If you are considering a home mortgage refinance loan there are many great reasons for mortgage refinancing. If you are considering mortgage refinancing but are not sure how to get started, here are several tips to help you decide if a home mortgage refinance loan is right for you.
When is a Home Mortgage Refinance Loan a Good Idea?
There are a variety of reasons for refinancing your mortgage. Every financial situation is different and there are many reasons for refinancing in your situation. For instance, if your financial situation has improved since purchasing your home, you may qualify for a better interest rate with a new home mortgage refinance loan.
Interest rates along with the term length you choose determine how much your monthly payment will be. Even if you cannot qualify for a lower mortgage interest rate you can still lower your mortgage payment by extending the term length of your loan. Choosing a mortgage with a fifty year term length could significantly lower your payment allowing you to take back control of your monthly budget.
Advantages of Home Mortgage Refinance Loans
There are a number of advantages to home mortgage refinance loans; depending on your individual finances you may take advantage of the following benefits:
• Tax-deductible Debt Consolidation
• Lower Mortgage Payments
• Lower Mortgage Interest Rates
• Stop Paying Private Mortgage Insurance
• Switch to a Fixed Mortgage Interest Rate
• Switch to a More Advantageous Term Length
How to Avoid Overpaying for Your Home Mortgage Refinance Loan
When you begin shopping for a new home mortgage refinance loan, there are many choices available to you. Choosing the right type of mortgage interest rate and term length will help you avoid overpaying for your home mortgage refinance loan. You can learn more about mortgage refinancing, including costly mistakes to avoid by registering for a free mortgage tutorial.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louie_Latour
Monday, 7 December 2009
Take Advantage Of The Mortgage Rate War!
The current market situation is very promising. More and more lenders are getting into the market and competing to get a good share of it. Because of this, a mortgage rate war has been unleashed and you can benefit from it by shopping for a loan instead of going for the first offer you receive.
Good mortgage rates are really hard to find. Most mortgage companies hide them from you. In contrast to general perception, home is not the prime purchase of one’s life; actually, mortgage is the biggest purchase people make in their life. Over its term, perhaps you will shell out more on the interest than you made payment towards the purchase of your house. If you can save a few fractions of a point on your interest rate, it can save you a fabulous amount on your mortgage.
The Art Of Negotiation
Getting a good mortgage rate depends mainly on your negotiating skills, apart from other different factors. What you have to do is to do your research prior to applying and then meet with your lender knowing where you stand. Comparing mortgage quotes and interest rates of various mortgage deals helps you decide your preference towards a particular deal.
Terms You Should Consider
When you apply for a mortgage loan, apart from quoted information on the cost of the loan in terms of the mortgage rates and points, you should also look at the term or length of time you will be paying for the mortgage. Then, consider which mortgage loan best suits your needs.
Most people can’t make the difference between one adjustable rate mortgage and the next. The mortgage loan rate on an adjustable-rate mortgage is simply an estimate, because the mortgage rate on an adjustable rate mortgage varies. While estimating the mortgage rates on an adjustable rate mortgage, lenders assume that the loan index will hang around at the current mortgage rates for the residual term of the loan.
Mortgage Loan Rates – Analyze Them All
As the index fluctuates, it is impossible to predict exactly what changes will occur in the economy. That is why you should ask your mortgage lender to provide you with the estimated rate as well as the maximum mortgage rate cap, which will tell you a maximum amount of mortgage rate interest you can pay on your mortgage during the period of the loan.
Another factor which is taken into consideration while finalizing your interest rate is your credit rating. A person with good credit rating carries a lower risk to the lender, and in turn gets a lower rate. Some lenders specialize in one type of borrower over another; a few prefer higher risk with higher returns, while some prefer lower risk borrowers.
So don’t contact the wrong type of lender or you may be turned down in case you are a high-risk borrower approaching a low risk lender. Some lenders are interested in entertaining either type of borrower, offering them different rates.
You should always look for appropriate lenders. If you think your credit score won’t let you qualify with a particular lender, search for bad credit loan lenders instead and save yourself the hassles of getting declined which will also lower your credit score even more.
Mary Wise, a professional consultant with twenty years in the financial field, helps people in the process of securing personal loans, mortgage, refinance or consolidation loans and preventing consumers from falling into the hands of fraudulent lenders. At Badcreditloanservices.com you will find more useful tips and interesting financial articles on this and many other related topics.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Wise
Good mortgage rates are really hard to find. Most mortgage companies hide them from you. In contrast to general perception, home is not the prime purchase of one’s life; actually, mortgage is the biggest purchase people make in their life. Over its term, perhaps you will shell out more on the interest than you made payment towards the purchase of your house. If you can save a few fractions of a point on your interest rate, it can save you a fabulous amount on your mortgage.
The Art Of Negotiation
Getting a good mortgage rate depends mainly on your negotiating skills, apart from other different factors. What you have to do is to do your research prior to applying and then meet with your lender knowing where you stand. Comparing mortgage quotes and interest rates of various mortgage deals helps you decide your preference towards a particular deal.
Terms You Should Consider
When you apply for a mortgage loan, apart from quoted information on the cost of the loan in terms of the mortgage rates and points, you should also look at the term or length of time you will be paying for the mortgage. Then, consider which mortgage loan best suits your needs.
Most people can’t make the difference between one adjustable rate mortgage and the next. The mortgage loan rate on an adjustable-rate mortgage is simply an estimate, because the mortgage rate on an adjustable rate mortgage varies. While estimating the mortgage rates on an adjustable rate mortgage, lenders assume that the loan index will hang around at the current mortgage rates for the residual term of the loan.
Mortgage Loan Rates – Analyze Them All
As the index fluctuates, it is impossible to predict exactly what changes will occur in the economy. That is why you should ask your mortgage lender to provide you with the estimated rate as well as the maximum mortgage rate cap, which will tell you a maximum amount of mortgage rate interest you can pay on your mortgage during the period of the loan.
Another factor which is taken into consideration while finalizing your interest rate is your credit rating. A person with good credit rating carries a lower risk to the lender, and in turn gets a lower rate. Some lenders specialize in one type of borrower over another; a few prefer higher risk with higher returns, while some prefer lower risk borrowers.
So don’t contact the wrong type of lender or you may be turned down in case you are a high-risk borrower approaching a low risk lender. Some lenders are interested in entertaining either type of borrower, offering them different rates.
You should always look for appropriate lenders. If you think your credit score won’t let you qualify with a particular lender, search for bad credit loan lenders instead and save yourself the hassles of getting declined which will also lower your credit score even more.
Mary Wise, a professional consultant with twenty years in the financial field, helps people in the process of securing personal loans, mortgage, refinance or consolidation loans and preventing consumers from falling into the hands of fraudulent lenders. At Badcreditloanservices.com you will find more useful tips and interesting financial articles on this and many other related topics.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Wise
Private Mortgage Investors - Who Are They?
To understand who private mortgage investors are, it is first necessary to understand what a private mortgage is. A private mortgage is a legal agreement, secured by real property, between a borrower and a private lender that obligates the borrower to pay money to the holder of the mortgage note. A private mortgage therefore produces a regular stream of income to the investor with all the advantages and protections that a mortgage lien can provide.
Typically, private mortgage investors can charge more interest and points (fees) on a mortgage than a bank could because the risk of lending to people who aren't eligible for normal mortgages is far greater. Quite often investors lend to people with less than perfect credit, but they may also lend to real estate investors irrespective of credit.
Traditionally, private mortgage investors were individuals who had sold their property and agreed to take back a promissory note and a mortgage from the buyer. The advantages to the seller were threefold. Firstly, by offering such terms, the homeowner was more likely to sell their property in a slow market and obtain the full asking price. Secondly, the seller would be a guaranteed a regular fixed income at a better rate than could be obtained from investing in a CD. Thirdly, if the buyer defaulted, then the owner would be entitled to foreclose on the property, just as if he or she were a bank. The benefit to the buyer of a privately funded mortgage loan is that they don't have to worry about an extensive check on their credit or financial situation.
More recently, real estate investors have branched out into other areas of real estate financing. Some private investors specialize in lending money to professional real estate investors for the purchase and rehab of residential and commercial property. Others specialize in making mortgage loans to small real estate developers for the purchase of raw land and the initial construction finance. There are even some private investors who will lend to homeowners facing foreclosure or provide second mortgage financing, similar to a Home Equity Line of Credit.
Such has been the growth in private mortgage lending that there are now companies offering private mortgage investment services in the USA. Typically, these companies will either advertise individual mortgages for "purchase" by an investor, or syndicate a hard money loan amongst a group of private investors on their mailing list, or offer shares in a private mortgage investment fund.
Lastly, but by no means least, there are private investors who specialize in buying privately held mortgages at a discount, i.e. less than the principal amount outstanding. These investors provide an important role in creating liquidity in what would otherwise be an illiquid market. The main disadvantage of being a private mortgage holder is that you must wait for the loan to be repaid before you can access your capital. If an investor can't wait that long, then they will need to find a way of selling the mortgage to a third party and this is where this last type of private investor comes into their own.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Haynes
Typically, private mortgage investors can charge more interest and points (fees) on a mortgage than a bank could because the risk of lending to people who aren't eligible for normal mortgages is far greater. Quite often investors lend to people with less than perfect credit, but they may also lend to real estate investors irrespective of credit.
Traditionally, private mortgage investors were individuals who had sold their property and agreed to take back a promissory note and a mortgage from the buyer. The advantages to the seller were threefold. Firstly, by offering such terms, the homeowner was more likely to sell their property in a slow market and obtain the full asking price. Secondly, the seller would be a guaranteed a regular fixed income at a better rate than could be obtained from investing in a CD. Thirdly, if the buyer defaulted, then the owner would be entitled to foreclose on the property, just as if he or she were a bank. The benefit to the buyer of a privately funded mortgage loan is that they don't have to worry about an extensive check on their credit or financial situation.
More recently, real estate investors have branched out into other areas of real estate financing. Some private investors specialize in lending money to professional real estate investors for the purchase and rehab of residential and commercial property. Others specialize in making mortgage loans to small real estate developers for the purchase of raw land and the initial construction finance. There are even some private investors who will lend to homeowners facing foreclosure or provide second mortgage financing, similar to a Home Equity Line of Credit.
Such has been the growth in private mortgage lending that there are now companies offering private mortgage investment services in the USA. Typically, these companies will either advertise individual mortgages for "purchase" by an investor, or syndicate a hard money loan amongst a group of private investors on their mailing list, or offer shares in a private mortgage investment fund.
Lastly, but by no means least, there are private investors who specialize in buying privately held mortgages at a discount, i.e. less than the principal amount outstanding. These investors provide an important role in creating liquidity in what would otherwise be an illiquid market. The main disadvantage of being a private mortgage holder is that you must wait for the loan to be repaid before you can access your capital. If an investor can't wait that long, then they will need to find a way of selling the mortgage to a third party and this is where this last type of private investor comes into their own.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Haynes
Mortgage Refinancing - Three Costly Mortgage Mistakes to Avoid
If you are refinancing your mortgage there are several costly mistakes that can cause you to overpay thousands of dollars for your new mortgage loan. Doing your homework and researching mortgage lenders will help you avoid the majority of mistakes homeowners make when mortgage refinancing. Here are several tips to help you avoid three common homeowner mistakes that will result in overpaying thousands of dollars for your new loan.
Mortgage Refinancing is an expensive process, even when done correctly. You will be required to pay fees and closing costs to secure the new mortgage refinancing loan. These costs typically run between 1-3%, not including any discount points you agree to pay in exchange for a lower interest rate or better terms. Many homeowners make the mistake of trying to time the market for a better mortgage refinancing interest rate, or assume by choosing the loan with the lowest interest rate they will save money. Here are tips to help you avoid making the same mortgage refinancing mistakes.
