RESPA: The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act
The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) is a consumer protection statute, first passed in 1974. One of its purposes is to help consumers become better shoppers for settlement services. Another purpose is to eliminate kickbacks and referral fees that increase unnecessarily the costs of ... more...

Home Equity Let the Market Eliminate Your Private Mortgage Insurance
In decades past, most people who were interested in obtaining a home loan were required to put down at least 20% of the purchase price. Those days are gone, and as home prices have risen faster than incomes, the average down payment required by lenders has dropped. In fact, it is often possible ... more...

What is the PayOption ARM?
Imagine an adjustable rate mortgage that allows you to pick one of four payment options on your monthly mortgage bill. It is an ARM on which the interest rate adjusts monthly and the payment adjusts annually, with borrowers offered options on how large a payment they will make. The options include ... more...

Adverse Credit Mortgage Loans - How To Get Approved With Poor Credit
If your credit is less than perfect, you may think that home ownership is just a dream. But, actually, it's possible to get a mortgage loan even if you have a low credit score. You'll have to make a few trade-offs, but you can get approved for a mortgage loan--even with poor credit--if you:Choose a ... more...

Smart Mortgage Strategy for Average Joe
Buying a home is probably the biggest financial decision most people will make in their lifetime. The percentage of down payment you put in will make a huge difference for the health of your personal finances for years to come. What percentage of down payment you should choose is largely dependent ... more...

Mortgage Loans - LTV (Lending Risk Ratio)
When buying your home, it is imperative to have as much money as possible for your down payment. Not only should you save for your down payment, but also tap your personal savings, any stocks, bonds and real estate, and gather your family gifts. Customarily, lenders require a down payment of at ... more...

Things that You Need to Know before Financing Your Home
Frequent Asking Questions:What are Points? A. There are several types of mortgage related costs called "points" and their definitions and purposes vary. Generally, points are costs that must be paid to a lender in order to receive mortgage financing under specified terms. One point means 1% of ... more...

No Down Payment Poor Credit Mortgage Loans - No Money Down Loan Information
Finding a no money down mortgage loan is actually easier for someone with poor credit. Subprime lenders are more willing sign off on these deals than conventional lenders. But before you jump into a mortgage contract, make sure you understand the terms and are getting a good deal.Benefits Of ... more...

Home Equity - Let the Market Eliminate Your Private Mortgage Insurance
In decades past, most people who were interested in obtaining a home loan were required to put down at least 20% of the purchase price. Those days are gone, and as home prices have risen faster than incomes, the average down payment required by lenders has dropped. In fact, it is often possible ... more...