I'm republishing a portion of a previous post primarily because it still applies but also to let you know the urgency to refinance or purchase if you re considering that??
I also wanted to let you know of an upcoming event being hosted by BFI - Business Fellowship International. You’re invited! Don’t miss Wednesday, July 21(11:30-1:00 pm) at Deer Creek Golf Club. The featured speaker will be economist Bill Helming, author of What Goes Up Eventually Comes Down. Bill is widely acknowledged as an expert economist whose economic forecasts have been uncannily accurate and on-target. Hear first hand what Bill has very good reason to believe we will all be facing economically between now and 2014 – and how to plan accordingly. Proverbs 22:3 states, “A prudent man foresees the difficulty ahead and prepares for them; the simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.” TO REGISTER GO TO: http://www.acanetwork.org/clubportal/EventDetailPublic2.cfm?clubID-1259&EventID=12415> ADVANCED REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED!
If you have been considering buying a home or even refinancing, you've probably been asking one of these questions? Should I refinance now? Should I buy now? What if rates go down again? With the economy this way, surely rates will have to drop again? I heard the Feds are going to lower rates again to stimulate the economy, should I wait to lock in an interest rate then?
These are all great questions and very valid. In the past, before all the housing bubble began, the answer to these questions might of been to wait. Times have changed! It's a whole new game in the mortgage world. If you are considering waiting to buy or refinance, below is a few reasons not to:
1. Mortgage Lenders are tightening guidelines to protect against future losses. Mortgage lenders are reducing loan to value limitations. They may require you to have 20% equity or more? If you are an investor or a jumbo borrower, those equity requirements are even higher. Someone who could qualify today, may not be able to qualify tomorrow.
2. The value of your home could decline, maybe it already has and could again? Foreclosures and short sales lower the market value of every home in your neighborhood and surrounding areas. A home that is comparable to yours that ends up selling for less than yours is going to lower your home's value. Lower appraisals lead to higher loan to values and, often, higher mortgage rates.
3. Have you or someone you know lost their job in the last two years? Job losses are happening at a very rapid rate. Many are being laid off as employers fear for the future stability of the company. Many are downsizing to offset lower prof ts (or no profits at all). Without a job and a steady paycheck, lenders won't give you a mortgage loan. I work with Business Fellowship International, a ministry that helps folks get connected and possibly into a new job. If this is you, please email me and I will help you in any way I can.
4. Another rise in cost is mortgage insurance or PMI. This is required if you have less than 20% equity or down payment in your home. PMI is an insurance that protects the lenders in the event of default. Remember hurricane Andrew and the impact it made on the insurance carriers? What's going on in the housing market right now, is comparable to that. Mortgage insurance carriers are raising rates and tightening guidelines as well, making it very hard to qualify or not allowing your payment to drop with the interest rate reductions.
5. What is your credit score? Most people assume their credit is good. But what is good anymore? To get the "preferred" or "going" interest rate, you have to have excellent credit scores, that means over 700 and sometimes over 720/740. Now don't get me wrong, we are still able to do loans under 700, but we would need to review your situation to see if it makes sense for you.
If you are thinking about buying or refinancing, now's the time to do it. The pendulum for mortgage loans has swung from one extreme to the other and it may be a long long while before lenders will consider loosening guidelines again. Financial crisis has it America.
Jewel and I, the InSight Team, are here to help you make sound choices with your mortgage. We have many valuable resources and offer a variety of mortgage products. Please give us a call or email us or visit us on the web at www.wantinsight.com.
Most Cordially
Michele "MAC" A. Cole
Business Development
michele@wantinsight.com
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
816-510-1399
Showing posts with label refinance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label refinance. Show all posts
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
Economic Crisis? Can this be turned around?
Last Thursday was the National Day of Prayer. IAll over the country, in businesses, churches, homes, etc people were praying for our nation, the United States of America.
As I was praying and joining in with the others around the country, I felt the Lord speak to me about paying off the national debt. What I mean is, I sensed God would like us to join in unity and do our part, make an effort to pay off the national debt. Is it even possible? I don't know but with God all things are possible. I do not know the first thing to do or how to even begin to organize this. What I do know is that America was built on biblical principles. Our founding forefathers would probably roll over in their graves if they knew the debt America and it's people are in. So many of us have a consumerism mentality - some because that's just how we were raised. I'm not condemning anyone because I play a role in that too. Over the last 8 years, the Lord has shown me how important it is to learn how to live within your means, meaning don't buy something unless you have the cash to do so. Debt isn't a sin, but it can lead you into bondage. A favorite Scripture of mine is found in Proverbs 22:7, Just as the rich rule the poor, so is the borrower servant to the lender. I don't know about you, but when i have credit card debt that I cannot pay off when the bill comes, it puts me into a sense of "bondage". Maybe you're not feeling the squeeze others are? If not, that's great!!
With so many folks losing jobs due to downsizing and company closures, we are seeing more and more folks feeling the "heat" or the bondage of the debt load they carry. I recently received this video from an economist I know and it sure is eye-opening but not surprising to me. I wanted to share it with you so you could also do some research and see what you can do personally to get your family into a better place. If Americans would pay their debt off as quickly as they can and invest in American products, we could see a positive change. If we drag our feet and wait too long, we could face the worst of times this country has ever seen. I know that some will remain in denial and say "this won't happen to me"... but time will tell.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1VbGcaVvFM - Check this out!
Now, on a positive note - there is hope - Jeremiah 29:11 says For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. If you are a follower of Jesus, this promise is for you. We must turn to God and seek him with all we have and do. He is our strong tower, our place of refuge and His arms are opened wide waiting for you to come to Him. Jesus doesn't shield us from difficult circumstances but He examines (tests) both the righteous and the unrighteous. Use this as an opportunity to grow in a relationship with God. Whenever things go wrong in our lives, we have to believe and trust that God is still for us. We contend for the promises, but we trust Him for any outcome. He knows what's best for us. Read Psalm 3. As we depend on God's mercy, we can be at peace about anything. We can conquer fear by trusting in the Lord.
Jewel and I focus on helping clients make good choices in their home financing decisions. Our choices today affect our tomorrows. We want you to be able to weather the economic storm this country is facing. I pray that you become encouraged and motivated to make changes in your life that will prepare you for what could happen. If we can be of assistance in that, please feel free to call or email. Visit us at www.wantinsight.com.
Blessings Abundant!
Michele Cole
Business Development Rep
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
The InSight Team
Mid America Mortgage
www.wantinsight.com
As I was praying and joining in with the others around the country, I felt the Lord speak to me about paying off the national debt. What I mean is, I sensed God would like us to join in unity and do our part, make an effort to pay off the national debt. Is it even possible? I don't know but with God all things are possible. I do not know the first thing to do or how to even begin to organize this. What I do know is that America was built on biblical principles. Our founding forefathers would probably roll over in their graves if they knew the debt America and it's people are in. So many of us have a consumerism mentality - some because that's just how we were raised. I'm not condemning anyone because I play a role in that too. Over the last 8 years, the Lord has shown me how important it is to learn how to live within your means, meaning don't buy something unless you have the cash to do so. Debt isn't a sin, but it can lead you into bondage. A favorite Scripture of mine is found in Proverbs 22:7, Just as the rich rule the poor, so is the borrower servant to the lender. I don't know about you, but when i have credit card debt that I cannot pay off when the bill comes, it puts me into a sense of "bondage". Maybe you're not feeling the squeeze others are? If not, that's great!!
With so many folks losing jobs due to downsizing and company closures, we are seeing more and more folks feeling the "heat" or the bondage of the debt load they carry. I recently received this video from an economist I know and it sure is eye-opening but not surprising to me. I wanted to share it with you so you could also do some research and see what you can do personally to get your family into a better place. If Americans would pay their debt off as quickly as they can and invest in American products, we could see a positive change. If we drag our feet and wait too long, we could face the worst of times this country has ever seen. I know that some will remain in denial and say "this won't happen to me"... but time will tell.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1VbGcaVvFM - Check this out!
Now, on a positive note - there is hope - Jeremiah 29:11 says For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. If you are a follower of Jesus, this promise is for you. We must turn to God and seek him with all we have and do. He is our strong tower, our place of refuge and His arms are opened wide waiting for you to come to Him. Jesus doesn't shield us from difficult circumstances but He examines (tests) both the righteous and the unrighteous. Use this as an opportunity to grow in a relationship with God. Whenever things go wrong in our lives, we have to believe and trust that God is still for us. We contend for the promises, but we trust Him for any outcome. He knows what's best for us. Read Psalm 3. As we depend on God's mercy, we can be at peace about anything. We can conquer fear by trusting in the Lord.
