home mortgage loans

Andrew Bicknell asked:


For many people there comes a time when it makes sense to refinance their home mortgage. There can be any number of reasons to do this but for most people the primary goal is to lower their interest rate and their monthly payment. Everybody’s situation is different so the reasons for doing a refinance can vary from person to person.

When you do a home mortgage loan refinance you are basically taking out a new loan and using it to pay off an existing loan. You of course do not want to refinance if your new loan will cost your more in interest and monthly payments so it pays to research any new loan carefully.

As you delve further into the realm of refinancing a home you will undoubtedly run into terms that you may not be familiar with. These may include the following:

Term Length – This is the amount of time you have to pay back the loan. The majority of loans go for either 15 or 30 years. The longer the term the more interest you will pay during that term.

Fixed Rate Mortgage Loan – This is a mortgage in which the rate is set at closing and does not change for the life of the loan.

Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) – This is a mortgage with an adjustable rate. That means the rate can move up or down depending on what the prime rate or treasury index it is tied to is doing. This type of loan usually starts out at a low rate that makes it a great deal, but consumers need to be careful if and when the interest rate goes up, increasing the monthly payment.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) – This number represents all the costs associated with a mortgage shown as an interest rate. It can vary among different lenders because they all calculate it a little differently. If you are comparing rate use the Good Faith Estimate that all lenders are required to provide.

Good Faith Estimate (GFE) – This is a document that all mortgage lenders are required by law to provide to all applicants. It will give a full account of all the estimated costs for a loan from a particular lender. You should have this in hand no longer then 3 days after filling out a loan application.

Loan to Value Ratio (LTV) – This ratio is a percentage that shows what percent you are borrowing against the appraised value of your home. Keeping this ratio below 80% is what most lenders are looking for. If your LTV is higher then 80% you will probably be required to purchase mortgage insurance in order to refinance.

Points (Discount & Origination) – There are two types of points that you can pay. Discount points are paid up front at the closing and are used to bring down the interest rate. Normally one point will equal one percent of what your total loan amount is. Origination points, or fees, are paid for the services rendered by the loan representative.

Refinancing a home mortgage loan can be a good way of freeing up money for other uses but it pays to pay close attention through out the process because you don’t want some hidden cost or fee to make your new loan cost more than the original mortgage.



WILFORD

Alan Lim asked:


 

When you are in the process of obtaining a home mortgage loan, there are undoubtedly many aspects of the process that are new to you.  The language that applies to loans, for instance can be different from the meaning applied to the same term in everyday life.  It is far better to review each clause of the prospective loan document as soon as you have access to it and make certain that you understand the terms that are used and how they apply to your own financial situation. Here are some concepts regarding your loan that will be important in ensuring your loan package is acceptable in the long run.

 

Overall cost of the loan

 

There are many aspects that go into determining the loan cost on your home mortgage loan.  The interest rate, mortgage type, loan fees, and term of the loan are just a few of these.  You may understand the words, but it is important to take a look at what the words will cost you in dollars and cents.  Even a few dollars less in the early stages of a loan can save you thousands of dollars over the entire loan period. It’s important to take advantage of such savings.

 

Mortgage type

 

The basic mortgage types that are common when you apply for a home mortgage loan include the fixed rate mortgage, the adjustable rate mortgage, reverse or negative equity mortgages and interest only mortgages.  Each of these has advantages and disadvantages and you are the best equipped to determine whether the type of mortgage will work for you. The important factor is that you review the documents and proposals so that you know precisely which type of loan you are getting.  Being surprised in a few months by a two to five hundred dollar increase in your monthly payment due to an adjustable rate mortgage can result in the loss of your home.

 

Interest rate

 

When reviewing the loan documents for a home mortgage loan, one of the important factors that you should check and understand is that of interest rate on the loan. Mortgage interest rates can vary from low to high, depending upon such other factors as the type of loan, applicable usury laws, credit rating, term of the loan and others.  Review the stated rate and make certain it is what was agreed upon.  If you are expecting a fixed interest rate  and the documents provide for an adjustment in 24 months, chances are good that the mortgage has been prepared with a variable interest rate.

 

Broker’s reputation

 

Actually, checking the broker’s reputation should come well before preparing or reviewing the documents for your home mortgage loan.  Sometimes though, you won’t see a problem until you actually get the documents in writing before you.  If there is anything that is unclear or incorrect, the time to get the problem corrected is before signing.  A reputable broker should be willing to work with you to correct problems or clear up any communication issues.