Mortgage Refinancing Mistakes: Trying to Time Interest Rates
Mortgage interest rates are extremely unpredictable. Any one telling you they can time interest rates to find you the best loan is not being completely honest with you. Many people try and time the market as a gimmick to sell their services; however, these people are just guessing based on what they see in the news. Instead of trying your luck at timing the market, you are better off using your time to research mortgage refinancing lenders and their loan offers.
The Internet makes doing your mortgage refinancing homework easy. You can quickly research dozens of mortgage lenders and compare mortgage refinancing offers line-by-line. When you comparison shop for a new mortgage it is important to compare all aspects of the mortgage loans you consider. Homeowners that focus only on mortgage refinancing interest rates make the next costly mortgage refinancing mistake we will discuss.
Mortgage Refinancing Mistakes: Assuming the Lowest Interest Rate is Best
Mortgage refinancing interest rates are important; however, interest rates are only one aspect of the new loan. Many homeowners think choosing the loan offer with an attractive interest rate will save them money. These homeowners often choose risky adjustable rate mortgages with unusually low introductory rates that go up significantly after a period of time, or will overlook mortgage refinancing lender fees and closing costs. Making either mistake will result in significantly overpaying for your home loan. In the case of that risky adjustable rate mortgage, you could even lose your home if you don’t fully understand what you’re getting into. To learn more about avoiding other costly mortgage refinancing mistakes, register for a free mortgage guidebook.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louie_Latour
Mortgage Refinancing is an expensive process, even when done correctly. You will be required to pay fees and closing costs to secure the new mortgage refinancing loan. These costs typically run between 1-3%, not including any discount points you agree to pay in exchange for a lower interest rate or better terms. Many homeowners make the mistake of trying to time the market for a better mortgage refinancing interest rate, or assume by choosing the loan with the lowest interest rate they will save money. Here are tips to help you avoid making the same mortgage refinancing mistakes.
Mortgage Refinancing Mistakes: Trying to Time Interest Rates
Mortgage interest rates are extremely unpredictable. Any one telling you they can time interest rates to find you the best loan is not being completely honest with you. Many people try and time the market as a gimmick to sell their services; however, these people are just guessing based on what they see in the news. Instead of trying your luck at timing the market, you are better off using your time to research mortgage refinancing lenders and their loan offers.
The Internet makes doing your mortgage refinancing homework easy. You can quickly research dozens of mortgage lenders and compare mortgage refinancing offers line-by-line. When you comparison shop for a new mortgage it is important to compare all aspects of the mortgage loans you consider. Homeowners that focus only on mortgage refinancing interest rates make the next costly mortgage refinancing mistake we will discuss.
Mortgage Refinancing Mistakes: Assuming the Lowest Interest Rate is Best
Mortgage refinancing interest rates are important; however, interest rates are only one aspect of the new loan. Many homeowners think choosing the loan offer with an attractive interest rate will save them money. These homeowners often choose risky adjustable rate mortgages with unusually low introductory rates that go up significantly after a period of time, or will overlook mortgage refinancing lender fees and closing costs. Making either mistake will result in significantly overpaying for your home loan. In the case of that risky adjustable rate mortgage, you could even lose your home if you don’t fully understand what you’re getting into. To learn more about avoiding other costly mortgage refinancing mistakes, register for a free mortgage guidebook.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louie_Latour
Mortgage Refinancing – What You Need to Know Before Refinancing With a Broker
If you are in the process of refinancing your home loan you might consider using a mortgage refinancing broker to help you find the best loan offer. Mortgage brokers are an excellent resource for locating competitive mortgage refinancing offers as long as you understand how retail mortgage loans work. Brokers often significantly mark up the interest rates on loan offers; if you are able to recognize this markup you can easily avoid paying it. Here are several tips to save you money when mortgage refinancing with a broker.
The Mortgage Refinancing Market
The retail mortgage market is made up of mortgage companies and brokers that refer borrowers to wholesale lenders for a commission. There are also banks and broker- banks that write their own mortgages; however, due to loopholes in mortgage refinancing disclosure laws that protect homeowners in the United States, you should never refinance your mortgage with a bank or broker-bank. For the purpose of this discussion we will focus on mortgage refinancing with mortgage brokers which act as third party vendors for wholesale mortgage lenders.
Mortgage Refinancing With a Broker
Mortgage brokers that do not close on home loans in their own names are excellent time-saving resources for mortgage refinancing. This is especially true for special needs borrowers, like homeowners with poor credit. The first question you should ask every broker you consider is “Do you close on the loan in your own name?” If the answer to this question is “Yes” or the mortgage refinancing broker refuses to answer, you know that you are dealing with a broker-bank and should scratch this person off your list. Never refinance your mortgage with a bank or a bank pretending to be a mortgage broker.
What to Tell Your Broker When Mortgage Refinancing
When you have found a broker that you are certain is not a bank masquerading as a mortgage broker, tell the broker you will pay mortgage refinancing origination fees and closing costs, but will not pay Yield Spread Premium (YSP) of any kind. YSP is the markup mortgage brokers tack onto the interest rate your wholesale mortgage refinancing lender qualified you for. Mortgage brokers do this to receive an additional bonus for overcharging you.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louie_Latour
The Mortgage Refinancing Market
The retail mortgage market is made up of mortgage companies and brokers that refer borrowers to wholesale lenders for a commission. There are also banks and broker- banks that write their own mortgages; however, due to loopholes in mortgage refinancing disclosure laws that protect homeowners in the United States, you should never refinance your mortgage with a bank or broker-bank. For the purpose of this discussion we will focus on mortgage refinancing with mortgage brokers which act as third party vendors for wholesale mortgage lenders.
Mortgage Refinancing With a Broker
Mortgage brokers that do not close on home loans in their own names are excellent time-saving resources for mortgage refinancing. This is especially true for special needs borrowers, like homeowners with poor credit. The first question you should ask every broker you consider is “Do you close on the loan in your own name?” If the answer to this question is “Yes” or the mortgage refinancing broker refuses to answer, you know that you are dealing with a broker-bank and should scratch this person off your list. Never refinance your mortgage with a bank or a bank pretending to be a mortgage broker.
What to Tell Your Broker When Mortgage Refinancing
When you have found a broker that you are certain is not a bank masquerading as a mortgage broker, tell the broker you will pay mortgage refinancing origination fees and closing costs, but will not pay Yield Spread Premium (YSP) of any kind. YSP is the markup mortgage brokers tack onto the interest rate your wholesale mortgage refinancing lender qualified you for. Mortgage brokers do this to receive an additional bonus for overcharging you.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louie_Latour
Find the Best Mortgage Deal in UK
The mortgage market has grown considerably and paved way for competitive mortgage deals. Borrowers can choose to surf the internet to access mortgage deals or opt for the old fashioned way and find mortgage lenders who offer interesting incentives and the best mortgage rates. For borrowers who opt for this old fashioned method, the mortgage process could turn out to be a long and tedious one. However online mortgage options are ideal for the borrower who wants to save a considerable amount of time and money.
Getting the best mortgage deal
Mortgages come with a wide range of interest rates and repayment options. Shopping around carefully for a mortgage deal could easily help a borrower secure the best mortgage deal. It is also advisable to seek mortgage quotes so one can compare offers of the various lenders and find one that best suits his/her needs. You can begin by visiting various sites that obtain general financial and personal information to respond back with a mortgage quote.
However, it is important to check the credentials of the mortgage lender. When dealing with a professional mortgage company/lender, the borrower is assured of legitimate mortgage quotes and personalized service. It is also important to ensure that the mortgage quote is realistic based on your requirements. An online mortgage resource is a great place to start. It gives you an opportunity to compare different mortgage lenders, conveniently apply online through a simple and secure online application form. Borrowers who want to opt for buy to let, credit challenged, people with no deposit who want to but a home or people who already own a home and want to switch lenders can choose from a wide range of options.
Types of mortgages
Most mortgages revert to a variable rate, either the lenders standard variable rate or a tracker rate which will be linked to the underlying Bank of England rate. If the borrower opts for a fixed rate mortgage, the interest rate remains constant for a fixed period which could be 2, 3, 4, 5 or even 10 years. In the case of a capped rate mortgage the interest rate cannot rise above the 'cap', a fixed upper limit. Borrowers could also choose from flexible mortgages which start with a lower rate of interest, varies with time depending on changes in market interest rate and also with relationship to index such as national average mortgage and Treasury bill rate and offset mortgages which offsets your mortgage by linking it to your savings or current account.
It is important to obtain all the cost information while opting for a mortgage. The borrower can carry out a free and impartial search online to ensure that he/she secures the best mortgage deal.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Reethi_Rai
Getting the best mortgage deal
Mortgages come with a wide range of interest rates and repayment options. Shopping around carefully for a mortgage deal could easily help a borrower secure the best mortgage deal. It is also advisable to seek mortgage quotes so one can compare offers of the various lenders and find one that best suits his/her needs. You can begin by visiting various sites that obtain general financial and personal information to respond back with a mortgage quote.
However, it is important to check the credentials of the mortgage lender. When dealing with a professional mortgage company/lender, the borrower is assured of legitimate mortgage quotes and personalized service. It is also important to ensure that the mortgage quote is realistic based on your requirements. An online mortgage resource is a great place to start. It gives you an opportunity to compare different mortgage lenders, conveniently apply online through a simple and secure online application form. Borrowers who want to opt for buy to let, credit challenged, people with no deposit who want to but a home or people who already own a home and want to switch lenders can choose from a wide range of options.
Types of mortgages
Most mortgages revert to a variable rate, either the lenders standard variable rate or a tracker rate which will be linked to the underlying Bank of England rate. If the borrower opts for a fixed rate mortgage, the interest rate remains constant for a fixed period which could be 2, 3, 4, 5 or even 10 years. In the case of a capped rate mortgage the interest rate cannot rise above the 'cap', a fixed upper limit. Borrowers could also choose from flexible mortgages which start with a lower rate of interest, varies with time depending on changes in market interest rate and also with relationship to index such as national average mortgage and Treasury bill rate and offset mortgages which offsets your mortgage by linking it to your savings or current account.
It is important to obtain all the cost information while opting for a mortgage. The borrower can carry out a free and impartial search online to ensure that he/she secures the best mortgage deal.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Reethi_Rai
Mortgage Refinance Information - The Mortgage Marketplace: Tips to Save You Money
Mortgage Refinance Information can save you a lot of money. Doing your homework and researching mortgage refinance information and loan offers before applying will help you avoid costly mistakes. The first step to finding the right loan is learning about the mortgage industry and the different types of lenders. Here is mortgage refinancing information regarding lenders and the marketplace to help you avoid choosing the wrong type of lender when refinancing.
The mortgage industry is made up of two markets. There is the primary mortgage market and the secondary market. The primary mortgage market is the retail market made up of banks, credit unions, brokers, broker-banks, and other mortgage companies. The secondary market consists of investment companies and government backed organizations such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac that buy and sell mortgage debt for profit. You will be seeking mortgage refinance information in the primary market; but first a warning about banks, credit unions, and broker-banks.
When comparison shopping mortgage refinance information, avoid banks, credit unions, and mortgage broker-banks. Never take out a mortgage from one of these institutions, under any circumstance. The reason for never trusting a bank or broker-bank with your mortgage loan pertains to loopholes in the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) that protects homeowners from the abuses of predatory mortgage lenders by requiring the disclosure of mortgage refinance information. When the RESPA legislation was making its way through the House of Representatives and the Senate, banks lobbied intensely to be excluded from any law requiring disclosure of mortgage refinance information regarding fees and markup. Millions of dollars changed hands and when RESPA was signed into law, lo and behold banks were exempt from the new mortgage refinance information disclosure laws.
