Alan Lim asked:


If you are getting yourself a home mortgage loan, you will most likely encounter a phase where you are torn between choosing a fixed rate or an adjustable type of mortgage. No one can really say that one loan is better than the other. The choice you make is dependent on a number of factors which may include your interest rate outlook, your budget, the number of years you intend to stay in your home, and how much risk you can tolerate. Let us look through these two types of mortgage loans so you can determine which among the two is best for you.

A fixed rate home mortgage loan (FRM), as its name itself suggest, involves loans whose interest rates remain the same all throughout the lifetime of the mortgage. They generally cost more to compensate for the lesser risk and the greater comfort involved. If the current interest rates are low, an FRM will prove to be a good choice as you will be assured of locking in at a low interest all throughout your loan term.

On the other hand, an adjustable rate home mortgage loan (ARM) is that whose rate fluctuates as the interest rates in the market rise and fall. ARMs are given initially cheaper than FRMs since they involve greater risk. They are a great option if the current interest rates are high and you foresee them to lower in the coming years. If you know that you will stay in your home for a relatively short period, you can get a good deal with an ARM.

The downside of getting an adjustable home mortgage loan is that you can run a real risk of having to pay more if interest rates rise sharply. This means that you will need to pay more in monthly payments. The rate of your ARM loan varies depending on your loan agreement terms. Some rates change as frequently as three months, while others change once a year or every three years. ARMs generally come with a rate cap, which limits the amount by which the lender can raise their rate. The cap is usually set to 2% meaning that the rate increase should only be a maximum of two percent for a given adjustment period.

Because of its stability and lesser risk, FRMs are understandably more popular. Even if they come more expensive, getting a fixed rate home mortgage loan will enable you to easily manage your monthly budget so you can have better control of your finances. It is also less risky since you always have the option to refinance in case interest rates drop uncontrollably. Conversely, although ARMs can be risky and confusing, there are good deals provided by many lenders which are actually better than FRMs.

The type of home mortgage loan you should choose depends on various factors. It all boils down to how open you are with taking risks. To help you figure out which one is best, you can try to imagine your worst and best case scenarios. You can calculate and compare your options and determine which one can give you the best deal possible.



Jack

vickyloo asked:


It is my mortgage company and I’m concerned about rumors I heard .

Jean

Lesley Lyon asked:


Mortgage is a loan that is obtained to close the gap between the cash in hand for a down payment and the purchase price of the home. While opting for a home mortgage loan, choosing the type of loan can clear half of the hurdle. There are various types of loans like fixed rate mortgage loans and adjustable rate.

In a fixed rate mortgage loan, the interest rate remains the same irrespective of the economy. Therefore the monthly mortgage payment is the same throughout in effect. The main advantage of this type of fixed rate mortgage is the certainty but the negative aspect is that the amount of the monthly installment for repayment of the loan will be a little higher in the form of a higher interest rate. When the period of fixed rate loan is longer there is a certain amount of risk for the lender because the difference in the increase of interest rate is borne by the lender and hence the higher interest rate.

On the contrary, adjustable rate mortgage rates of interest adjust periodically during the loan term. And for this type of loans the overall interest rate is low. The main disadvantage in this type is the uncertainty of the adjustment phase. During this period the monthly payments will go up and down with the changes in interest rates and it is highly unpredictable.

The third type of loan is the balloon loans or a reset mortgage which starts with the fixed interest rate for a certain number of years, usually seven to ten years which will be as low as adjustable market rates, after which period the balance should be paid in full which is a large sum of money to be paid in one lump sum. Balloon mortgages have interest rates lower than a traditional home loan.

Fixed rate mortgage can be for a term of 30 year fixed rate, which has the greatest interest reduction and easiest type to qualify for. The 20 year fixed rate offers a lower interest rate and 15 year fixed rate, which is the same as 20 years term but increases the monthly amount to be paid.

In addition there are other loans like FHA loans, VA loans and RHS loans. FHA loan is offered by the Federal Housing administration to qualified homebuyers for moderately priced homes with a low down payment, usually three to five percent VA loan is offered by the department of veteran affairs, which has the added benefit of zero down payments. This type of loan is available only to military veterans RHS loans are available to households with low or moderate income located in rural areas or small towns.

To get a fair deal in home mortgage, it is advisable to set a budget, pick the right type of mortgage, choose a suitable locale, compare the cost of loans with similar ones and most importantly inspect the home to be bought. If these things are taken care of, a home mortgage loan can be worth taking.



Lucy

Murat Demir asked:


You’ve been planning of mortgaging your home yet you re not so sure if you can afford the high interest that most mortgages yield now a days and you have no idea how to come up with a computation that will give you a clear idea of whether or not you can afford it or not. There are many things involved in computing your home mortgage financing; it involves interest rates, taxes, principal amount, length or years of payment and many more.