 



TERRANCE

Alan Lim asked:


 

A home mortgage loan is usually the largest financial transaction that most individuals will accomplish during their lifetime.  Yet, it is often true that the details are not seen as part of the larger picture, but only as a matter of how much the monthly payment will be and how large the down payment must be to get the house that is desired. An understanding of exactly what a home mortgage loan is and how it works is helpful in making the up front decisions that will have such an enormous impact on the financial health during the next few years or even for a lifetime.

 

Definitions

 

The borrower should understand terms that will describe the type of loan, the fees that apply and the cost of the money use when obtaining a home mortgage loan.  A good start for understanding definitions is to review the length of the loan, or its term; the rate of interest; and the type of loan such as adjustable rate mortgage or fixed rate mortgage.  In addition, a basic understanding of the type of fees and costs that can be included in the cost of the loan is helpful.  These can be referred to as closing costs.

 

Terms

 

The term that you choose when applying for a home mortgage loan is the length of time that you must make payments before the principal on the loan is paid off. The most common terms are 30 years–360 months–and 15 years, although loans of 12 years, 20 years, 25 years, 40 years and even 50 years are somewhat available. It is important to remember that even if you choose a 30 year term so that your monthly payment will be less, you can add extra payments to the principal each month and save yourself thousands of dollars over the term of the loan.

 

Rates

 

Interest rates are the largest single component of any home mortgage loan–in most cases, even greater than the principal of the loan.  The interest rate you will be charged depends on many factors such as the credit score, the size of the loan, the type of mortgage such as fixed rate or adjustable rate, and the term of the mortgage loan. Sometimes loan brokers will charge different rates even when all other factors are equal. This is due to the costs incurred that apply only to the lender or brokers’ fees

 

Closing costs

 

A final important feature of a home mortgage loan is that of the closing costs. The closing costs can be made up of various costs, including, but not limited to, points, loan origination fees, document preparation fees, title search, title insurance, and appraisal fees.  Review these various closing costs to make sure you understand them and question any that seem excessive or frivolous.  Closing costs that are rolled into the loan balance can result in huge increases in the cost of the loan itself. If at all possible, cover such expenses with cash, rather than having interest charges accruing to them over the term of the loan.  

 



SAMMIE

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.



CARL

Matthew Sanz asked:


It can be both exciting and perplexing when it comes to buying your first home. Get yourself to know the basics of home mortgage loans and be on your way to finding the perfect place.

What is a mortgage?

A mortgage is a loan you pull out to pay off your home. If you are a first time home mortgage loan borrower, you may be asked to deposit a down payment and pay for the rest (i.e. monthly) through a mortgage loan. Establishments that can offer mortgages are mortgage specialists, building societies and banks.

What are the types of mortgage?

- Repayment mortgage - monthly payments are made within an agreed term until loan and interest are paid off.

- Interest-only mortgage - monthly payments are made for a period of time as agreed in the contract, except payments cover only the loan’s interest within the initial term. Afterwards, you are asked to make interest payments in full every month.

- Fixed-rate mortgage - requires you to pay for a fixed interest rate over the whole term. Interest rates do not change and therefore offers a feeling of certainty for most borrowers.

- Adjustable Rate Mortgage - has rates that adjust after an initial term containing a fixed rate. Rates could adjust depending on the rise and fall of other economic rates. This could sound daunting for first time home mortgage loan borrowers, but those who want a lower initial rate can benefit from this type of mortgage.

What are the requirements?

1. Good credit report:

Your credit report will let lenders determine whether or not they will approve your application and whether or not to increase interests rates for your loan. Lenders especially want to make sure that a first time home mortgage loan borrower has the ability and willingness to make his or her payments.

2. Insurance:

Insurance can be used to pay off your mortgage if you have just been in an accident, lost your job or become sick. You might be required to use life insurance to pay off your mortgage should death occur. What are some tips I can use before purchasing property?

- Improve your credit report - Avoid applying for more credit and pay on time. - Review and correct credit information - Contact the credit bureau to correct inaccuracies - Get the best program - Choose a plan that is most suitable for your situation. - Research - Jot down your price range and find out how much you can borrow. - Do it online - Using the Internet could save you more time and money. Lenders now offer mortgage calculators online that you can use to predict which mortgage program is most suitable for you. - Choose the best mortgage specialist - Determine if the specialist works in a company that is likely to stay in business whenever rates fluctuate. - Ask for advice - Look for recommendations so you are familiar with what kind of mortgage plan you are getting into.

This is only a guide and should not be used in legal matters.