This loophole in RESPA mortgage refinance information disclosure laws is why you should never seek mortgage refinance information from your bank, credit unions, or broker-banks. You may be wondering what a broker-bank is; mortgage broker-banks function identically like mortgage brokers except they close on mortgage loans in their own company names, functioning just like a bank. This allows them to exploit the loophole in RESPA like your bank. If you take out a mortgage from your bank or broker-bank, you will never know what the lender’s markup is or what fees they are charging; you will overpay for this mortgage loan, guaranteed. For more mortgage refinance information including how to avoid costly mistakes, register for a free mortgage refinance information guidebook.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louie_Latour
The mortgage industry is made up of two markets. There is the primary mortgage market and the secondary market. The primary mortgage market is the retail market made up of banks, credit unions, brokers, broker-banks, and other mortgage companies. The secondary market consists of investment companies and government backed organizations such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac that buy and sell mortgage debt for profit. You will be seeking mortgage refinance information in the primary market; but first a warning about banks, credit unions, and broker-banks.
When comparison shopping mortgage refinance information, avoid banks, credit unions, and mortgage broker-banks. Never take out a mortgage from one of these institutions, under any circumstance. The reason for never trusting a bank or broker-bank with your mortgage loan pertains to loopholes in the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) that protects homeowners from the abuses of predatory mortgage lenders by requiring the disclosure of mortgage refinance information. When the RESPA legislation was making its way through the House of Representatives and the Senate, banks lobbied intensely to be excluded from any law requiring disclosure of mortgage refinance information regarding fees and markup. Millions of dollars changed hands and when RESPA was signed into law, lo and behold banks were exempt from the new mortgage refinance information disclosure laws.
This loophole in RESPA mortgage refinance information disclosure laws is why you should never seek mortgage refinance information from your bank, credit unions, or broker-banks. You may be wondering what a broker-bank is; mortgage broker-banks function identically like mortgage brokers except they close on mortgage loans in their own company names, functioning just like a bank. This allows them to exploit the loophole in RESPA like your bank. If you take out a mortgage from your bank or broker-bank, you will never know what the lender’s markup is or what fees they are charging; you will overpay for this mortgage loan, guaranteed. For more mortgage refinance information including how to avoid costly mistakes, register for a free mortgage refinance information guidebook.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louie_Latour
Mortgage Calculator - How Can I Know How Big A Mortgage Loan I Can Afford?
Why would you want to know the size of your loan?
It is simple. You earn a fixed amount every month and you have fixed monthly living, food, and other expenses. If you take a mortgage, you have to make a monthly repayment from your monthly income. Therefore, it is imperative to calculate your monthly outgo towards the mortgage. This is precisely why you must know how big a loan you can afford.
How to find out the size of your mortgage
Find a simple affordable mortgage calculator available at most finance websites that you can use to determine the size of your mortgage. You must enter the details of the annual interest rate, the tenure of the loan, the yearly real estate taxes, and annual homeowner’s insurance. Also, enter your gross annual income and your monthly debt outgo. Based on the information you provide, the mortgage calculator will quickly calculate the maximum monthly mortgage payment you can afford and the maximum loan amount that you can take.
Illustration
* First, compute your net monthly income after deducting taxes, social security, and retirement contributions. Let us say it is $5000.
* Next, add up all your debt including car loan, student loan, and credit card loan, not including rent or mortgage payments. Assume it is $1000. This amount must not exceed 25% of your net monthly income. Before proceeding, you must take steps to reduce debt below 25% of your net monthly income.
* Take stock of all your expenditure over the past year including holidays, travel costs, food and entertainment, gifts, and tally them with your cash expenses, credit card spending and checks issued. Add all these expenses and divide by 12 to get your monthly living expenses. Let this amount be $1500.
* Add your monthly expenses and debt to get your total monthly expenditure, $2500.Deduct this from your monthly income and $2500 is the maximum monthly mortgage payment you can afford.
* You must deduct 30% of this value for taxes and home insurance. Therefore, $ 1750 is the maximum monthly mortgage payment that you can afford.
* Other factors that determine the affordability of a mortgage include the tenure of the mortgage, the interest rates, and whether the mortgage is fixed or variable interest.
Advantage of using a mortgage loan calculator to find the size of your mortgage
As you have seen, you need the calculator to make the detailed computations. Moreover using a calculator can give you results quickly and you can compare mortgage offers from several lenders. These mortgage calculators help you control costs so that principal, interest, taxes, and homeowner's insurance do not exceed more than 28% of your gross monthly income. It also ensures that your debt payments do not cross 36% of your gross income. From the above discussion, it is evident that a mortgage calculator is a useful tool to decide the affordability of a mortgage. It enables you to take quick and accurate decisions with help from your lenders.
The fallout of not using a mortgage calculator
You may make errors in computations, throwing off your entire budget and financial planning out of gear. You may take a bigger loan than you can afford or you may underestimate yourself and settle for a smaller house. You can harm your credit rating by defaulting on the monthly mortgage payments, adversely affecting chances of getting credit in the future. So, be smart and use a mortgage calculator instead.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Lester
It is simple. You earn a fixed amount every month and you have fixed monthly living, food, and other expenses. If you take a mortgage, you have to make a monthly repayment from your monthly income. Therefore, it is imperative to calculate your monthly outgo towards the mortgage. This is precisely why you must know how big a loan you can afford.
How to find out the size of your mortgage
Find a simple affordable mortgage calculator available at most finance websites that you can use to determine the size of your mortgage. You must enter the details of the annual interest rate, the tenure of the loan, the yearly real estate taxes, and annual homeowner’s insurance. Also, enter your gross annual income and your monthly debt outgo. Based on the information you provide, the mortgage calculator will quickly calculate the maximum monthly mortgage payment you can afford and the maximum loan amount that you can take.
Illustration
* First, compute your net monthly income after deducting taxes, social security, and retirement contributions. Let us say it is $5000.
* Next, add up all your debt including car loan, student loan, and credit card loan, not including rent or mortgage payments. Assume it is $1000. This amount must not exceed 25% of your net monthly income. Before proceeding, you must take steps to reduce debt below 25% of your net monthly income.
* Take stock of all your expenditure over the past year including holidays, travel costs, food and entertainment, gifts, and tally them with your cash expenses, credit card spending and checks issued. Add all these expenses and divide by 12 to get your monthly living expenses. Let this amount be $1500.
* Add your monthly expenses and debt to get your total monthly expenditure, $2500.Deduct this from your monthly income and $2500 is the maximum monthly mortgage payment you can afford.
* You must deduct 30% of this value for taxes and home insurance. Therefore, $ 1750 is the maximum monthly mortgage payment that you can afford.
* Other factors that determine the affordability of a mortgage include the tenure of the mortgage, the interest rates, and whether the mortgage is fixed or variable interest.
Advantage of using a mortgage loan calculator to find the size of your mortgage
As you have seen, you need the calculator to make the detailed computations. Moreover using a calculator can give you results quickly and you can compare mortgage offers from several lenders. These mortgage calculators help you control costs so that principal, interest, taxes, and homeowner's insurance do not exceed more than 28% of your gross monthly income. It also ensures that your debt payments do not cross 36% of your gross income. From the above discussion, it is evident that a mortgage calculator is a useful tool to decide the affordability of a mortgage. It enables you to take quick and accurate decisions with help from your lenders.
The fallout of not using a mortgage calculator
You may make errors in computations, throwing off your entire budget and financial planning out of gear. You may take a bigger loan than you can afford or you may underestimate yourself and settle for a smaller house. You can harm your credit rating by defaulting on the monthly mortgage payments, adversely affecting chances of getting credit in the future. So, be smart and use a mortgage calculator instead.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Lester
The A-to-Z of Mortgage Loans: 42 Definitions for Home Buyers
Without a proper grasp of mortgage lingo, the home-buying process can leave your head spinning. But fear not, for help has arrived. The 42 definitions that follow will give you a solid understanding of mortgage loans and lenders.
Amortization -- The monthly reduction of a mortgage loan brought about by making regular mortgage payments.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR) -- Shows the monthly cost of the mortgage (including interest, points and mortgage insurance), expressed as a percentage.
Application -- First step in getting approved for the loan. The application provides information about the borrower that the lender will use to justify the loan.
Appraisal -- A formal assessment of a home's fair market value, generally required by the mortgage lender to ensure the home is worth the loan amount.
Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) -- A type of loan that starts out with a lower interest rate for an introductory period (3 years, for example) and later adjusts to whatever the current interest rate is at the time of adjustment.
Balloon Mortgage -- A mortgage that offers low rates for an initial period (generally 5, 7 or 10) years. After this period, the owner must pay the full balance or refinance the loan.
Cap -- A limit to how much a monthly payment or interest rate can increase or decrease. Caps are commonly used on adjustable rate mortgages.
Cash Reserves -- Money often required to be held in addition to the down payment and closing costs. Lenders have their own requirements as to the amount.
Closing -- The process through which property ownership is transferred from the seller to the buyer. Also known as settlement.
Closing Costs -- Expenses above and beyond the sale price of the home. Closing costs vary from state to state, but they often include such items as title searches and lawyer's fees.
Conventional Loan -- A loan made from the private sector and not guaranteed by the U.S. government.
Credit Report -- A record of your credit history, including previous debts, payments and other financial details. Used by lenders to determine your credit score.
Credit Score -- a number derived from your credit report. Used by mortgage lenders to determine your level of qualification for a loan.
Debt-to-Income Ratio -- A ratio calculated by dividing your overall monthly debt by your gross monthly income. Mortgage lenders use this to help determine your "credit worthiness."
Deed -- Official document that shows ownership of a property. It transfers from seller to buyer during the closing process.
Default -- This is what happens when a homeowner is unable to make mortgage payments. Defaulting on a loan could lead to foreclosure (defined below).
Discount Point -- Equal to 1% of the loan amount. Points can be paid by the buyer at closing to reduce the interest rate on the loan.
Down Payment -- Portion of the home's purchase price that is paid in cash and is not part of the mortgage loan.
Earnest Money -- Money the buyer puts down to show sincerity in buying the home. If the offer is accepted, the money becomes part of the down payment. If the offer is rejected, the money is returned. If the buyer pulls out of the deal, the money is forfeited.
Fixed-Rate Mortgage -- A mortgage with payments that stay the same throughout the life of the loan. In other words, the interest rate and other terms of the loan remain fixed.
Foreclosure -- Process through which the home is sold to repay the loan of the defaulting homeowner. See definition of default above.
Good Faith Estimate -- An estimate of all fees and charges that will be due at closing. Must be given to the borrower within three days of a loan application submission.
HUD-1 Statement -- A list of all closing costs. This document must be given to the buyer prior to closing. Also referred to as a settlement statement.
Interest -- A fee charged for borrowing money, expressed as a percentage of the amount borrowed.
Lien -- A legal claim on a property. Must be resolved before the property can be sold.
Lock-in -- Offered by some lenders to guarantee a certain interest rate if the loan is closed within a certain time.
Mortgage Broker -- Individual or company that originates and processes loans for a number of different lenders.
Mortgage Lender -- Bank or lending institution that loans you money for a home.
Mortgage Insurance -- Insurance purchased by the buyer to protect the lender in the event of default. Usually required on loans with less than 20 percent down payment. Also known as Private Mortgage Insurance or PMI.
Origination -- Process of preparing and submitting a loan application. Usually involves a credit check, a property appraisal, and other forms of financial review.
Origination Fee -- Charges associated with origination, defined above.
PITI -- Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance. These are the four elements that will make up your overall monthly mortgage payment.
PMI -- Private Mortgage Insurance. See "Mortgage Insurance" above.
Pre-Approval -- When a lender commits to loaning you a certain amount (as long as you still meet their qualification requirements at time of purchase).
Pre-Qualification -- When a mortgage lender informally reviews your finances to determine the maximum amount they're willing to lend you.
Principal -- The "core" amount borrowed from a lender, excluding interest and additional fees.
