Just Home Mortgages » Mortgage Rates

Bail yourself out – here’s how

webmaster — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 23:18:03 +0000

Seems like everyone has a bailout plan but you? Create your own in these six money areas.

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Walking away from mortgage is costly

webmaster — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 23:18:03 +0000

Abandoning a mortgage simply to get a fresh financial start may hurt your credit and trigger taxes.

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Get help appealing home tax assessment

webmaster — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 23:18:03 +0000

Think your home’s assessed value is too high? A third party can handle the grievance process for you.

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Mortgage rates drop to lowest since the ’50s

webmaster — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 23:18:03 +0000

The benchmark 30-year rate mortgage fell to 5.19 percent, according to Bankrate’s weekly survey.

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4 steps to refinance

webmaster — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 23:18:04 +0000

Mortgages are nearing record low rates. See if you can refinance your mortgage.

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Bank’s mortgage numbers look funny

webmaster — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 23:18:04 +0000

An online mortgage calculator shows a homeowner’s loan balance may be lower than the lender claims.

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Good time for going green

webmaster — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 23:18:04 +0000

The stimulus package offers incentives for going green on homes, and many states and cities do too.

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Homeowner frets over interest-only loan

webmaster — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 23:18:06 +0000

Stimulus package provisions are unlikely to help a homeowner with an interest-only loan.

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Mortgage rates fall; borrowers wait

webmaster — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 23:18:04 +0000

The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate loan fell to 5.37 percent, according to Bankrate’s weekly survey.

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Are you eligible for mortgage help?

webmaster — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 23:18:03 +0000

A Q&A clarifies the details surrounding the federal government’s new Making Home Affordable Plan.

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Land easement not easy to get

webmaster — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 23:18:04 +0000

A neighbor may not want the intrusion of an easement but might change his mind for the right price.

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Foreclosures, delinquencies keep rising

webmaster — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 23:18:04 +0000

The housing situation continued to deteriorate in 2008, according to a bankers’ survey.

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Details of mortgage modification plan set

webmaster — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:18:04 +0000

Who wins and who loses under Obama’s Making Home Affordable program?

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Mortgage rates remain unchanged

webmaster — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:18:04 +0000

A lousy week on Wall Street didn’t have much effect on mortgage rates.

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PMI not part of FHA mortgage loans

webmaster — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:18:04 +0000

FHA loans carry a government guarantee that requires a borrower to pay a mortgage insurance premium.

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Second mortgagee at risk in foreclosure

webmaster — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:18:03 +0000

Second mortgage holders can lose money by triggering a foreclosure when a homeowner is delinquent.

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Sell home, keep mineral rights

webmaster — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:18:04 +0000

You can sell a house without handing over lucrative oil and gas rights, but it might kill the deal.

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Mortgage prepayment math is complicated

webmaster — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:18:03 +0000

Mortgage prepayment math gets complicated because additional principal alters the payment mix.

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Mortgage rates hold below 5.5 percent

webmaster — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:18:03 +0000

For the third week in a row, the average rate on a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage is under 5.5 percent.

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Mortgage bankers respond to Obama plan

webmaster — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

While the Mortgage Bankers Association agrees with the housing plan, they’ve also got suggestions.

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Selling your home in a crowded market

webmaster — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

Here are seven ways to boost the odds of selling a home amid multiple “for sale” signs on your block.

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4 ways stimulus helps homeowner, buyer

webmaster — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

The stimulus package offers four key financial breaks for new homebuyers and current homeowners.

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Fences, not trees, make good neighbors

webmaster — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

You might want to chop down a boundary-line tree, but you may find yourself in court if you do.

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Work history key to refinance approval

webmaster — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

Lenders scrutinize work history before deciding whether to approve applications for new loans.

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Vultures may taint condo deals

webmaster — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

Investors who buy condos in bulk often compromise the value of the property, hurting other owners in the process.

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What the Obama housing plan will, won’t do

webmaster — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

The $75 billion plan to fight foreclosures is expected to aid nearly 9 million families. Who qualifies for the assistance?

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Rates flat in anticipation of housing plan

webmaster — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage remained at 5.34 percent, according to Bankrate’s weekly survey.

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Refinance may be worth paying penalty

webmaster — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

In some cases, it makes sense to refinance even if you have to pay a mortgage prepayment penalty.

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Bankrupt builder burns buyers

webmaster — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

When a builder files for bankruptcy, it’s only the beginning of bad news for buyers.