JOHNNY

Alan Lim asked:


The first step

There are two basic kinds of home mortgage loan ; an adjustable rate mortgage, which is also known as ARM, and a fixed rate mortgage. When you decide upon a fixed rate home mortgage loan, the principal and interest payments will remain the same for the life of the loan. When you utilize an adjustable rate mortgage, the interest rates can change anytime. How often and when it will change will depend upon the kind of ARM you have, as well as the length of loan. Finding out which type of loan will serve you best will be the first step to take to find mortgage rates you can afford.

The second step

The next thing you should be looking for when you are looking for home financing is to find a lender that will offer you the best deal. It is easier than ever to comparison shop for a home mortgage loan when you use the internet as a tool. You can find many lenders in your area that want your business, and can offer you some terrific rates. Look past the rates and see what kinds of fees they charge for the different services you will need in order to complete the loan process as well. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; there are so many lenders competing for your business that most companies will be more than happy to answer any questions you have no matter how silly they may seem to you.

The third step

After you have done your homework and compared prices of different lenders, make a list of the top two or three lenders that are offering you the best deal. If one of the lenders on your list has pre-approved you for a loan, that lender should be at the top. It is always smart to try to get pre-approved when you are searching for a home mortgage loan as it makes the whole process go smoother. What can be more traumatic than finding your dream house and making an offer and not getting approved for a home mortgage loan?

The fourth step

Before you put your signature on any loan papers, be sure the company you are dealing with has a good reputation in the home mortgage loan community. You can check with the Better Business Bureau as well as do a bit of research on the company from which you are thinking of borrowing money. Once again the internet can help you. You can find reviews from previous customers to find out how they liked working with a certain lender. Making sure the company you wish to do business with has a sterling reputation can save you heartache and stress in the end.



CARY

Diannelogan asked:


With an extremely large crowd of lenders ready to provide you with a mortgage loan for your house, getting a mortgage nowadays proves to be hardly a problem for anyone. But getting a low interest rate, affordable mortgage with flexible repayment terms is still a major problem. Considering the fact that you can end up paying thousands of dollars extra if you land with a bad mortgage deal, here is a list of a few things that you need to know in order to negotiate the best mortgage loan deal:

1. There Are Two Main Types Of Mortgage Loans: Mortgage loans are broadly divided into two main types: fixed-rate mortgages (FRM) and adjustable rate mortgages (ARM). While you will find that the conditions for applying for an ARM loan are easier and they come with lower initial rates, a fixed rate mortgage is generally advised for people who are planning long term periods. This is because a fixed rate mortgage loan, which may cost more than an ARM initially, requires the payment of the same rate of interest starting from today onwards till a period of twenty to thirty years. On the other hand, an adjustable rate mortgage’s payments will vary every month based on a number of indices. However, an ARM will provide you with a lower rate of interest initially which might go up later on.

2. Your Credit History Matters: Your credit score is a major determinant nowadays of the kinds of interest, terms and conditions that you will get on your mortgage loan. If you have already taken out a number of loans which you have paid or are paying back on time, you have a higher chance of getting a low rate mortgage than someone who has never taken credit for a car or a house. Secondly, having a high credit score and a clean credit history can often slash back a number of points off your mortgage loan’s interest. Therefore, it is advised that you clean up your credit report as much as possible and get your highest possible score before you apply for a mortgage loan.

3. The Best Mortgage Loans Are Available Online: Not only are most reputable banks and lending institutions now providing loans over the internet, there are a number of new but reliable companies that are also dispensing mortgages online. Online loan companies get the advantage of garnering an extremely large market for a very small cost when compared to brick and mortar lenders. But the competition on the web is also higher than that in real space. As a result, most online lenders will not only provide you with lower interest rates, they will also charge you lower processing and other fees. So make sure that you do your research well and get quotes from online mortgage providers before you sign on the dotted line. While you compare interest rates and term periods, do not forget to compare all the fees that different lenders charge you for the same loan.



HECTOR

Martin Lukac asked:


With the real estate prices sky rocketing, mortgage loans are a boon when it comes to purchasing your dream home. You can opt for a mortgage loan as a first time home buyer, or to move up, or to refinance an old mortgage, or to access the equity blocked in the house. Whatever may be the reason, it is important to have a basic knowledge about mortgage loans and its types.

Mortgage loan refers to a loan that is secured by a mortgage on real property. Since these loans are secured, the value of the property reduces the risk factor involved. Thus mortgage loans may be available at lower interest rates as compared to other types of borrowing.

