by Irene Moustakas | Nov 20, 2009 | Industry News, Loan Programs and Products, Rates, Tips
I saw some unbelievable interest rates this week and they’re still going strong. My experience is that they don’t last long, so if you can, I definitely recommend taking advantage. And remember, if you can’t refinance traditionally because you have...
by Irene Moustakas | Nov 9, 2009 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News
The $8000 federal tax credit has been extended and expanded! The credit, which was supposed to expire 12/1/09, has now been extended to 4/30/10. In addition, there will be a 60-day extension if you go into binding and official contract prior to April 30th. In addition...
by Irene Moustakas | Nov 3, 2009 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News, Loan Programs and Products
Congress voted and approved a one-year extension on the temporary FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits. The loan limits vary by county, but are established by taking 125% of the county’s median home price and determining that as the upper limit, with $729,750...
by Irene Moustakas | Sep 20, 2009 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News
Right now, this is a rumor, but when I hear rumors like this, I’m pretty sure it will happen: Effective 10.2.09, you will be required to put 15% down on a condo for a conventional loan. FHA loans still allow for the minimum of 3.5% down, but there are stringent...
by Irene Moustakas | Sep 10, 2009 | Industry News, Rates, Tips
Interest rates have steadily improved in the past week and a half. I haven’t seen a good run like this in quite a while and definitely not in 2009. Usually, we have had wild fluctuations. I have a lot of clients that had a target rate and cost in mind and we...
by Irene Moustakas | Jun 22, 2009 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News
In March, Mortgage Insurance (MI) companies for conventional loans cut their max Debt-to-Income ratio from 55% down to 41% max. I blogged about it here. Now, the new and more strict requirement, which is going into effect next week, is an increase in minimum credit...