Jewel and I focus on helping clients make good choices in their home financing decisions. Our choices today affect our tomorrows. We want you to be able to weather the economic storm this country is facing. I pray that you become encouraged and motivated to make changes in your life that will prepare you for what could happen. If we can be of assistance in that, please feel free to call or email. Visit us at www.wantinsight.com.
Blessings Abundant!
Michele Cole
Business Development Rep
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
The InSight Team
Mid America Mortgage
www.wantinsight.com
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Is Now the Time to Refinance - How to survive the economic crisis!
Do you know someone is who feeling the impact of the ever changing economy? Is someone you know experiencing a financial crisis? Bankruptcy? Foreclosure? Job loss? I sure have. Being in the mortgage industry, this is something I see or hear about every day. It's very sad. Some folks are experiencing these things because of the poor choices of others or because of their own poor choices. We all do this from time to time. Unfortunately, it's a fact of life. When we spend money on things such as nice homes, sports cars and other pleasures of life and if we do so without having the ability to pay cash for it, we can be setting ourselves up for financial destruction. We reap what we sow! Our national debt is a number too large for me to even fathom. The bible says, that just as the rich rule the poor, so is the borrower servant to the lender. When we take on debt that we cannot pay off, it puts us in a position of "bondage".
But there's hope! I know many people who can help you and offer you solutions. Sometimes refinancing is an option and sometimes it's not. Interest rates are still very good but now is the time to act. With the ever changing economy, the only way we can survive as a country is through inflation, which means interest rates go up.
For an honest approach - free consultation on what options you have, please give us a call or email. We care and we want to see you freed from bondage!
Blessings from The InSight Team
Michele "MAC" A. Cole
Business Development Rep
michele@wantinisght.com
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
jewel@wantinsight.com
816-510-1399
But there's hope! I know many people who can help you and offer you solutions. Sometimes refinancing is an option and sometimes it's not. Interest rates are still very good but now is the time to act. With the ever changing economy, the only way we can survive as a country is through inflation, which means interest rates go up.
For an honest approach - free consultation on what options you have, please give us a call or email. We care and we want to see you freed from bondage!
Blessings from The InSight Team
Michele "MAC" A. Cole
Business Development Rep
michele@wantinisght.com
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
jewel@wantinsight.com
816-510-1399
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Tax Credit Deadline Approaching - No fooling!
No fooling around, the tax credit for home purchases is approaching fast!!
Home buyers will qualify for the tax credit until April 30, 2010* (as long as they have entered a binding contract), and have an additional 2 months (until June 30, 2010*) to close the transaction. Borrower income limits have been increased to $125,000 for individuals and $225,000 for couples (up from $75,000 and $150,000 respectively under the current program). The legislation includes a tax credit not exceeding $6,500 for move up buyers who have owned their current homes for at least 5 years.
If you are considering a move and buying a new home, NOW is the time to act. Not only for first time buyers but for buyers wanting to downsize, or up size who have owned their homes for 5 years or more, you qualify for some credit as well!
Interest rates have been staying stable and are still at record lows!!! There are still no downpayment loans available thru VA loans. Contact us to see how you may qualify!
You probably know someone who has been hurt greatly by the economic times. The InSight Team's heart is to help point you towards the right product for your home financing. One that even with economic uncertainity, you can have peace.
For an Honest Approach to Home Financing, please give us a call at 816-510-1399 or visit us at www.wantinsight.com
Michele "MAC". A Cole
Business Development
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
www.wantinsight.com
Home buyers will qualify for the tax credit until April 30, 2010* (as long as they have entered a binding contract), and have an additional 2 months (until June 30, 2010*) to close the transaction. Borrower income limits have been increased to $125,000 for individuals and $225,000 for couples (up from $75,000 and $150,000 respectively under the current program). The legislation includes a tax credit not exceeding $6,500 for move up buyers who have owned their current homes for at least 5 years.
If you are considering a move and buying a new home, NOW is the time to act. Not only for first time buyers but for buyers wanting to downsize, or up size who have owned their homes for 5 years or more, you qualify for some credit as well!
Interest rates have been staying stable and are still at record lows!!! There are still no downpayment loans available thru VA loans. Contact us to see how you may qualify!
You probably know someone who has been hurt greatly by the economic times. The InSight Team's heart is to help point you towards the right product for your home financing. One that even with economic uncertainity, you can have peace.
For an Honest Approach to Home Financing, please give us a call at 816-510-1399 or visit us at www.wantinsight.com
Michele "MAC". A Cole
Business Development
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
www.wantinsight.com
Monday, December 28, 2009
So what's your New Year's Resolution?? Interest Rates ticked up a bit... should we lock or not?
I received much positive feedback on this last post, so I thought I'd resend it to you along with a few additional updates.
I pray you and your families had a joyous Christmas!
What's your New Year's Resolution? Eat Right, Exercise More, Get Organized.... or considering buying or refinancing your home?? This blog will hopefully help you make a good choice if it's regarding home financing!
If you have been considering buying a home or even refinancing, you've probably been asking one of these questions? Should I refinance now? Should I buy now? What if rates go down again? With the economy this way, surely rates will have to drop again? I heard the Feds are going to lower rates again to stimulate the economy, should I wait to lock in an interest rate then? Just since Christmas, mortgage rates have tinged up about 3/8 or .375%. Depending on your loan size, that can make a difference on whether it makes sense to refinance or not.
These are all great questions and very valid. In the past, before all the housing bubble began, the answer to these questions might of been to wait. Times have changed! It's a whole new game in the mortgage world. If you are considering waiting to buy or refinance, below is a few reasons not to:
1. Mortgage Lenders are tightening guidelines to protect against future losses. Mortgage lenders are reducing loan to value limitations. They may require you to have 20% equity or more? If you are an investor or a jumbo borrower, those equity requirements are even higher. Someone who could qualify today, may not be able to qualify tomorrow.
2. The value of your home could decline, maybe it already has and could again? Foreclosures and short sales lower the market value of every home in your neighborhood and surrounding areas. A home that is comparable to yours that ends up selling for less than yours is going to lower your home's value. Lower appraisals lead to higher loan to values and, often, higher mortgage rates.
3. Have you or someone you know lost their job in the last two years? Job losses are happening at a very rapid rate. Many are being laid off as employers fear for the future stability of the company. Many are downsizing to offset lower prof ts (or no profits at all). Without a job and a steady paycheck, lenders won't give you a mortgage loan. I work with Business Fellowship International, a ministry that helps folks get connected and possibly into a new job. If this is you, please email me and I will help you in any way I can.
4. Another rise in cost is mortgage insurance or PMI. This is required if you have less than 20% equity or down payment in your home. PMI is an insurance that protects the lenders in the event of default. Remember hurricane Andrew and the impact it made on the insurance carriers? What's going on in the housing market right now, is comparable to that. Mortgage insurance carriers are raising rates and tightening guidelines as well, making it very hard to qualify or not allowing your payment to drop with the interest rate reductions.
5. What is your credit score? Most people assume their credit is good. But what is good anymore? To get the "preferred" or "going" interest rate, you have to have excellent credit scores, that means over 700 and sometimes over 720/740. Now don't get me wrong, we are still able to do loans under 700, but we would need to review your situation to see if it makes sense for you.
If you are thinking about buying or refinancing, now's the time to do it. The pendulum for mortgage loans has swung from one extreme to the other and it may be a long long while before lenders will consider loosening guidelines again. Financial crisis has it America.
But there is hope! Jeremiah 29:11 says, For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, plans to prosper you, not to harm you, but to give you a future and a hope. 2 Chronicles 7:14 says If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. If you have a relationship with the Lord, He will see you through! If you don't, consider asking Jesus into your heart, ask Him to forgive you of your sin and to cleanse you and make you new. He loves you so much and wants only good for you!
So, if your New Year's Resolution is to make a move or refinance your existing home, Jewel and I, the InSight Team, are here to help you make sound choices. We have many valuable resources and offer a variety of mortgage products.
For an Honest Approach to your Home Financing Needs, please give us a call or email us or visit us on the web at www.wantinsight.com.
Blessings Abundant!
Michele "MAC" A. Cole
Business Development
michele@wantinsight.com
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
816-510-1399
I pray you and your families had a joyous Christmas!
What's your New Year's Resolution? Eat Right, Exercise More, Get Organized.... or considering buying or refinancing your home?? This blog will hopefully help you make a good choice if it's regarding home financing!
If you have been considering buying a home or even refinancing, you've probably been asking one of these questions? Should I refinance now? Should I buy now? What if rates go down again? With the economy this way, surely rates will have to drop again? I heard the Feds are going to lower rates again to stimulate the economy, should I wait to lock in an interest rate then? Just since Christmas, mortgage rates have tinged up about 3/8 or .375%. Depending on your loan size, that can make a difference on whether it makes sense to refinance or not.
