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Mortgage / Finance

Anybody that's hung around the ActiveRain “water cooler” for any length of time understands the value of the relationships built on the site. AR is so much more than a social networking site, however.


It's also the place to get up-to-the-minute information on topics that affect your clients. Ask yourself: what's the most confusing aspect of buying a home for the real estate consumer? The answer is most likely financing the purchase. Credit scores and how they affect the mortgage rate, types of loan products, points, fees – whew! -- there's a lot to know about mortgages.


To serve your clients effectively you need to know about this stuff and keep abreast of changes in the mortgage industry. Thankfully, ActiveRain is not only popular with real estate agents and brokers but with finance professionals as well.


Whether you're an agent trying to figure out what the Fed's latest move means to your clients or a mortgage pro who needs input on how to build relationships with real estate agents, ActiveRain is the place to tap into a wealth of knowledge.

Recent blogs on Mortgage / Finance
By Robin Gauthier, I have the Key to your NextHome
(NextHome Tidewater Realty)
The Assist: Don’t Miss These First-Time Homebuyer Grants and ProgramsCongratulations on deciding to step onto the homeownership court! As you gear up for this exciting journey, remember that finding the right loan is just as important as finding the perfect home. Luckily, there are plenty of grants and programs available at Southern Trust Mortgage to help you with down payments, closing costs, and other expenses associated with buying a home.  1.Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loans:Think of FHA loans as your MVP in the game of homeownership. With their low down payment requirements and flexible eligibility criteria, they make scoring your dream home easier with as little as a 3.5% down payment.  2.Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac HomeReady and Home Possible Programs:These programs are l...
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By Dan McElfresh, Your St. Louis real estate & lifestyle guide
(St. Louis Living powered by Narrative Real Estate)
Purchasing a home is a milestone that many of us dream of, but the journey to turning that key for the first time can be filled with uncertainty and stress. That's where Emily and the team at Flat Branch Home Loans shine, transforming the daunting into the doable, the complex into the clear.The Journey to Mortgage MasteryEmily's venture into the mortgage industry was sparked by her own home-buying experience. Understanding firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions and the avalanche of questions that come with purchasing a home, she embarked on a mission: to demystify the mortgage process for others. Emily is not just any loan officer; she's a guide, a supporter, and, most importantly, a listener who knows that at the heart of every mortgage is a dream waiting to be realized.A Personal Tou...
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By Dionne Bass, Blog: Ask The Underwriter
(Ask The Underwriter)
I grow and develop at my own pace. I give myself permission to exceed the progress of those around me. ​This is not always accepted, but it's essential for my personal growth and fulfillment.What or who is holding you back from your goals or progress? Happy Hump Day! 🐪 🐫Dionne BassMentor & Mortgage Underwriterwww.asktheunderwriter.net 
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
Great VA loan info here. Understanding VA Loan Entitlement can help in maximizing your benefits. Veterans and service members who qualify for a VA loan are entitled to certain benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Central to these benefits is the concept of VA loan entitlement, a vital aspect of securing a mortgage with favorable terms. However, navigating the intricacies of VA entitlement can be complex. In this article, we'll delve into the fundamentals of VA loan entitlement, including basic vs. bonus entitlement, and how they impact your down payment and maximum loan amount.   What is VA Loan Entitlement? VA loan entitlement represents the dollar amount that the Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees to repay to a lender in the event of default on a VA hom...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Informative post! Understanding VA loan entitlement is crucial for maximizing benefits for veterans and service members. This blog likely offers valuable insights into how VA loan entitlement works and how to make the most of it when buying a home. Thanks for shedding light on this important topic! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Understanding VA Loan Entitlement can help in maximizing your benefits. Veterans and service members who qualify for a VA loan are entitled to certain benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Central to these benefits is the concept of VA loan entitlement, a vital aspect of securing a mortgage with favorable terms. However, navigating the intricacies of VA entitlement can be complex. In this article, we'll delve into t...
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By Trish Cole
(Veterans United Home Loans of Puget Sound NMLS#1907)
Understanding VA Loan Entitlement can help in maximizing your benefits. Veterans and service members who qualify for a VA loan are entitled to certain benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Central to these benefits is the concept of VA loan entitlement, a vital aspect of securing a mortgage with favorable terms. However, navigating the intricacies of VA entitlement can be complex. In this article, we'll delve into the fundamentals of VA loan entitlement, including basic vs. bonus entitlement, and how they impact your down payment and maximum loan amount. What is VA Loan Entitlement?VA loan entitlement represents the dollar amount that the Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees to repay to a lender in the event of default on a VA home loan. Essentially, it serv...
