by Irene Moustakas | Mar 24, 2010 | Loan Programs and Products, Rates, Tips
I just got a phone call yesterday from a 45 year old single mom of three. She heard that rates have gone down and she was excited about potentially refinancing. She has had her current loan (a 15 Year Fixed) since 2003. In 7 more years, her mortgage will be...
by Irene Moustakas | Mar 11, 2010 | Industry News, Loan Programs and Products
Surprisingly, Interest-Only (I/O) loans are back. They carry higher interest rates than fully-amortized (principle & interest) loans, but recently, they have become quite competitive. I’m surprised that they’re available because these loans are a big reason why...
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 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 | Jul 24, 2009 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Loan Programs and Products
A conventional loan is any standard, traditional loan that is not backed by the government. In contrast, an FHA loan is government-insured, meaning that the government will guarantee it. Because the government guarantees to the lender that your loan (your payments)...
by Irene Moustakas | Jun 10, 2009 | Loan Programs and Products
With a few exceptions, the rules for buying a vacation home mimic many of the rules for buying a primary home (at least in conforming loan amount limits). Interest rates are the same (you don’t get “hit” in rate for buying a 2nd home) Must have a 720...