by Irene Moustakas | Aug 11, 2009 | Tips
Be wary of the property’s condition and the work that needs to be done. You may be a handy, do-it-yourself person, but lenders have specific rules about what constitutes a “livable” home. Even if you agree to buy the home “as-is”, the...
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 15, 2009 | Rates, Tips
When a mortgage professional quotes you an interest rate, you can decide to “lock” it in at the terms and fees quoted, or you can decide to wait and see how the market goes. Remember that if you do not lock in, that quoted rate and cost scenario cannot be...
by Irene Moustakas | Apr 21, 2009 | Industry News, Tips
We have 9 more days until appraisals have to be ordered through AMCs. The rule is that your application and disclosures must be signed and dated prior to May 1, 2009. If you do so, then we have control over who to order your appraisal from. If you sign and date your...
by Irene Moustakas | Apr 8, 2009 | Industry News, Tips
Lenders are accepting broker-ordered appraisals (i.e. from me) when any application is dated and submitted by the borrower before May 1st, 2009. If you date your application May 1st and after, then we have to go through Appraisal Management Companies (AMCs). The...
by Irene Moustakas | Apr 7, 2009 | Industry News, Loan Programs and Products, Tips
Lenders are slowly starting to roll out the Making Home Affordable program, which will allow some homeowners to refinance their mortgages up to 105% of their home’s value. The background of this program can be found here. First things first: You need to see if...