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	<title>American Financing Articles</title>
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	<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles</link>
	<description>Find Helpful Mortgage Tips</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:02:40 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>Are FHA Home Loan Requirements Tight?</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/are-fha-home-loan-requirements-tight/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/are-fha-home-loan-requirements-tight/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:02:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>scubadu</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[FHA Loan]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=439</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Actually FHA loan requirements are among the most forgiving in the industry while providing a competitive interest rate and reasonable fees and costs. This is because they are government backed and it has been public policy to make home ownership fairly easy and affordable. Some of this flexibility is demonstrated as follows: • Credit scores [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Actually FHA loan requirements are among the most forgiving in the industry while providing a competitive interest rate and reasonable fees and costs. This is because they are government backed and it has been public policy to make home ownership fairly easy and affordable.</p>
<p><strong>Some of this flexibility is demonstrated as follows:</strong></p>
<p>• Credit scores may be as low as 580 with minimal down payment<br />
• With 10% down, the credit score can be lower<br />
• Fixed term loans and 5 year Adjustable Rate Mortgages are available<br />
• You can refinance to 97.75% of the value of your primary residence<br />
• You can buy your primary residence with as little as 3.5% down<br />
• As long as you live in one unit, you can purchase 1 – 4 units<br />
• The down payment can be a gift or a grant<br />
• Refinancing an FHA loan through the FHA Streamline re-fi program is significantly easier than refinancing conventional loans</p>
<p>FHA mortgage loans require an up front mortgage insurance premium and the calculations for qualifying follow a formula, so you need to consult with a HUD/FHA approved mortgage lender. Also, lenders may have requirements for qualifying which are stricter than FHA guidelines.</p>
<p>There are numerous programs, laws and requirements in the mortgage lending business, and the field is ever changing. So, pick a quality mortgage professional or lending firm and keep in touch to intelligently manage you home investment.</p>
<div align="center">
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="color: #000053; font-size: medium;">American Financing Corporation</span><span style="color: #000053;"><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS - <a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/directions.php"><span style="color: #ff0000;">WALK INS WELCOME</span></a></span><br />
3151 South Vaughn Way<br />
Aurora, CO 80014</span></strong></span></p>
</div>
<p align="center"><span style="color: #000053;"><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Call Today! (303) 695-7000</span></strong></span></p>
<p align="center">
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		<slash:comments>12</slash:comments>
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		<title>Are balloon mortgage rates better than ARM rates?</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/are-balloon-mortgage-rates-better-than-arm-rates/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/are-balloon-mortgage-rates-better-than-arm-rates/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 22:56:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>scubadu</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Loans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=435</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Generally speaking balloon mortgage interest rates are better than rates for Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs). In a balloon loan you have fixed monthly payments for a term of 3, 5, or 7 years. The monthly payments are based upon a 30 year fully amortizing schedule. At the end of the term you have to pay [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Generally speaking balloon mortgage interest rates are better than rates for Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs). In a balloon loan you have fixed monthly payments for a term of 3, 5, or 7 years. The monthly payments are based upon a 30 year fully amortizing schedule. At the end of the term you have to pay off the balance of the loan.</p>
<p>The advantage to this type of loan is that because of the lower interest rate and longer amortization schedule, the monthly payments are lower. The disadvantage is that you have to make that balloon payment at the end of the term. You can make the balloon payment by paying from your own funds or by refinancing at current market rates. There are a couple of risks here. You don’t know what interest rates will be at the end of your term, and you don’t know what your financial condition will be at the end of the term.</p>
<p>With an ARM loan, the potential future interest rate will be spelled out in the loan contract. And, you have been qualified for the life of the loan.</p>
<p>There are some balloon loans which have a refinancing option that allows you to convert the mortgage to a fixed rate loan if specific conditions are met. In some instances you don’t need to be re-qualified, or get the property reappraised as you would when refinancing with another lender. Again, the drawback is that the interest rate will be at current market rate.</p>
<p>In conclusion, carefully review the loan terms and do a balloon loan if the lower payments will help you practice smart money management. Or, you know you will be leaving by the end of the term, or be able to pay off or refinance the balloon payment.</p>
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		<slash:comments>34</slash:comments>
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		<title>When and for whom is it best to get a stated income-stated assets loan?</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/when-and-for-whom-is-it-best-to-get-a-stated-income-stated-assets-loan/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/when-and-for-whom-is-it-best-to-get-a-stated-income-stated-assets-loan/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 22:54:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>scubadu</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Loans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Refinancing]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=430</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When available, a stated income-stated asset (SISA) loan was good for those that had excellent credit and showed the history to be able to repay their debts without regard to the actual amount of income they had. Typically these types of loans were for self employed individuals that used the benefit of the tax laws [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When available, a stated income-stated asset (SISA) loan was good for those that had excellent credit and showed the history to be able to repay their debts without regard to the actual amount of income they had. Typically these types of loans were for self employed individuals that used the benefit of the tax laws (see your tax professional) to write off expenses on paper to lower their taxable income. Unfortunately, most of these programs have been discontinued and might be available through a private lending institution at this time. Consult with an American Financing Mortgage Consultant to see if you can qualify on a traditional loan.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<slash:comments>46</slash:comments>