These are all great questions and very valid. In the past, before all the housing bubble began, the answer to these questions might of been to wait. Times have changed! It's a whole new game in the mortgage world. If you are considering waiting to buy or refinance, below is a few reasons not to:
1. Mortgage Lenders are tightening guidelines to protect against future losses. Mortgage lenders are reducing loan to value limitations. They may require you to have 20% equity or more? If you are an investor or a jumbo borrower, those equity requirements are even higher. Someone who could qualify today, may not be able to qualify tomorrow.
2. The value of your home could decline, maybe it already has and could again? Foreclosures and short sales lower the market value of every home in your neighborhood and surrounding areas. A home that is comparable to yours that ends up selling for less than yours is going to lower your home's value. Lower appraisals lead to higher loan to values and, often, higher mortgage rates.
3. Have you or someone you know lost their job in the last two years? Job losses are happening at a very rapid rate. Many are being laid off as employers fear for the future stability of the company. Many are downsizing to offset lower prof ts (or no profits at all). Without a job and a steady paycheck, lenders won't give you a mortgage loan. I work with Business Fellowship International, a ministry that helps folks get connected and possibly into a new job. If this is you, please email me and I will help you in any way I can.
4. Another rise in cost is mortgage insurance or PMI. This is required if you have less than 20% equity or down payment in your home. PMI is an insurance that protects the lenders in the event of default. Remember hurricane Andrew and the impact it made on the insurance carriers? What's going on in the housing market right now, is comparable to that. Mortgage insurance carriers are raising rates and tightening guidelines as well, making it very hard to qualify or not allowing your payment to drop with the interest rate reductions.
5. What is your credit score? Most people assume their credit is good. But what is good anymore? To get the "preferred" or "going" interest rate, you have to have excellent credit scores, that means over 700 and sometimes over 720/740. Now don't get me wrong, we are still able to do loans under 700, but we would need to review your situation to see if it makes sense for you.
If you are thinking about buying or refinancing, now's the time to do it. The pendulum for mortgage loans has swung from one extreme to the other and it may be a long long while before lenders will consider loosening guidelines again. Financial crisis has it America.
But there is hope! Jeremiah 29:11 says, For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, plans to prosper you, not to harm you, but to give you a future and a hope. 2 Chronicles 7:14 says If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. If you have a relationship with the Lord, He will see you through! If you don't, consider asking Jesus into your heart, ask Him to forgive you of your sin and to cleanse you and make you new. He loves you so much and wants only good for you!
So, if your New Year's Resolution is to make a move or refinance your existing home, Jewel and I, the InSight Team, are here to help you make sound choices. We have many valuable resources and offer a variety of mortgage products.
For an Honest Approach to your Home Financing Needs, please give us a call or email us or visit us on the web at www.wantinsight.com.
Blessings Abundant!
Michele "MAC" A. Cole
Business Development
michele@wantinsight.com
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
816-510-1399
Friday, September 11, 2009
Hanging on in Trying Times
Do you know someone is who feeling the impact of the ever changing economy? Is someone you know experiencing a financial crisis? Bankruptcy? Foreclosure? Job loss? I sure have. Being in the mortgage industry, this is something I see or hear about every day. It's very sad. Some folks are experiencing these things because of the poor choices of others or because of their own poor choices. We all do this from time to time. Unfortunately, it's a fact of life. When we spend money on things such as nice homes, sports cars and other pleasures of life and if we do so without having the ability to pay cash for it, we can be setting ourselves up for financial destruction. We reap what we sow! Our national debt is a number too large for me to even fathom. The bible says, that just as the rich rule the poor, so is the borrower servant to the lender. When we take on debt that we cannot pay off, it puts us in a position of "bondage".
But there's hope! I know many people who can help you and offer you solutions. Sometimes refinancing is an option and sometimes it's not. Interest rates are still very good but now is the time to act. With the ever changing economy, the only way we can survive as a country is through inflation, which means interest rates go up.
For an honest approach - free consultation on what options you have, please give us a call or email. We care and we want to see you freed from bondage!
Blessings from The InSight Team
Michele "MAC" A. Cole
Business Development Rep
michele@wantinisght.com
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
jewel@wantinsight.com
816-510-1399
But there's hope! I know many people who can help you and offer you solutions. Sometimes refinancing is an option and sometimes it's not. Interest rates are still very good but now is the time to act. With the ever changing economy, the only way we can survive as a country is through inflation, which means interest rates go up.
For an honest approach - free consultation on what options you have, please give us a call or email. We care and we want to see you freed from bondage!
Blessings from The InSight Team
Michele "MAC" A. Cole
Business Development Rep
michele@wantinisght.com
Jewel Callahan
Mortgage Consultant
jewel@wantinsight.com
816-510-1399
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
More Encouraging News
Hidden underneath all the headlines and stories on the proposed government health plan, there are signs of encouraging news that the recession may be easing.
The first full week of August saw some positive results in economic activity, but the news of the declining unemployment rate made investors optimistic. For the first time in the past 17 months fewer job losses were posted and we saw an improved unemployment rate. July saw the lowest number of job losses all year, and the number came in much lower than anticipated. The stock market climbed upward as well. The Dow is now up almost 7% for the year.
This isn’t to say the recovery is in full swing yet, but don’t we all deserve some good news!
And, we saw another positive housing report too. Pending home sales jumped an unexpected 3.6%, when a 0.7% increase was predicted by the experts. We’ve now seen 5 consecutive months of gains in pending contracts. That’s the first time since July 2003 we’ve seen that happen! Affordable home prices and low interest rates have been driving the market upwards. Construction spending was up slightly as well, much better than the drop that was expected.
The 28 major markets the real estate experts watch saw a drop in inventory of 2.5% from June. (The average drop over the last 25 years from June to July is 1%) AND, compared with the inventory in July 2008, there was a big drop of 27%!
Mortgage interest rates are still holding at low levels as well.
At InSight Mortgage Group we’re available to answer your questions regarding new home purchase loans or refinancing your current loan. Call us, 913-642-3334 or email us at michele@wantinsight.com or dickw@wantinsight.com. Look to us for integrity and ethical handling of your financial transactions. Blessings.
The first full week of August saw some positive results in economic activity, but the news of the declining unemployment rate made investors optimistic. For the first time in the past 17 months fewer job losses were posted and we saw an improved unemployment rate. July saw the lowest number of job losses all year, and the number came in much lower than anticipated. The stock market climbed upward as well. The Dow is now up almost 7% for the year.
This isn’t to say the recovery is in full swing yet, but don’t we all deserve some good news!
And, we saw another positive housing report too. Pending home sales jumped an unexpected 3.6%, when a 0.7% increase was predicted by the experts. We’ve now seen 5 consecutive months of gains in pending contracts. That’s the first time since July 2003 we’ve seen that happen! Affordable home prices and low interest rates have been driving the market upwards. Construction spending was up slightly as well, much better than the drop that was expected.
The 28 major markets the real estate experts watch saw a drop in inventory of 2.5% from June. (The average drop over the last 25 years from June to July is 1%) AND, compared with the inventory in July 2008, there was a big drop of 27%!
Mortgage interest rates are still holding at low levels as well.
At InSight Mortgage Group we’re available to answer your questions regarding new home purchase loans or refinancing your current loan. Call us, 913-642-3334 or email us at michele@wantinsight.com or dickw@wantinsight.com. Look to us for integrity and ethical handling of your financial transactions. Blessings.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
More Encouraging Signs
I’m seeing less stridently negative headlines these days; how about you? Not so much doom and gloom; a bit more moderate. That in itself is what I consider good news!
We’ve all made lifestyle adjustments -- cutting back or eliminating non-essential spending, hiding the credit cards and paying cash, maybe even refinanced a mortgage loan into a lower rate to save a few hundred dollars a month.
Within the past few days additional positive news has surfaced – though not screaming headlines; maybe “page 2” style.
Monday, July 20 saw a economic survey released which indicated an easing in the economy, but not an end to the recession. Sara Johnson, IHS Global Insight’s managing director of global macroeconomics, said “ the survey provides new evidence that the U.S. recession is abating, but few signs of an immediate recovery”. She assisted the National Association for Business Economics with the analyzation of the survey.
The recession, which started in December of 2007, is the deepest in 30+ years, and also is the longest since the Great Depression. Most economists are looking to the second half of 2009 for the return of economic growth, but a sluggish recovery is what is expected. Also, the survey indicated a wide disagreement about if the economy had bottomed out or not. 55% of those surveyed said the bottom has not been reached, while 45% replied that the worst was over.
