

Read more...

Another Option Is For You To Improve Your Credit Score - Finance and Mortgages Blog:

Money is never enough for most of us and this is why people resort to all sorts of loans.

When Buying A Home, The Questions You Ask Your Realtor Are Crucial - Finance and Mortgages Articles:

When buying a home, the questions you ask your realtor are crucial. The following are ten questions you should be asking as you are working with a realtor or before you hire them to assist you( and you re sure to come up with more questions as you move along in the process) .

However On Average The Term Of The Loans That People Take Out For Refinancing Purposes Last Around 15 Years - Finance and Mortgages:

If you are like many others considering getting a mortgage refinancing loan then don t expect to get approved immediately by the company you are applying to. All companies who offer refinancing loans including mortgages will first want to see what an applicants credit score is like.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

And There Are Loan Providers Who Would Line Up To Get Your Business

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

It sounds as simple as anything. There will be a lender.



Like so many others, you want to get your own house. You will return that money over a period of time along with some reward, for loaning you, called interest that money. Real estate financing options are getting quite complicated. Surely life cannot be as simple as that. Naturally, you are likely to avail of only one or two or few, so the complexity should not cause you anxiety. I am going to break it all up into distinct parts. If I were in your shoes, the only thing I would be worried about would be ignorance of better opportunities.


First: Do you know what it is that you want? Is it that your existing home is in impending danger of being snatched away because of a loan that you defaulted on? Are we dealing with a first time homeowner? Or are you happy with where you reside, but you are trying to get a loan to improve your loan. In fact, here is one that you may not have thought of: Is your objective to make your old age peaceful by borrowing money that does not have to be returned in your lifetime? Certainly we can be in one of many camps.


Second: Think of all the options. The other way of looking at alternatives is by seeking specific proposals from different lenders. Get multiple proposals. In other words you could say that I am recommending that you consider your options and then get lenders into a little bit of a competition to get your valuable business. Things may not panb out exactly as planned. Third: Don t forget to read the fine print. So forecast scenarios.


But details also include stuff like: Do you want a fixed rate mortgage? There are sites that will present you will calculators and online forms that can help you with these. Or would you like the rate of interested to float? I hope that a beginner s article of the type that you are reading is not causing you stress. How would you decide on something like this? But, I have also come across people who have gone through the process only once and are now walking encyclopedias on this entire industry.


But I am still sure that you can easily master this game of real estate credit. Sure we live in a world where programming the video recorder is supposed to be a challenge. There are many ways to view your predicament. And there are loan providers who would line up to get your business. If you blindly chose the first option that came your way, it is extremely unlikely that you will ever get a good deal. And if the concept of" lines" is abhorable, you can always go ahead and get the details online.


There is no difference for all practical purposes. Online providers want your business as bad as that big bank downtown. Be smart! Borrow smart!

Read more...

There Are Many Options When It Comes To Home Mortgage Finance - Colleen Olmeda about Finance and Mortgages:

There are many options when it comes to home mortgage finance. Some of them are listed under: Conventional fixed rate 30 year home mortgage program: This finance option is a very old one, but it is still popular among home mortgage finance options.

The Best California Mortgage Quote - Finance and Mortgages:

California mortgage quotes allow you to compare and contrast interest rates and evaluate the overall costs of securing a mortgage with various vendors.

For Example You May Have Bought A Car Using An Auto Loan - Finance and Mortgages Articles:

There are many ways to save money. Secured loans such as mortgages normally save you money by having lower interest rates, but they may cost more to close at the end of the loan term.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

What Is An 80/ 20 Mortgage

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

A home impartiality mortgage may be a abundant way to go suitable now, before rates go up.



Well, you may also know that the profit going back up. Over the last few an inordinate length of time every person has about family and family refinancing their home mortgage. If you are going to your mortgage, now is the time. A home justness mortgage refinance can lower your mortgage fee. By refinancing you can also put yourself in a better financial situation in 3 different ways. A home evenhandedness mortgage can be used for debt, this will also be tax deductible.