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		<title>Get Cash Fast with a Home Equity Line of Credit!</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/get-cash-fast-with-a-home-equity-line-of-credit/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/get-cash-fast-with-a-home-equity-line-of-credit/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 22:51:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>scubadu</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Equity]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=420</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A home equity line of credit is a form of revolving credit in which your home serves as collateral. Because a home often is a consumer&#8217;s most valuable asset, many homeowners use home equity credit lines only for major items, such as education, home improvements, or medical bills, and choose not to use them for [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p align="left"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">A home equity line of credit is a form of revolving credit in which your home serves as collateral. Because a home often is a consumer&#8217;s most valuable asset, many homeowners use home equity credit lines only for major items, such as education, home improvements, or medical bills, and choose not to use them for day-to-day expenses</span>.</span></span></p>
<p align="left"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Borrowers use home equity loans for some of life’s larger expenses, because homes tend to have a lot of value to borrow against. For example, you find that a lot of borrowers want to:</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;" align="left"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><strong>• Remodel or renovate the house<br />
• Pay for a family member’s education<br />
• Finance the purchase of a second home<br />
• Consolidate high-interest debts</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net"><img class="aligncenter" title="American Financing Can Save You Money and Lower Your Rate!" src="http://www.americanfinancing.net/images/bag-of-money-savings.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="249" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>American Financing is a Direct FHA Endorsement Lender</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">American Financing Corporation<br />
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS &#8211; WALK INS WELCOME<br />
3151 South Vaughn Way<br />
Aurora, CO 80014</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Call Us Today! (303) 695- 7000</strong></p>
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		<slash:comments>4</slash:comments>
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		<title>Buy Now While Prices Are Low!</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/buy-now-while-prices-are-low/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/buy-now-while-prices-are-low/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 22:32:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>scubadu</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Loans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=406</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you are able to buy a home now, there has never been a better time. Once the recovery begins, home prices are likely to rise rapidly. A lot of people will be lamenting the fact that they didn&#8217;t buy in 2008 or 2009 when prices were low. There is no doubt that the economic [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you are able to buy a home now, there has never been a better time. Once the recovery begins, home prices are likely to rise rapidly. A lot of people will be lamenting the fact that they didn&#8217;t buy in 2008 or 2009 when prices were low. There is no doubt that the economic crisis will end. The only question is when.</p>
<p>No matter what the economic climate, buying a new home always has advantages. Whether it&#8217;s added flexibility, efficiency or modern conveniences, there are many reasons that being the first owner of a home makes more sense than ever.</p>
<p>It is important to remember that you are not buying a house, but a home. It is a place where you centre your life and raise a family. A home that you buy is yours to keep.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>American Financing is a Mortgage Banker</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">• We do the funding<br />
• We have in-house underwriters<br />
• We are a Direct FHA Lender</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://americanfinancingarticles.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/mortgage.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-414" title="Home Purchase" src="http://americanfinancingarticles.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/mortgage.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="201" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Get Your Mortgage Questions Answered!</p>
<address style="text-align: center;"><strong>(303) 695-7000</strong></address>
<address style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net">www.americanfinancing.net</a> </address>
<address style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/americanfinancingcorporation">Join Us on Facebook!</a></address>
<p style="text-align: center;">
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		<slash:comments>6</slash:comments>
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		<title>How Paying More on Your Mortgage Can Save You Money</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/how-paying-more-on-your-mortgage-can-save-you-money/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/08/29/how-paying-more-on-your-mortgage-can-save-you-money/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 17:40:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>scubadu</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Loans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=407</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many Americans dream about owning a own home and dreamers will go to any lengths to ensure this dream becomes a reality, even if it means borrowing thousands of dollars that will need to be paid back over a 30 year period. For those who want to have their loan paid off sooner, it&#8217;s quite [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Many Americans dream about owning a own home and dreamers will go to any lengths to ensure this dream becomes a reality, even if it means borrowing thousands of dollars that will need to be paid back over a 30 year period. For those who want to have their loan paid off sooner, it&#8217;s quite an obligation to make 360 payments, month after month with the bulk of the payments going toward interest, at least in the beginning.</p>
<p>Did you know the amount paid toward interest alone on an average home over a 30 year period can account for twice the cost of the home itself? That is quite a lot of money being wasted throughout the life of your loan.  The interest on your loan is constantly accumulating everyday, 365 days a year. But what if there was a way to pay off your debt years sooner and result in saving you thousands of dollars?</p>