RESPA -- The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act is a law that protects consumers during the home buying and loan application process. Among other things, it requires lenders to make full discloses about settlement costs and conditions.
Settlement -- See previous definition under "closing."
Title Insurance -- Protects the mortgage lender against claims that come from a dispute about property ownership. Similar coverage for home buyers is also available.
Title Search -- A review of public records to ensure the seller is the legal owner of the property and that there are no unsettled liens or claims.
Truth-in-Lending -- A federal law that requires mortgage lenders to provide written disclosures of all conditions and costs associated with a loan.
VA Loan -- A loan guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. These loans are made to qualified military veterans and often come with the benefit of no money down.
* You may republish this article online if you retain the live hyperlinks below.
About the Author
BR Cornett writes on behalf of Jimmy Jacobs Custom Homes, a home builder in Georgetown, Texas since 1988. Learn more about Georgetown, Texas real estate [http://www.jacobshomes.com/featured/index.htm] by visiting http://www.jacobshomes.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=BR_Cornett
Amortization -- The monthly reduction of a mortgage loan brought about by making regular mortgage payments.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR) -- Shows the monthly cost of the mortgage (including interest, points and mortgage insurance), expressed as a percentage.
Application -- First step in getting approved for the loan. The application provides information about the borrower that the lender will use to justify the loan.
Appraisal -- A formal assessment of a home's fair market value, generally required by the mortgage lender to ensure the home is worth the loan amount.
Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) -- A type of loan that starts out with a lower interest rate for an introductory period (3 years, for example) and later adjusts to whatever the current interest rate is at the time of adjustment.
Balloon Mortgage -- A mortgage that offers low rates for an initial period (generally 5, 7 or 10) years. After this period, the owner must pay the full balance or refinance the loan.
Cap -- A limit to how much a monthly payment or interest rate can increase or decrease. Caps are commonly used on adjustable rate mortgages.
Cash Reserves -- Money often required to be held in addition to the down payment and closing costs. Lenders have their own requirements as to the amount.
Closing -- The process through which property ownership is transferred from the seller to the buyer. Also known as settlement.
Closing Costs -- Expenses above and beyond the sale price of the home. Closing costs vary from state to state, but they often include such items as title searches and lawyer's fees.
Conventional Loan -- A loan made from the private sector and not guaranteed by the U.S. government.
Credit Report -- A record of your credit history, including previous debts, payments and other financial details. Used by lenders to determine your credit score.
Credit Score -- a number derived from your credit report. Used by mortgage lenders to determine your level of qualification for a loan.
Debt-to-Income Ratio -- A ratio calculated by dividing your overall monthly debt by your gross monthly income. Mortgage lenders use this to help determine your "credit worthiness."
Deed -- Official document that shows ownership of a property. It transfers from seller to buyer during the closing process.
Default -- This is what happens when a homeowner is unable to make mortgage payments. Defaulting on a loan could lead to foreclosure (defined below).
Discount Point -- Equal to 1% of the loan amount. Points can be paid by the buyer at closing to reduce the interest rate on the loan.
Down Payment -- Portion of the home's purchase price that is paid in cash and is not part of the mortgage loan.
Earnest Money -- Money the buyer puts down to show sincerity in buying the home. If the offer is accepted, the money becomes part of the down payment. If the offer is rejected, the money is returned. If the buyer pulls out of the deal, the money is forfeited.
Fixed-Rate Mortgage -- A mortgage with payments that stay the same throughout the life of the loan. In other words, the interest rate and other terms of the loan remain fixed.
Foreclosure -- Process through which the home is sold to repay the loan of the defaulting homeowner. See definition of default above.
Good Faith Estimate -- An estimate of all fees and charges that will be due at closing. Must be given to the borrower within three days of a loan application submission.
HUD-1 Statement -- A list of all closing costs. This document must be given to the buyer prior to closing. Also referred to as a settlement statement.
Interest -- A fee charged for borrowing money, expressed as a percentage of the amount borrowed.
Lien -- A legal claim on a property. Must be resolved before the property can be sold.
Lock-in -- Offered by some lenders to guarantee a certain interest rate if the loan is closed within a certain time.
Mortgage Broker -- Individual or company that originates and processes loans for a number of different lenders.
Mortgage Lender -- Bank or lending institution that loans you money for a home.
Mortgage Insurance -- Insurance purchased by the buyer to protect the lender in the event of default. Usually required on loans with less than 20 percent down payment. Also known as Private Mortgage Insurance or PMI.
Origination -- Process of preparing and submitting a loan application. Usually involves a credit check, a property appraisal, and other forms of financial review.
Origination Fee -- Charges associated with origination, defined above.
PITI -- Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance. These are the four elements that will make up your overall monthly mortgage payment.
PMI -- Private Mortgage Insurance. See "Mortgage Insurance" above.
Pre-Approval -- When a lender commits to loaning you a certain amount (as long as you still meet their qualification requirements at time of purchase).
Pre-Qualification -- When a mortgage lender informally reviews your finances to determine the maximum amount they're willing to lend you.
Principal -- The "core" amount borrowed from a lender, excluding interest and additional fees.
RESPA -- The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act is a law that protects consumers during the home buying and loan application process. Among other things, it requires lenders to make full discloses about settlement costs and conditions.
Settlement -- See previous definition under "closing."
Title Insurance -- Protects the mortgage lender against claims that come from a dispute about property ownership. Similar coverage for home buyers is also available.
Title Search -- A review of public records to ensure the seller is the legal owner of the property and that there are no unsettled liens or claims.
Truth-in-Lending -- A federal law that requires mortgage lenders to provide written disclosures of all conditions and costs associated with a loan.
VA Loan -- A loan guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. These loans are made to qualified military veterans and often come with the benefit of no money down.
* You may republish this article online if you retain the live hyperlinks below.
About the Author
BR Cornett writes on behalf of Jimmy Jacobs Custom Homes, a home builder in Georgetown, Texas since 1988. Learn more about Georgetown, Texas real estate [http://www.jacobshomes.com/featured/index.htm] by visiting http://www.jacobshomes.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=BR_Cornett
Thursday, 3 December 2009
Second Mortgage – Benefits and Considerations
Opting for a second mortgage is a decision which warrants a great deal of consideration. Before entering into a second mortgage, homeowners should carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages of taking on a second mortgage and should also carefully review the different options available. A second mortgage is often enticing because these closed-end loans can be used for any purpose and may even be tax deductible but caution should be exercised because defaulting on these loans can put the home under which the second mortgage was secured in jeopardy.
The Benefits of a Second Mortgage
We have already stressed the importance of carefully weighing the available options in deciding whether or not to take on a second mortgage. In this section we will outline the benefits of a second mortgage. Although a second mortgage may increase the amount the homeowner pays in the long run, there are other worthwhile benefits to this type of mortgage. Some of these benefits include:
· Debt consolidation
· Tax advantages
· Home improvement possibilities
· Favorable interest rates
Debt consolidation is just one of the many advantages to a second mortgage. A second mortgage is typically secured based on the equity in the home but it can often be used for any purpose. This gives homeowners the opportunity to consolidate several debts including high interest credit card debt, under the umbrella of a second mortgage. Debt consolidation can greatly increase monthly savings by allowing the homeowner to repay high interest debt at the lower interest rate associated with the second mortgage.
There are also tax advantages to securing a second mortgage. As we mentioned credit card debt and other debts may be consolidated under a second mortgage. This is beneficial because tax laws may enable the homeowner to deduct the interest on their second mortgage.
The opportunity to make improvements to the home also exists with a second mortgage. As previously mentioned, a second mortgage can be used for a variety of purposes. Many homeowners take out a home equity line of credit which enables them to cash out on the equity of their home for purposes such as home improvement.
Finally, favorable interest rates are another reason for homeowners to opt for a second mortgage. In making this decision the homeowner should calculate the cost of taking out the second mortgage and compare this cost to the long terms savings potential. If the long term savings potential exceeds the cost of the second mortgage, it is a worthwhile investment.
Types of Second Mortgages
In making the decision to take out a second mortgage there are two main options which homeowners should consider. The most popular types of second mortgage include a home equity line of credit or a closed-end second mortgage. In this section we will explain these two options.
A home equity line of credit is essentially a revolving line of credit which enables the homeowner to take advantage of the equity in his home. The maximum amount for this credit line is usually based on a percentage of the appraisal value, usually 75%-85%, of the home minus the balance remaining on the original mortgage. Home equity loans are ideal for homeowners who wish to have a revolving credit line at their disposal and who are secure in using their home as collateral in securing this loan.
The significant difference between a closed-end second mortgage and a home equity line of credit is the closed-end mortgage offers a fixed loan amount to be repaid over a fixed amount of time while the homeowners can withdraw additional funds from the home equity line of credit whenever there is existing equity in the home. The closed-end second mortgage is ideal for homeowners with a one time specific need for funds.
Considerations before Taking on a Second Mortgage
We have discussed the benefits of a second mortgage and the types of mortgages available but homeowners should also evaluate the risks of taking out a second mortgage. Some of these risks include:
· Losing the home if the second mortgage is not repaid
· The costs of taking out a second mortgage
· Prepayment penalties
Perhaps one of the greatest risks of a second mortgage is the threat of losing the home if the mortgage is not repaid in a timely fashion. It is important to remember the collateral for a second mortgage is often the home itself. Becoming default on the second mortgage can result in loss of the home.
There are certain expenses associated with taking out a second mortgage. These costs may include application fee, loan origination fees, appraisal fee, survey costs, home inspection fees, title fees, homeowner’s insurance and mortgage insurance. These fees could be equal to 3%-10% of the outstanding principal on the first mortgage. Before investing in a second mortgage, the homeowner should ensure the overall cost savings of the second mortgage will exceed the fees associated with taking out the second mortgage.
Finally, prepayment penalties should be thoroughly examined before taking out a second mortgage. This involves charging the homeowner for repaying the second mortgage ahead of schedule. Homeowners who intend to repay the second mortgage should ensure the lender will not charge prepayment penalties or should evaluate whether or not the penalties will be worthwhile.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Stasiewicz
The Benefits of a Second Mortgage
We have already stressed the importance of carefully weighing the available options in deciding whether or not to take on a second mortgage. In this section we will outline the benefits of a second mortgage. Although a second mortgage may increase the amount the homeowner pays in the long run, there are other worthwhile benefits to this type of mortgage. Some of these benefits include:
· Debt consolidation
· Tax advantages
· Home improvement possibilities
· Favorable interest rates
Debt consolidation is just one of the many advantages to a second mortgage. A second mortgage is typically secured based on the equity in the home but it can often be used for any purpose. This gives homeowners the opportunity to consolidate several debts including high interest credit card debt, under the umbrella of a second mortgage. Debt consolidation can greatly increase monthly savings by allowing the homeowner to repay high interest debt at the lower interest rate associated with the second mortgage.
There are also tax advantages to securing a second mortgage. As we mentioned credit card debt and other debts may be consolidated under a second mortgage. This is beneficial because tax laws may enable the homeowner to deduct the interest on their second mortgage.
The opportunity to make improvements to the home also exists with a second mortgage. As previously mentioned, a second mortgage can be used for a variety of purposes. Many homeowners take out a home equity line of credit which enables them to cash out on the equity of their home for purposes such as home improvement.
Finally, favorable interest rates are another reason for homeowners to opt for a second mortgage. In making this decision the homeowner should calculate the cost of taking out the second mortgage and compare this cost to the long terms savings potential. If the long term savings potential exceeds the cost of the second mortgage, it is a worthwhile investment.
Types of Second Mortgages
In making the decision to take out a second mortgage there are two main options which homeowners should consider. The most popular types of second mortgage include a home equity line of credit or a closed-end second mortgage. In this section we will explain these two options.
