Marco Santarelli

DECEMBER 29, 2024

Generally, a down payment of 20% or more can help you avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), further saving you money in the long term. Loan Amount: The size of the mortgage and how it compares to the property's value can also impact your rate. Being thorough in your calculations can save you money in the long run.

Mortgages 52

Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Loans Closing costs 52

Realtor.com

MARCH 12, 2021

Consider how many months it would take for you to recoup the costs of closing on a refi, along with how long you’ll be staying at this home. If you can recoup closing costs within two years and plan to stay in your house for longer, the savings on interest means the math will likely work out in your favor.

Fixed-rate mortgage 87

Fixed-rate mortgage Mortgages Closing costs Equity 87

Marco Santarelli

FEBRUARY 26, 2025

Are you glued to your screen, constantly refreshing to find out today's mortgage rates ? As of February 26, 2025, we've seen a welcome dip in mortgage rates. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is currently sitting at 6.35%. Q: Do mortgage rates change depending on where I live?

Mortgages 93

Mortgages VA loan Debt-to-income ratio Fixed-rate mortgage 93

Realtor.com

NOVEMBER 28, 2022

People tend to think of annual percentage rate as the “true” amount they pay, because it includes all of the major upfront fees associated with the loan (e.g., closing costs , points , origination fees, and private mortgage insurance ). What determines my interest rate? PMI ranges from about 0.3%

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Closing costs Title search Fixed-rate mortgage Loans 122

Marco Santarelli

MARCH 20, 2025

30-Year Fixed: This remains a popular choice for many homebuyers due to its lower monthly payments , making homeownership more accessible. The Purchase Rate vs. Refinance Rate Dynamic: It's not uncommon for refinance rates to be slightly higher than purchase rates.

Mortgages 52

Mortgages Debt-to-income ratio Principal VA loan 52

Marco Santarelli

MARCH 3, 2025

Here are a few key elements: The Federal Reserve (The Fed): The Fed sets the federal funds rate, which is the interest rate at which banks lend money to each other overnight. While this isnt directly the mortgage rate, it influences it. Inflation: When inflation rises, mortgage rates tend to rise as well.

Mortgages 102

Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Debt-to-income ratio Pre-approval 102

Marco Santarelli

DECEMBER 22, 2024

Comparing Different Mortgage Products The mortgage market is diverse, ranging from fixed-rate loans to adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs). Heres a closer look at these options: Fixed-Rate Mortgages : These loans offer stable monthly payments and are often the go-to option for many homeowners.

Mortgages 52

Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Equity Loans 52

Marco Santarelli

APRIL 12, 2024

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has remained below 7% in 2024 , with expectations of a gradual decrease over the year, assuming the Federal Reserve implements anticipated interest rate cuts. However, it's important to consider closing costs and how long you plan to stay in your home before making this decision.

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Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Loans Closing costs 116

Realtor.com

DECEMBER 14, 2022

That’s why fixed-rate mortgages, the gold standard of home loans, have long been the most popular. These 15-, 20-, and 30-year mortgages aren’t exciting. And there are plenty out there: adjustable-rate mortgages, interest-only mortgages, 2-1 buydowns. So play them against one another.

Fixed-rate mortgage 102

Fixed-rate mortgage Mortgages Loans VA loan 102

Realtor.com

DECEMBER 14, 2022

That’s why fixed-rate mortgages, the gold standard of home loans, have long been the most popular. These 15-, 20-, and 30-year mortgages aren’t exciting. And there are plenty out there: adjustable-rate mortgages, interest-only mortgages, 2-1 buydowns. So play them against one another.

Fixed-rate mortgage 99

Fixed-rate mortgage Mortgages Loans VA loan 99

Realty Biz

SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

With the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at an all-time low, the pool of homeowners that could benefit from refinancing and lower their monthly mortgage repayment has increased dramatically, experts say. million, could benefit, according to data from mortgage software and analytics firm Black Knight.

Fixed-rate mortgage 74

Fixed-rate mortgage Mortgages Closing costs Banks 74

Marco Santarelli

JANUARY 5, 2025

For those looking to save on interest costs, this option may be appealing. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs) 5/1 ARM: This loan has a fixed rate for the first five years, after which the rate adjusts annually. When the Fed Increases Rates: Expect mortgage rates to rise, making borrowing more expensive.

Mortgages 52

Mortgages VA loan Loans Fixed-rate mortgage 52

Realty Biz

AUGUST 12, 2023

Here are some key terms and their definitions: Mortgage : A loan specifically used to purchase real estate. In a mortgage agreement, the buyer borrows money from the lender (usually a bank) and agrees to pay it back with interest over a specified period. Principal : The amount of money you borrowed to buy the home.