<p>Well the good news is, you can. Learning how to budget and gaining a sense of financial discipline are not impossible tasks, especially if you know how much small budget adjustments will save you in the long run.  Finding ways to cut costs in your day to day life will provide you with some extra cash to put toward your loan principal.</p>
<p>Those who manage to make bi-weekly payments on their mortgage will end up saving <em>thousands</em> and pay off debt years sooner in comparison to those who make one monthly payment. Some call this mortgage repayment strategy the bi-weekly mortgage plan because you are make payments every 2 weeks.</p>
<p>Let&#8217;s say you paid $80,000 for your home and got a 7% loan for 30 years. If you divide the payment in half and pay it every two weeks you should <strong>save $25,000 in interest payments and reduce the loan term by 8 years</strong>. For about the cost of dinner and a movie for you and your family each month you can be debt free years sooner and save thousands of dollars.  This shows how much it is possible to save in interest payments if you are willing to budget in other areas of your life.</p>
<p>Of course, the higher the loan and interest, the more you save because you&#8217;re paying less interest and more on the principal. The extra payments bring down the principal and interest faster. You&#8217;ll also save on private mortgage insurance (PMI) by paying off the loan early.</p>
<p>I know your probably thinking, wouldn’t setting up a shorter mortgage term from the beginning accomplish the same thing? Essentially yes. But the shorter the mortgage term, the higher the payment and many people cannot qualify for making high payments. With the bi-weekly plan, you can take control yourself and enjoy the flexibility.</p>
<p>You can calculate your bi-weekly payments with American Financing’s free <a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/calculators2-2010/biweekcalc.php">bi-weekly mortgage calculator</a>. Compare how much you are currently paying each month toward your mortgage and compare it to the amount you would be paying with a bi-weekly plan to see if this is something you are interested in.</p>
<p>By paying bi-weekly, you&#8217;re actually paying one extra payment a year and that makes the difference. You can accomplish the same thing by making an extra payment whenever you can of any amount. When you do this, write a separate check with a note that states the money should be applied to the principal and not the interest.</p>
<p>The mortgage lenders at <a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/">American Financing</a> are happy to help you with saving money on your mortgage but it&#8217;s up to you to get the financial ball rolling. If you are interested in adjusting your mortgage repayment strategy, call us today for free consultation!</p>
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		<slash:comments>2</slash:comments>
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		<title>American Financing</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/01/04/american-financing/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/01/04/american-financing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:32:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Loans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=173</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Count on us for the best rates, competitive loans and superior service! Pre-Approved in 1 hour. We&#8217;re one of the fastest closers in the industry. Our Mortgage Specialist are salaried paid, which means you will get the safest home loan without any hassles! CALL (866) 750-6551]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Count on us for the best rates, competitive loans and superior service! Pre-Approved in 1 hour. We&#8217;re one of the fastest<br />
closers in the industry. Our Mortgage Specialist are salaried paid, which means you will get the safest home loan without any hassles!</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">CALL (866) 750-6551</span></strong></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>11</slash:comments>
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		<title>Guide to Refinancing</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/01/03/guide-to-refinancing/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/01/03/guide-to-refinancing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 03 Jan 2011 23:48:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Refinancing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[refinancing]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=152</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you are a homeowner who was lucky enough to buy when mortgage rates were low, you may have no interest in refinancing your present loan. But perhaps you bought your home when rates were higher. Or perhaps you have an adjustable rate loan and would like to obtain different terms. Should you refinance? This [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you are a homeowner who was lucky enough to buy when mortgage rates were low, you may have no interest in refinancing your present loan. But perhaps you bought your home when rates were higher. Or perhaps you have an adjustable rate loan and would like to obtain different terms. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Should you refinance? This brochure will answer some questions that may help you decide. If you do refinance, the process will remind you of what you went through in obtaining the original mortgage. That&#8217;s because, in reality, refinancing a mortgage is simply taking out a new mortgage. You will encounter many of the same procedures-and the same types of costs-the second time around.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: small;"><strong>Would Refinancing Be Worth It?</strong></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Refinancing can be worth while, but it does not make good financial sense for everyone. A general rule is that refinancing becomes worth your while if the current interest rate on your mortgage is at least two percentage points higher than the prevailing market rate. this figure is generally accepted as the safe margin when balancing the costs of refinancing a mortgage against the savings. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are other considerations, too, such as how long you plan to stay in the house. Most sources say that it takes at least three years to realize fully the savings from a lower interest rate, given the costs of the refinancing. (Depending on your loan amount and the particular circumstances, however, you might choose to refinance a loan that is only 1.5 percentage points higher then the current rate. You may even find you could recoup the refinancing costs in a shorter time.) </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Refinancing can be a good idea for homeowners who:</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Want to get out of a high interest rate loan to take advantage of lower rates. This is a good idea only if you intend to stay in the house long enough to make the additional fees worthwhile.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) and want a fixed-rate loan to have the certainty of knowing exactly what the mortgage payment will be for the life of the loan.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Want to convert to an ARM with a lower interest rate or more protective features (such as a better rate and payment caps) than the ARM they currently have.