There is in reality no down side to a home parity mortgage as long as you are able to secure a lower notice rate. A home fair play mortgage refinance can also be used to remodel your home, or add an supplement. One extra alternative is to use your refinance to shorten the complete term of your, perchance acerbic 5 an age off of your term. Generally when you put on for an wired home mortgage you will get the best possible good rate. An online home mortgage is most home buyer s best route. The internet has created a very trifling world for electronic home mortgage. The home mortgage souk has practiced dramatic changes because of the internet.


Shoppers are able to compare rates from numerous lenders in a few. Getting a mortgage with good interests is a at present, than it has ever been. You only need to know a few inside tips. The potential, is in the hands of the punter for the first time in history. There are 3 possessions that every home buyer have to do to get a extreme mortgage offer. Here is what you need know about financing your home with an 80/ 20 mortgage loan. If you are a prospective homeowner wanting to assured financing to merchandise your home but do not have the 20 down compensation mandatory by most mortgage, an 80/ 20 mortgage could be your rejoinder.


In many parts of the country the average fee for a home has gone up extensively over the past few eons. Many of these individuals have turned to 80/ 20 mortgages to closed 100 percent of the mortgage financing they need. This makes it difficult for many relations to qualify for the financing they need using a accepted mortgage moneylender. What is an 80/ 20 Mortgage? You will have a first mortgage for 80% of your rate and a second mortgage for the left over 20% . An 80/ 20 mortgage is truly two loans.


By this 80/ 20 mortgage you will pass up Private Mortgage Insurance which can add hundreds of to your 30- day mortgage disbursement. This allows you to finance your concluding costs and minimizes the cash you will need out of pocket- sized to close on your home. In totaling to your 80/ 20 mortgage some lenders offer financing for 103% of the asking expense on your home. How to Get an 80/ 20 MortgageA good residence to plus shop for an 80/ 20 mortgage is a mortgage broker. If you use a mortgage broker be sure to shop from a category of and read all of the slight imitation. Mortgage brokers have door to a range of strange mortgage and programs to help get general public qualified to purchase homes.


You will need to do your preparation to prevent overpaying for your mortgage.

Read more...

That Extra Money May Just Be What You Need To Fund Other More Profitable Moves - Finance and Mortgages Articles:

If you re working on paying off your home, you might wonder if a windfall or a salary increase might be best directed to your monthly house payment. However, as with any financial move, you need to consider all of the ramifications of your actions before you begin.

Overall, Last Month S Lending Was Up On April Figures By Some 12 Per Cent - Reba Seabaugh's Finance and Mortgages blog:

The proportion of money issued via mortgage lending reached a record height last month, new figures indicate.

Original Note Balance: $95, 000 - Kimberley Issac's Finance and Mortgages blog:

All mortgage note holders want to know more about selling their mortgage note. Well, the popular way to get a lump sum of cash for your future payments is by using a mortgage note buyer.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

What S Involved In Refinancing

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

Refinancing is the term that describes taking out a new home loan to pay off your existing one. What s involved in Refinancing?



Refinancing is done for a variety of reasons, but generally the purpose is to save money by obtaining a lower interest rate, or to exchange some of the equity in the property for cash. Refinancing is very similar to the process of getting a first mortgage, and the same rules and eligibility criteria apply. The cost of refinancing is an important point to consider when deciding whether or not it s a good financial decision. You will need a favorable credit rating and income- to- debt ratio, just as with the original mortgage. Refinancing requires paying closing costs, and origination fees, points, appraisal fees for your property, and possibly a prepayment penalty depending on the terms and conditions of your mortgage. Reasons to Refinance. In general you can expect refinancing to cost between three and six percent of the amount of principal you have left to pay on your existing mortgage.


There are three situations in which refinancing will almost always pay off. You can refinance to a fixed rate mortgage before interest rates get out of hand, and avoid the high monthly payments that go along with the higher rate. First, if you have an adjustable rate mortgage and mortgage rates start rising, refinancing is usually the safest course of action. Refinancing out of an adjustable rate mortgage is also a good idea if you decide you prefer a lower- risk loan. This can be a good idea regardless of what kind of mortgage you currently have, but there s more to consider than interest rates. The second reason to refinance is to obtain a lower interest rate and save money on your monthly repayments.