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By Brian Madigan, LL.B., Broker
(RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage (Toronto))
Commercial Bond Yields CMB 5 Year - 3.94%CANHOU 06/15/29 [+0.10%]   ‌ 10 Year - 4.02%CANHOU  03/15/34 [+0.10%]         * denotes interpolated rate GoC 2 Year - 4.37% CAN 11/01/25 [+0.07%]   ‌ 3 Year - 3.99% CAN 09/01/26 [+0.08%]   ‌ 5 Year - 3.62% CAN 03/01/29 [+0.10%]   ‌ 10 Year - 3.55% CAN 12/01/33 [+0.11%] GOC Bonds are for reference purposes only Floating rate insured cost of funds 5.41% [-]                   Prime Rate 7.20% [-]
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By Linda Peltz, It's The Sold That Counts
(eXp Realty)
Waiting on a home purchase can be costly for buyers due to rising property prices and interest rates. Delaying a purchase can result in paying more for the same property or facing higher mortgage payments. Additionally, waiting may mean missing out on preferred homes or desirable locations.Limited inventory affects home buyers waiting to purchase because it reduces their options, leading to increased competition for available properties. This can result in bidding wars and higher prices, making it harder for buyers to find a suitable home within their budget.In recent conversation with Michelle Johnson from Hero Loan Team, we gained valuable insights into the repercussions of delaying this crucial decision. Michelle Johnson, a seasoned expert in home loans, shed light on the financial i...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Desktop Ooooh & Ahhhh-praisals Recently, I asked this question in the ActiveRain Q & A section regarding: Under what circumstances would you order a desktop appraisal for a buyer client? Never was the majority of answers! They do have a place in this new market, if only to prove a listed property is indeed way overpriced. A desktop appraisal can be advantageous to cash buyers looking in the market when price is a key component in making an informed decision. Here are three ways to limit the risk of paying too much for a property: 1. Since an appraiser doesn't need to visit the property, desktop appraisals cost less. Of course, the amount depends on the selling area. They can be as inexpensive as $150 - $300, compared to $600 or more for a traditional appraisal. 2. Saving time is another...
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By Dionne Bass, Blog: Ask The Underwriter
(Ask The Underwriter)
Bending beats breaking ― Betty GreeneOver the years I've learned that embracing change doesn't mean abandoning my goals; it means finding innovative ways to reach them. There are three things I do stay on the path:Stay focused - amidst the noise and distractions, I remain unwavering in pursuit of my goals.Stay determined - unfazed by negativity and competition, I recognize my unique value and persist with confidence.Flexibility - in an ever-evolving landscape, I prioritize continuous learning to adapt to changing technology and guidelines.These are daily practices I cultivate for myself and my mentees.Hopefully this helps someone push past whatever is challenging them today.  Dionne Bass - Mentor & Underwriterwww.asktheunderwriter.net 
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Equity Advisors
(Watermark Capital)
According to the World Health Organization, the entire populace is rapidly aging. All countries face major challenges to ensure that their health and social systems are ready to make the most of this demographic shift. In 2050, 80% of older people will be living in low- and middle-income countries. The pace of population aging is much faster than in the past. In 2020, the number of people aged 60 years and older outnumbered children younger than 5 years. Between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world's population over 60 years will nearly double from 12% to 22%. Overview People worldwide are living longer. Today most people can expect to live into their sixties and beyond. Every country in the world is experiencing growth in both the size and the proportion of older persons in the ...
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By Dionne Bass, Blog: Ask The Underwriter
(Ask The Underwriter)
Throughout the years, I've created strategies and habits to overcome various obstacles that arise.I've found that the more strategies I develop to address different issues, the smoother tasks like underwriting, training, marketing and mentoring become.❓What systems do you use to tackle the challenges of originating, processing, and marketing?❓Do they align with your needs, or are you struggling to keep up with someone else's system?#TuesdayTip: Create a daily routine that works well for both you and your family. Otherwise, you may end up consistently REACTING instead of being PROACTIVE.#asktheunderwriter, #nofileleftbehind, #mortgagetraining, #mortgagebrokers, #creditunions
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Equity Advisors
(Watermark Capital)
Rates are coming off their best week since the most recent CPI numbers came out a month ago. Jobs were weaker than expected and the unemployment rate came in 0.2% higher (at 3.9%) than expected. Remember, we are in a "celebrate the bad news" era so the Fed can "save" us sooner. Speaking of CPI (inflation on the consumer side), we get another report this Tuesday. The markets will be weighing it heavily as it comes before the March 20th Fed meeting. I expect this report to be better simply on the fact that the market expectations are more in line with the previous month's dataset. Last time, the expectations on inflation varied too much from the previous dataset and were hard to meet/beat. We were being set up for failure. Then, Thursday brings us the PPI (inflation on the producer side)....
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By Peter Tamura, BANNOCHIE TEAM
(Coldwell Banker Select)