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Want to build up equity more quickly by converting to a loan with a shorter term.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Want to draw on the equity built up in their house to get cash for a major purchase or for their children&#8217;s education. </span></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you decide that a refinancing is not worth the costs, ask your lender whether you may be able to obtain all or some of the new terms you want by agreeing to a modification of your existing loan instead of a refinancing.</span></span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: small;"><strong>Should You Refinance Your ARM?</strong></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">In deciding whether to refinance an ARM you should consider these questions:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is the next interest rate adjustment on your existing loan likely to increase your monthly payments substantially? Will the new interest rate be two or three percentage points higher than the prevailing rates being offered for either fixed-rate loans or other ARMs?</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If the current mortgage sets a cap on your monthly payments, are those payments large enough to pay off your loan by the end of the original term? Will refinancing a new ARM or a fixed-rate enable you to pay your loan in full by the end of the term?</span></span></li>
</ul>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: small;"><strong>What Are The Costs of Refinancing?</strong></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">The fees described below are the charges that you most likely to encounter in a refinancing.</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Application Fees</strong><br />
This charge imposed by your lender covers the initial costs of processing you loan request and checking your credit report.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Title Search and Title Insurance</strong><br />
This charge will cover the cost of examining the public record to confirm ownership of the real estate. It also covers the cost of a policy, usually issued by a title insurance company, that insures the policy holder in a specific amount for any loss caused by discrepancies in the title to the property. Be sure to ask the company carrying the present policy if it can re-issue your policy at a re-issue rate. You could save up to 70 percent of what it would cost you for a new policy.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Lender&#8217;s Attorney&#8217;s Review Fees</strong><br />
The lender will usually charge you for fees paid to the lawyer or company that conducts the closing for the lender. Settlements are conducted by lending institutions, title insurance companies, escrow companies, real estate brokers, and attorneys for the buyer and seller. In most situations, the person conducting the settlement is providing a service to the lender. You may want to retain your own attorney to represent you at all stages of the transaction, including settlement.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Loan Origination Fees and Discount Points</strong><br />
The origination fee is charged for the lender&#8217;s work in evaluating and preparing your mortgage loan. Discount points are prepaid finance charges imposed by the lender at closing to increase the lender&#8217;s yield beyond the stated interest rate on the mortgage note. One point equals one percent of the loan amount. For example, one point on a $75,000 loan would be $750. In some cases, the points you pay can be financed by adding them to the loan amount. The total number of points a lender charges will depend on market conditions and the interest rate to be charged.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Appraisal Fee</strong><br />
This fee pays for an appraisal which is a supportable and defensible estimate or opinion of the value of the property.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Prepayment Penalty</strong><br />
A prepayment penalty on your present mortgage could be the greatest determent to refinancing. The practice of charging money for an early pay-off of the existing mortgage loan varies be state, type of lender, and type of loan. Prepayment penalties are forbidden on various loan including loan from federally chartered credit unions, FHA and VA loans, and some other home-purchase loans. The mortgage documents for your existing loan will state if there is a penalty for prepayment. In some loans, you may be charged interest for the full month in which your prepay your loan.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Miscellaneous</strong><br />
Depending on the type of loan you have and other factors, another major expense you might face is the fee for a VA loan guarantee, FHA mortgage insurance, or private mortgage insurance. There are a few other closing costs in addition to these. </span></span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In conclusion, a homeowner should plan on paying an average of 3 to 6 percent of the outstanding principal in refinancing costs, plus any prepayment penalties and the costs of paying off any second mortgages that may exist. One way of saving on some of these costs is to check first with the lender who holds your current mortgage. The lender may be willing to waive some of them, especially if the work relating to the mortgage closing is still current. This could include the fees for the title search, surveys, inspections, and so on. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The information contained in this brochure is intended to help you ask the right questions when considering refinancing your loan. It is not a replacement for professional advice. Talk with mortgage lenders, real estate agents, attorneys, and other advisors about lending practices, mortgage instruments, and your own interests before you commit to any specific loan.</span></span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: small;"><strong>Refinancing Savings On A $100,000 Loan</strong></span></h3>
<table width="380" border="0" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="6">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Your Present Mortgage Rate</span></td>
<td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Current Monthly Payment</span></td>
<td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Monthly Payment Savings at 8.0%</span></td>
<td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Monthly Annual Savings at 8.0%</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>14.0%</span></td>
<td><span>$1,185</span></td>
<td><span>$451</span></td>
<td><span>$5,412</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>13.5%</span></td>
<td><span>$1,145</span></td>
<td><span>$411</span></td>
<td><span>$4,932</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>13.0%</span></td>
<td><span>$1,106</span></td>
<td><span>$372</span></td>
<td><span>$4,464</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>12.5%</span></td>
<td><span>12.5%</span></td>
<td><span>$333</span></td>
<td><span>$3,996</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>12.0%</span></td>
<td><span>$1,029</span></td>
<td><span>$295</span></td>
<td><span>$3,540</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>11.5%</span></td>
<td><span>$990</span></td>
<td><span>$256</span></td>
<td><span>$3,072</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>11.0%</span></td>
<td><span>$952</span></td>
<td><span>$218</span></td>
<td><span>$2,616</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>10.5%</span></td>