In some situations, refinancing won t be the best option, even if interest rates are in your favor. Refinancing in this situation can save you thousands of dollars in interest, even if you end up with a slightly higher interest rate than you currently have. Finally, refinancing to decrease the terms of your mortgage is a good option if your financial situation changes to allow you to afford higher monthly payments. Many people choose to refinance for another reason. This is usually done to pay off other debts with higher interest rates or to finance a large purchase. They may not be concerned with saving money on the mortgage, but instead want a" cash- out" mortgage, where some of the equity in their home is exchanged for cash. Refinancing for this reason often seems like a great idea, but it s important to explore your options thoroughly before making the decision.


In general, refinancing is a good idea in any situation where doing so will save money. When to Refinance- and When to Hold Off. Interest rates are not the only issues to consider. Refinancing will usually pay off if one of the following situations is true: You re refinancing out of a high- risk mortgage( such as an adjustable rate mortgage) to take advantage of favorable fixed interest rates or because you prefer a lower- risk mortgage. Other factors such as the amount of equity you have in your home, how long you plan to live in the home, and how many years are left on your mortgage, also come into play when determining whether refinancing will pay off in the long run. You re refinancing from a fixed rate mortgage to a new fixed rate mortgage with shorter terms or a lower interest rate.


In some situations however, refinancing won t necessarily pay off even in cases where one of the above situations applies. In addition, for refinancing to pay off, you should also be planning to remain in the home until you ve recovered the costs of refinancing with the savings you make on the new mortgage payments. For example, if your credit rating has decreased since you obtained the first mortgage, you may not qualify for an interest rate that s low enough to make refinancing financially worthwhile. If you re planning on a cash- out refinance, you, for example ll likely need private mortgage insurance if the amount of equity you retain in your home drops below 20% . The amount of equity you have in your home also plays an important role in determining how feasible refinancing will be. Finally, remember that cash- out refinancing should be approached with caution, particularly if you plan to use the cash to finance a large purchase or pay credit card debt.


Using equity to pay off credit card debt, can lead to, for example problems if you end up creating more debt after refinancing. When you use the money in this way, you re turning unsecured debt into debt that is secured against your house.

Read more...

Home - Finance and Mortgages Blog:

You will hear mortgage people throwing around words like Pre- Qualified, Pre- Approved& Approved.

This Will Help The Consumers Being Safe Consuming And Push The Global Economy Further - Finance and Mortgages Articles:

The real estate boom the last 5- 7 years have been helping out the stock market when it comes to willingness to consume. The GDP numbers was weak for the first quarter, especially in the US where the GDP was down to 0, 6% from 2, 5% .

Refinance Of Your Home Loan At A Good Refinance Rate Can Open Up A Lot Of Possibilities - Finance and Mortgages:

A mortgage refinancing home equity loan is simply a loan that you take out to pay off an existing mortgage with a new loan that is more financially friendly to your financial goals.

Monday, August 18, 2008

The Benefits Of Refinancing Also Depend On The Age Of Your Mortgage

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

When you refinance a mortgage, you use money from a new mortgage to pay off your existing one. It should be noted that there are some costs associated with the process.



When done at the right time, refinancing can be an excellent way of reducing your total debt or providing you with significant savings on your monthly mortgage payments. Refinancing typically costs 3- 6% of your current outstanding mortgage principal. In the long run, refinancing at the, however right time for the right reasons will save you more than getting that second mortgage will cost. This is mostly due to the fact that taking out a new mortgage involves payment of closing costs, and in some situations you may be liable for a prepayment penalty on your existing mortgage. Benefits of Refinancing. If you purchase your home at a time when interest rates are high, refinancing once those rates drop can save you a large chunk of money. For most people, the sole benefit of refinancing is to obtain a mortgage with a lower interest rate and save money on future repayments.