A home equity line of credit is essentially a revolving line of credit which enables the homeowner to take advantage of the equity in his home. The maximum amount for this credit line is usually based on a percentage of the appraisal value, usually 75%-85%, of the home minus the balance remaining on the original mortgage. Home equity loans are ideal for homeowners who wish to have a revolving credit line at their disposal and who are secure in using their home as collateral in securing this loan.
The significant difference between a closed-end second mortgage and a home equity line of credit is the closed-end mortgage offers a fixed loan amount to be repaid over a fixed amount of time while the homeowners can withdraw additional funds from the home equity line of credit whenever there is existing equity in the home. The closed-end second mortgage is ideal for homeowners with a one time specific need for funds.
Considerations before Taking on a Second Mortgage
We have discussed the benefits of a second mortgage and the types of mortgages available but homeowners should also evaluate the risks of taking out a second mortgage. Some of these risks include:
· Losing the home if the second mortgage is not repaid
· The costs of taking out a second mortgage
· Prepayment penalties
Perhaps one of the greatest risks of a second mortgage is the threat of losing the home if the mortgage is not repaid in a timely fashion. It is important to remember the collateral for a second mortgage is often the home itself. Becoming default on the second mortgage can result in loss of the home.
There are certain expenses associated with taking out a second mortgage. These costs may include application fee, loan origination fees, appraisal fee, survey costs, home inspection fees, title fees, homeowner’s insurance and mortgage insurance. These fees could be equal to 3%-10% of the outstanding principal on the first mortgage. Before investing in a second mortgage, the homeowner should ensure the overall cost savings of the second mortgage will exceed the fees associated with taking out the second mortgage.
Finally, prepayment penalties should be thoroughly examined before taking out a second mortgage. This involves charging the homeowner for repaying the second mortgage ahead of schedule. Homeowners who intend to repay the second mortgage should ensure the lender will not charge prepayment penalties or should evaluate whether or not the penalties will be worthwhile.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Stasiewicz
Factors That Affect Your Mortgage Rate
There are going to be many factors which affect your mortgage rate, some of which are under your control and others which you can do nothing about. You should be aware of all of the factors which might affect your mortgage rate and take them into consideration before applying for a mortgage loan. You can take steps to improve some of the factors which affect your mortgage rate and make decisions about when is best to apply based on basic knowledge about your mortgage.
What is a mortgage?
Most people understand the basic definition that the mortgage is a loan which is used to purchase a home. There is slightly more to the mortgage than this. The mortgage is a loan which uses the property itself as collateral. If you fail to make the payments on your mortgage, the property may be taken over by the lending institution who has given you the mortgage.
You want the best mortgage rates
The mortgage is a long-life loan meaning that it is not going to be fully repaid for many, many years. A standard home mortgage is often a fifteen or twenty year loan. This means that you want the best mortgage rate possible because you are going to be needing to pay this rate for a long, long time.
Factors affecting mortgage rates
Major factors affecting mortgage rates include:
• Amount of down payment on mortgage
• Consideration of closing costs
• Income of mortgage borrower
• Life of mortgage loan
• Life of mortgage rate
• Total mortgage loan amount
• Whether or not the mortgage rate is adjustable
Factors making up a desirable mortgage rate
The basic premise of the desirable mortgage rate is that it is within your budget, has a low interest rate and is paid back as quickly as possible. How all of this plays out in terms of each individual mortgage depends upon the independent factors of each borrower. For example, you might prefer a fifteen-year mortgage loan to one that is paid over thirty years. This will allow you to save money over time because you pay less in interest. However, if you can not afford the higher monthly payments and you default on the mortgage loan, you have not helped yourself out any.
Negotiating a desirable mortgage rate
The simplest method of achieving a desirable mortgage rate is to work with a mortgage broker. You will have to pay up front fees to the mortgage broker, usually at the time when all of the closing costs are paid on the home purchase, but you will save money and time in the long run. The mortgage broker plays the role of assessing your personal financial situation and working with lending institutions to negotiate the best possible mortgage rate for your situation. The mortgage broker has experience with all of the factors and terms used in the mortgage loan negotiation and can use this expertise to your benefit.
Repayment of the mortgage loan
When you are working out a plan of repayment for the mortgage loan, you should look at the amount of money available for down payment, the amount you can reasonably pay on the loan each month, the grace period of any adjustable mortgage loan interest rates and any fees owed for early repayment of the mortgage. Working with the mortgage broker, you should be able to develop a repayment plan for your mortgage which allows you to purchase and remain in your home through the life of the loan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martin_Lukac
What is a mortgage?
Most people understand the basic definition that the mortgage is a loan which is used to purchase a home. There is slightly more to the mortgage than this. The mortgage is a loan which uses the property itself as collateral. If you fail to make the payments on your mortgage, the property may be taken over by the lending institution who has given you the mortgage.
You want the best mortgage rates
The mortgage is a long-life loan meaning that it is not going to be fully repaid for many, many years. A standard home mortgage is often a fifteen or twenty year loan. This means that you want the best mortgage rate possible because you are going to be needing to pay this rate for a long, long time.
Factors affecting mortgage rates
Major factors affecting mortgage rates include:
• Amount of down payment on mortgage
• Consideration of closing costs
• Income of mortgage borrower
• Life of mortgage loan
• Life of mortgage rate
• Total mortgage loan amount
• Whether or not the mortgage rate is adjustable
Factors making up a desirable mortgage rate
The basic premise of the desirable mortgage rate is that it is within your budget, has a low interest rate and is paid back as quickly as possible. How all of this plays out in terms of each individual mortgage depends upon the independent factors of each borrower. For example, you might prefer a fifteen-year mortgage loan to one that is paid over thirty years. This will allow you to save money over time because you pay less in interest. However, if you can not afford the higher monthly payments and you default on the mortgage loan, you have not helped yourself out any.
Negotiating a desirable mortgage rate
The simplest method of achieving a desirable mortgage rate is to work with a mortgage broker. You will have to pay up front fees to the mortgage broker, usually at the time when all of the closing costs are paid on the home purchase, but you will save money and time in the long run. The mortgage broker plays the role of assessing your personal financial situation and working with lending institutions to negotiate the best possible mortgage rate for your situation. The mortgage broker has experience with all of the factors and terms used in the mortgage loan negotiation and can use this expertise to your benefit.
Repayment of the mortgage loan
When you are working out a plan of repayment for the mortgage loan, you should look at the amount of money available for down payment, the amount you can reasonably pay on the loan each month, the grace period of any adjustable mortgage loan interest rates and any fees owed for early repayment of the mortgage. Working with the mortgage broker, you should be able to develop a repayment plan for your mortgage which allows you to purchase and remain in your home through the life of the loan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martin_Lukac
Mortgage Insurance
‘Mortgage insurance’ is a term that you will surely come across if you are going for a mortgage loan. Let’s get straight into finding out what this term (‘Mortgage insurance’) means.
Mortgage insurance is a great tool for both the borrower and the mortgage lender. By definition, mortgage insurance provides protection to the mortgage lender in case the borrower defaults on the mortgage. Mortgage insurance covers the loss that a mortgage lender can incur in such a circumstance. So besides taking title to property, the mortgage lender is also protected against loss by mortgage insurance. The premium of this mortgage insurance is obviously paid by the borrower and there are different ways in which the borrower can pay this mortgage insurance premium e.g. one way is to include it as part of the monthly mortgage payments that are made to the mortgage lender (who in turn passes on the amount to the mortgage insurer).
However, how does mortgage insurance provide benefit to the borrower?
Since mortgage is a big financial transaction, the mortgage lenders need to safeguard their interests in all possible way. So, mortgage lenders require the borrower to demonstrate their commitment to the investment. One way of showing this commitment (and the ability to pay monthly mortgage payments) is to make a down payment. The mortgage lenders generally ask for a down payment of around 20%. However, if the borrower goes for mortgage insurance, the down payment amount may be significantly reduced by the mortgage lender. So, a borrower might be required to pay only 5% or 10% as mortgage down payment instead of the mandated 20% or whatever. This means that mortgage insurance is especially good for people who don’t have enough cash to make large down payments (as such 20% is quite a big amount in itself). Such people can save on cash by going for mortgage insurance. Moreover, since mortgage insurance provides a lot of confidence to the mortgage lenders (in terms of their investment being safe), the processing of your mortgage application could be faster and smoother than what it would have been without mortgage insurance commitment. So not only does mortgage insurance increase the buying power of a borrower it also provides him/her with benefits in terms of getting a good mortgage deal and getting it faster.
So, mortgage insurance is really advantageous both for the borrower and mortgage lender and the onus lies on the borrower to hunt for a good deal on mortgage insurance and also on the mortgage itself.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Ellsworth
Mortgage insurance is a great tool for both the borrower and the mortgage lender. By definition, mortgage insurance provides protection to the mortgage lender in case the borrower defaults on the mortgage. Mortgage insurance covers the loss that a mortgage lender can incur in such a circumstance. So besides taking title to property, the mortgage lender is also protected against loss by mortgage insurance. The premium of this mortgage insurance is obviously paid by the borrower and there are different ways in which the borrower can pay this mortgage insurance premium e.g. one way is to include it as part of the monthly mortgage payments that are made to the mortgage lender (who in turn passes on the amount to the mortgage insurer).
However, how does mortgage insurance provide benefit to the borrower?
Since mortgage is a big financial transaction, the mortgage lenders need to safeguard their interests in all possible way. So, mortgage lenders require the borrower to demonstrate their commitment to the investment. One way of showing this commitment (and the ability to pay monthly mortgage payments) is to make a down payment. The mortgage lenders generally ask for a down payment of around 20%. However, if the borrower goes for mortgage insurance, the down payment amount may be significantly reduced by the mortgage lender. So, a borrower might be required to pay only 5% or 10% as mortgage down payment instead of the mandated 20% or whatever. This means that mortgage insurance is especially good for people who don’t have enough cash to make large down payments (as such 20% is quite a big amount in itself). Such people can save on cash by going for mortgage insurance. Moreover, since mortgage insurance provides a lot of confidence to the mortgage lenders (in terms of their investment being safe), the processing of your mortgage application could be faster and smoother than what it would have been without mortgage insurance commitment. So not only does mortgage insurance increase the buying power of a borrower it also provides him/her with benefits in terms of getting a good mortgage deal and getting it faster.
So, mortgage insurance is really advantageous both for the borrower and mortgage lender and the onus lies on the borrower to hunt for a good deal on mortgage insurance and also on the mortgage itself.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Ellsworth
Online Mortgage in UK - Introducing the Best Mortgage Plan Across UK
Add the term ‘online’ and it will open for you an exhaustive assortment of opportunities. Add online to mortgage and it will have the same effect. So many people want to get mortgage programme and get with it fast. The online mortgage in UK indisputably takes lesser time and simplifies the entire procedure. Online mortgages have furthered favourable association of circumstances for any mortgage hopeful in UK.
The British Banker’s Association has put the figure of approved mortgage as 186,442, making mortgage the largest financial obligation. Online mortgage is the largest undertaking and a very integral part of the loan lending industry. The online trend with regard to mortgages has spelled great benefits for the consumers for it has increased competition among the loan lenders. This shift in the business trend towards online mortgages has provided more control in the hands of the homeowners in UK.
There is huge competition between online mortgage lenders. There are numerous mortgage lenders, all trying hard to offer you a mortgage plan. Its direct result is great mortgage rates and repayment options. Online, you can contact multiple lenders for mortgage and this will enable you to compare rates and also provide you with an excellent opportunity to select the mortgage that befits your requirements.
Online mortgages have certainly revolutionized the concept of mortgaging in UK. Internet has introduced people to a new face of mortgage process totally alien previously. A few years ago, a mortgage would have required you to find a mortgage lender or broker who would be ready to do the leg work for you, who would be willing to compose a good mortgage proposal for you. Without the online process, assembling information and drafting loan programmes would be a very demanding job. There was no way that the people could access generalized information about mortgage and interest rates. Without online mortgages, the alternatives were restricted and borrowers would settle for any mortgage lender.