Also on Monday, new construction starts for single family homes were up for the second straight month. The numbers were higher than expected according to economists.
National real estate brokerage ZipRealty released inventory data indicating our housing market is beginning to stabilize. They look at 28 markets across the country. The drop in MLS-listed homes was 2.1% from May through June 2009. And, they saw a slight increase in the median list price, June over May. Many of the hardest hit markets, such as California, have seen dramatic decreases of inventory; 14 straight months of sales growth! And equally hard hit Florida has seen 9 straight months of sales growth too. The word this summer appears to be “affordability”.
With the first time buyers tax credit, historic low interest rates, declining inventory of homes, and increased buyer activity, we should see sales prices and homes values increase as we go into autumn.
Let InSight Mortgage Group analyze your specific financial situation and offer solutions customized to your needs. Don’t sit on the fence any longer; the time is NOW to take action. Please give us a call,913-642-3334 or email us at michele@wantinsight.com or dickw@wantinsight.com. Blessings
We’ve all made lifestyle adjustments -- cutting back or eliminating non-essential spending, hiding the credit cards and paying cash, maybe even refinanced a mortgage loan into a lower rate to save a few hundred dollars a month.
Within the past few days additional positive news has surfaced – though not screaming headlines; maybe “page 2” style.
Monday, July 20 saw a economic survey released which indicated an easing in the economy, but not an end to the recession. Sara Johnson, IHS Global Insight’s managing director of global macroeconomics, said “ the survey provides new evidence that the U.S. recession is abating, but few signs of an immediate recovery”. She assisted the National Association for Business Economics with the analyzation of the survey.
The recession, which started in December of 2007, is the deepest in 30+ years, and also is the longest since the Great Depression. Most economists are looking to the second half of 2009 for the return of economic growth, but a sluggish recovery is what is expected. Also, the survey indicated a wide disagreement about if the economy had bottomed out or not. 55% of those surveyed said the bottom has not been reached, while 45% replied that the worst was over.
Also on Monday, new construction starts for single family homes were up for the second straight month. The numbers were higher than expected according to economists.
National real estate brokerage ZipRealty released inventory data indicating our housing market is beginning to stabilize. They look at 28 markets across the country. The drop in MLS-listed homes was 2.1% from May through June 2009. And, they saw a slight increase in the median list price, June over May. Many of the hardest hit markets, such as California, have seen dramatic decreases of inventory; 14 straight months of sales growth! And equally hard hit Florida has seen 9 straight months of sales growth too. The word this summer appears to be “affordability”.
With the first time buyers tax credit, historic low interest rates, declining inventory of homes, and increased buyer activity, we should see sales prices and homes values increase as we go into autumn.
Let InSight Mortgage Group analyze your specific financial situation and offer solutions customized to your needs. Don’t sit on the fence any longer; the time is NOW to take action. Please give us a call,913-642-3334 or email us at michele@wantinsight.com or dickw@wantinsight.com. Blessings
Friday, July 10, 2009
Expanded Mortgage ReFi Program
The Making Home Affordable plan, introduced by the Obama administration, has just been expanded to include homeowners whose loans are up to 125% of their home’s value. This allows more borrowers who are hit hard by deeply falling home prices to participate in the mortgage refinancing program. The previous limit was 105%.
Many parts of the country have seen drastic drops in home values and those borrowers were shut out of the original program. An example is Las Vegas, where almost 66% of homeowners owe more than their homes current valuation. A current report by Zillow.com, a real estate web site, indicates that about 20 million homeowners own homes that are worth less than their mortgages. Sections of Florida and California have lost 50% (or more) of their value.
Housing Secretary Shaun Donovan said that the presidents plan “is already helping far more than any previous foreclosure initiative and with this announcement we will extend it even further.” The Treasury Department indicates that so far approximately 20,000 loans have been refinanced.
This newly expanded program waives the 20% equity requirement. However, borrowers must still meet other major requirements: being current on their payments and having mortgages owned or backed by Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae. http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov provides details.
But, refinances are slower than originally predicted. There’s been a recent rise in mortgage interest rates, from the lowest rate of a 4.84% on April 28, to the current mid 5% range. Also impacting the decline in refinances is the rising unemployment rate. When the program was introduced, lenders were overwhelmed with requests and were understaffed, thus slowing the actual numbers of borrowers able to complete the refinance process. Lenders have not yet added enough staff to adequately handle the requests, so processing times are extended. All we can do is have patience.
Those with Freddie Mac loans can apply now with their current servicer, but those who chose a different lender need to wait until October 1. Borrowers with Fannie Mae loans must use their current servicer and also must wait until Sept. 1 for a refinance if their home loan is more than 105% of its value.
Another part of the program addresses loan modifications. Eligible borrowers who are at risk or in default may lower their monthly payments to no more than 31% of their pre-tax income. This helps those who can’t handle their monthly payments due to reduced income, etc. Also, mortgage investors, services and homeowners can receive incentives in order to participate in the program. Nearly 200,000 trial modifications have been initiated according to the Treasury department. Three on-time monthly payments must be made prior to making the modification permanent.
At InSight Mortgage Group our mission is to provide up-to-date information on available programs to meet the individualized needs of our clients. Please call us at 913-642-3334 or email us at michele@wantinsight.com or dickw@wantinsight.com with your mortgage or finance related questions. Blessings
Many parts of the country have seen drastic drops in home values and those borrowers were shut out of the original program. An example is Las Vegas, where almost 66% of homeowners owe more than their homes current valuation. A current report by Zillow.com, a real estate web site, indicates that about 20 million homeowners own homes that are worth less than their mortgages. Sections of Florida and California have lost 50% (or more) of their value.
Housing Secretary Shaun Donovan said that the presidents plan “is already helping far more than any previous foreclosure initiative and with this announcement we will extend it even further.” The Treasury Department indicates that so far approximately 20,000 loans have been refinanced.
This newly expanded program waives the 20% equity requirement. However, borrowers must still meet other major requirements: being current on their payments and having mortgages owned or backed by Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae. http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov provides details.
But, refinances are slower than originally predicted. There’s been a recent rise in mortgage interest rates, from the lowest rate of a 4.84% on April 28, to the current mid 5% range. Also impacting the decline in refinances is the rising unemployment rate. When the program was introduced, lenders were overwhelmed with requests and were understaffed, thus slowing the actual numbers of borrowers able to complete the refinance process. Lenders have not yet added enough staff to adequately handle the requests, so processing times are extended. All we can do is have patience.
Those with Freddie Mac loans can apply now with their current servicer, but those who chose a different lender need to wait until October 1. Borrowers with Fannie Mae loans must use their current servicer and also must wait until Sept. 1 for a refinance if their home loan is more than 105% of its value.
Another part of the program addresses loan modifications. Eligible borrowers who are at risk or in default may lower their monthly payments to no more than 31% of their pre-tax income. This helps those who can’t handle their monthly payments due to reduced income, etc. Also, mortgage investors, services and homeowners can receive incentives in order to participate in the program. Nearly 200,000 trial modifications have been initiated according to the Treasury department. Three on-time monthly payments must be made prior to making the modification permanent.
At InSight Mortgage Group our mission is to provide up-to-date information on available programs to meet the individualized needs of our clients. Please call us at 913-642-3334 or email us at michele@wantinsight.com or dickw@wantinsight.com with your mortgage or finance related questions. Blessings
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
CELEBRATING THE AMERICAN DREAM
Don’t you love sharing good news? I know I do. All the gloom and doom of today’s headlines seen on TV, the internet, or even the paper, makes us a bit sour and irritable. We look for some joy or good news to brighten our day. I hope you find encouragemnt in the housing news presented below, for you and for our country's economy. It seems especially fitting on the eve of our country's Independence celebration; home ownership is a vital component of the American Dream. Happy 4th of July.
Part of our mission at InSight Mortgage Group is to educate our clients so they can make the best financial decisions for themselves. And to help achieve our mission, we research the market trends ( especially the good news parts which get buried deep below the negative headlines) and share this information with our clients.
Encouraging news on the home front continues. Existing home sales were UP 2.4% to a 4.77 million annual rate. This is the third month in a row showing increased sales. They’re now 6.2% above their January low. Additionally, the percent increase for the last two months is the largest since April 2004. Inventory of existing home dropped to 9.6 months from April’s 10.1 supply. And, the median price of an existing home INCREASED to $173,000.