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Coping with mortgage rejection

webmaster — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

Your mortgage application has been rejected. Fear not: Here are some tips to deal with it.

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Mortgage rates fall in uncertain time

webmaster — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

Mortgage rates fell this week as investors wondered what the Obama administration will do to fix the broken banking system.

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Video: When to lock in a mortgage rate

webmaster — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

With mortgage rates moving up and down quickly, it pays to lock in a rate. Here’s how to do it.

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Rent-to-own can work

webmaster — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

Agents aren’t fond of lease-purchase deals, but they can work if they protect the buyer and seller.

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What to know before you refinance

webmaster — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

Ready to refi? Crunch these numbers before applying for and choosing your new mortgage.

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Mortgage rates remain below 6 percent

webmaster — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

The benchmark 30-year fixed rate rose this week to 5.70 percent.

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Video: Short sale, long profit?

webmaster — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

A short-sale saves both homeowner and lender the expense of foreclosure.

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FHA changes may confuse some lenders

webmaster — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

FHA rules changes may confuse lenders, causing them to give dated information to mortgage shoppers.

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Refinancing may not wipe out PMI

webmaster — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

Refinancing will not be enough to help a homeowner eliminate her private mortgage insurance payments.

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Builders not returning deposit

webmaster — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:18:04 +0000

With flat sales, builders are keeping deposits, even as lenders back off of pre-approved loans.

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Weigh taxes before prepaying mortgage

webmaster — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

Knowing the after-tax return on your investments helps determine whether it makes sense to prepay the mortgage.

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Rates: Your best bets

webmaster — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

When the Fed meets, there’s always fallout. What will happen with rates for mortgages, home equity, CDs, auto loans and credit cards?

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Mortgage rates fall below 5.5 percent

webmaster — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

Although mortgage rates are low, home inventory levels remain high. How come?

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Video: Questions to ask before refinancing

webmaster — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:18:03 +0000

With mortgage rates near record low, is it time to refinance? Find out if it will benefit you.

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When to refinance your mortgage

webmaster — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:18:02 +0000

As mortgage rates plunge, it becomes more tempting to refinance. Find out if such a move makes sense for you.

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What will the Fed do today?

webmaster — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 00:18:03 +0000

With the federal funds rate at zero, Fed watchers are wondering what will come out of today’s meeting.

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Appraisals taking a double hit

webmaster — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:18:04 +0000

New, devalued homes and foreclosures are a double whammy on owners hoping to refinance.

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Solving refinance challenges

webmaster — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 21:15:04 +0000

Want to refinance? Here are tips to help you overcome negative equity, inadequate income or poor credit.

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Inflation fears send mortgage rates up

webmaster — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 21:15:04 +0000

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to 5.59 percent in Bankrate’s weekly survey.

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Foreclosures high on Obama priority list

webmaster — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 21:15:09 +0000

Foreclosure prevention will stand near the top of Barack Obama’s domestic priorities when he assumes the presidency.

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Second mortgage may derail refinance

webmaster — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 21:15:09 +0000

A lender’s refusal to subordinate a second mortgage may dash a homeowner’s dreams of refinancing.

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What do builder warranties cover?

webmaster — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 21:15:04 +0000

For homebuyers, there’s much to be wary of these days in the world of new-home warranties, says the Real Estate Adviser.

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Cash-out refinancing rate often higher

webmaster — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 21:15:04 +0000

A cash-out refinancing typically carries a slightly higher interest rate than a straight refinancing.

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Home bargains on the auction block

webmaster — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 21:15:04 +0000

They’re still a tiny slice of sales, but homes sold at auction are increasing. Here’s what to know before bidding.

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30-year fixed mortgage rate ties record low

webmaster — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 21:15:04 +0000

The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell 5 basis points, to 5.28 percent, according to the Bankrate.com national survey of large lenders.

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The best moves in mortgages in 2009

webmaster — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:15:04 +0000

2008 was the year of foreclosures. 2009 will be the year of refinances and mortgage modifications.

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Find the home loan limit for your county

webmaster — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 21:15:03 +0000

This map will help you determine what the FHA loan limit is for a single-family home in your county as of Jan. 1, 2009.

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Mortgage rates drop way down

webmaster — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 21:15:03 +0000

The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell 20 basis points, to 5.64 percent, according to the Bankrate.com national survey of large lenders.