<td><span>$915</span></td>
<td><span>$181</span></td>
<td><span>$2,172</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>10.0%</span></td>
<td><span>$878</span></td>
<td><span>$144</span></td>
<td><span>$1,728</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>9.5%</span></td>
<td><span>$841</span></td>
<td><span>$107</span></td>
<td><span>$1,284</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>9.0%</span></td>
<td><span>$805</span></td>
<td><span>$71</span></td>
<td><span>$852</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>110</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Lowering Down Payment</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/01/03/lowering-down-payment/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/01/03/lowering-down-payment/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 03 Jan 2011 23:42:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Loans]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=148</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How To Buy the Home You Want Mortgage insurance (MI) allows you to choose from a wider price range of homes. How? Lenders are generally willing to accept a lower down payment than the standard 20% if the lender obtains mortgage insurance on your loan through a mortgage insurance company. You can not only get [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: small;">How To Buy the Home You Want</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Mortgage insurance (MI) allows you to choose from a wider price range of homes. How? Lenders are generally willing to accept a lower down payment than the standard 20% if the lender obtains mortgage insurance on your loan through a mortgage insurance company. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can not only get the home you deserve, but you can conserve your savings and increase your income tax deductions, just by putting less money down. </span></span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: small;">Buy More Home</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You can afford more home and maximize your investment if your lender obtains MI for your loan.</span></p>
<table width="89%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="44%"></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Without MI </span></td>
<td colspan="2" width="18%">
<div><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">With MI </span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="44%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Down Payment</span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">20%</span></td>
<td width="18%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">10%</span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">5%</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="44%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Your Available Savings </span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$10,000</span></td>
<td width="18%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$10,000</span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$10,000</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="44%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Maximum Home Price </span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$50,000</span></td>
<td width="18%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$100,000</span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$200,000</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Financing a home with a low down payment loan may be the best way to afford a home in high-priced markets.</span></span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: small;">Conserve Your Savings</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The lower the down payment, the more you retain for home furnishings, other investments, future emergencies, or even college tuition</span></p>
<table width="89%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="40%"></td>
<td width="23%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Without MI</span></td>
<td colspan="2">
<div><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">With MI</span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="40%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Home Price</span></td>
<td width="23%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$100,000</span></td>
<td width="18%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$100,000</span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$100,000</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="40%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Down Payment </span></td>
<td width="23%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">20%</span></td>
<td width="18%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">10%</span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">5%</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="40%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cash Down Payment </span></td>
<td width="23%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$20,000</span></td>
<td width="18%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$10,000</span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$5,000</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="40%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Savings</span></td>
<td width="23%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$20,000</span></td>
<td width="18%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$20,000</span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$20,000</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="40%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Savings Retained</span></td>
<td width="23%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$0</span></td>
<td width="18%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$10,000</span></td>
<td width="19%"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">$15,000</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Even if you have less than $20,000 saved, you can still afford to buy a $100,000 home with a lower down payment option if your lender obtains MI on your qualified loan from a mortgage insurance company.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: small;">Increase Your Tax Write-off</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A larger loan amount will have higher interest payments and could result in higher tax deductions. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mortgage interest is one of the few remaining consumer debt items that you can deduct.</span></span></p>
</div>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>12</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Guide to Self Locks</title>
		<link>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/01/03/guide-to-self-locks/</link>