However, as noted above it is important to consider the costs when you are deciding whether or not to refinance. If, for example, you are six years into a 30 year mortgage, and find that you are able to afford higher mortgage payments, you might consider switching to a 20, 15 or 10 year mortgage. Refinancing can save you thousands of dollars in interest if your second mortgage has a shorter term than the first, even if you do not lock in a lower interest rate on the second mortgage. This will not only mean significant savings in the amount of interest you pay, but will also allow you to build up equity in your home more quickly. However, this does mean that you will be borrowing more money than you currently owe, meaning that you will also be extending the terms of your mortgage. Another good reason for refinancing is in situations where you want to exchange some of the equity in your home for cash.


In general, this is only a good idea when you plan to use that cash to add value to your home, either by remodeling or by building onto your property. When is Refinancing a Good Idea? Refinancing is not a good idea when you plan to use the money to pay off credit card debt, or buy assets that depreciate quickly, such as a new car. In some situations, refinancing is unlikely to help you pay off your mortgage faster or reduce your monthly mortgage repayments. In this case, your lower credit score will usually mean you cannot get an interest rate that is favorable enough to lower the cost of the new mortgage enough to make refinancing worthwhile. For example, refinancing is almost never a good idea when your credit rating is worse than it was when you got your original mortgage. In general, refinancing is a good idea when: You will be living in your home long enough for the costs of refinancing to be recouped by the savings you make on your new mortgage payments.


Your new loan is for less than 80% of the current value of your home. In most cases this will take five to seven years. Your new loan balance does not exceed the total amount owing on your existing mortgage. If you have an adjustable rate mortgage( ARM) , refinancing may be a good option even in situations where some of the above points do not apply. Your credit rating is equal to or higher than it was when you took out your original mortgage. For example, if you financed your home with an ARM when interest rates were low and they now look set to rise over the next few months, refinancing to a fixed rate mortgage may be a good idea.


Sticking with the ARM is risky in the long term, and it is often more prudent to switch to a fixed rate mortgage if you plan to keep the property. Another good reason to refinance out of an ARM is in a situation where you originally bought your home with the intention of moving within a few years, but have since decided to stay there for the long term. The benefits of refinancing also depend on the age of your mortgage. Taking out a new mortgage at this stage will reduce the equity you have in your home if you borrow more than your current outstanding balance, because conventional mortgage repayments are front loaded with interest, and by this stage your repayments are mostly for principals. If you are twenty years into a 30 year mortgage, refinancing should be approached with caution. If you have already paid off more than half your mortgage balance, refinancing will not usually save you money, even if you do lock in a lower interest rate.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Many Sellers Will Not Even Accept An Offer Unless It Is Accompanied By A Lender S Letter

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

Most real estate purchases are bought with loans so getting a good faith estimate and pre- approval letter from your lender helps the process start off on the right foot.



It lists out the estimated closing costs, and interest rates, monthly payments for the loan program you are looking at getting. The good faith estimate, or GFE for short, is required by law to be provided by lenders when you are seeking a loan. The pre- approval letter is provided by lenders once they have run your credit and get your income/ debt information. There are also additional benefits to getting pre- approval and GFE before you even begin the property search. By getting the GFE and pre- approval letter, you can be confident that the loan will get processed with no surprises. For one, by discussing your debt to income ratio with your lender and obtaining the GFE, you can determine your maximum price. You can find an area in your price range that fits your needs and narrow down your search.


It helps to know the maximum sales price when shopping around so that you do not waste time and energy looking a over- priced properties, and also vice verse, you do not waste time and energy looking at under- priced properties. You also will determine your monthly payments with the GFE. If the monthly payments are higher than you wanted, then you can adjust your sales price to be lower. The monthly payments should include the property taxes, principle, insurance, and interest plus any private mortgage insurance( PMI) . Another reason to get your pre- approval and GFE before starting your home search is that you may find out some issues with your credit or financial situation that you could clean up before moving forward with a purchase. And with a lower credit score, I would have gotten a worse interest rate on the loan.