With a home mortgage calculator the process is simplified and anyone can walk away with a clear understanding of their financial capabilities and be armed with a well informed decision in making the necessary steps of completing a mortgage application. Whether you are just shopping for the best deal and comparing the best rates in the market, this simple tool will help make the task easier and more convenient.

You don’t even have to buy one for your personal use; there are many home mortgage calculators online which you can use absolutely free. You can even look for the best one or the most easy to use, the choices are somehow many and competitive and all have their own advantage and disadvantages. For a most unbiased opinion of your financial standing, look for something that are not connected to any financing companies or bank or institution but are independent and it’s only purpose is to help you with your computation.

If you think that you will have a hard time figuring your way around this gadget, worry no more. This simple tool is effective yet very friendly to users and most comes with a step by step guide on how to make use of it. You will not be intimidated, all that is needed is that you fill up the information needed and with a few more mouse click the calculator will give you a basic knowledge of the rates, savings and others that you need to know in taking a home mortgage.

It will not even take a lot of your time and most will have a basic explanation of the outcome of your findings. This will give you a basic idea of your capabilities on whether or not you can afford a home mortgage and what are the best rates that you can go with. You are now armed with this very useful information and when you take the next step, you can haggle and negotiate your way with the bank or financing institutions.

A home mortgage calculator is also advisable for those who do not want to meet with some representatives or agents yet. You need not have to subject yourself with unending intrusions of banks or other financing representatives to convince you that they have the best rates for your home mortgage needs. This gadget will enable you to research and do the work on your own and maintain your information private, until you’ve decided to apply. So go ahead and find out the best deal for your own home mortgage needs.



Ruben

jamiet95608 asked:


I’m thinking of buying my first home next year in sacramento. I’m hoping to see a significant drop from current prices. I make the median income (~$54,000). In 1 year, I’ll have ~$35,000 in savings and ~$5,000 in my 401k. I’m 23 years old and have been working at my job for 1 year now. I currently have a credit score of 780. My only debt is $8,000 in student loan at 4.5% interest. I’m willing to make monthly payments of ~$2,200. I might move in a few years. What kind of a loan can I get? Which programs are best for my situation?

Thank you for reading.

David

Rony Walker asked:


Before your refinance home mortgage application can be approved, lenders will evaluate if you merit another loan. They will look at your credit history, your income, and your loan amount vis-à-vis the value of your collateral. Before you get a new loan, check out if you qualify.

How’s Your Income?

Lenders are in the business to earn money, not to give it away. It is understandable why they would want the assurance that you’re a good risk. Your income is an indicator. A stable income will assure lenders that you can pay back the refinance home mortgage amount you borrow. Lenders will offer you appropriate refinance home mortgage options that are in concurrence with your annual income. The higher your income and the equity of the subject property, the higher the loan amount you can get.

To get the whole picture, lenders will look at your monthly income and how much money of your monthly income goes to the monthly payment after deducting your payments from other loans. If your total debt exceeds the limit of 38 per cent of your monthly wage, you are deemed a poor risk.

To get a refinance home mortgage without much trouble, do yourself the favor of reviewing your financial situation and devise fool-proof strategies to lower your debts.

How’s Your Credit History?

If you are planning to get a new loan, try to put your house in financial order so that getting a new loan won’t be tough. Take advantage of the interim by improving your credit rating. Having a good credit history makes it easy for you to get a refinance home mortgage and a good rate. However, you need not worry if you have a bad credit history. You can still get a new loan, but your rate will be a bit stiff.

To repair your credit history, start by getting copies of your credit reports. This will give you a clear idea of your credit standing. At this time, avoid getting new loans and concentrate on paying off your debts. Don’t rely on credit repair companies to bail you out. Establish a system to pay off your credit card debts. Pay off the smaller debts and give attention to the bigger loans. A small debt left unpaid jacks up its interests, leaving you more indebted than before.

Don’t close old accounts as this will also affect your credit rating. Avoid the temptation of opening new credit card accounts when you have no use for it.

How’s Your Home Equity?

Home equity is the difference between the assessed value of your home and your outstanding or remaining mortgage balance with the lender. The equity of your home increases as your credit balance decreases. This equity is the part of your home, which you already own because of your payments.

The higher your home equity and the lower your outstanding balance, the higher loan amount you can borrow from a refinance home mortgage. As much as possible, lenders will try to limit the amount below the 80% range if you still have a sizable outstanding balance.

If, after reading this, you have determined you are a good risk, get your refinance home mortgage from a reputable mortgage company.