New construction homes also saw a decrease in supply from April’s 10.4 months to May’s 10.2. Inventories of new homes are now down 49% from their peak in mid-2006, and are at their lowest level since 2001! And, the Mortgage Bankers Association reported purchase loan applications UP 7.3%
A recently released report from Harvard University indicated there will be millions more echo boomers than there were boomers who first grew the housing market. The report projects household growth between 12.5 and 14.8 million in the next 10 years. This report also notes that price declines and low interest rates have brought affordability to many housing markets across the country.
Important information if you're considering a purchase or refinancing your current mortgage:
There are changes in the mortgage industry - that are government mandated - taking place now and in the near future. These would be nationwide rules, though additional requirements could be added by individual states. The intent is to increase safety for the borrower, by providing more transparency, and adding steps to help prevent deceptive lending practices. Additional steps now add time to the closing timeframe. In the past it was possible to close a loan within 30 days; now 30-45 days will become the norm, for both purchase and refinance transactions. Basically, the new appraisal process of using a third party appraisal company and more documentation requirements, along with the new Truth in Lending disclosure requirements, impacts the entire real estate and loan process.
As with many past consumer related regulatory changes, we can anticipate cost increases; (think back to the US pharmaceutical business and how health care & drug costs have risen due to regulation).
So, for buyers, critical decisions will need to be made promptly: loan application, type of loan and rate locked. Then, inspections & renegotiations if needed. Anything that can affect the closing costs, price, or date of closing need to be addressed as soon as possible or closing can be delayed.
What do these changes mean to you, if you’re purchasing a home soon or thinking of refinancing? Well, getting a loan will not be as easy, or as inexpensive, as we have known in the past. Don’t be a “fence-sitter”, get into the market now – housing is still affordable, mortgage rates are still historically low, and the cost of obtaining a mortgage is still reasonable.
Call or email us at 913-642-3334; michele@wantinsight.com or dickw@wantinsight.com for the most current information on rates and programs to best suit your individual needs. Blessings
Part of our mission at InSight Mortgage Group is to educate our clients so they can make the best financial decisions for themselves. And to help achieve our mission, we research the market trends ( especially the good news parts which get buried deep below the negative headlines) and share this information with our clients.
Encouraging news on the home front continues. Existing home sales were UP 2.4% to a 4.77 million annual rate. This is the third month in a row showing increased sales. They’re now 6.2% above their January low. Additionally, the percent increase for the last two months is the largest since April 2004. Inventory of existing home dropped to 9.6 months from April’s 10.1 supply. And, the median price of an existing home INCREASED to $173,000.
New construction homes also saw a decrease in supply from April’s 10.4 months to May’s 10.2. Inventories of new homes are now down 49% from their peak in mid-2006, and are at their lowest level since 2001! And, the Mortgage Bankers Association reported purchase loan applications UP 7.3%
A recently released report from Harvard University indicated there will be millions more echo boomers than there were boomers who first grew the housing market. The report projects household growth between 12.5 and 14.8 million in the next 10 years. This report also notes that price declines and low interest rates have brought affordability to many housing markets across the country.
Important information if you're considering a purchase or refinancing your current mortgage:
There are changes in the mortgage industry - that are government mandated - taking place now and in the near future. These would be nationwide rules, though additional requirements could be added by individual states. The intent is to increase safety for the borrower, by providing more transparency, and adding steps to help prevent deceptive lending practices. Additional steps now add time to the closing timeframe. In the past it was possible to close a loan within 30 days; now 30-45 days will become the norm, for both purchase and refinance transactions. Basically, the new appraisal process of using a third party appraisal company and more documentation requirements, along with the new Truth in Lending disclosure requirements, impacts the entire real estate and loan process.
As with many past consumer related regulatory changes, we can anticipate cost increases; (think back to the US pharmaceutical business and how health care & drug costs have risen due to regulation).
So, for buyers, critical decisions will need to be made promptly: loan application, type of loan and rate locked. Then, inspections & renegotiations if needed. Anything that can affect the closing costs, price, or date of closing need to be addressed as soon as possible or closing can be delayed.
What do these changes mean to you, if you’re purchasing a home soon or thinking of refinancing? Well, getting a loan will not be as easy, or as inexpensive, as we have known in the past. Don’t be a “fence-sitter”, get into the market now – housing is still affordable, mortgage rates are still historically low, and the cost of obtaining a mortgage is still reasonable.
Call or email us at 913-642-3334; michele@wantinsight.com or dickw@wantinsight.com for the most current information on rates and programs to best suit your individual needs. Blessings
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
NEW REFI PLUS PROGRAM
Watch your savings add up quickly!
Even if you’ve experienced a property value decline as a result of the economic downturn and mortgage crisis, you may be able to refinance your home loan into a very low fixed rate mortgage!
The Mortgage Refinance Affordability Plan recently implemented by President Obama offers many homeowners the chance to refinance their current mortgages. Many homeowners who have seen their property values drop the past several years can see real help with this plan.
And we at InSight Mortgage Group can answer your questions and see if you qualify for this or other refinancing programs. If you have a current 80/20, 80/15/5 or 80/10 loan, where you did a 1st/2nd combo in order to avoid PMI, we may be able to get you into a 105% LTV first mortgage.
Save thousands of dollars over the life of your loan by locking into a low interest fixed rate loan. Maybe a refinance could save your home from foreclosure.
Whatever your personal home loan needs may be, take advantage now and see your savings add up. Call Dick or Michele at InSight Mortgage Group, 913-642-3334. Email us at dickw@wantinsight.com or michele@wantinsight.com or start your application online at wantinsight.com.
Even if you’ve experienced a property value decline as a result of the economic downturn and mortgage crisis, you may be able to refinance your home loan into a very low fixed rate mortgage!
The Mortgage Refinance Affordability Plan recently implemented by President Obama offers many homeowners the chance to refinance their current mortgages. Many homeowners who have seen their property values drop the past several years can see real help with this plan.
And we at InSight Mortgage Group can answer your questions and see if you qualify for this or other refinancing programs. If you have a current 80/20, 80/15/5 or 80/10 loan, where you did a 1st/2nd combo in order to avoid PMI, we may be able to get you into a 105% LTV first mortgage.
Save thousands of dollars over the life of your loan by locking into a low interest fixed rate loan. Maybe a refinance could save your home from foreclosure.
Whatever your personal home loan needs may be, take advantage now and see your savings add up. Call Dick or Michele at InSight Mortgage Group, 913-642-3334. Email us at dickw@wantinsight.com or michele@wantinsight.com or start your application online at wantinsight.com.
Monday, April 20, 2009
REFINANCING HELPFUL HINTS
Even with low, low interest rates and new government recovery programs, it can be a tough road to walk to get to the closing table on refinancing your home loan. At InSight Mortgage Group, we work to smooth out the few bumps you may encounter along the way – it’s our specialty.
Strangely, the tough part isn’t the “approval” process for borrowers, it’s keeping the approval!
I’ve recently blogged about the mortgage industry in general, starting in 2005, being understaffed. With these wonderful low rates, lenders are getting slammed with requests and are having a difficult time handling the volume. An underwriting logjam has been created.
These days taking a mortgage application from start to finish with some lenders can be as long as 2 months! That’s double the time it took about 6 months ago, when the average was 20 days to closing.
You know, a lot can happen in 60 days. More so than in 20 days. And while there are things outside your control which may affect the loan process, there are a number of things you can control.
Mortgage approvals are delicate things and nothing’s complete until it’s complete! Please keep in mind the following “rules” for the period of time when your loan is in underwriting and before it closes.
A. DON’T buy a new car, trade up to a bigger lease, etc. (incur more debt)
B. DON’T start a new company or quit your job
C. DON’T move to a commissioned job from a salaried job
D. DON’T transfer large sums of money between bank accounts
E. DON’T be late on paying your bills
F. DON’T open any new credit accounts -- even if it’s 0% interest for the next year
G. DON’T take a cash gift unless you have all the proper “gift” paperwork filled out
H. DON”T make random, undocumented deposits into your bank account
The above are red flags to an underwriter and only one is enough to slow or even derail the process. Situations arise, and it doesn’t mean that you can’t get a cash gift or buy a new car, it means talk to your loan officer first. We’re here to guide you each step of the way, so call us at 913-642-3334 or email me at michele@wantinsight.com to get started on your refinance.
Strangely, the tough part isn’t the “approval” process for borrowers, it’s keeping the approval!
I’ve recently blogged about the mortgage industry in general, starting in 2005, being understaffed. With these wonderful low rates, lenders are getting slammed with requests and are having a difficult time handling the volume. An underwriting logjam has been created.
These days taking a mortgage application from start to finish with some lenders can be as long as 2 months! That’s double the time it took about 6 months ago, when the average was 20 days to closing.