Mortgage loans are structured as long-term loans and the periodic payments for them are calculated according to time value of money. The payment is generally through Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs) paid over the term of the loan. Over the period, the principal amount borrowed, would be slowly paid off through amortization.

It is very important to choose the right type of mortgage loan, like it is important to choose the right lender. Doing a little bit of homework will help you understand what the loan officer speaks, who most of the time otherwise seems to be speaking in an alien language.

There are two basic types of amortized mortgage loans viz.

1.Fixed Rate Mortgage Loans: In fixed rate mortgages, the interest rate remains fixed for the entire term of loan. Thus they are more predictable than other types of mortgage loans. Fixed rate loans are generally up to 30, 20, 15 and 10 years. The longer the term of loan, larger is the amount of interest paid than the principle, this means larger tax deductions.

Since the interest rate remains fixed, you are saved from paying higher rates as per market fluctuations. At the same time you might loose the opportunity of borrowing at lower rates if market rates fall. If the fall in interest rate is 2 points or more, and you plan to reside in the same house for at least 18 months more, you can opt for mortgage refinancing.

2.Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loans: Also called floating rate or variable rate mortgage, these loans are popular because of the lower interest rates at the beginning. Adjustable rates are a little easier to obtain since some risk is transferred from the lender to borrower. Also lower interest rates may qualify the borrower for a larger loan amount.

In Floating rate mortgage loans interest rate is generally fixed for a period of time, after which it periodically adjusts to certain market indices. The most common market indices used are Prime Rate, London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and Treasury Index (T-bill). There is a cap on the margin that restricts the lender from charging interest rates higher than a certain point. This safeguards the interest of the borrower to a certain extent.

If you want to borrow money for your business purposes; you can opt for commercial mortgage loan. Commercial mortgage is similar to a residential mortgage, except that the collateral security given will be a commercial building or other business property and not a residential property.

All types of mortgage loans are generally non-recourse. This means that in case of default in payment, the lender can only seize the collateral security to recover the loan amount. Even if the collateral is insufficient to reimburse the loan in full, the lender has no further claim against the borrower.



RANDOLPH

Rony Walker asked:


So you want a finger in that refinance mortgage loan. After all, it’s fast becoming the talk of the town. The problem is, you’re daunted by the process that comes with it. Now you’re wondering, what are the easiest deals to come by so far?

You might want to consider the following types of refinance mortgage loan. They are by far the simplest and easiest to process.

Fixed Rate Refinance Mortgage Loan

As opposed to the specialty type of refinance mortgage loans (like adjustable rate mortgage), this type of loan is much easier to come by. To qualify for an adjustable rate mortgage, you will have to meet up with generally higher standards. You will have to have a higher income, better credit reports, and a more valuable home equity.

A fixed rate mortgage loan may be just what you need. With this type of refinance loan, you deal with a fixed interest rate for the whole credit term, as opposed to an adjustable mortgage interest rate wherein you are subject to the inconsistencies of the mortgage market. If the economy is not in good shape, then you’ll have to prepare yourself for burgeoning interest rates. So basically, you get peace of mind and stability with your fixed rate mortgage loan as bonus.

Closed Refinance Mortgage Loan

Another type of refinance mortgage loan that is easy to qualify for is the closed refinance mortgage loan. Now what is this? It’s the type of loan wherein you are not allowed to make prepayments or to pay off your loan in advance. You may want to do prepayments if you suddenly find yourself with a lot of extra cash and with the desire to pay out your loan to avoid interest fees. With a closed mortgage loan, your lender will only allow you to do this for a fee.

It’s much easier to close this kind of deal, though, as opposed to an open refinance mortgage. The latter allows you to pay out without fees, but it’s not easy to qualify for them. You will have to have a more inviting income, credit report, and home equity.

Long Term Refinance Mortgage Loan

Another refinance mortgage loan that is easier to qualify for is the long-term refinance mortgage loan. Now what would make for a long-term loan? It’s the type of loan that lasts for 6 years or more. It usually lasts for up to 10 years, though there are those that reach until 25 years.

Short-term mortgages are more advantageous in that they offer lower rates. But then again, they are not easy to come by. Yet again, you will have to have better income, better credit reports, and better home equity.

But the qualification process may be the least of your worries. Getting a deal closed and getting just the right deal are two different things. You may have gotten your refinance mortgage without much sweat, only to encounter serious problems when you are already in it. Do not go for a deal only for its expediency. Be very scrutinizing.