Purchase and sale agreement 97

Purchase and sale agreement Mortgages Pre-approval Title search 97

Realty Biz

JUNE 11, 2023

Higher interest rates mean higher monthly payments, whereas lower interest rates translate to lower monthly payments. Interest rates are determined by various economic indicators and policies, primarily by central banks. In the US, the Federal Reserve plays a significant role in setting the direction of rates.

Fixed-rate mortgage 81

Fixed-rate mortgage Closing costs Loans Principal 81

HomeLight

SEPTEMBER 30, 2020

A refinance is just another way of saying that you’re trading in your current mortgage loan for a new one. That said, if you want to refinance for a 15-year mortgage instead of a 30-year mortgage, or a custom length of time, many mortgage lenders can and will be flexible with your terms. Pay fees and closing costs.

Mortgages 98

Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Equity Loans 98

Marco Santarelli

MARCH 6, 2025

Decoding Mortgage Jargon: What Does It All Mean? Let's be real, the mortgage world is full of confusing terms. Let me break down some of the most important ones: Fixed-Rate Mortgage: The interest rate stays the same for the entire loan term. Shop Around: Don't settle for the first rate you're offered!

Mortgages 64

Mortgages Debt-to-income ratio Loans Principal 64

Marco Santarelli

MARCH 29, 2025

Think about it like this: if prices for everyday things like groceries and gas (thats inflation ) go up, it can affect interest rates, including mortgage rates. The Federal Reserve, the big bank in charge of keeping the economy stable, also plays a role. Just make sure you understand the risks involved if rates go up.

Mortgages 52

Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Loans Closing costs 52

Redfin

SEPTEMBER 4, 2024

From application fees to closing costs, this Redfin article will discuss everything you need to know to help make this financial decision. What does it mean to refinance a mortgage? What exactly does it mean to “refinance a mortgage”? As a general rule, refinancing closing costs are typically 2-6% of the loan’s value.

Mortgages 69

Mortgages Debt-to-income ratio Closing costs Principal 69

HomeLight

NOVEMBER 29, 2021

Plus, down payment and closing costs in New Jersey can set you back thousands of dollars. Many people can make their monthly house payments, but it can be difficult to come up with the money for a down payment and closing costs to buy a new home in the first place. Types of down payment assistance available in New Jersey.

Land 110

Land Closing costs Purchase and sale agreement Loans 110

HomeLight

SEPTEMBER 13, 2021

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve seen news reports touting record-breaking, rock-bottom mortgage interest rates. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of Saint Louis, the average 30-year mortgage interest rate plummeted by 33% from January 2018 to January 2021, from 3.95% to 2.65%.

Mortgages 104

Mortgages Equity Closing costs Loans 104

Realty Biz

JANUARY 6, 2024

mortgage lenders will offer Illinois homebuyers a maximum of $6,000 to assist in acquiring a new home through the IHDAccess Forgivable program. IHDAccess Forgivable aims to aid borrowers who qualify for a loan but may face challenges in covering down payment and closing costs due to factors such as student loans or other financial burdens.

Fixed-rate mortgage 64

Fixed-rate mortgage Closing costs Lending Banks 64

Redfin

DECEMBER 15, 2023

In 2020, interest rates took a sharp dive as the Federal Reserve sought to stave off economic collapse amid the pandemic. The resulting low rates sparked a surge in real estate transactions, with numerous homebuyers securing 30-year fixed-rate mortgages below 3%. What is a mortgage refinance?

Fixed-rate mortgage 69

Fixed-rate mortgage Mortgages Title search Equity 69

Point2Homes

NOVEMBER 8, 2020

As tempting as the current low rates are, it’s best to start off by asking yourself how refinancing your mortgage will benefit you. Are you trying to switch from an adjustable-rate to a fixed-rate mortgage? Perhaps you’re looking for a lower interest rate, or to turn your 30-year loan into a 15-year one.

Debt-to-income ratio 75

Debt-to-income ratio Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Closing costs 75

HomeLight

MARCH 22, 2022

Who doesn’t love the charm that popular Netflix shows (we’re looking at you, Outer Banks ) make us weep to call home? The first step is getting prequalified for a loan and making sure you meet the lender qualifications for a mortgage. What about closing costs? The bad news: Not all DPA programs will cover closing costs.

