What is a Rate Lock?

Application Process

A rate lock is a short-term agreement for a lender to "hold" an interest rate on a home while the buyer negotiates the actual sale. Rate Lock Requirements Requirements for rate locks vary from state to state. Within states, individual lenders often … [Read more...]

How to Spot Check on Your GFE

Filling In Budget

Within three days of receiving your loan application, your lender must give you a good faith estimate that clearly describes the terms and fees for mortgage you selected. As of January, 2010, HUD provided a standard three-page form to make it easier … [Read more...]

10 Mortgage Loan Types

home-sold

There are many types of mortgage loans. This article examines ten of the most popular mortgage types. 1. Fixed Rate Mortgage A fixed rate mortgage is a mortgage with an interest rate that does not change over time, ensuring monthly payments will … [Read more...]

The Basics of Mortgage Insurance

foreclosure

Before the current mortgage crisis, lenders routinely allowed borrowers to purchase a home with less than a 20 percent down payment. These borrowers had to agree to purchase mortgage insurance, sometimes referred to as private mortgage or PMI. Unlike … [Read more...]

Is Cash-out Refinancing Still a Mortgage Option?

home-west

A nice mortgage option in todayÕs economic climate happens to be what many lenders like to use or whatÕs known as a Òcash-out refinancesÓ for debt consolidation, home improvement, or future investments. The benefit of these loans may include … [Read more...]

Fixed Rate vs. ARM: Which One Is Right For You?

Home Expenses

One of the most common questions that many borrowers have is whether or not they should go with a fixed rate mortgage or an ARM.  An ARM is the abbreviation for an adjustable rate mortgage.  Typically, an adjustable rate mortgage is one that starts … [Read more...]

Finding the Right Refinance Mortgage for Your Needs

House for sale

You said you wanted to refinance your mortgage, right? Well, be prepared, there are many options available, and unlike your favorite cap, there not all one size fit all.   This excellent list, which was researched carefully, includes everything, … [Read more...]

Can I Qualify for a FHA Streamline Refinance?

House for sale

Many are asking or not sure what a FHA Streamline Refinance can do for them. Let us break it down. Many FHA Streamline loans are helping homeowners across the country refinance lower monthly mortgage payments at superior interest rates. In many … [Read more...]

7 Ways to Cut Mortgage Closing Cost

Mortgage Form

Many new homeowners are shocked or even forget the fees associated with obtaining a new mortgage. Mortgage fees can run up fast if you don't keep a close eye. These are sometimes quick ways mortgage brokers and lenders can sneak in profits, … [Read more...]

7 Reasons to Call Your Mortgage Broker, Right Now

Home Downpayment

Any mortgage broker, especially in this market, should be top of mind. Checking in from time to time, just might make your mortgage situation improve. This market has lots of things changing when it comes to preparing to buy a new home or after … [Read more...]