Understanding Interest Only Mortgages

There are only two things people should keep in mind before taking on an interest-only mortgage. The name interest-only mortgage is misleading. If truth be told, there is no such thing as an interest-only mortgage. In an interest-only mortgage, you will still have to pay for the loan principal. When you get an interest-only mortgage, what you’re really getting is an interest-only payment method which you can combine with other traditional mortgage types.

The other thing you need to keep in mind is that the stated benefits of interest-only mortgages are exaggerated. In a standard mortgage, 95% if each dollar paid to the lender goes to the loan interest. Thus on a $100,000 standard loan with 6% interest, the total payment would be $600 with the $500 going to interest and the other $100 for equity.

A Brief History of Interest-Only Mortgages

Interest-only mortgages are not relatively new concepts. The idea behind interest-only mortgages was spawned from the more flexible and more inventive jumbo mortgage markets. Because of this, interest-only mortgages are traditionally a loan type preferred by savvy investors and well-heeled clients who want to use the principal portion of their payment on other more productive investments.

Because interest-only mortgages are jumbo loans, the difference in monthly payment grows with the larger loan amount. For example, in a $100,000 interest-only mortgage loan, the per month difference is $100. If the loan is worth $1,000,000, then the difference per month grows to $1,000, a substantial amount that can be put to better use. The savvy investor can make it so that his investment using the money he gets from the per month difference growth of an interest-only mortgage can increase within a short period, thus leveraging incomes to build assets.

This is partly the reason why interest-only mortgages are still preferred by big-time investors. However, it is only natural to assume that there are some considerable risks associated with an interest-only mortgage, especially when it comes to stocks.

Interest-only mortgages have payment periods based on adjustable rate mortgages. This however is not always the case. Interest-only mortgage payment schedules are also offered in fixed rate mortgages as well. Interest-only mortgages have also gone mainstream so virtually anyone can borrow money with this type of loan.

Temporary Payment Periods

The payment periods for interest-only mortgages almost never run for the entire term of the loan. Even with a fixed rate mortgage, interest-only mortgages are still bound to be only temporary. And InterstFirst product only lets interest-only mortgage payments for half of the total term.

The expiration schedule of an interest-only mortgage payment is usually at the end of a set period. This makes interest-only mortgages compatible to “amalgam” adjustable rate mortgages. When the interest-only mortgage payment comes to an end your payment will then rise to include principal and interest.

The great thing about interest-only mortgages

Interest-only mortgage payments also have their advantages. Borrowers can find that there are various practical benefits that an interest-only mortgage can offer. First is that, interest-only mortgages can help you in accumulating assets. Because interest-only mortgages do not demand so much during its initial years, you can use the payment differential in a cash investment. The “spare” cash provided by interest-only mortgages may also be used for college money, retirement money, and even as a seasonal income factor.

Of course, you are the only person who can really tell if the mortgage option is right for you or not. However, awareness of the issues that surround those choices is a good way to make a more informed decision.

Understanding Mortgage Refinance Loan

Refinancing a mortgage is in some ways similar to getting your first mortgage, with a few important differences. Since you already own the home, you don’t have to go through a pre-approvals process or find a realtor and a home to buy. Unfortunately, you’ll still have a lot of paperwork to do, but savings thousands of dollars over the life of the loan is worth it.

There are very specific steps you should take to have a successful mortgage refinance

Step 1: Determine if Refinancing is Right for You

There are tools like mortgage calculators to determine whether a mortgage refinance loan will save you money. Factor in your current interest rate, future interest rate if you have an adjustable loan, and closing costs. If you want to take cash out, include that amount in your new mortgage balance for the calculations.

Remember, refinancing creates a new loan, usually with a full loan term. If possible, you can make extra payments to finish the loan at the same time as your original loan, and that will save you more money than the calculator predicts. For the calculation, assume you’ll only be able to pay the amount due.

Step 2: Check Your Credit Reports and Scores

Even if you already own a home, your lender will still use your credit scores and credit reports to determine which rate you qualify for. Order scores and reports for each spouse if both of you will be on the mortgage. You want to get best rate possible. Ideally your scores should be above 720 to get the absolute best rate, but 680-700 will get you a good rate. You can still refinance if your scores are low, but it might cost you more, especially if your scores were high when you got the first mortgage. Carefully review your credit reports for errors. 80% of all reports have errors. Common errors include listing accounts that don’t belong to you, late payments that weren’t really late, and items that were supposed to be removed. Follow the instructions at each credit agency to correct the errors.

Next, do what you can to fix black marks like recent defaulted loans, recent collections, and high credit card balances. You may have to spend a little more money to accomplish this, but it’s worth it if it saves interest on your mortgage, which will ultimately cost you more over 30 years.

Step 3: Research Rates, Fees, and Lenders

Before you contact any lenders, research current interest rates and fees for the type of loan you’re interested in. Comparison shop to see which banks is offering the best rates. Note the terms, closing costs, and whether or not the rates are fixed or adjustable.

