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...
by Irene Moustakas | Jun 18, 2009 | Industry News
I am very much a “roll with the punches” kind of person. Things change, new laws are implemented, new disclosures are required… it’s okay, I get it and I roll with it, explaining the “what” and the “why” without being bothered and understanding the reasoning behind...
by Irene Moustakas | Jun 1, 2009 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News, Tips
I have to first preface this post by stating that I am not a tax advisor and cannot guarantee any of the following information. But I can let you know some of the requirements and stipulations for qualifying for the First Time Homebuyer tax credit. First time...
by Irene Moustakas | May 20, 2009 | Industry News, Loan Programs and Products
Up to $417,000: Conforming Loan Limit (the best interest rates and most “common-sense” underwriting). $417,000-$729,750: High-Balance Conforming loans (this reverted back to a $729,750 loan limit, but it is temporary. It will go back to $625,500 at some...