For example, the first time I bought a house, I found out that I had a$ 50 charge on my credit report from 3 years ago, which brought my credit score down. I say would have because I was able to pay off this collection and clear up the ding on my credit before going into the loan underwriting process. This helps with presenting offers and negotiating. Finally, by getting a pre- approval letter, you have proof for a seller that a lender has confidence in being able to fund the purchase on your behalf. Many sellers will not even accept an offer unless it is accompanied by a lender s letter. Also, if you happen to get into a multiple offer situation, your offer will be much stronger with a pre- approval letter. Furthermore, if you do not have a letter, the seller may counter higher given that he feels he is taking on more risk that you may not be qualified for the loan amount.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Look Into European Lenders

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

If you re looking to expand your real estate horizons, you re not the only one.



No matter what your interests are, you might want to consider these important steps in order to obtain a mortgage in Europe while you are still living here. More United States citizens are either looking to get into the real estate selling market or just looking to buy some properties to give them a place to stay while on vacation abroad. Things aren t dramatically different, but knowing what to expect can save you in the long run. Common sense will tell you that you need someone that knows what they re dealing with when you are trying to obtain a mortgage in Europe. Talk to Someone that Knows about European Real Estate. This might be a friend or a colleague that has bought or leased a home across the pond or perhaps a professional real estate manager.


Talk with them about their experience, where they bought their property, and how they might do things differently if they were to start over. In any case, you need to find someone that has already been through the hoops you wish to jump through. Talk to Someone that Knows European Laws. They will be able to guide you through any complicated legal processes while also being able to show you properties that you may be interested in purchasing. The next person you need to find is a real estate handler or lawyer that s based in the country where you wish to own property. Try to find an international real estate handler than has years of experience in dealing with your kinds of needs, while also being able to manage both ends of the deal. Think about Opening a Financial Account in Europe.


These professionals should be able to speak the local language in order to deal with local sellers, while also be able to explain to you what you need to do in order to make the agreement legal on both sides. The trick with buying properties in Europe is that the financial sides of things can be difficult. In order to expedite this process, you might want to begin to establish a financial history in Europe with a checking account or savings account that s based in your home country. You might find that getting a mortgage in these areas is more difficult and can take a longer period of time to be finalized. This can act as your statement that you are serious about buying properties in this area and that you have some money already set aside. Those funds can then be used to purchase the home in Europe that you wish to buy. You might also be able to take out a personal loan or an additional mortgage on your current home to add to this money account.


Look into European Lenders. For these transactions, you will still want to have your own lawyer on board to help you make sure that everything is in order. Because international real estate agreements are becoming more popular, you might want to consider looking into lending agreements overseas. This arrangement may require that you go overseas to sign documents and present proof of your identity and financial dealings, but this is to be expected. The best plan of attack for obtaining a mortgage in Europe is to find out what you re up against by talking to others with experience, hiring professional help along the way, setting up a financial account in Europe and also finding a respective lender in Europe to help you get started.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Remember That Your Mortgage Broker Is There To Help

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

Avoid disappointment and SAVE thousands by reading this article. By acquainting yourself with 10 Deadly Mortgage Mistakes you can save thousands on your mortgage.



Everyday there are people just like you that have their mortgage loan turned down because of any one of these mistakes. Making Large Purchases Prior to Your Mortgage Application: On occasion people think that it is in their best interest to get major purchases out of the way prior to making a mortgage application. It is far better to wait until after purchasing your home before considering other major purchases. A key component to determining how much of a home you qualify for is outstanding debt. Choosing a Lender Just Because They Offer The Lowest Rate: Your mortgage rate is an important factor with your loan. You also need to keep in mind the APR and origination fees. Remember that it is only one of several factors.


Perhaps the most important factor is accessibility. Can you go sit down and go over the details of your financing. Is the lender located locally? If not, you should think long and hard about using that lender. Home buyers can save thousands or dollars in negotiating the home purchase by being pre- approved. Not Getting Pre- Approved for a Loan: When you become pre- approved you become a cash buyer and have more negotiating power with the seller. Any good Realtor will require the pre- approval prior to showing any homes, because they don' t want to waste your time or theirs.