So, what does the online uprising affect for general homeowner in UK? Advantages – in every way.Online mortgage in UK gives you several instruments to not only understand mortgage but also pick up the one mortgage that fits exactly in your financial configuration. All kind of mortgage information is available online which can be easily accessed sitting at home through the computer. You are exposed to hoards of information about mortgage, online.
With online options, you can actually look at the various deals offered by various UK mortgage lenders. Online, you can access financial tools to make mortgage more in sync with your demands. Financial advice, mortgage rates, mortgage calculator, and comparing mortgages online allow you to achieve the best in respect to mortgages.
With online mortgages, it is highly important to know that inadequate or false information would only work against your chances of finding a mortgage. Accuracy while providing details of your employment, your credit history, income and assets would only put you in a favourable light in front of the mortgage lender. This will help in online processing of your loan application and being approved without any setback. However, be prudent enough to offer your personal financial information only when you are filling the mortgage application form.
A UK homeowner while applying for mortgage online should not settle for the company just because it happens to publicize lower interest rates. Borrowers, applying online, must be careful about the website they are applying at. A mortgage offering website would contain a privacy policy. Go through it, if you have time. Also, confirm whether the website actually exists. A genuine online mortgage lender will have real people answering your questions when you call.
Other things to look out for are upfront fees and read the fine print before you settle on any mortgage deal in UK. Fine print can contain many details that are left otherwise. Ask questions, if you have any doubts. Queries about the online mortgage process – whether there are any fees that will be charged later on, pre payment penalties. If you don’t understand anything or are uncertain, clear them before you move on.
How technology affects our life - you know that. How it affects our mortgage decisions – it is evident through online mortgages. With internet we can access various mortgage product, services, connect to almost all mortgage deals available online. It has enabled us to overcome limitations; it has stretched the possibilities of finding a mortgage beyond the local area. If your local area doesn’t have a mortgage for you, you can shop; go beyond the local boundaries to find a mortgage in any part of UK. With so many mortgage options available online, the chances of your finding a mortgage are undoubtedly bright.
Loan borrowing is a highly voluntary act. It is such a significant decision that without proper knowledge and understanding it would not be of much help. Sandra smith is making an honest effort in such a direction so that loan borrowing is comprehensible to lay man and thereby he can make a favourable decision that substantiates his financial status.To find Mortgage,first time buyer mortgage,buy to let mortgage that best suits your needs visit http://www.easymortgageuk.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandra_Smith
The British Banker’s Association has put the figure of approved mortgage as 186,442, making mortgage the largest financial obligation. Online mortgage is the largest undertaking and a very integral part of the loan lending industry. The online trend with regard to mortgages has spelled great benefits for the consumers for it has increased competition among the loan lenders. This shift in the business trend towards online mortgages has provided more control in the hands of the homeowners in UK.
There is huge competition between online mortgage lenders. There are numerous mortgage lenders, all trying hard to offer you a mortgage plan. Its direct result is great mortgage rates and repayment options. Online, you can contact multiple lenders for mortgage and this will enable you to compare rates and also provide you with an excellent opportunity to select the mortgage that befits your requirements.
Online mortgages have certainly revolutionized the concept of mortgaging in UK. Internet has introduced people to a new face of mortgage process totally alien previously. A few years ago, a mortgage would have required you to find a mortgage lender or broker who would be ready to do the leg work for you, who would be willing to compose a good mortgage proposal for you. Without the online process, assembling information and drafting loan programmes would be a very demanding job. There was no way that the people could access generalized information about mortgage and interest rates. Without online mortgages, the alternatives were restricted and borrowers would settle for any mortgage lender.
So, what does the online uprising affect for general homeowner in UK? Advantages – in every way.Online mortgage in UK gives you several instruments to not only understand mortgage but also pick up the one mortgage that fits exactly in your financial configuration. All kind of mortgage information is available online which can be easily accessed sitting at home through the computer. You are exposed to hoards of information about mortgage, online.
With online options, you can actually look at the various deals offered by various UK mortgage lenders. Online, you can access financial tools to make mortgage more in sync with your demands. Financial advice, mortgage rates, mortgage calculator, and comparing mortgages online allow you to achieve the best in respect to mortgages.
With online mortgages, it is highly important to know that inadequate or false information would only work against your chances of finding a mortgage. Accuracy while providing details of your employment, your credit history, income and assets would only put you in a favourable light in front of the mortgage lender. This will help in online processing of your loan application and being approved without any setback. However, be prudent enough to offer your personal financial information only when you are filling the mortgage application form.
A UK homeowner while applying for mortgage online should not settle for the company just because it happens to publicize lower interest rates. Borrowers, applying online, must be careful about the website they are applying at. A mortgage offering website would contain a privacy policy. Go through it, if you have time. Also, confirm whether the website actually exists. A genuine online mortgage lender will have real people answering your questions when you call.
Other things to look out for are upfront fees and read the fine print before you settle on any mortgage deal in UK. Fine print can contain many details that are left otherwise. Ask questions, if you have any doubts. Queries about the online mortgage process – whether there are any fees that will be charged later on, pre payment penalties. If you don’t understand anything or are uncertain, clear them before you move on.
How technology affects our life - you know that. How it affects our mortgage decisions – it is evident through online mortgages. With internet we can access various mortgage product, services, connect to almost all mortgage deals available online. It has enabled us to overcome limitations; it has stretched the possibilities of finding a mortgage beyond the local area. If your local area doesn’t have a mortgage for you, you can shop; go beyond the local boundaries to find a mortgage in any part of UK. With so many mortgage options available online, the chances of your finding a mortgage are undoubtedly bright.
Loan borrowing is a highly voluntary act. It is such a significant decision that without proper knowledge and understanding it would not be of much help. Sandra smith is making an honest effort in such a direction so that loan borrowing is comprehensible to lay man and thereby he can make a favourable decision that substantiates his financial status.To find Mortgage,first time buyer mortgage,buy to let mortgage that best suits your needs visit http://www.easymortgageuk.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandra_Smith
What is the Best Deal For a Mortgage?
Few of us invest the time and effort into researching and securing the best deal for a mortgage to purchase our home.
For most of us, our house is the single most important and expensive purchase we ever make!
We invest a lot of time and effort into finding the perfect property in the best location and with as many of the features from our wish list as possible, yet, when it comes to finding the best deal for a mortgage, we take what is offered rather than researching and securing the best mortgage for our situation.
When you consider that the average homeowner will pay out more in interest over the lifetime of their mortgage than the home originally cost, you can see why getting yourself the best deal for a mortgage now, could save you tens of thousands of dollars in interest over the 20 30 year term of your home loan.
Your research for the best mortgages or loans and repayment options currently available can be carried out on the internet, thus making the whole process that much more convenient and time efficient for you.
Mortgages are not a "One Size Fits All!"
Mortgages come in many different forms and you need to be aware of the various forms in order to determine which one is the best deal for a mortgage to your unique circumstances.
Basically, mortgages fall into one of the following categories. Lenders will have variations of these basic categories, but armed with this information, you will be able to sort through the choices for just the right package.
Fixed Rate Mortgages:
Loan with an interest rate that remains at a specific rate for the entire term of the mortgage/loan. Approximately 75 per cent of home mortgages are this type. A fixed rate mortgage is often considered the best deal for a mortgage for first time buyers as you can establish a consistent relatively fixed budget of household operating expenses.
ARM's or Adjustable Rate Mortgages or Variable Rate Mortgages:
A mortgage/loan with an interest rate that adjusts or varies with the changes in rates paid on Treasury Bills or bank Certificates of Deposit. In Canada, the rates vary according to the posted weekly Bank of Canada rates.
To offset the risk associated with an adjustable rate mortgage, some lenders offer various 'capping' options. Often, they fix or limit the maximum level to which the interest rate you are subject to can rise for a given period of time. Sometimes they fix the cap per year and sometimes for the lifetime of the mortgage.
Adjustable or variable rate mortgages can be very attractive as usually the rates are considerably lower than for fixed rate mortgages. They are an excellent vehicle for borrowers who are attentive to the rate fluctuations and prepared to 'lock in' their mortgage when interest rates start climbing. If you're constantly watching the money markets, this may be the best deal for a mortgage for you.
Balloon Mortgages:
A mortgage in which the monthly payment is not intended to repay the entire loan. The final payment is a large lump sum of the remaining principal. Balloon mortgages are often only partially amortized and requiring a lump sum repayment at maturity.
It's popular mortgage in the US for homeowners who aren't planning to stay in their new home for more than 5 or 7 years. The advantage is that the interest rate is lower than a fixed rate mortgage however, the disadvantage is that if you remain in the home beyond the 5 to 7 year term, you would have to secure a new loan or mortgage to pay off the balloon mortgage.
Jumbo Mortgages or 'Non-Conforming' Mortgages:
In the US, Congress has legislated a conforming limit to the amount a mortgage is allowable for funding by Federal National Mortgage Association (a.k.a: Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (a.k.a: Freddie Mac). The 2009 limit is $417,000; $625,500 in Alaska, Guam, Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Any loan or mortgage above that conforming limit is considered a Jumbo Mortgage. A Jumbo mortgage/loan allows you to borrow over the conforming limit, but for that privilege, you will incur higher interest rates. There are variations to the Jumbo Mortgage such as the Super Jumbo Mortgage, but I'm sure you get the basic picture.
Canadians have an equivalent referred to as a "High Ratio Mortgage" guaranteed/funded through Canada Mortgage And Housing Corporation (CMHC).
Now that you have identified which type of mortgage might suit you best, you need to consider repayment methods and you basically have two options:
Interest Only:
An interest only payment method can be combined with any type of traditional mortgage. Interest only payment periods almost never run for the entire term of the loan, so prepare to have your payment rise to include both principal and interest once the interest only period ends.
Principal and Interest or Capital & Interest:
Your monthly repayments are divided into an interest payment and a principal or capital repayment. In the early years of the mortgage period most of the monthly payment is swallowed up in interest but over time the balance reverses and you start to pay off more of the capital or principal borrowed.
So Many Mortgage Lenders ... So Many Choices!
There are so many mortgage lenders offering such a variety of loan options that at first it can seem a daunting task trying to determine which lender most suits you and your circumstances and which Lender is offering you the best deal on a mortgage!
It is important to note that as you shop for a mortgage, each lender will perform a credit check prior to committing to the mortgage or loan. Each credit check remains on your credit record and could potentially reduce your credit score and eligibility for a mortgage or loan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Helen_March
For most of us, our house is the single most important and expensive purchase we ever make!
We invest a lot of time and effort into finding the perfect property in the best location and with as many of the features from our wish list as possible, yet, when it comes to finding the best deal for a mortgage, we take what is offered rather than researching and securing the best mortgage for our situation.
When you consider that the average homeowner will pay out more in interest over the lifetime of their mortgage than the home originally cost, you can see why getting yourself the best deal for a mortgage now, could save you tens of thousands of dollars in interest over the 20 30 year term of your home loan.
Your research for the best mortgages or loans and repayment options currently available can be carried out on the internet, thus making the whole process that much more convenient and time efficient for you.
Mortgages are not a "One Size Fits All!"
Mortgages come in many different forms and you need to be aware of the various forms in order to determine which one is the best deal for a mortgage to your unique circumstances.
Basically, mortgages fall into one of the following categories. Lenders will have variations of these basic categories, but armed with this information, you will be able to sort through the choices for just the right package.
Fixed Rate Mortgages:
Loan with an interest rate that remains at a specific rate for the entire term of the mortgage/loan. Approximately 75 per cent of home mortgages are this type. A fixed rate mortgage is often considered the best deal for a mortgage for first time buyers as you can establish a consistent relatively fixed budget of household operating expenses.
