When it comes to home loans and mortgages, there is no one-size-fits-all option. Not only are there different types of loans, there are two primary categories of loans – conventional and those that are backed by the Federal Government or government-backed loans. In most cases, government-backed loans are easier to qualify for and have lower […]
Coping with First-Time Home Buying Stress
As a first-timer, the home buying process can be intimidating. Furthermore, the uncertainty of legal procedures that you must comply with when purchasing a home further complicates matters. Then there’s the issue of being emotional about such a huge investment. This can be overwhelming, but it can also be dangerous in that your emotions might […]
How Is Your Mortgage Affected By The Annual Percentage Rate?
When it comes to getting a home loan, it’s important to understand what your APR or annual percentage rate is and how it can affect your mortgage. This will impact the type of loan you choose and how much you’re going to spend throughout the life of the loan. That is why the cost of […]
FAQs About How the Federal Reserve and Other Factors Can Impact Your Mortgage Rates
Over the past several months, you may have heard that the Federal Reserve lowered its interest rate and that mortgage lending rates have dropped to historic lows. How are mortgage rates affected by the Fed and what other factors can interest them? These and other questions can help you determine the best time to finance […]
How Is Your Mortgage Affected By The Annual Percentage Rate?
When it comes to getting a home loan, it’s important to understand what your APR or annual percentage rate is and how it can affect your mortgage. This will impact the type of loan you choose and how much you’re going to spend throughout the life of the loan. That is why the cost of […]
What You Need to Know About the Adverse Market Refinance Fee
As of December 1st, 2020, the FHFA (Federal Housing Financing Agency made certain refinancing loans subject to what is known as the Adverse Market Refinance Fee. This newly created fee could impact refinancing costs for some homeowners. As it currently stands, the fee will apply to conforming conventional mortgages with balances over $125k. A conforming […]
Home Buying Tips for 2021
It’s safe to say that the home buying landscape in 2021 won’t look anything like it did in normal times over the past few years. First of all, we’re still dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. So, instead of open houses throughout numerous Stockton neighborhoods, you’ll need to search home listings online and watch virtual home […]
Is Your Personal Information Safe When You Apply For A Mortgage?
People are often overwhelmed by the amount of paperwork involved when applying for a home mortgage. Even more disconcerting is the fact that you have to provide that lender with your bank account, Social Security number, tax documents, and other highly sensitive personal information. Obviously, this isn’t the kind of information that you want just […]
What’s the Difference Between A Mortgage Banker Or Direct Lender And A Mortgage Broker?
The mortgage industry is comprised of companies and individuals that assist people in getting home loans, namely mortgage bankers or direct lenders and mortgage brokers. Although they both provide the financing that prospective home buyers need, they are quite different. The direct lender or mortgage banker is a bank, credit union, or financial institution that […]
5 Ways to Tell If You’re Ready for Home Ownership
Owning a home is not just something to take pride in, it’s the biggest investment you’ll make in your lifetime. So, how do you know if you’re ready for this? While there are several benefits to owning a home, this is a huge financial responsibility. Benefits of Buying a Home Still not sure if you’re […]