On CoinMarketCap, it shows the global Crypto Market is up to 2.7 Trillion Dollars with the SEC approving 11 Bitcoin ETFs in early January. For context, the value of the amount of gold ever mined is a about 12 Trillion with about half in the form of jewellery and the other half in bars, coins and government reserves etc. (World Gold Council).It's a sign that people are noticing that the US is showing no signs of reining in spending and that the currency is getting debased at an accelerating rate. Other options for assets to invest in include the stock market and of course real estate.An interesting prospect is the ability for a layer 2 smart contracts to facilitate a real estate transaction. (Polygon, ImmutableX, Stacks, Arbitrum). The complexity of a real estate transaction could be a g...
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By Randy Tudor, EA, CTRC, Certified Tax Representation Consultant in Phoenix
(Tudor Financial Group, LLC)
For most small business owners, tax season can often feel like navigating through a maze of complex regulations and opportunities. Among the many decisions to be made, one stands out for its potential to significantly impact your tax obligations and operational flexibility: electing to have your Limited Liability Company (LLC) treated as an S Corporation (S-Corp). This election is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but under the right circumstances, it can offer substantial tax savings and operational benefits. Let's delve into when it might be advantageous to consider this election, the potential savings involved, and the management implications.Understanding the S-Corp Election for LLCsAn LLC is a popular choice for small business owners due to its flexibility in management and protect...
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Equity Advisors
(Watermark Capital)
If you're trying to decide whether to rent or buy a home this year, here's a powerful insight that could give you the clarity and confidence you need to make your decision. Every three years, the Federal Reserve releases the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF), which compares the net worth of homeowners and renters. The latest report shows the average homeowner’s net worth is almost 40X greater than a renter’s (see graph below):   One reason a wealth gap exists between renters and homeowners is because when you’re a homeowner, your equity grows as your home appreciates in value and you make your mortgage payment each month. When you own a home, your monthly mortgage payment acts like a form of forced savings, which eventually pays off when you decide to sell. As a renter, you’ll never se...
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By Dana Scanlon, Bethesda MD- Award-Winning Bethesda Realtor
(Keller Williams Capital Properties)
If the answer to that question is "yes," then please read on!Traditionally, diplomats -- those with A1 or A2 visas -- have has difficulty obtaining a mortgage to purchase a home in the United States because they are seen as a greater risk. The reasons: diplomatic immunity, lack of credit history in the US, uncertainty as to length of stay.As a specialist working with international clients, many of them French-speaking, and many of them diplomats, I could not take "no" for an answer after learning that many diplomats could not secure mortgage financing.  Over the years, I have developed relationships with lenders and investors in order to make home loans possible for my clients with A1 or A2 visas, diplomats who meet certain criteria. As a result, I have a proven track record of getting ...
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Equity Advisors
(Watermark Capital)
Markets were on edge last week as they awaited the numbers from the PCE report. This is the Fed's preferred inflation data. The CPI numbers that came in a week earlier were higher than expectations (albeit they did continue their downtrend and expectations were rather aggressive) so the markets were justifiably nervous.The PCE numbers came in exactly as expected. Remember, before the CPI report the market was betting on a 75% chance of a March Fed rate cut (I was never in this camp and expect the first one to come in the summer/closer to elections). The fact that the PCE numbers came in as expected gave the markets some hope of the Fed not delaying the rate cut too much further.In other news, New York Community Bank (NYCB) hit the news citing "material weaknesses" with their internal co...
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Equity Advisors
(Watermark Capital)
According to the Wall Street Journal, AARP, and others, 11,200 people a day turn 65. A higher-than-ever percentage still work. Networth has increased for those over 75. We are all living longer. Many divorces for those over 50 are not necessarily contentious. The kids are gone, people have just changed, and those over 65 aren't "winding down." They are still gearing up. In fairly amicable "silver divorces," both parties want homes and aren't motivated by destroying the other financially. When working on the dissolution of assets, including home equity, there is frequently a place for a reverse mortgage strategy that enables both parties to achieve homeownership without the burden of mortgage payments. One can stay, or one can go and buy, without having to qualify for a standard cashout ...
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By Robin Gauthier, I have the Key to your NextHome
(NextHome Tidewater Realty)
Slam Dunk into a New HomeLooking for your dream home? It's time to lace up your sneakers and get ready to slam dunk into homeownership! Just like in basketball, securing the perfect mortgage requires strategy, skill, and a winning mindset. Let's dive into the playbook and discover how you can score big in the mortgage game.  1. Master Your Dribble: Understand Your FinancesBefore stepping onto the court of homeownership, it's crucial to assess your financial readiness. Determine your budget, including how much you can afford for a down payment, monthly mortgage payments, closing costs, and ongoing expenses such as property taxes and insurance. Consider factors like your income, savings, debts, and credit score to get a clear picture of your financial health. 2. Play Defense: Get Pre-Appr...
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