ARM's or Adjustable Rate Mortgages or Variable Rate Mortgages:
A mortgage/loan with an interest rate that adjusts or varies with the changes in rates paid on Treasury Bills or bank Certificates of Deposit. In Canada, the rates vary according to the posted weekly Bank of Canada rates.
To offset the risk associated with an adjustable rate mortgage, some lenders offer various 'capping' options. Often, they fix or limit the maximum level to which the interest rate you are subject to can rise for a given period of time. Sometimes they fix the cap per year and sometimes for the lifetime of the mortgage.
Adjustable or variable rate mortgages can be very attractive as usually the rates are considerably lower than for fixed rate mortgages. They are an excellent vehicle for borrowers who are attentive to the rate fluctuations and prepared to 'lock in' their mortgage when interest rates start climbing. If you're constantly watching the money markets, this may be the best deal for a mortgage for you.
Balloon Mortgages:
A mortgage in which the monthly payment is not intended to repay the entire loan. The final payment is a large lump sum of the remaining principal. Balloon mortgages are often only partially amortized and requiring a lump sum repayment at maturity.
It's popular mortgage in the US for homeowners who aren't planning to stay in their new home for more than 5 or 7 years. The advantage is that the interest rate is lower than a fixed rate mortgage however, the disadvantage is that if you remain in the home beyond the 5 to 7 year term, you would have to secure a new loan or mortgage to pay off the balloon mortgage.
Jumbo Mortgages or 'Non-Conforming' Mortgages:
In the US, Congress has legislated a conforming limit to the amount a mortgage is allowable for funding by Federal National Mortgage Association (a.k.a: Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (a.k.a: Freddie Mac). The 2009 limit is $417,000; $625,500 in Alaska, Guam, Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Any loan or mortgage above that conforming limit is considered a Jumbo Mortgage. A Jumbo mortgage/loan allows you to borrow over the conforming limit, but for that privilege, you will incur higher interest rates. There are variations to the Jumbo Mortgage such as the Super Jumbo Mortgage, but I'm sure you get the basic picture.
Canadians have an equivalent referred to as a "High Ratio Mortgage" guaranteed/funded through Canada Mortgage And Housing Corporation (CMHC).
Now that you have identified which type of mortgage might suit you best, you need to consider repayment methods and you basically have two options:
Interest Only:
An interest only payment method can be combined with any type of traditional mortgage. Interest only payment periods almost never run for the entire term of the loan, so prepare to have your payment rise to include both principal and interest once the interest only period ends.
Principal and Interest or Capital & Interest:
Your monthly repayments are divided into an interest payment and a principal or capital repayment. In the early years of the mortgage period most of the monthly payment is swallowed up in interest but over time the balance reverses and you start to pay off more of the capital or principal borrowed.
So Many Mortgage Lenders ... So Many Choices!
There are so many mortgage lenders offering such a variety of loan options that at first it can seem a daunting task trying to determine which lender most suits you and your circumstances and which Lender is offering you the best deal on a mortgage!
It is important to note that as you shop for a mortgage, each lender will perform a credit check prior to committing to the mortgage or loan. Each credit check remains on your credit record and could potentially reduce your credit score and eligibility for a mortgage or loan.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Helen_March
Do Your Homework - Find the Mortgage That Fits Your Lifestyle and Your Budget
You've been looking at houses for months, and finally you’ve found it--the house that's just right. So now, all you have to do is to purchase your new home, move in, and get settled, right? Not quite. There’s one more big step to go-getting a mortgage loan. You’re going to want to decide on the type of mortgage and payment terms that fit within your budget. And you’re going to have to prepare yourself by doing some research. What follows is valuable information that will be crucial in helping you make loan decisions that will fit your budget and circumstance.
Series: 3 Finding a Perfect Match for your Home Mortgage
Factors That Affect Your Mortgage
Mortgage payments are determined based on the following criteria:
Amount of the loan
Length of the loan
Down payment
Discount points
Closing costs
Credit quality
Income level
Lock in period
Loan Amount: The amount of your loan can increase your interest rate if the amount financed exceeds the conforming loan limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, (private corporations regulated by the federal government) that administer loans. The conforming loan limit changes at the beginning of each year.
Shorter loans, such as a 30 year or 15 year note, can save you thousand of dollars in interest payments over the life of the loan, but your monthly payments will be high. An adjustable rate mortgage may get you started with a lower interest rate than a fixed rate mortgage, but your payments could get higher when the interest rate changes.
Down Payment: A large down payment will give you the best possible rate. If you've got the cash now and want to lower your payments, you can pay points on your loan to lower your mortgage rate. The concept is simple: In exchange for more money upfront, lenders are willing to lower their interest rate, cutting the borrower's payments. Remember to consider upcoming expenses and closing costs in your down payment decision.
Closing costs. In addition to your down payment, you will need to pay closing costs for processing your loan and transferring the property ownership from the seller to you, the buyer. Closing costs can range from 3%-5% of your loan amount, depending on where you live, the loan you choose and your closing date. In some cases, you can finance certain closing costs in your mortgage loan. When you apply for loan, your lender will give you an estimate of closing costs, which usually include:
Origination fees.
Costs of processing your loan (includes property survey and appraisal).
Items paid in advance, such as first-year mortgage insurance premium, first-year hazard insurance premium and first-year flood or earthquake insurance premiums, if required.
Escrow accounts – an account held by the lender into which the homebuyer usually pays for city/county property taxes, mortgage insurance, and hazard insurance, if required.
Title insurance charges.
Recording and transfer charges.
Attorney’s fees.
Credit Score: Your credit and debt-to-income-ratio affect the terms of your loan through your FICO score which is used to determine your credit rating. If you have good credit and your monthly income exceeds your monthly debt obligations, you will get approved at a lower interest rate. However, if your monthly income barely covers your minimum debt obligations, you will not receive the lowest available interest rate even if you have a good credit report.
Lock-in Rate: When shopping for a loan remember that interest rates change frequently. It is important to ask your mortgage representative if a lock-in rate is possible. This will guarantee you a specific rate, provided the loan is closed, with a set period of time.
Determine How Large a Monthly Mortgage Payment You Can Afford
Your choice of mortgage will be influenced by questions such as
How many years do you expect to live in your new home?
How important is it to be free of mortgage debt before facing your children’s college bills or planning your future retirement?
How comfortable are you with the certainty of a fixed mortgage payment vs. a payment that can change over time?
Your monthly payment will vary depending upon the type and length of the loan and the amount you put down. Most lenders will help you select the loan that’s best suited to your financial situation.
How Low an Interest Rate Can You Expect?
Shorter term loans offer lower interest rates and are divided into two types. A Fixed mortgage means that the rate is locked in for the life of the loan. Adjustable Rate, also called an ARM or variable rate note, is a note that generally offers lower payments for the first year and then changes periodically based on the terms and conditions of your note. Paying discount “points” can lower your interest rate. If your loan requires you to pay points or if you want to buy “down” the interest rate using points, remember that one point equals 1% of the loan amount.
Choosing the Right Mortgage
If you want the stability and predictability of a set rate for the life of your loan, then a fixed rate mortgage may be for you. Usually the longer the term of the mortgage, the more interest you pay over the life of your loan. Though, a longer term means your monthly mortgage payments will be less than they would be with a comparable shorter-term mortgage.
30 year vs. 15 year fixed rate mortgage.
A 30-year mortgage will have a lower monthly payment and a higher interest rate than a 15-year mortgage. You'll have a smaller monthly obligation but you'll pay more for your house over time because you're paying it off with interest for a longer period.
On the other hand, a 15-year mortgage will have a higher monthly payment and a lower interest rate so you'll pay less for your house because you're paying it off in a shorter period.
Adjustable Rate Mortgage.
ARMs, are short-term fixed-rate loans: After the fixed rate term is up, the rate adjusts at regular intervals in accordance with current interest rate conditions at that time. A 5/1 ARM, for example, has a fixed rate for five years and then adjusts every year for the next 25 years. (ARMs typically run on a 30-year schedule.)
The length of the fixed-rate term on an ARM typically can range anywhere from one month to 10 years. The longer the rate is fixed, the higher the interest rate you'll get. But generally speaking -- and there have been exceptions in the past -- ARMs will cost you less in the short-term. With the ARM, both your monthly payments and interest rates should be lower than either a fixed rate 15-year or 30-year mortgage.
The risk with an ARM is that when interest rates rise, you could end up paying much more than you bargained for. Check to see if your ARM has a cap rate so that if rates increase, your change cannot exceed a certain pre-defined limit.
If you know you'll be in a home for 12 years or more, a 30-year fixed rate mortgage might work better for you than, say, a 5/1 ARM, where you fix a rate for five years and then it adjusts every year after that. But if you think you won't be in the home longer than five or six years, a 5/1 ARM might make more sense.
Mortgage Shopping Tips.
Talk to the mortgage specialists at your bank. If you are starting to look for a home they can asses your financial situation and help you determine a purchase price that is within your budget and a mortgage program that suits your lifestyle and income. In many cases your advisor can prepare a pre-approved mortgage before you finalize your purchase.
Ask a mortgage specialist at your bank to help you calculate payments at different interest rates. This will help you determine a monthly payment that can be comfortable integrated into your budget.
Types of Mortgage Programs.
Most lenders are committed to ensuring that your home financing experience is rewarding and effortless. To this end, there are many programs available to suit a variety of situations, lifestyles and your financial profiles. These include:
Fixed-rate loan. If you’ve found a home you plan to live in for 10-30 years, consider a fixed-rate loan. It’s predictable and stable since the interest rate is set for the full length of the loan. Because the monthly payment for the principal and interest stays the same for the life of the loan, it’s easier to plan a budget. Most lenders offer many fixed-rate loans with terms to fit your budget, including loans that require no money down.
Adjustable-rate loan.
If you plan on being in your home for a shorter period of time, or expect your income to increase of the years, an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) may just be the right fit for you. An ARM loan usually starts with a lower initial interest rate than traditional fixed-rate loans. After a set initial payment period (usually one, three, five, seven or ten years), the interest rate may change periodically (usually annually or semiannually) based on market conditions. As the rate changes, your monthly payment changes. ARM loans feature an adjustment “cap” which limits how much the interest rate can go up. This helps protect you from large increases in your monthly payment.
Loans for first-time homebuyers.
Most banks offer affordable loans to make it easier for first-time homebuyers with limited savings to qualify for a home loan. Specifically, FHA and VA government loans are available to qualified buyers, based on income or property location. These affordable financing programs can help make it easier to buy a home since they require little or no money down and also offer flexible credit and income guidelines.
Repayment schedule.
Also consider how quickly you’d like to repay your loan – within 15 years, 20 years, 25 years, 30 years? Do you want to make biweekly mortgage payments? Typically, the sooner you repay the loan, the more you’ll save in interest payments. However, the longer you extend the term of your financing, the lower your monthly payments maybe. So when choosing a loan term, consider your budget, your long-term spending patterns, your income over the life of the loan and how long you plan to stay in your home.
Which loan is right for me?
The lifestyle situations below can help you decide which loan you might want to consider.
”Getting the lowest monthly payment is most important to me, and I’ll be in my home for less than five years.”
An intermediate ARM (five years or longer) if your income is fixed or expected to decline.
A short-term ARM (three years or less) if you expect your income to increase.
“Getting the lowest monthly payment is most important to me, and I’ll be in my home for more than five years.”
A fixed-term mortgage (for example, 30-year fixed).
An intermediate ARM if you expect your income to keep increasing.
”I have little money saved for a down payment.”
AN FHA loan.
A VA loan, if you are a veteran.
“I have no traditional credit references (for example, car loan or credit cards) but I pay my rent and other bills on time.”
An FHA loan.
A VA loan, if you are a veteran.
“Paying off my mortgage faster and saving money by paying less interest long-term is what’s most important to me.”
A shorter-term mortgage, such as 15- or 20-year fixed-rate loan.