		<comments>http://www.americanfinancing.net/articles/2011/01/03/guide-to-self-locks/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 03 Jan 2011 23:38:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Refinancing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[refinancing]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americanfinancingarticles.com/?p=145</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When you&#8217;re looking for a mortgage, you&#8217;re likely to shop among lenders for the most favorable interest rate, and the lowest points and other up-front charges. When you find the most favorable terms and the lender that you want, you&#8217;ll apply to that lender. But when you get to settlement, will you actually receive the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When you&#8217;re looking for a mortgage, you&#8217;re likely to shop among lenders for the most favorable interest rate, and the lowest points and other up-front charges. When you find the most favorable terms and the lender that you want, you&#8217;ll apply to that lender. But when you get to settlement, will you actually receive the terms you applied or bargained for? Or will you find that the rate has changed &#8211; and that your costs have gone up? Lock-ins on rates and points might offer you a way to ensure that what you shop for is what you get. This page explains what these arrangements mean.</span></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#aboutlocks"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">All About Rate Lock-Ins</span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#whatisalock">What Is A Rate Lock-in?</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#inwriting">Will Your Lock-In Be In Writing?</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#charged">Will You Be Charged For A Lock-In?</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#options">Setting The Mortgage Term</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#valid">How Long Are Lock-Ins Valid?</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#expires">When The Lock-In Period Expires</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#speedup">Speeding Up The Loan Approval</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#askabout">Ask About Lock-Ins</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#complaints">Complaints About Lock-Ins</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#stateagencies">State Agencies</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.americanfinancing.net/Guide-to-Self-Locks.cfm#federalagencies">Federal Agencies</a></span></span></li>
</ul>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="aboutlocks"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In most cases, the terms you are quoted when you shop among lenders only represent the terms available to borrowers settling their loan agreement at the time of the quote. The quoted terms may not be the terms available to you at settlement weeks or even months later; therefore, you could not rely on the terms quoted to you when shopping for a loan useless a lender is willing to offer a lock-in.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="whatisalock"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">A lock-in, also called a rate-lock or rate commitemnt, is a lender&#8217;s promise to hold a certain interest rate and points for you, usually for a specified period of time, while your loan application is processed. (Points are additional charges imposed by the lender that are usually pre-paid by the consumer at settlement but can sometimes be financed by adding them to the mortgage amount. One point equals 1 percent of the loan amount.) Depending upon the lender, you may be able to lock in the interest rate and n umber of points that you will be charged when you file your application, during processing of the loan, when the loan is approved, or later.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">A lock-in that is given when you apply for a loan may be useful because it&#8217;s likely to take your lender several weeks or longer to prepare, document, and evaluate your loan application. During that time, the cost of your mortgage may change. But if your interest rate and points are locked in, you should be protected against increases while your application is processed. This protection could affect whether you can afford the mortgage. However, a locked-in rate could also prevent you from taking advantage of price decreases, unless your lender is willing to lock in a lower rate that becomes available during this period. It is important to recognize that a lock-in is not the same as a loan commitemnt, although some loan commitemnts may contain a lock-in. A loan commitemnt is the lender&#8217;s promise to make you a loan in a specific amount at some future time. Generally, you will receive the lender&#8217;s commitemnt only after your loan application has been approved. This commitemnt usually will state the loan terms that have been approved (including loan amount), how long the commitemnt is valid, and the lender&#8217;s conditions for making the loan such as receipt of a satisfactory title insurance policy protecting the lender.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="inwriting"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Some lenders have pre-printed forms that set out the exact terms of the lock-in agreement. Others may only make an oral lock-in on the telephone or at the time of application. Oral agreements can be very difficult to prove in the event of a dispute. Some lenders&#8217; lock-in forms may contain crucial information that is difficult to understand or that is in fine print. For example, some lock-in agreements may become void through some unrelated action such as a change in the maximum rate for Veterans Administration-guaranteed loans. Thus, it is wise to obtain a blank copy of a lender&#8217;s lock-in form to read carefully before you apply for a loan. If possible, show the lock-in form to a lawyer or real estate professional.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It is wise to obtain written, rather than verbal, lock-in agreements to make sure that you fully understand how your lender&#8217;s lock-ins and loan commitemnts work and to have a tangible record of your arrangements with the lender. This record may be useful in the event of a dispute.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="charged"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lenders may charge you a fee for locking in the rate of interest and number of points for your mortgage. Some lenders may charge you a fee up-front, and may not refund it if you withdraw your application, if your credit is denied, or if you do not close the loan. Others might charge the fee at settlement. The fee might be a flat fee, a percentage of the mortgage amount, or a fraction of a percentage point added to the rate you lock-in. The amount of the fee and how it is charged will vary among lenders and may depend on the length of the lock-in period.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="options"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lenders may offer options in establishing the interest rate and points that you will be charged, such as:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Locked-in interest rate/locked-in points</strong><br />
Under this option, the lender lets you lock in both the interest rate and points quoted to you. This option may be considered to be a true lock-in because your mortgage terms should not increase above the interest rate and points that you&#8217;ve agreed upon even if market conditions change.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Locked-in interest rate/floating points</strong><br />