Jessica

Alan Lim asked:


Here’s a quick guide on choosing the best home mortgage refinance deal!

Questions to be asked

As a borrower, there are chances you maybe taken advantage of by unscrupulous lenders. To avoid this you need to ask a few basic questions first and even do a comparison check:

• What is the type of mortgage being offered? Find out if the interest rate is fixed, adjustable, FHA or conventional.

• What is the minimum deposit or down payment needed on the home mortgage refinance? Knowing this will help you plan finances better.

• What is the duration or length of the loan? This will affect the monthly payment on the mortgage.

• What is the Annual Percentage Rate? This is quite a competitive differentiator these days and can help you select the best lending home mortgage refinance company.

• What will be the monthly payment? This will be important in terms of planning your budget and finances etc.

• What are the various applicable fees? There are several kinds of fees being charged by lenders these days and each lender has their own name for it. Some examples of home mortgage refinance fees include:

o application fee also known as loan processing fee

o Lender fee or funding fee

o Appraisal fee

o Attorney fee

o Document preparation and recording fee

o Credit report fee

o Origination or underwriting fee etc.

• What will be the closing fees? There maybe chances that you wish to close or settle your home mortgage refinance. In such cases you need to know applicable fees at the time, so it doesn’t shock you then. Some of the closure fees include:

o State and local taxes

o Flood determination

o Surveys and home inspection fees

o Prepaid amounts towards interest, hazard insurance, taxes, etc.

o Prepaid private mortgage insurance or PMI

• Is there any prepayment penalty involved?

• Is the agreement for lock-in provided in writing by the home mortgage refinance lender?

Interest rates applicable

It also helps to get a free, no obligation quote from your home mortgage refinance lender. Also check with them if the rate quoted is the lowest for that day or the whole week. Check if the interest rate is fixed or adjustable in nature. In case it is the adjustable variety, find out from the lender how the payments will differ. Also be sure to check on the points. These are fees paid to the lender and are strongly linked to the current interest rate. The more points paid, lower the interest.

Negotiate

Once you have zeroed in on a specific home mortgage refinance lender, you need to try and negotiate the terms of the contract. Ask your home mortgage refinance lender to write down all associated costs and fees and then start negotiating on some of the fees.



Thelma

Alan Lim asked:


What is refinancing and what types are there?

Refinancing is simply the process of getting a new home mortgage to replace your existing one. There are various loan terms available for you to choose from. The most common ones are the 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 or even way up to 40 to 50 years.

Is it financially safe to get a new home mortgage?

Refinancing can most likely lower your current interested rate to an adjustable or fixed mortgage. That said, refinancing may well be the solution to your financial problems. Refinancing also allows you the chance to change from your current adjustable rate to a fixed rate and vice versa. It can also allow you to take some cash out from your equity, lower your interest rates and your overall monthly mortgage payment. These benefits can be enjoyed only with refinancing, but at the expense usually of longer, renewed mortgage terms.

How much do I pay for refinancing?

Getting a new home mortgage may cost you some fees and charges which may include application fees, appraisal and legal fees, closing and other related charges. There are lenders who offer low cost, or even “no cost” refinancing at the cost of higher interest rates, or deductible from the lump sum mortgage to be issued. It is not really “free” per se, but you do not pay up front for the mortgage.

Is it a good idea for me to refinance?

It may or may not be a good idea to refinance. The answer to this depends on individual circumstances and your financial goals. Refinancing may be a good idea if you want to lessen your monthly payment or reduce your interest rates. However, you should consider other factors as well such as your length of stay in your home, the points you are willing to pay, your home equity, and so on.

Is it necessary that I pay points to get lower interest rates?

The choice of whether to buy points is also entirely up to you, depending on what you want to achieve. Points are usually tax deductible in small increments. You can use this to your advantage as well.

How long will it take me to get a new home mortgage?

Refinancing usually takes about two weeks to a month depending on a few factors. If you had a fairly recent home appraisal, or if you can get appraisal service easily, you can refinance as soon as just a little over a week. During refinancing peak seasons, it might be difficult to get an appraisal, and you will experience delays in refinancing.

How do I shop for a great new home mortgage deal?

Try to get in touch with at least three lenders and check on each of their loan terms, programs and rates. You can do your canvassing online or through phone.

Can I still refinance even if my credit rating is not so good?

Yes, by all means, do so. The loan terms you will be given may not be as attractive as when you have a good rating, but it relatively can match it well.



Maria

Matthew Sanz asked:


When looking for the best Arizona home mortgage loan rates, it is good to know about the state’s system to better educate yourself about the top places and people to go to.

