Refinancing...it's not in everyone's best interest!
Updated Oct. 9, 2013
"There is nothing more unequal than the equal treatment of unequal people." - Thomas Jefferson . Undoubtedly, this founding father was not referring to refinancing of mortgages. But, I thought of this quote to drive home my point that not everyone who has a mortgage should refinance it. Why? Because it may not be in...

Where is the Beef?
Updated Oct. 9, 2013
100% Financing is Still Available in Select Areas: In the past few months we have written a lot about FHA loans and the benefits of this "in vogue" mortgage product. We have also talked about the tightening of the industry, especially in the Freddie/ Fannie Conventional world.. So if I told you that there was a...

What is title insurance and why do I care.
Updated Oct. 9, 2013
It is, without a doubt, one of the most confusing things I have to explain.. What, you ask? It's Title Insurance! What is it? Why is it required? How come I have to pay for it? How much does it cost? These are a few of the typical questions asked by soon-to-be homeowners.. First of all; it's helpful to remember...

Timing is Everything!
Updated Oct. 24, 2014
There are few things you will ever do in your life that are more time-sensitive than that of financing a home. Why? Because there is a defined deadline: The closing! Closing on a mortgage is a big deal. It's a big deal for everyone. But once a borrower has finished the application process they often lose sight of...

Got the HARP Blues
Updated Oct. 9, 2013
Many homeowners are trying to take advantage of the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP). And some are finding that it's not easy.. The basic eligibility is simple enough:. oYour current mortgage must be owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. You can check that right here:ohttps://www...

Your Mortgage Insurance May be Tax-deductible!
Updated Oct. 9, 2013
Just a reminder: Your Mortgage Insurance (MI) may be tax-deductible!. First a disclaimer: I cannot give tax advice. You should consult with your CPA or tax adviser to determine if you're eligible to take this deduction.. For those of you who have yet to file their income tax return...this one's for you:....

Yes, Virginia, there still is 100% financing!
Updated Oct. 9, 2013
Not long ago I met with a First Time Homebuyer and her Mom. While the daughter was very receptive to all the "education" I was sharing with regard to the home buying process, Mom was just shocked to hear that there really wasn't a 100% financing option that would work for her daughter.. NO 100% financing? Are you...

Nothing constant but change...
Updated Oct. 9, 2013
There is nothing more certain to change than the weather and rules affecting the mortgage industry; neither one of which we have any control of!. The final TILA Escrow Rule, which takes effect for applications received on or after June 1, 2013, has three main elements:. oHigher-priced mortgages secured by a...