25
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips,

A Few Common Misconceptions About Mortgage Pre-Qualification

If you're shopping around for mortgages, you've probably heard about pre-qualification processes – or maybe even received a pre-qualification offer in the mail. Lots of prospective homeowners hold misconceptions about what exactly pre-qualification is and how it works, and it leads them to opt into poor mortgage deals. But by understanding how pre-qualification works, you'll be able to find the right mortgage for you – at the best possible rate. So what is mortgage pre-qualification, and what isn't it? Here are three common pre-qualification myths that you may have heard. Myth: Mortgage Pre-qualification Commits You To A Specific Lender Many…
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18
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Understanding the “Adjustable Rate Mortgage” (ARM) and How This Type of Mortgage Works

When applying for a new home loan, there are several different types of mortgage programs available to most applicants. While there are various home loan programs to choose from, the most significant difference between the various options relates to a fixed rate mortgage or an adjustment rate mortgage. Understanding what an adjustable rate mortgage, or ARM, is in comparison to a fixed rate mortgage can help applicants make a more informed decision about their mortgage plans. What is an Adjustable Rate Mortgage? A fixed rate mortgage is one with an interest rate fixed for the entire term length. This means…
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13
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Five Required Mortgage Closing Costs – And A Few Tips On How To Minimize Them

Mortgages are expensive, and closing costs only add to the financial burden that homebuyers face. But with a little knowledge, you can pinpoint places to save on your mortgage closing costs and keep more money in your pocket. When you're negotiating your next mortgage, use these tips to reduce required closing costs and keep more of your hard-earned money. Title Insurance: Request The Simultaneous Issue Rate Title insurance is an important add-on that no buyer should go without. At the time of closing, there may be a variety of title problems that could arise - like encroachments, easements, unpaid liens,…
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11
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Will Missing Mortgage Payments Impact My FICO Score? Yes – and Here’s How

If you're like most homeowners, you probably believe that one missed mortgage payment won't have a noticeable impact on your FICO score. People get behind now and then, and besides, you've been faithfully making payments on time for years. How bad could it be? In truth, even one missed mortgage payment could seriously damage your FICO score. Lenders can report missed monthly payments whenever they choose - they don't need to wait until a certain date to do it. That means even if your mortgage payment is a few days late, your lender may report it as unpaid. So what…
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05
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, Personal Finance, ,

The Down Payment: Four Great Reasons To Make The Largest Down Payment You Can Afford

If you’re looking for a new home, you’ve probably heard lots of advice about down payments. About how it’s okay to just have a five percent down payment – you’ll still get approved. About how you should make the down payment as small as possible to avoid cash flow problems. In truth, you’re actually better off making the largest down payment you can possibly afford. Even if you have to slice up other areas of your budget, save for a few more years before you buy, or take a second job on the weekends, it’ll be worth it in the…
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04
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

A Guide for Those Intrested In Refinancing a Traditional Mortgage to a FHA Mortgage

Refinancing a mortgage can provide a homeowner with many benefits, and some may be interested in refinancing their traditional mortgage into an FHA mortgage to take advantage of low interest rates. Depending on the specific circumstances, this step may lower the monthly payment, reduce interest charges, adjust the loan term so that it is more beneficial for achieving financial goals. Those who are interested in refinancing their mortgage may consider these steps. Understand the Rules and Requirements There are specific rules in place regarding refinancing under the FHA program. For example, the loan amount may be up to 96.5 percent…
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