You know, a lot can happen in 60 days. More so than in 20 days. And while there are things outside your control which may affect the loan process, there are a number of things you can control.
Mortgage approvals are delicate things and nothing’s complete until it’s complete! Please keep in mind the following “rules” for the period of time when your loan is in underwriting and before it closes.
A. DON’T buy a new car, trade up to a bigger lease, etc. (incur more debt)
B. DON’T start a new company or quit your job
C. DON’T move to a commissioned job from a salaried job
D. DON’T transfer large sums of money between bank accounts
E. DON’T be late on paying your bills
F. DON’T open any new credit accounts -- even if it’s 0% interest for the next year
G. DON’T take a cash gift unless you have all the proper “gift” paperwork filled out
H. DON”T make random, undocumented deposits into your bank account
The above are red flags to an underwriter and only one is enough to slow or even derail the process. Situations arise, and it doesn’t mean that you can’t get a cash gift or buy a new car, it means talk to your loan officer first. We’re here to guide you each step of the way, so call us at 913-642-3334 or email me at michele@wantinsight.com to get started on your refinance.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
A GLIMMER of SUNSHINE
Demand for purchase loans rose the first week in April even though interest rates rose slightly from record lows, even outreaching the demand for refinancing. This gives hope to the hard-hit housing market as Spring approaches, generally the high season for purchases.
The Mortgage Bankers Association and various lenders have reported an increase in applications these past few weeks. We,at InSight Mortgage Group, have been blessed with many new applications. Many economists believe that our economy will begin to emerge from its slump when the housing market stabilizes. And the growing demand of refi’s due to the low rates available, can provide some relief to burdened consumers by providing them with lower monthly payments.
A ray of hope is actually found in Calilfornia, the hardest hit state in the housing bust. The median single family home price recently was down 41% from a year earlier and new home construction starts had almost disappeared. But, is the worst now over? Inventory is shrinking, investors are coming back, and sales volume is increasing.
More than 600,000 homes were purchased in February this year. The numbers show that the majority of the sales were bank owned foreclosures. And some areas, according to the California Association of Realtors spokesperson, are seeing slight increases in price per square foot, which is a hopeful indicator. The market is seeing an increase of investor purchased properties too.
The best indicator of positive change is in the inventory supply. A year ago it was 15 months, now it’s at 6.5 months! Generally a six-seven month supply of homes is considered a “normal” market. Nationally, the market has an overall 9.7 month supply.
And, according to the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders), model homes are seeing a lot more foot traffic due to combination of the first-time homebuyer credit, low interest rates, and affordable prices. Joe Robson, NAHB chairman, reports "consumer interest is increasing”. He also reported that approximately 1.5 M visitors have logged on to their website to learn more about the $8,000 tax credit for first time homebuyers.
And for us, locally the numbers are good too. According to the National Association of Realtors home sales in the Midwest jumped 14.5%. We should have the local Kansas City regional numbers for March soon.
If the hardest hit area begins to show signs of slight improvement, what does that mean for the rest us?
Call us at InSight Mortgage Group, 913-642-3334, for the good news on purchase and refinance rates. Please email me at michele@wantinsight.com with your good news stories to share. Have a blessed day.
The Mortgage Bankers Association and various lenders have reported an increase in applications these past few weeks. We,at InSight Mortgage Group, have been blessed with many new applications. Many economists believe that our economy will begin to emerge from its slump when the housing market stabilizes. And the growing demand of refi’s due to the low rates available, can provide some relief to burdened consumers by providing them with lower monthly payments.
A ray of hope is actually found in Calilfornia, the hardest hit state in the housing bust. The median single family home price recently was down 41% from a year earlier and new home construction starts had almost disappeared. But, is the worst now over? Inventory is shrinking, investors are coming back, and sales volume is increasing.
More than 600,000 homes were purchased in February this year. The numbers show that the majority of the sales were bank owned foreclosures. And some areas, according to the California Association of Realtors spokesperson, are seeing slight increases in price per square foot, which is a hopeful indicator. The market is seeing an increase of investor purchased properties too.
The best indicator of positive change is in the inventory supply. A year ago it was 15 months, now it’s at 6.5 months! Generally a six-seven month supply of homes is considered a “normal” market. Nationally, the market has an overall 9.7 month supply.
And, according to the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders), model homes are seeing a lot more foot traffic due to combination of the first-time homebuyer credit, low interest rates, and affordable prices. Joe Robson, NAHB chairman, reports "consumer interest is increasing”. He also reported that approximately 1.5 M visitors have logged on to their website to learn more about the $8,000 tax credit for first time homebuyers.
And for us, locally the numbers are good too. According to the National Association of Realtors home sales in the Midwest jumped 14.5%. We should have the local Kansas City regional numbers for March soon.
If the hardest hit area begins to show signs of slight improvement, what does that mean for the rest us?
Call us at InSight Mortgage Group, 913-642-3334, for the good news on purchase and refinance rates. Please email me at michele@wantinsight.com with your good news stories to share. Have a blessed day.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
The HOME AFFORDABLE REFINANCE Program: Questions and Answers
Our post the other day on the new Obama Home Affordable Plan generated alot of questions from you. We appreciate our readers and welcome your inquiries. The following information should clarify the REFINANCE portion of the program. We'll address the Modification portion in another blog.
I’m current on my mortgage. Will the Home Affordable Refinance help me?
Eligible borrowers current on their mortgage but who haven’t been able to refinance into today’s lower interest rates because of decreased home valuation, may be eligible to refinance into a 30 or 15 year fixed rate loan. Through the HAR program, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae will allow the refinancing of mortgage loans that they own or that they placed in mortgage backed securities.
Who is considered eligible?
* Owner occupant of a one to four unit home.
* The loan is owned or controlled by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac (unsure? See below)
* Are current on mortgage payments – haven’t been more than 30 days late in past 12 months
* The amount owed on the first mortgage is about the same or slightly less than the current value of the home
* Have a stable income sufficient to support the new mortgage payments.
How do I know if my loan is owned or has been securitized by Fannie or Freddie?
You should call your mortgage lender or servicer (company you send payments to) and ask about the program. Both have toll-free numbers and web submission processes to make this data available. Borrowers will enter/provide information to determine if either agency owns or securitized the loan. NOTE: other qualifying criteria must be met in addition to the loan being owned or securitized by either agency.
* Fannie Mae: 1-800-7fannie (8am-8pm EST) or www.resource_center@fanniemae.com
* FreddieMac 1-800-freddie (as above) www.freddiemac.com/avoidforeclosure
Who is my “loan servicer”? Is that the same as my lender or investor?
The company that collects your mortgage payments and who is responsible for the management and accounting of your loan is the servicer. Your servicer may also be your lender, which means they own the loan. However, many loans are owned by groups of investors (like pension funds) or individuals who buy mutual funds. These loans are managed by banks and other firms that specialize in servicing loans. If you have questions about the loan OR you are behind on your payments you should call your loan servicer at the number on your payment coupon or monthly statement.
I owe more that my property is worth. Do I still qualify to refinance under MHA?
Eligible loans include loans where the first mortgage will not exceed 105% of the properties’ current market value. Example: if your property is worth $200k, but you owe $210,000 or less, you may qualify. The current value of your property will be determined after you apply to refinance.
I have both a first and a second mortgage. Can I still qualify to refinance under MHA?
Borrowers with more than one mortgage may be eligible as long as the first mortgage is less than 105% of the value of the property. Eligibility will depend, in part, on agreement by the lender that holds the second mortgage to remain in a second position, and on your ability to meet the new payment terms on the first mortgage.
Will refinancing lower my payments?
The objective of the Home Affordable Refinance is to provide creditworthy borrowers who have shown a commitment to paying their mortgage the opportunity to get into a safe fixed rate mortgage with payments that are affordable today and sustainable for the life of the loan. You could see an immediate reduction in your payment if your rate is much higher than the current rates. But, if you’re paying on an interest only note, or have a low introductory rate that will increase in the future (variable rate), monthly payments may not go down if refinanced into a fixed rate, but may you avoid future payment increases AND you could save a great deal over the life of the loan. Your lender will give you a Good Faith Estimate that includes your new interest rate, mortgage payment and the amount you will pay over the life of the loan. Compare this to your current loan terms to see if it is an improvement. If not, then refinancing may not be right for you.
What is the interest rate and other terms of this refinance offer?
The objective of the refinance is to provide a fixed, affordable, and safe loan. There will be either a 15 or 30 term with fixed rate. The rate will be based on market rates in effect at the time of the refinance with any associated points & fees quoted by the lender. These rates may vary across lenders and over time as market rates adjust. The refinanced loans will not have prepayment penalties or balloon notes.