In addition to rates and fees, check reviews of the lender online and at the Better Business Bureau. If the lender has a history of making late property tax or insurance payments or providing poor customer service, find a different lender.

Step 4: Contact Your Current Mortgage Servicer

Your current lender wants to keep you as a customer. If they still own the loan, they may be able to modify your current loan to a lower rate with just a little paperwork and a low fee. Unfortunately, most lenders sell their loans to larger mortgage servicers, so it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to take advantage of this. If you want to pull cash out, refinancing is the only option.

If you can’t modify your loan, your lender or mortgage servicer may offer a streamlined refinance. You’ll get a new loan at a better rate, but with fewer fees and a little less paperwork. It may also take less time to close. Of course, you may not want to accept their offer if the rate is higher than what you found at other lenders. Consider the closing costs when deciding which mortgage refinance loan will save you more money. Using your current lender could save on closing costs, but a higher rate could cancel out the savings. If you found a better rate elsewhere, ask your current lender to match it. If they want to keep you, they might do it.

Step 5: Contact Other Lenders

If your current lender can’t get you the best refinance rate, contact other lenders about refinancing with them. Your goal is to find the best rates with the lowest fees and closing costs (without adding those fees to your loan balance). Some lenders now offer refinance loans with 25 and 20-year terms so your new loan will end at the same time as your original loan. If it will save you money and you can afford the payments, consider the offer.

Refinancing to a lower rate can save you a lot of money over the life of the loan. A mortgage refinance loan can also help you get much-needed cash to remodel your home or pay down credit card debt. It’s not hassle-free, but saving money is worth the effort.

For more articles on mortgage refinance visit http://www.bills.com/mortgage-refinance-loan/

Understanding Sub Prime Mortgages

A sub-prime mortgage is a mortgage that is extended to people who are not qualified to get the normal mortgage. Most of these mortgages are offered by the same companies that offer the mainstream mortgage but in a different lending institution. The rates for sub-prime mortgages are higher than the rates for prime mortgages thus; it is advisable to get a prime mortgage if possible. The main reason that makes one fail the qualification of prime mortgages is the credit rating where one gets a low credit score and they are rejected by the prime mortgage lender based on the assumption that the person is not able to service the prime mortgage.

The terms that are given for sub-prime mortgages include a small down payment and higher payment due to the higher interest rates and a longer payment period. The rates of sub-prime mortgages are raised to cover the risk that come with offering mortgages to people with low credit scores. There are chances that they might pay late or they might fail to pay if they do not have enough money to service the installment. The high mortgage rates are also meant to discourage borrowing of the sub-prime mortgage and this idea works since a majority of people accumulate their savings and get the prime mortgages.

The advantage of these mortgages is that they allow those people who have low credit ratings get the services that are usually accessed only by the people with high credit ratings. An additional advantage is that they have a longer repayment period and thus they are well suited for customers who would like to extend their repayment period. The disadvantage of these types of mortgages is that some of the people who qualify for mortgages are referred for sub-prime mortgages when their credit rating is low. The lending company determines one’s credit rating and whether one should be issued with a prime or sub-prime mortgage. This thus, leads to people who would otherwise have qualified for a prime mortgage being relegated into the sub-prime mortgage area. Additionally, this thus makes a person get one of these mortgages when mortgage lenders solicit them. They do not get a chance to consult prime mortgage lenders. Therefore, once these sub-prime lenders get solicitation commissions, they then carry out a process called ’steering’.

The houses for which sub-prime mortgages are offered are not in good condition as those that qualify for prime mortgages. This arises from the assumption that when one has poor credit rating, they are not well up and thus they do not need a very expensive house. Sub-prime mortgage also face competition from prime mortgage lenders since the mortgage lenders offer lower interest rates. These lenders also offer customized mortgage programs. Most people who fall in the middle class or are associated with this financial status subscribe to sub-prime mortgage since when they apply for these mortgages they qualify. Most citizens cower from the mainstream mortgage, which they assume is for the wealthy. For this reason, people are advised to consult with the relevant people prior to taking up a sub-prime mortgage.

Understanding Reverse Mortgages

Seniors today often live with a great deal of financial uncertainty. The retirement they imagined may not be consistent with the reality they face.

Incomes are flat or declining, living and medical expenses are higher than ever and few income boosting alternatives exist.  Even those who have heard about Reverse Mortgages may be unsure about how they work or what questions to ask. As they search for information, they often turn to their financial institution for guidance and information. By becoming familiar with the product, you can be an even more valuable resource to your clients providing them with income supplementing alternatives to drawing down assets.  

What is a Reverse Mortgage?

A Reverse Mortgage is a special type of loan that allows a homeowner to convert a portion of the equity in their home into cash they can access. The funds are not taxable to the homeowner and typically don’t interfere with eligibility for Social Security or Medicare benefits. (However, in the federal Supplemental Security Income program, beneficiaries must keep their liquid resources under certain limits.) The customer retains title to the home as well as right to any appreciation in home value when the loan terminates after it is paid off. The loan remains in force until the last titleholder dies, permanently leaves the home or sells the property; the borrower can’t be forced to sell or move by the lender. The loan may be repaid at any time. But unlike a traditional home equity loan or second mortgage, no monthly payments are required. Instead of putting further pressure on an already stretched budget, a Reverse Mortgage can free a senior homeowner of monthly debt obligations.