Figures and establishments that may aid you in mortgage loans:

- The Department of Financial Institutions - If you are seeking Arizona home mortgage loan rates the best place to start is the AZDFI. The AZDFI is a government establishment responsible for the support of consumers as well as the maintenance of economic growth through regulation and supervision of financial organizations in Arizona. Its website provides a list of licensed mortgage bankers and brokers.

- The Arizona State Banking Department - Protects the consumer by regulating and supervising licensed mortgage brokers in Arizona.

- Mortgage Fraud Task Force - The Superintendent of Arizona is continuously working to deal with mortgage fraud in the state, where a Mortgage Fraud Task Force was established in 2006. This targets common fraud schemes like equity skimming and property flipping.

How to find the best Arizona home mortgage loan rates:

- Know what you want - If you want the best rates find a mortgage broker. Mortgage brokers can have higher fees but are known to find better interest rates. If you want to save time look for a mortgage banker who can provide you direct approval.

- Understand your loan - Before signing any legal document, make sure you fully comprehend the loan explained to you. In Arizona, you have a right to cancel your contract within 3 days.

- Canvass - Look around for the best mortgage banker or broker. You will want to speak to somebody who is professional, patient with your questions and whom you are comfortable with.

- Licensing - Specifically look for licensed mortgage bankers or brokers. These mortgage specialists are informed and updated about lending issues, consumer affairs, regulations and examination procedures. Arizona licenses mortgage brokers and mortgage bankers, so you can rely on their services.

- Use a mortgage calculator - Mortgage calculators determines your monthly mortgage payments and total amount of interest at the end of your term.

- Ask for recommendations - Ask people you trust and who are already experienced with mortgage loans about the processes involved while consulting a mortgage loan professional.

Precautions:

A decent company does not charge application, rate lock or upfront fees. It is often a licensed real estate appraiser that charges fees. Remember to compare both interest rates and closing costs.

What Arizona lending services can offer:

The latest lending rates in Arizona can easily be found online. Online information can give you details about 5-year, 15-year and 30-year fixed rate monthly averages and more. You can also search for a list of licensed Arizona lenders via the Internet. Many Arizona lending websites offer free quotes and investors’ price ratings. They also offer zero down payments, interest only and poor credit programs that can cater to distinctive circumstances. The mortgage industry in Arizona is well established, so it is not hard to find mortgage firms that could help you with your loans.



Marie

Alan Lim asked:


Home mortgage refinancing can be a sound financial move for any homebuyer, most especially if the interest rates are ideal. You can save a lot on your monthly payment, and you can swiftly ease your way back to regain financial control.

Factors to Consider Before Refinancing

When you refinance, it is just as important to consider other factors related to your mortgage. You do not only look into the interest rate, but make sure you consider the following as well:

? The amount you still owe. The amount you can refinance is determined by the amount you have paid for your mortgage and how much you still owe.

? The length of time you have been paying for your existing mortgage. If you have paid 15 years out of a 20 year mortgage term, refinancing will cause you to extend your payment once again.

? Your credit rating. If your credit score is great, then you will most likely have no problems with home mortgage refinancing approval. On the other hand, those with low credit rating will not only face difficulties with approval, but may be faced with higher interest rates or charges as well.

? How long you intend to stay in your home. If you intend to sell your house in a year or two, then you will most likely not benefit if you refinance. But if you will live for longer than ten years, refinancing can help you pay off your home sooner with some monthly savings on top.

? How much bills you pay for each month. If you are having trouble making ends meet or having problems paying of credit card bills and unsecured loans, refinancing can be a good solution to start with a clean slate by consolidating. Refinancing can help you save on monthly payments and get you started in saving for the future.

Tips to Ensure Financial Success with Refinancing

After you have carefully thought of the factors stated above, make up your mind as to whether refinancing is definitely a good financial decision for you. If you believe so, here are some tips to help you ensure success with home mortgage refinancing:

? To make home mortgage refinancing more worthwhile, make sure that the interest rate is significantly lowered, say at least 2 or 3% lower than your original mortgage. Consider the points as well. Lenders usually charge more points with lower interest rates, so make sure you weigh accordingly.

? Compare the total costs you need to pay off with your existing mortgage, with the some total you will be required to pay when you refinance. You can use a loan calculator available online to help you. Make sure you consider fees and charges you incur when you take on a new mortgage.

? Shop for a good lender. Be wary about fraud lenders, as they have become rampant in the recent years. Research about the lender’s services, ask for recommendations and talk to some of their old clients. Also, ask them for a list of charges that they will impose to you at closing.

Home mortgage refinancing may offer you the best chance you have to get your finances straight, but it can only be so if you do it right.



Edwin