Under this option, the lender lets you lock in the interest rate, while permitting or requiring the points to rise and fall (float) with changes in market conditions. If market interest rates drop during the lock- in period, the points may also fall. If they rise, the points may increase. Even if you float your points, your lender may allow you to lock in the points at some time before settlement at whatever level is then current. (For instance, say you&#8217;ve locked in a 10.5 percent interest rate, but not the 3 points that went with that rate. A month later, the market interest rate remains the same, but the points the lender charges for that rate have dropped to 2.5. With your lender&#8217;s agreement, you could then lock in the lower 2.5 points.) If you float your points and market interest rates increase by the time of settlement, the lender may charge a greater number of points for a loan at the rate you&#8217;ve locked in. In this case, the benefit you might have has by locking in your rate may be lost because you&#8217;ll have to pay more in up-front costs.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Floating interest rate/floating points</strong><br />
Under this option, the lender lets you lock in the interest rate and the points at some time after application but before settlement. If you think that rates will remain level or even go down, you may want to wait on locking in a particular rate and points. If rates go up, you should expect to be charged the higher rate. Because practices vary, you may want to ask your lender whether there are other options available to you.</span></li>
</ul>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="valid"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Usually the lender will promise to hold a certain interest rate and number of points for a given number of days, and to get these terms you must settle on the loan within that time period. Lock-ins of 30-60 days are common. But some lenders may offer a lock-in for only a short period of time (for example, seven days after your loan is approved) while some others might offer longer lock-ins (up to 120 days). Lenders that charge a lock-in fee may charge a higher fee for the longer lock-in period. Usually, the longer the period, the greater the fee.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="expires"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you don&#8217;t settle within the lock-in period, you might lose the interest rate and the number of points you had locked-in. This could happen if there are delays in processing whether they are caused by you, others involved in the settlement process, or the lender. For example, your loan approval could be delayed if the lender has to wait for any documents from you or from others such as employers, appraisers, termite inspectors, builders, and individuals selling the home. On occasion, lenders are themselves the cause of processing delays, particularly when loan demand is heavy. This sometimes happens when interest rates fall suddenly. If your lock-in expires, most lenders will offer the loan based on the higher of the prevailing interest rate and points, or your locked in rate. If market conditions have caused interest rates to rise, most lenders will charge you more for your loan. One reason why some lenders may be unable to offer the lock-in rate after the period expires is that they can no longer sell the loan to investors at the lock-in rate. (When lenders lock in loan terms for borrowers, they often have an agreement with investors to buy these loans based on the lock-in terms. That agreement may expire around the same time that the lock-in expires and the lender may be unable to afford to offer the same terms if market rates have increased.) Lenders who intend to keep the loans they make may have more flexibility in those cases where settlement is not reached before the lock-in expires.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="speedup"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">While the lender has the greatest role in how fast your loan application is processed, there are certain things you can do to speed up its approval. Try to find out what documentation the lender will require from you.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Much of the information required by your lender can be brought with you when you apply for a loan. This may help to get your application moving more quickly through the process. When you first meet with your lender, be sure to bring the following documents.</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The purchase contract for the house (if you don&#8217;t have the contract, check with your real estate agent or the seller).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Your bank account numbers, the address of your bank branch and your latest bank statement, plus pay stubs , W-2 forms, or other proof of employment and salary, to help the lender check your finances.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you are self-employed, balance sheets, tax returns for two to three previous years, and other information about your business.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Information about debts, including loan and credit card account numbers and the names and addresses of your creditors.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Evidence of your mortgage or rental payments, such as cancelled checks.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Certificate of Eligibility from the Veterans Administration if you want a VA-guaranteed loan. Your lender may be able to help you obtain this.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Be sure to respond promptly to your lender&#8217;s request for information while your loan is being processed. It is also a good idea to call the lender and real estate agent from time to time. By calling occasionally, you can check on the status of your application, and offer to help contact others such as employers who may need to provide documents and other information for your loan. It is also helpful to keep notes on your contacts with the lender so that you will have a record of your conversations.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="askabout"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When you&#8217;re ready to settle on your loan, you&#8217;ll want to get the loan terms that you&#8217;ve locked in. To increase that likelihood, it is important to learn as much as you can about what the lender is promising you before you apply for a loan. Ask for the following information when shopping for a loan:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Lock-Ins and Fees</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Does the lender offer a lock-in of the interest rate and points?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When will the lender let you lock in the interest rate and points? When you apply? When the loan is approved?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Will the lock-in be in writing? If the lock-in is not in writing, you will have no record of the lender&#8217;s agreement with you in case of a dispute.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">How long will the lock-in last (30, 60, 90, 120 or more days)?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Does the lender charge a fee to lock-in your interest rate? Does the fee increase for longer lock-in periods? If so, how much?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you have locked in a rate, and the lender&#8217;s rate drops, can you lock-in at the lower rate? Does the lender charge you an additional fee to lock in the lower rate?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Can you float your interest rate and points for now, and lock them in later?</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Loan Processing Time</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">How long does the lender expect to take to process your loan?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">What has been the lender&#8217;s average time for processing loans recently?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Has the lender&#8217;s loan volume increased? Heavy volume might increase the lender&#8217;s average processing time.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Expiration of Lock-ins</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">What rate will be charged if the lock-in expires before settlement-the rate in effect when the lock-in expires?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you don&#8217;t settle within the lock-in period, will the lender refund some or all of your application or lock-in fees if you decide to cancel the loan application?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If your lock-in expires and you want to get another lock-in at the rate in effect at the time of the expiration will the lender charge an additional fee for the second lock-in?</span></li>