Most Reverse Mortgages today are Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs) and are FHA-insured and guaranteed. Because HECMs are subject to FHA lending limits, proprietary products have also been developed to help homeowners with properties in excess of the FHA lending limits.  

Who qualifies for a Reverse Mortgage?

All titleholders must be 62 or older and own a home with some equity. There are no income or credit qualifications. Existing mortgages or liens must be paid off, but are often paid with proceeds from the Reverse. The homeowner must also remain current on insurance and property taxes, but these can also be paid with proceeds from the Reverse.

How can a borrower use the money?

The funds can be used for any purpose from making ends meet to living retirement dreams.  The top reasons for funds used given typically by borrowers are:

Paying off debts, primarily mortgage and credit cards

Home repairs and remodeling

Living expenses

Travel

Health care or long-term care

Easing the financial burden on children

Education

Hobbies

Escalating property taxes

The amount available depends on the borrower’s age, the value of the home, interest rates and local FHA lending limits. Older borrowers can receive a higher percentage of their equity than younger borrowers. Funds can be received in a lump sum, a monthly payment or a line of credit.

What are the costs?

As with most any loan product, there are origination fees and closing costs, but they can be paid from the proceeds of the Reverse Mortgage. HECM loans also have a charge for the FHA’s Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP). There are usually no out-of-pocket costs to the borrower.

What consumer protections are in place?

Reverse Mortgages are non-recourse consumer loans – the loan payoff can never exceed the value of the home. To get a Reverse Mortgage, the customer must attend a mandatory counseling session and review their financial situation with a trained, professional Reverse Mortgage counselor. Many of the counselors are certified by the AARP. The counselor ensures that they understand the transaction, the costs and their other alternatives.

If you have questions regarding Reverse Mortgages or how they may provide life-changing benefits to your clients, contact MLS Reverse Mortgage at 1-888-888-4834 or www.mlsreversemortgage.com.

Fixed Rate Reverse Mortgage

MLS Reverse Mortgage

Understanding Jumbo Mortgages

A jumbo mortgages is a home loan that exceeds the limits set by Fannie

Mae and Freddie Mac.

How are jumbo loans different?

What differentiates jumbo mortgage loans is the loan amount. At present, loan amounts that are higher than $417,000 are usually deemed jumbo mortgages. This determination is made by comparing industry standards for average housing loans as governed by the two biggest secondary mortgage lenders, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac set industry standards for ‘conforming loans’; Home loans beyond those maximums are regarded as jumbo mortgages. These two agencies cap the dollar figure for loans that they will buy (that’s where the $417,000 figure comes from). Larger loan amounts are funded by other investors such as banks and insurance companies. Note that the dollar figure set to qualify jumbo mortgages differs by locale, so the limit is higher in Hawaii and Alaska (and in some other states). In the majority of the U.S., jumbo mortgages are those larger than $417K.

Available Terms – 15 Year Fixed, 30 Year Fixed, or Variable 30 Year

Jumbo Mortgage

The terms for jumbo mortgages vary similarly to other types of housing loans. Buyers can choose between variable rates, like 3/1 or 5/1 ARMs, for a 15-30 year jumbo mortgage, or a 15 or 30 year fixed jumbo mortgagerate.

Whether a 15 or 30 year fixed jumbo mortgage or an adjustable rate is best for you will depend on your plans and situation.

A 30 year fixed jumbo mortgage is better for those whole plan to own the home for a very long time. With this type of mortgage, the rate will not go up but it will never go down, either – it stays the same for the life of the loan. This is good because the payment is predictable, and cannot rise sharply if interest rates do. On the downside, the 30 year fixed jumbo mortgage rate is higher since lenders know they can never charge more than the original rate.

The lowest jumbo mortgage rate is usually an adjustable 30 year jumbo mortgage rate. Lenders understand their potential to benefit from increases in rates over time, so they are willing to lend at a lower rate in the beginning. Although, the lower rate won’t last. A variable 30 year jumbo mortgage rate will be fixed for 3 to 5 years, and then will adjust annually according to an index. Even small increases could mean significantly larger monthly mortgage payments.

Going with an adjustable 30 year jumbo mortgage rate works well when a buyer plans to move within the 3 to 5 year fixed period. For a buyer more concerned with smaller initial payments, or who will likely refinance in the near future, the variable 30 year jumbo mortgage rate is better than the 30 year fixed jumbo mortgage. Why pay the higher fixed rate when the buyer knows this isn’t their long-term plan?

All jumbo mortgage products – 15 year, variable 30 year, or the 30 year fixed jumbo mortgage – have their benefits. A trustworthy mortgage lender with experience financing jumbo mortgages is a buyer’s best resource for determining which product is right for them.