Will the amount owed on the loan be reduced?
No. Borrowers will be getting into safer, more affordable fixed rate loans. The principal amount owed to the first mortgage holder will not be reduced by refinancing. But the amount of interest repaid over the life of the loan will be reduced, saving you money.
Can I get cash out to pay other debts?
No. Only transaction costs, like the appraisal or title report fees, may be included in the refinanced amount.
How do I apply for a Home Affordable Refinance?
Call your mortgage servicer or lender and ask about the application process. PLEASE be patient. Detailed program requirements were just sent to lenders and servicers and it may take some time before they are ready to accept applications. Be prepared with your documents and information before you call.
What documentation will I need?
It's best to be prepared before you call. Have available:
* Household gross income (before tax), including recent pay stubs and/or other documentation of additional income sources
* Your most recent income tax return
* Information about any second mortgage on the house
* Account balances & minimum payments due on all credit cards
* Account balances & monthly payments on all other debts such as student loans and car loans.
If borrowers are delinquent on their mortgage, they will not qualify for the refinance plan.
Please call the office, 913-642-3334 with any questions or comments, or email me at michele@wantinsight.com We can provide insight and guidance to you and your specific financial picture.
I’m current on my mortgage. Will the Home Affordable Refinance help me?
Eligible borrowers current on their mortgage but who haven’t been able to refinance into today’s lower interest rates because of decreased home valuation, may be eligible to refinance into a 30 or 15 year fixed rate loan. Through the HAR program, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae will allow the refinancing of mortgage loans that they own or that they placed in mortgage backed securities.
Who is considered eligible?
* Owner occupant of a one to four unit home.
* The loan is owned or controlled by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac (unsure? See below)
* Are current on mortgage payments – haven’t been more than 30 days late in past 12 months
* The amount owed on the first mortgage is about the same or slightly less than the current value of the home
* Have a stable income sufficient to support the new mortgage payments.
How do I know if my loan is owned or has been securitized by Fannie or Freddie?
You should call your mortgage lender or servicer (company you send payments to) and ask about the program. Both have toll-free numbers and web submission processes to make this data available. Borrowers will enter/provide information to determine if either agency owns or securitized the loan. NOTE: other qualifying criteria must be met in addition to the loan being owned or securitized by either agency.
* Fannie Mae: 1-800-7fannie (8am-8pm EST) or www.resource_center@fanniemae.com
* FreddieMac 1-800-freddie (as above) www.freddiemac.com/avoidforeclosure
Who is my “loan servicer”? Is that the same as my lender or investor?
The company that collects your mortgage payments and who is responsible for the management and accounting of your loan is the servicer. Your servicer may also be your lender, which means they own the loan. However, many loans are owned by groups of investors (like pension funds) or individuals who buy mutual funds. These loans are managed by banks and other firms that specialize in servicing loans. If you have questions about the loan OR you are behind on your payments you should call your loan servicer at the number on your payment coupon or monthly statement.
I owe more that my property is worth. Do I still qualify to refinance under MHA?
Eligible loans include loans where the first mortgage will not exceed 105% of the properties’ current market value. Example: if your property is worth $200k, but you owe $210,000 or less, you may qualify. The current value of your property will be determined after you apply to refinance.
I have both a first and a second mortgage. Can I still qualify to refinance under MHA?
Borrowers with more than one mortgage may be eligible as long as the first mortgage is less than 105% of the value of the property. Eligibility will depend, in part, on agreement by the lender that holds the second mortgage to remain in a second position, and on your ability to meet the new payment terms on the first mortgage.
Will refinancing lower my payments?
The objective of the Home Affordable Refinance is to provide creditworthy borrowers who have shown a commitment to paying their mortgage the opportunity to get into a safe fixed rate mortgage with payments that are affordable today and sustainable for the life of the loan. You could see an immediate reduction in your payment if your rate is much higher than the current rates. But, if you’re paying on an interest only note, or have a low introductory rate that will increase in the future (variable rate), monthly payments may not go down if refinanced into a fixed rate, but may you avoid future payment increases AND you could save a great deal over the life of the loan. Your lender will give you a Good Faith Estimate that includes your new interest rate, mortgage payment and the amount you will pay over the life of the loan. Compare this to your current loan terms to see if it is an improvement. If not, then refinancing may not be right for you.
What is the interest rate and other terms of this refinance offer?
The objective of the refinance is to provide a fixed, affordable, and safe loan. There will be either a 15 or 30 term with fixed rate. The rate will be based on market rates in effect at the time of the refinance with any associated points & fees quoted by the lender. These rates may vary across lenders and over time as market rates adjust. The refinanced loans will not have prepayment penalties or balloon notes.
Will the amount owed on the loan be reduced?
No. Borrowers will be getting into safer, more affordable fixed rate loans. The principal amount owed to the first mortgage holder will not be reduced by refinancing. But the amount of interest repaid over the life of the loan will be reduced, saving you money.
Can I get cash out to pay other debts?
No. Only transaction costs, like the appraisal or title report fees, may be included in the refinanced amount.
How do I apply for a Home Affordable Refinance?
Call your mortgage servicer or lender and ask about the application process. PLEASE be patient. Detailed program requirements were just sent to lenders and servicers and it may take some time before they are ready to accept applications. Be prepared with your documents and information before you call.
What documentation will I need?
It's best to be prepared before you call. Have available:
* Household gross income (before tax), including recent pay stubs and/or other documentation of additional income sources
* Your most recent income tax return
* Information about any second mortgage on the house
* Account balances & minimum payments due on all credit cards
* Account balances & monthly payments on all other debts such as student loans and car loans.
If borrowers are delinquent on their mortgage, they will not qualify for the refinance plan.
Please call the office, 913-642-3334 with any questions or comments, or email me at michele@wantinsight.com We can provide insight and guidance to you and your specific financial picture.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
THE NEW MAKING HOME AFFORDABLE PROGRAM
Right now there’s a lot of confusion and big talk about the new government interventions in the mortgage and housing markets. The Obama administration hopes that two new programs should cut mortgage bills for up to 9 million homeowners who are having trouble making their monthly payments and there are also incentives that may pay down principal in some cases.
The government program has two parts:
* The Home Affordable Refinance
* The Home Affordable Modification.
PLEASE NOTE : The details of this program are not finalized! Most importantly, it remains 100% VOLUNTARY and mortgage servicers (the companies that collect the mortgage payments) are not obligated by law to follow these rules and guidelines…YET. Financial institutions who have already received government funding are not obligated to participate. However, financial institutions receiving new, or more, government funding in the FUTURE, WILL be obligated to participate.
SO, no one really knows yet who will participate and how it will all work from a practical standpoint. Most of the media news at this point is generally speculative. After reviewing the Making Home Affordable government program, I can share with you some insights you may find useful.
MODIFICATION Program:
Three elements in the program:
* The government is offering financial incentives to mortgage servicers who modify loans for borrowers.
* Financial reimbursement is being offered to investors if they allow servicers to modify loans and then take a hit on the borrower’s re-default if the property declines in value after the loan modification.
* The government is offering incentives to borrowers who modify their loans and make their new payments on time.
Only primary residences are eligible, investment properties and vacation homes don’t qualify. Only borrowers who have experienced some sort of financial hardship can qualify. Borrowers will need to document that their current financial situation is worse than when the original loan was made. Income needs to have gone down, and/or expenses need to have gone up. The link provided will allow you to see if you qualify for at least the minimum requirements for the program:
http:/www.financialstability.gov/makinghomeaffordable/modification_eligibility.html
Remember, even if you do qualify under these minimum requirements, your servicer might not be participating in the program yet.
REFINANCE Program:
Basics: You must be current on your mortgage payments (no late payments in
the past 12 months);
Your mortgage balance cannot exceed 105% of the current value of your home;
Your mortgage needs to be owned/guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac
Based on the current market conditions, a refinance might make sense for you IF:
You have an adjustable rate, interest only, or balloon mortgage that you
want to convert into a fixed rate; or
You have a fixed rate where the rate is 6% or greater. Actually, if your
rate is as low as 5.5%, I’ll put you into my rate watch program and let
you know when rates get to the point where it would benefit you to
refinance.
Other Developments of Interest:
There has been some new government legislation impacting homeowners and first time home buyers:
* Home improvement tax credit
* First time home buyer tax credit
* Reverse mortgages for home purchase transactions (age 62 and older)
* Suspension of required minimum distributions for certain retirement accounts (age 70 ½ or older)
I’d be happy to discuss any of these programs with you. Call me at 913-642-3334 or email me at michele@wantinsight.com. I can lend insight into the confusion of todays market and help you determine the mortgage and home buying choices right for you.