A biweekly 30-year mortgage accelerates the reduction in principal by applying more than one extra payment a year, reducing the total interest and term of the loan
Borrowers Protection Plan
Borrowers Protection Plan is an optional feature of your loan that can provide peace of mind during difficult times – like an unexpected job loss or disability. Borrowers Protection Plan will cancel your monthly principal and interest payment should you lose your job or are unable to work due to illness or injury. Borrowers Protection Plan may cancel a total of up to 12 months, depending upon the protection option and benefit period selected. And if you should die in an accident your entire loan balance will be canceled.
Benefits of protection.
Affordable. Decide what you and your family need and we'll help make it affordable.
Easy to obtain. There are no health requirements or medical exams and any size loan qualifies.
Supplemental benefits. Your monthly benefits will not be reduced because of other state unemployment benefits or disability income you may receive.
Protection options available prior to loan closing include involuntary unemployment and disability and can be purchased individually, or as a combination. These options also include accidental death protection and are available on a single or joint basis.
Fast answers and streamlined processing. The approval process should be fast and simple. Many homebuyers who have excellent credit history can be approved for a mortgage at the time of the application and with very little documentation.
Hassle-free mortgages with 80% less paperwork.
Use a proprietary process to determine if you qualify for this streamlined loan feature. This means less digging, sorting and collecting paperwork for you.
Your qualification for reduced paperwork depends on a number of factors:
Strong credit — doesn't have to be perfect
Type of mortgage you choose — many mortgage types and loan amounts up to $750,000 are eligible
Even if you don't qualify for the 80% less paperwork mortgage feature, your mortgage request can still be approved.
Buying a home is one of the most important events in your life. So talk to the mortgage professionals, do your homework and select a loan that fits your lifestyle and your budget. And enjoy the satisfaction of owning your own home.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Tannebring
Series: 3 Finding a Perfect Match for your Home Mortgage
Factors That Affect Your Mortgage
Mortgage payments are determined based on the following criteria:
Amount of the loan
Length of the loan
Down payment
Discount points
Closing costs
Credit quality
Income level
Lock in period
Loan Amount: The amount of your loan can increase your interest rate if the amount financed exceeds the conforming loan limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, (private corporations regulated by the federal government) that administer loans. The conforming loan limit changes at the beginning of each year.
Shorter loans, such as a 30 year or 15 year note, can save you thousand of dollars in interest payments over the life of the loan, but your monthly payments will be high. An adjustable rate mortgage may get you started with a lower interest rate than a fixed rate mortgage, but your payments could get higher when the interest rate changes.
Down Payment: A large down payment will give you the best possible rate. If you've got the cash now and want to lower your payments, you can pay points on your loan to lower your mortgage rate. The concept is simple: In exchange for more money upfront, lenders are willing to lower their interest rate, cutting the borrower's payments. Remember to consider upcoming expenses and closing costs in your down payment decision.
Closing costs. In addition to your down payment, you will need to pay closing costs for processing your loan and transferring the property ownership from the seller to you, the buyer. Closing costs can range from 3%-5% of your loan amount, depending on where you live, the loan you choose and your closing date. In some cases, you can finance certain closing costs in your mortgage loan. When you apply for loan, your lender will give you an estimate of closing costs, which usually include:
Origination fees.
Costs of processing your loan (includes property survey and appraisal).
Items paid in advance, such as first-year mortgage insurance premium, first-year hazard insurance premium and first-year flood or earthquake insurance premiums, if required.
Escrow accounts – an account held by the lender into which the homebuyer usually pays for city/county property taxes, mortgage insurance, and hazard insurance, if required.
Title insurance charges.
Recording and transfer charges.
Attorney’s fees.
Credit Score: Your credit and debt-to-income-ratio affect the terms of your loan through your FICO score which is used to determine your credit rating. If you have good credit and your monthly income exceeds your monthly debt obligations, you will get approved at a lower interest rate. However, if your monthly income barely covers your minimum debt obligations, you will not receive the lowest available interest rate even if you have a good credit report.
Lock-in Rate: When shopping for a loan remember that interest rates change frequently. It is important to ask your mortgage representative if a lock-in rate is possible. This will guarantee you a specific rate, provided the loan is closed, with a set period of time.
Determine How Large a Monthly Mortgage Payment You Can Afford
Your choice of mortgage will be influenced by questions such as
How many years do you expect to live in your new home?
How important is it to be free of mortgage debt before facing your children’s college bills or planning your future retirement?
How comfortable are you with the certainty of a fixed mortgage payment vs. a payment that can change over time?
Your monthly payment will vary depending upon the type and length of the loan and the amount you put down. Most lenders will help you select the loan that’s best suited to your financial situation.
How Low an Interest Rate Can You Expect?
Shorter term loans offer lower interest rates and are divided into two types. A Fixed mortgage means that the rate is locked in for the life of the loan. Adjustable Rate, also called an ARM or variable rate note, is a note that generally offers lower payments for the first year and then changes periodically based on the terms and conditions of your note. Paying discount “points” can lower your interest rate. If your loan requires you to pay points or if you want to buy “down” the interest rate using points, remember that one point equals 1% of the loan amount.
Choosing the Right Mortgage
If you want the stability and predictability of a set rate for the life of your loan, then a fixed rate mortgage may be for you. Usually the longer the term of the mortgage, the more interest you pay over the life of your loan. Though, a longer term means your monthly mortgage payments will be less than they would be with a comparable shorter-term mortgage.
30 year vs. 15 year fixed rate mortgage.
A 30-year mortgage will have a lower monthly payment and a higher interest rate than a 15-year mortgage. You'll have a smaller monthly obligation but you'll pay more for your house over time because you're paying it off with interest for a longer period.
On the other hand, a 15-year mortgage will have a higher monthly payment and a lower interest rate so you'll pay less for your house because you're paying it off in a shorter period.
Adjustable Rate Mortgage.
ARMs, are short-term fixed-rate loans: After the fixed rate term is up, the rate adjusts at regular intervals in accordance with current interest rate conditions at that time. A 5/1 ARM, for example, has a fixed rate for five years and then adjusts every year for the next 25 years. (ARMs typically run on a 30-year schedule.)
The length of the fixed-rate term on an ARM typically can range anywhere from one month to 10 years. The longer the rate is fixed, the higher the interest rate you'll get. But generally speaking -- and there have been exceptions in the past -- ARMs will cost you less in the short-term. With the ARM, both your monthly payments and interest rates should be lower than either a fixed rate 15-year or 30-year mortgage.
The risk with an ARM is that when interest rates rise, you could end up paying much more than you bargained for. Check to see if your ARM has a cap rate so that if rates increase, your change cannot exceed a certain pre-defined limit.
If you know you'll be in a home for 12 years or more, a 30-year fixed rate mortgage might work better for you than, say, a 5/1 ARM, where you fix a rate for five years and then it adjusts every year after that. But if you think you won't be in the home longer than five or six years, a 5/1 ARM might make more sense.
Mortgage Shopping Tips.
Talk to the mortgage specialists at your bank. If you are starting to look for a home they can asses your financial situation and help you determine a purchase price that is within your budget and a mortgage program that suits your lifestyle and income. In many cases your advisor can prepare a pre-approved mortgage before you finalize your purchase.
Ask a mortgage specialist at your bank to help you calculate payments at different interest rates. This will help you determine a monthly payment that can be comfortable integrated into your budget.
Types of Mortgage Programs.
Most lenders are committed to ensuring that your home financing experience is rewarding and effortless. To this end, there are many programs available to suit a variety of situations, lifestyles and your financial profiles. These include:
Fixed-rate loan. If you’ve found a home you plan to live in for 10-30 years, consider a fixed-rate loan. It’s predictable and stable since the interest rate is set for the full length of the loan. Because the monthly payment for the principal and interest stays the same for the life of the loan, it’s easier to plan a budget. Most lenders offer many fixed-rate loans with terms to fit your budget, including loans that require no money down.
Adjustable-rate loan.
If you plan on being in your home for a shorter period of time, or expect your income to increase of the years, an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) may just be the right fit for you. An ARM loan usually starts with a lower initial interest rate than traditional fixed-rate loans. After a set initial payment period (usually one, three, five, seven or ten years), the interest rate may change periodically (usually annually or semiannually) based on market conditions. As the rate changes, your monthly payment changes. ARM loans feature an adjustment “cap” which limits how much the interest rate can go up. This helps protect you from large increases in your monthly payment.
Loans for first-time homebuyers.
Most banks offer affordable loans to make it easier for first-time homebuyers with limited savings to qualify for a home loan. Specifically, FHA and VA government loans are available to qualified buyers, based on income or property location. These affordable financing programs can help make it easier to buy a home since they require little or no money down and also offer flexible credit and income guidelines.
Repayment schedule.
Also consider how quickly you’d like to repay your loan – within 15 years, 20 years, 25 years, 30 years? Do you want to make biweekly mortgage payments? Typically, the sooner you repay the loan, the more you’ll save in interest payments. However, the longer you extend the term of your financing, the lower your monthly payments maybe. So when choosing a loan term, consider your budget, your long-term spending patterns, your income over the life of the loan and how long you plan to stay in your home.
Which loan is right for me?
The lifestyle situations below can help you decide which loan you might want to consider.
”Getting the lowest monthly payment is most important to me, and I’ll be in my home for less than five years.”
An intermediate ARM (five years or longer) if your income is fixed or expected to decline.
A short-term ARM (three years or less) if you expect your income to increase.
“Getting the lowest monthly payment is most important to me, and I’ll be in my home for more than five years.”
A fixed-term mortgage (for example, 30-year fixed).
An intermediate ARM if you expect your income to keep increasing.
”I have little money saved for a down payment.”
AN FHA loan.
A VA loan, if you are a veteran.
“I have no traditional credit references (for example, car loan or credit cards) but I pay my rent and other bills on time.”
An FHA loan.
A VA loan, if you are a veteran.
“Paying off my mortgage faster and saving money by paying less interest long-term is what’s most important to me.”
A shorter-term mortgage, such as 15- or 20-year fixed-rate loan.
A biweekly 30-year mortgage accelerates the reduction in principal by applying more than one extra payment a year, reducing the total interest and term of the loan
Borrowers Protection Plan
Borrowers Protection Plan is an optional feature of your loan that can provide peace of mind during difficult times – like an unexpected job loss or disability. Borrowers Protection Plan will cancel your monthly principal and interest payment should you lose your job or are unable to work due to illness or injury. Borrowers Protection Plan may cancel a total of up to 12 months, depending upon the protection option and benefit period selected. And if you should die in an accident your entire loan balance will be canceled.
Benefits of protection.
Affordable. Decide what you and your family need and we'll help make it affordable.
Easy to obtain. There are no health requirements or medical exams and any size loan qualifies.
Supplemental benefits. Your monthly benefits will not be reduced because of other state unemployment benefits or disability income you may receive.
Protection options available prior to loan closing include involuntary unemployment and disability and can be purchased individually, or as a combination. These options also include accidental death protection and are available on a single or joint basis.
Fast answers and streamlined processing. The approval process should be fast and simple. Many homebuyers who have excellent credit history can be approved for a mortgage at the time of the application and with very little documentation.
Hassle-free mortgages with 80% less paperwork.
Use a proprietary process to determine if you qualify for this streamlined loan feature. This means less digging, sorting and collecting paperwork for you.
Your qualification for reduced paperwork depends on a number of factors:
Strong credit — doesn't have to be perfect
Type of mortgage you choose — many mortgage types and loan amounts up to $750,000 are eligible
Even if you don't qualify for the 80% less paperwork mortgage feature, your mortgage request can still be approved.
Buying a home is one of the most important events in your life. So talk to the mortgage professionals, do your homework and select a loan that fits your lifestyle and your budget. And enjoy the satisfaction of owning your own home.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Tannebring
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