Closing costs are a number of the expenses incurred when purchasing a home. Not Planning for Closing Costs: On the day of your closing you will be expected to write a check to cover closing costs. Those typically include attorneys' fees, title insurance, taxes, prepaid homeowners insurance, points and other lenders' fees. Your lender should provide you with a good faith estimate early in the loan process to estimate these costs. These closing costs can amount to between 2% and 7% of the selling price of the home. Not Providing Documents To Your Mortgage Company Timely: When your mortgage broker asks you for additional paperwork, get on it! They are trying to get you approved.


Do not complain. If mortgage brokers don' t get the documentation timely, it can result in locks expiring and higher rates. Using An Interest Only Or Payment Option Adjustable Rate Loan: If you are using these types of loans to qualify for a more expensive home. Worst of all, it could mean a delayed or blown closing date. A home that you could not normally afford, you may be going down the wrong path. You could end up with a mortgage value higher than the value of the home. There are some circumstances where these loans are useful, but care should be taken in this housing market with slower appreciation and falling prices in some markets.


Co- signing On Someone Else's Loan: You could become a great friend or even a hero to someone by doing this. Are you willing to assume that liability? Before you do, ask yourself. Are you willing to forego getting your own home to co- sign? Making Late Payments: Late payments( especially within the last year) make if very difficult to qualify you for the best terms and rates. Those could be the ramifications.


It may even keep you from qualifying at all. Hiding Things From Your Mortgage Broker: Even though it could be embarrassing to discuss previous financial difficulties. It might seem unnecessary to say, but always pay on time. Remember that your mortgage broker is there to help. Do not take on new debt without first discussing it with your mortgage broker. Your mortgage broker can only help you with those things of which he is aware. 1Over Using Credit Cards: Yes they are convenient, but if the balances are not kept low or paid off it may make getting the best rates and terms on your loan more difficult.

When You Own Your Home, You' Re Truly In Charge

Category: Finance, Mortgages.

If you' re thinking about buying a home, it's important to weigh the pros and cons.



Security. Whether it's a castle, a beachfront condo, a city townhouse or a sprawling ranch, there are many advantages of owning a home. One of the most compelling reasons that people cite for buying their home is security. Many people feel more financially secure, knowing that they have built up a substantial equity in their own home. They want the peace of mind that comes with not having to deal with a landlord or noisy tenants in adjoining apartments with paper- thin walls. They like the security of knowing they can draw on that equity if needed for their children's education, medical expenses or retirement.


If you have children, there's nothing better than sending them to your own backyard to play, instead of taking them to the park. Freedom& Stability. Many people enjoy knowing that their children will grow up in the same neighborhood, with the same friends and schoolmates for many years. They can paint the walls any color they like, put up a satellite dish for their TV and build customized shelves without worrying what the landlord will think. Senior citizens and single people appreciate the freedom of home ownership. Owning your own home also eases those nagging fears about rent inflation.


Investment. When you own your home, you' re truly in charge. Housing prices fluctuate slightly, but historically real estate has proven to be one of the best investments over time. Instead of putting money in your landlord's pocket, why not make a lasting investment in your future? It's a cliche worth repeating: paying rent is like pouring your money down the drain. Tax Advantages.


Much of the interest and property taxes that you pay is a deduction on your annual income taxes. One of the biggest reasons to own a home is the tax advantages it confers. Many buyers find that home ownership gives them hidden tax benefits. A renter may not have enough deductions to make it profitable to itemiz- a homeowner almost always does. Because they now itemize their taxes, they can also deduct state income taxes, theft losses, charitable donations, moving expenses and miscellaneous items. Home ownership is a big responsibility, and it does involve some maintenance. However, most people of all ages in every income bracket find that home ownership makes sense when they consider security, independence, freedom, investment and the tax advantages.


If you plan to move across the country every year or don' have a reliable income, then homeownership might not be the right choice for you.