LINDSEY

melinamenny asked:


 

Most people refinance their mortgage loan when it is up for renewal from its term. Mortgage loans come in a variety of terms, anywhere from six months to 10 years at a time, amortized over 25 to 50 years. Each term of a mortgage loan is its own mortgage loan – meaning that you can change the mortgage loan type you have as well as the term when your mortgage loan renews. If your mortgage loan is up for renewal, it’s a good time to see if you can get a better interest rate on your new mortgage loan by shopping around. However, there are other times when refinancing your mortgage loan makes sense.

 

Renewal Time

 

Term renewal on mortgage loans is, obviously, the time when most mortgage loans are renewed. It is a time when you can search for a different lender for your mortgage loan or stay with the same lender. However, refinancing your mortgage loan is similar to taking out a new one to begin with, except that you’re not required to have a down payment.

 

Refinancing your mortgage loan means having a new mortgage loan – you can use this opportunity to change the type of mortgage loan you have, such as going from an adjustable rate mortgage loan to a fixed rate mortgage loan, or vice versa. You can also change the term of your mortgage loan, make it longer or shorter, depending upon your wants and needs.

 

If you’re term mortgage loan is up for renewal and the interest rates are low, it’s a good time to lock in the good interest rate for a longer period of time with a fixed rate, long term mortgage loan. However if your renewal comes up and the interest rates are high, it’s a good time to go with either a short term fixed rate or an adjustable rate mortgage loan. Adjustable rate mortgage loans’ interest rate changes at various points in the term, which means you could end up with a much lower interest rate, and therefore lower payments when the rate changes.

 

Need extra money?

 

Mortgage loan refinancing is also a good time to take out some of the equity you’ve been saving. You can refinance your mortgage loan for higher than is owed to the previous mortgage loan and get cash from your equity to spend as you see fit. The most common uses for equity cash is home improvements, consolidating high-interest debts (such as loans and credit cards), and paying for college tuition for children.

 

Other times it’s a good idea to refinance

There are other times throughout the term of your mortgage loan that you may want to consider refinancing. If the interest rates plummet, it’s a consideration to refinance your mortgage loan with a longer term, fixed rate mortgage loan. Locking in a low interest rate on your refinanced mortgage loan could mean that you save tens of thousands of dollars in interest payments to your lender.

A word of caution about refinancing mid- mortgage loan term – prepayment penalties come with some mortgage loans and if you have a prepayment penalty on your mortgage loan, talk with your loan officer before you begin the refinancing process.

 

There’s an easy way to figure out if it’s worth refinancing your mortgage loan mid term and paying the prepayment penalties – find out what your yearly interest payments will be with a new mortgage and compare them to what they are with your current mortgage. Subtract the new mortgage interest from the old mortgage interest – this is how much interest you’re saving in a year. Compare this number with the amount you’ll pay in prepayment penalties. If it is less than half (which means it would take two years to “pay” for the refinancing), then it’s not worth refinancing your mortgage loan. However if you can “pay” for the refinancing within two years on a five year term or more mortgage loan, then it may be worth paying the prepayment penalty.

 

You can ask your mortgage loan lender if they will waive the prepayment penalty if you refinance your mortgage loan with the same company. Prepayment penalties are in place from some lenders because they’re losing your business and thusly the thousands of dollars of interest payments you were to make to them for the remaining term on your mortgage loan. Most prepayment penalties are six months interest on 80 per cent of the total of your mortgage loan. However, some lenders may be willing to waive the prepayment penalty if you’re staying with them for the longer term mortgage you want to lock in with lower interest rates. While the interest they’re receiving is lower, it can add up to much more than the prepayment penalty amount they will receive if you refinance early.

 

In order to make paying a prepayment penalty worth it to refinance your mortgage loan, you shouldn’t take any longer than two years in saved money to make up the amount you pay out to the old mortgage loan company in penalties. Be sure that if you do make the payment that your new mortgage doesn’t have prepayment penalties attached to it.

 

Refinancing your mortgage loan is a good opportunity to seek out better interest rates and terms. Many people choose to use a mortgage broker to find a new lender to refinance their mortgage loan. The reason for this is because mortgage brokers work with several lenders and can submit the single application you fill out to many lenders at the same time. They then enter a ‘bartering stage’ with the lenders who are willing to refinance your mortgage loan. By using a mortgage broker, you can get great interest rates from lenders vying for your business.

 

Don’t underestimate some of the mortgage loan refinancing companies as well – because they are online and don’t have as much overhead as standard lenders, they can sometimes offer even better deals on interest rates and terms.



DWIGHT