Skip to content
Trusted Answers From Licensed Business Professionals

What The New Mortgage Environment Means For You

Last summer’s rise in mortgage rates has begun to impact the lending environment. The major bellwether mortgage lenders (J.P. Morgan & Wells Fargo) reported 28% declines in mortgage origination in the first quarter of 2014 as compared to the prior quarter. Moreover, the lending market at a whole is down 58% year over year. Read More.

Share |

The Rules For Reverse Mortgages Have Changed For The Better

Seniors that have hit hard times may be forced to make a difficult decision. Do they sell their investments to stay afloat or should they tap into their home equity? If they are considering tapping into their home equity, the rules regulating reverse mortgages have recently changed for the better. Find out if a reverse mortgage is an option you should consider. Read More.

Share |

Is It Risky To Use A Mortgage Broker?


Mortgage rates have continued to rise with the average yield on a 30-year loan jumping to 4.46% from 4.29% in the prior week. Prospective buyers may want to consider making a purchase sooner rather than later. .
-or-
Share |

Reverse Mortgages May Provide Retirees With Financial Relief


As life expectancy rates continue to rise, some seniors have been forced to make some difficult financial decisions. Do they sell some of their investments or do they tap into their home equity? Reverse mortgages may be attractive to retirees facing this dilemma. However, these mortgage mechanisms aren't without their own risks. .
-or-
Share |

Is Renting Or Buying Cheaper Now That Rates Are Rising?

The recent rise in mortgage rates and home prices have some potential buyers thinking about renting. Specifically, rates have risen substantially over the past six months or to nearly 4% for a 30 year mortgage. Housing prices are also on the uptick with a 10% year over year increase or more in most markets. Still, does the rise justify the fact that some buyers are thinking about renting instead? Read More.

Share |

Should You Refinance or Buy Now Since Mortgage Rates Are Rising?

Mortgage rates are now on the rise again as was the case six months ago. The difference this time is that average rates on a 30 year mortgage have jumped 25 basis points to 3.99% as compared to a 10 basis point increase to 3.52% in December (source: Bankrate weekly surveys). In addition, the market appears to have moved in response to the Federal Reserve Chairman’s recent comments about pulling back on its historic easy money monetary policy. What should you do with this recent rise in rates? Read More.

Share |

What Should I Know When Negotiating a Mortgage?


The housing market has heated up throughout the country and particularly in parts of Florida, Arizona, California and Las Vegas. In addition, it is still below historical levels in terms of the home affordability ratio. With that said, there are many homebuyers working through the details of their mortgage application. It's important to know how to negotiate with your lender. .
-or-
Share |

Can You Still Obtain A Mortgage After A Short Sale?


Many homeowners are still underwater on the properties that they purchased 5 to 7 years ago. They may be able to meet mortgage payments, but they could have a home with a $250,000 mortgage that is now worth $125,000. Should an owner that wants to move out, consider a short sale? If so, what are the consequences to their credit and taxes? .
-or-
Share |

Congress came through at the 25th hour by extending the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007 through 2013. This extension positively impacts those that are in a foreclosure, short sale or are considering a deed in lieu. Read More.

Share |

Should You Be Worried That Mortgage Rates Are Now Rising?

While 30 year mortgage rates are still down 50 to 60 basis points as compared to last year, there’s been an increase in rates over the past two weeks. According to Bankrate’s recent national survey, rates are up 10 basis points or at 3.62% as compared to 3.52% during the week of December 3rd, 2012. This is somewhat head-scratching given the Federal Reserve’s announcement to purchase up to $45 billion worth or mortgage-backed securities per month. What should you make of this recent rise in mortgage rates? Read More.

Share |