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Due diligence Closing costs Earnest money deposit Loans 105

Realty Biz

MARCH 30, 2023

Understand the Types of Mortgages, Interest Rates, and Fees Before you can get started, it's important to understand the different types of mortgages available and the associated interest rates. To get the best rate for your situation, be sure to look closely at each type of mortgage.

Mortgages 101

Mortgages Pre-approval Pre-qualification Due diligence 101

HomeLight

JUNE 22, 2023

If you’re going to buy a home, you’ll need enough savings for a down payment, closing costs, and financial experts advise that you should also have enough money left over in your savings accounts to cover at least three months of expenses in case of an emergency. Q: Should I get a fixed-rate or adjustable-rate mortgage?

Debt-to-income ratio 98

Debt-to-income ratio Mortgages FHA loan Loans 98

Redfin

SEPTEMBER 4, 2024

Follow these steps to compare your options effectively: Obtain multiple loan estimates: Get loan estimates from at least three to five different lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Each estimate should include the interest rate, APR, closing costs, and other fees.

Mortgages 69

Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Loans Closing costs 69

Norada Real Estate

JUNE 22, 2022

As a cash buyer, you can also save on closing costs. You don't need to pay a bank attorney for the mortgage. Financing turnkey rental properties with cash means you don't need to put real estate taxes in escrow upfront nor pay for a mortgage application and loan origination fees. Fixed-rate mortgages.

Finance 96

Finance FHA loan Investor Loans 96

Realtor.com

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

To help, we reached out to real estate professionals for tips on how retirees can find their golden years dream home, land a great mortgage, and still have plenty left in the bank for whatever surprises life delivers. You need to make sure the person you’re working with is aware of local transfer taxes and closing costs.”

Debt-to-income ratio 100

Debt-to-income ratio Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Lending 100

Realty Biz

APRIL 11, 2022

The basic process begins by asking questions like what type of mortgage is best for you? A 30-year fixed rate mortgage is the most common for first-time buyers. I think loan types like 30-year fixed and ARMs, along with discount points are basic places to start asking questions when interest rates are going up.

Mortgages 90

Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Loans FHA loan 90

HomeLight

AUGUST 31, 2021

You’ll want to be sure you’ve kept the home long enough to recoup your transaction costs — real estate agent fees, closing costs, and any repairs or maintenance done to the home to prepare for sale. Homeownership is a way to hedge against inflation by keeping housing costs static and predictable.

Closing costs 97

Closing costs Loans Equity Banks 97

Redfin

JULY 31, 2024

Key takeaways Shop around for the best mortgage lender : Compare offers from multiple lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders, to find the best rates and terms for your mortgage. Compare terms and interest rates to find the best fit for you. Did you know?

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Pre-approval Pre-qualification Mortgages Loans 71

HomeLight

JANUARY 27, 2021

Don’t forget to budget for closing costs. Closing costs are one-time costs that go along with your home purchase, and you pay them on — you guessed it — closing day. A lot of times people have no idea until they get the Loan Estimate that they have $15,000 to $20,000 worth of closing costs,” Ortman explains.

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Closing costs Inspection Loans Earnest money deposit 119

Redfin

JULY 16, 2024

Gather financial documents: Recent pay stubs Last two years of tax returns Bank statements Proof of assets (e.g., Step 3: Understand your loan options Fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs): Fixed-rate mortgages have a constant interest rate and monthly payments that never change.

Loans 69

Loans Pre-approval Earnest money deposit Mortgages 69

Redfin

SEPTEMBER 27, 2021

If your spouse, partner, or roommate is a party on the mortgage loan , their gross income and recurring debts also play a factor. Bank or department store credit card. Personal line of credit with a bank or other financial institution. To finalize the purchase and paperwork, you will pay additional closing costs.

Debt-to-income ratio 71

Debt-to-income ratio Closing costs Loans Title 71

Realty Biz

FEBRUARY 7, 2023

Some people will search for mortgage lenders near me if they want their bank to be nearby. Figure Out What Mortgage Program Works Best When you start looking for a mortgage , one of the first steps should be deciding what loan terms you want. For example, do you want a 30-year fixed or adjustable-rate mortgage?

Pre-approval 77

Pre-approval Mortgages Pre-qualification VA loan 77

HomeLight

AUGUST 31, 2021

That may be around the same or double what you’ll pay again in closing costs when you eventually get a mortgage on the house. You’re likely to run into appraisal problems , and no bank is going to sign off on a mortgage for more money than the house is actually worth.

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Purchase and sale agreement Due diligence Closing costs Mortgages 124