by Irene Moustakas | Mar 30, 2010 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News
For FHA loans assigned on or after April 5, 2010, the upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) is increasing from 1.75% to 2.25%. If you’re on the fence about refinancing into an FHA loan, or are currently still working on negotiations for a purchase, there...
by Irene Moustakas | Feb 16, 2010 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News
A 5% down payment conventional loan is available again! There are some heavy restrictions, so please read the following stipulations: Conforming loan ONLY (Maximum loan amount: $417,000) Purchase only (no refinances) Single-family home or detached PUDs only (no...
by Irene Moustakas | Feb 10, 2010 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Tips
If you were a first time homebuyer in 2009 and you fell within the IRS tax credit rules, you can claim that $8000 tax credit on your ‘09 returns. The IRS has very specific rules on how to claim the credit though, and you will want to make sure you do it right. Your...
by Irene Moustakas | Feb 1, 2010 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News
Down payment requirements on conventional loans are dependent on several factors: Loan Amount, Property Type, FICO score and qualifying ratio. The FICO score and qualifying ratio come into play primarily when you have less than 20% down and because we have to layer...
by Irene Moustakas | Jan 27, 2010 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News
Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured loans are a great way for people to get started in the housing market. It provides an alternative to conventional loans because it allows for little down (3.5%) and the minimum credit score requirements are more flexible....
by Irene Moustakas | Dec 16, 2009 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Tips
With the new Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC) law, I have no control over whom to order your appraisal from. Without this control comes the lack of a relationship with the appraiser to ask them to appraise your home in a timely manner. Your Realtor should know...