</ul>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="complaints"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Knowing what to look for puts you in a better position to decide whether, when, and how long to lock-in mortgage terms and, by helping to keep the loan process moving, you can lessen the chance that your lock-in will run out before settlement. But what i f your lock-in does lapse? If you believe that the lapse was due to delays caused by the lender or someone else involved in the loan process, you should try first to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement with the lender, if that effort fails, consider writing to the appropriate state or federal regulatory agency.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Some lender actions, such as offering lock-in terms which are impossible to fulfill, failing to process you loan diligently, or causing your lock-in to expire are improper and may even be illegal. In addition, because you may have contractual rights under your lock-in or loan commitemnt, you may want to consult with an attorney. Be aware, though, that complaints may not be resolved as quickly as may be necessary for a home purchase. Depending upon their authority under applicable state or federal law, regulatory agencies may either attempt to help you resolve your complaint directly or record your complaint and recommend other action.</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="stateagencies"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">State consumer protection officers, banking authorities, and offices of the attorney general can be contacted regarding complaints against many lenders doing business in the state. (Some states have enacted legislation to specifically address complaints about mortgage lock-ins.)</span></p>
<h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a name="federalagencies"></a></span></h3>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In addition, some lenders are directly supervised by federal regulatory agencies, as shown in the list that follows:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Mortgage Companies</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Division of Credit Practices<br />
Bureau of Consumer Protection<br />
Federal Trade Commission<br />
601 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.<br />
Washington, D.C. 20580<br />
(202) 326-3224</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Federally Insured Savings and Loan Institutions an Federally Chartered Savings Banks</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Office of Community Investment<br />
Federal Home Loan Bank Board<br />
1700 G Street, N.W.<br />
Washington, D.C. 20552<br />
(202) 377-6000</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">State Member Banks of the Federal Reserve System</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Division of Consumer and Community Affairs<br />
Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System<br />
20th and Constitution Avenue, N.W.<br />
Washington, D.C. 20551<br />
(202) 452-3946</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">National Banks</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Consumer Activities Division<br />
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency<br />
490 L&#8217;Enfant Plaza, S.W.<br />
Washington, D.C. 20219<br />
(202) 447-1600</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Federally Insured Non-Member State-Chartered Banks and Savings Banks</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Office of Consumer Programs<br />
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation<br />
550 Seventeenth Street, N.W.<br />
Washington, D.C. 20429<br />
(800) 424-5488<br />
(202) 898-3536</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Federal Credit Unions</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">National Credit Union Administration<br />
1776 G Street, N.W.<br />
Washington, D.C. 20456<br />
(202) 357-1065</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Federal Reserve Board and the Federal Home Loan Bank Board have prepared this information on mortgage lock-ins in response to a request from the House Committee on Banking, Finance and Urban Affairs and in consultation with many other agencies and trade and consumer groups. It is designed to help consumers understand an important aspect of home financing.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We believe a fully informed consumer is in the best position to make a sound financial choice. This page will provide useful basic information about obtaining the terms of credit you really want. It cannot provide all the answers you will need, but we believe it is a good starting point.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The information presented on this page was prepared in consultation with the following organizations:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">American Bankers Association</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Comptroller of the Currency</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Consumer Federation of America</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Credit Union National Association, Inc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Federal National Mortgage Corporation</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Federal National Mortgage Association</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Federal Reserve Board&#8217;s Consumer Advisory Council</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Federal Trade Commission</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Independent Bankers Association of America</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mortgage Bankers Association of America</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mortgage Insurance Companies of America</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">National Association of Federal Credit Unions</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">National Association of Home Builders</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">National Association of Realtors</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">National Council of Savings Institutions</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">National Credit Union Administration</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Office of Special Adviser to the President for Consumer Affairs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Society of Real Estate Appraisers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Consumer Bankers Association</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">U.S. League of Savings Institutions</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Veterans Administration</span></li>
</ul>
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