The government program has two parts:
* The Home Affordable Refinance
* The Home Affordable Modification.
PLEASE NOTE : The details of this program are not finalized! Most importantly, it remains 100% VOLUNTARY and mortgage servicers (the companies that collect the mortgage payments) are not obligated by law to follow these rules and guidelines…YET. Financial institutions who have already received government funding are not obligated to participate. However, financial institutions receiving new, or more, government funding in the FUTURE, WILL be obligated to participate.
SO, no one really knows yet who will participate and how it will all work from a practical standpoint. Most of the media news at this point is generally speculative. After reviewing the Making Home Affordable government program, I can share with you some insights you may find useful.
MODIFICATION Program:
Three elements in the program:
* The government is offering financial incentives to mortgage servicers who modify loans for borrowers.
* Financial reimbursement is being offered to investors if they allow servicers to modify loans and then take a hit on the borrower’s re-default if the property declines in value after the loan modification.
* The government is offering incentives to borrowers who modify their loans and make their new payments on time.
Only primary residences are eligible, investment properties and vacation homes don’t qualify. Only borrowers who have experienced some sort of financial hardship can qualify. Borrowers will need to document that their current financial situation is worse than when the original loan was made. Income needs to have gone down, and/or expenses need to have gone up. The link provided will allow you to see if you qualify for at least the minimum requirements for the program:
http:/www.financialstability.gov/makinghomeaffordable/modification_eligibility.html
Remember, even if you do qualify under these minimum requirements, your servicer might not be participating in the program yet.
REFINANCE Program:
Basics: You must be current on your mortgage payments (no late payments in
the past 12 months);
Your mortgage balance cannot exceed 105% of the current value of your home;
Your mortgage needs to be owned/guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac
Based on the current market conditions, a refinance might make sense for you IF:
You have an adjustable rate, interest only, or balloon mortgage that you
want to convert into a fixed rate; or
You have a fixed rate where the rate is 6% or greater. Actually, if your
rate is as low as 5.5%, I’ll put you into my rate watch program and let
you know when rates get to the point where it would benefit you to
refinance.
Other Developments of Interest:
There has been some new government legislation impacting homeowners and first time home buyers:
* Home improvement tax credit
* First time home buyer tax credit
* Reverse mortgages for home purchase transactions (age 62 and older)
* Suspension of required minimum distributions for certain retirement accounts (age 70 ½ or older)
I’d be happy to discuss any of these programs with you. Call me at 913-642-3334 or email me at michele@wantinsight.com. I can lend insight into the confusion of todays market and help you determine the mortgage and home buying choices right for you.
Friday, January 23, 2009
SOONER THAN LATER
I just received an email from a highly respected colleague in the mortgage business, someone I’ve worked with for many years. He had just left a meeting with his account rep at a national lender we both work with and he passed on some very interesting points for consideration. In turn, I think that my clients could benefit from these comments.
“As you know, rates were driven down when the government committed to purchase $300 billion in loans from FNMA & FHLMC. That money has been used up and they have added more on top of that. But they (various sources in the government) have also said that the current plan is for the government is to stop purchasing mortgages in June and let market driven forces do what they may. If that happens, rates could go back to the 6% to 6.25% range that they were in before the government purchase program began.
In the meantime, there is still a lot of interest by the government to keep rates low in order to stimulate the housing market. That may mean that government purchases of mortgages may continue beyond June. HOWEVER, the issue then is lender capacity. Industry experts estimate that there is $5 trillion dollars worth of loans that would benefit by a refinance at 5% interest rate. If the rate goes to 4.75%, that number goes to $7 trillion, and at 4.5% the number goes to $12 trillion. That sounds like a lot of business for brokers but lenders currently do not have the capacity to handle it. The highest annual loan volume ever was $4 trillion in 2003! At that time there were about 100 direct lenders and another 200 pass through companies to handle the volume. Now the number of lending companies is much smaller. And these remaining lenders have laid off a large percentage of their staff. They could rehire, but most will not do that if they think the volume will drop later this year if the rates go back up. So, the conclusion many in the business have reached, is that even if the government pumps in money to buy more mortgages (which would keep rates down), lenders may not give a corresponding rate decrease because they are already overwhelmed and want to restrict volume.
Along that same line, lenders may actually take steps to further reduce volume by adding more restrictions or continuing to increase fees. One particular restriction may be extra fees for refinances vs purchases. That would allow lower rates for purchases but reduce volume for refinances. (Note: this is speculation on the part of the loan company rep and is not an official position by this national lender!)
The conclusion is that people should refinance now rather than wait.
They may want 4.5%, but if 5.25 works for them, they should at least get the process started. Then, they could watch rates and lock if it gets lower, OR, they could accept the current rate and just feel good that they improved their current position.”
I feel that if the information above is at all accurate, you will want to do something sooner than later. Please contact me by phone or email, michele@wantinsight.com or 913-642-3334.
“As you know, rates were driven down when the government committed to purchase $300 billion in loans from FNMA & FHLMC. That money has been used up and they have added more on top of that. But they (various sources in the government) have also said that the current plan is for the government is to stop purchasing mortgages in June and let market driven forces do what they may. If that happens, rates could go back to the 6% to 6.25% range that they were in before the government purchase program began.
In the meantime, there is still a lot of interest by the government to keep rates low in order to stimulate the housing market. That may mean that government purchases of mortgages may continue beyond June. HOWEVER, the issue then is lender capacity. Industry experts estimate that there is $5 trillion dollars worth of loans that would benefit by a refinance at 5% interest rate. If the rate goes to 4.75%, that number goes to $7 trillion, and at 4.5% the number goes to $12 trillion. That sounds like a lot of business for brokers but lenders currently do not have the capacity to handle it. The highest annual loan volume ever was $4 trillion in 2003! At that time there were about 100 direct lenders and another 200 pass through companies to handle the volume. Now the number of lending companies is much smaller. And these remaining lenders have laid off a large percentage of their staff. They could rehire, but most will not do that if they think the volume will drop later this year if the rates go back up. So, the conclusion many in the business have reached, is that even if the government pumps in money to buy more mortgages (which would keep rates down), lenders may not give a corresponding rate decrease because they are already overwhelmed and want to restrict volume.
Along that same line, lenders may actually take steps to further reduce volume by adding more restrictions or continuing to increase fees. One particular restriction may be extra fees for refinances vs purchases. That would allow lower rates for purchases but reduce volume for refinances. (Note: this is speculation on the part of the loan company rep and is not an official position by this national lender!)
The conclusion is that people should refinance now rather than wait.
They may want 4.5%, but if 5.25 works for them, they should at least get the process started. Then, they could watch rates and lock if it gets lower, OR, they could accept the current rate and just feel good that they improved their current position.”
I feel that if the information above is at all accurate, you will want to do something sooner than later. Please contact me by phone or email, michele@wantinsight.com or 913-642-3334.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
SHARP DECLINE IN MORTGAGE RATES FUEL HISTORIC LEVEL OF RATE LOCKS
On Wednesday, November 26, Secretary Paulson announced that the Fed will purchase up to $100 Billion in direct debt of Fannnie Mae, Freddie Mac and Federal Home Loan Banks and buy up to $500 Billion of Mortgage-Backed Securities.
With this news, the spread between Treasury bonds and mortgage-back securities narrowed significantly and fueled a sharp decline in mortgage rates.
So many customers who had been on the sidelines got into the game and locked their rates on refi's and new purchases. So much so, that many lenders announced that they reached recording breaking milestones!
Don't be a benchwarmer, get in the game now while rates remain historically low. Mortgage funds are available; we have a variety of programs to suit your specific needs. Call Michele at 913-642-3334 or email me at michele@wantinsight.com for the most current loan information.
Michele "MAC" A. Cole
913-642-3334
www.wantinsight.com
With this news, the spread between Treasury bonds and mortgage-back securities narrowed significantly and fueled a sharp decline in mortgage rates.
So many customers who had been on the sidelines got into the game and locked their rates on refi's and new purchases. So much so, that many lenders announced that they reached recording breaking milestones!
Don't be a benchwarmer, get in the game now while rates remain historically low. Mortgage funds are available; we have a variety of programs to suit your specific needs. Call Michele at 913-642-3334 or email me at michele@wantinsight.com for the most current loan information.
Michele "MAC" A. Cole
913-642-3334
www.wantinsight.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
What's Next?
1 CORINTHIANS 16:9 “For a wide door for effective work has opened to me FIRST AND FOREMOST - I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH FOR LIFT...
-
Proverbs 12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice. Quote by John Wimber As I just blogged on Am... -
2 Chronicles 7:14 says, “ If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked w...