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How can I avoid a refinancing rip-off?

webmaster — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 21:15:03 +0000

Dr. Don Taylor says getting your ducks in a row can help protect you from a refinancing rip-off.

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Is now the time to buy real estate?

webmaster — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

If you’ve finally found your dream home, don’t wait to buy, says the Real Estate Adviser.

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Use cash for refinance or debt payment?

webmaster — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Should you apply extra cash to a refinancing, or use it to pay down debt? Dr. Don Taylor has the answer.

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Mortgage refis surge

webmaster — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Mortgage rates went up this week from near-record lows, as brokers scrambled to keep up with applications.

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Reverse mortgage not always best choice

webmaster — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

Many questions need to be answered before an elderly family member signs up for a reverse mortgage.

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Buying land in a ‘dead zone’

webmaster — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

Former landowner had an obligation to disclose the location of cemetery plots when he sold the land, says the Real Estate Adviser.

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Does it pay to play by the rules?

webmaster — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Everywhere you look, someone is being rewarded for bad behavior. Does it still pay to play by the rules?

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Should I refinance interest-only loan?

webmaster — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Should you refinance an interest-only loan? Dr. Don Taylor says finding the answer may be tricky.

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Home sellers toss in closing costs

webmaster — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

In today’s tough housing market, it takes more than just curb appeal to bring buyers to the table. You need cash.

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Benchmark rate drops to four-year low

webmaster — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell 38 basis points, to 5.42 percent, in Bankrate’s weekly survey.

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Can I refinance below 5 percent?

webmaster — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

As refinancing activity soars, Dr. Don Taylor answers the question: Will mortgage rates dip below 5 percent?

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Loan document explains LIBOR rate rules

webmaster — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

A lender cannot pick and choose an advantageous date to change the LIBOR rate on a mortgage loan.

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Condo versus co-op

webmaster — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

There are pros and cons to buying a condo or a co-op in the present real estate market, says the Real Estate Adviser.

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Borrowers look for mortgage modification

webmaster — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Homeowners who can’t pay their mortgage can get a better deal from the lender. But it’s a complex process.

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Mortgage modification help

webmaster — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Need mortgage modification? Bankrate has assembled the information to help you work with your lender.

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Mortgage modification: Chase, WaMu, EMC

webmaster — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Here are the details for obtaining mortgage modification from Chase, WaMu, EMC.

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Mortgage modification: CitiMortgage

webmaster — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Here are the details for obtaining mortgage modification from CitiMortgage.

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Section 203(k) can finance home fix-up

webmaster — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

Section 203(k) financing from the FHA gives homeowners funds to repair or modernize their property.

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Comparing conventional, VA and FHA loans

webmaster — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

Learn about the pros and cons of conventional and government-backed loans before you shop for mortgages.

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Biweekly payments: Do it yourself and save

webmaster — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

There’s little need to pay for the heavily marketed mortgage plans when it’s so easy to set one up yourself.

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Mobile home lending standards

webmaster — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

Mobile homes built before 1976 aren’t considered safe, so mortgage lenders won’t come to the table, says the Real Estate Adviser.

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Answers to 6 key refinance questions

webmaster — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Dr. Don Taylor answers 6 key frequently asked question about the mortgage refinancing process.

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Know-your-mortgage work sheet

webmaster — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Can’t keep terms, conditions on your ARM straight? Use this work sheet to pull the key information together.

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Try DIY method of paying down mortgage

webmaster — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

For many borrowers, a do-it-yourself approach to prepaying the mortgage should work as well using software.

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Death by a thousand price cuts

webmaster — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

With depressed home values and slow sales, now is not the time for homeowners to test the market with high prices.

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Debt-to-income ratios

webmaster — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

How much house can you afford? Check out the debt-to-income ratio, a fuzzy concept worth fully grasping.

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Understanding your mortgage payment

webmaster — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Myriad outside factors influence your mortgage payment. This is what you need to know to reduce yours.

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Introduction to mortgages

webmaster — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 21:15:03 +0000

This is the first day of the rest of your life. Take a peek into the world of post-buy money managing.

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Buying bank-owned property

webmaster — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:15:04 +0000

There can be obstacles to buying REO homes, so it’s best to hire an expert buyer’s agent, says the Real Estate Adviser.

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Rates are falling. Time to refi?

webmaster — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

The Fed’s promise to buy toxic mortgage debt is driving mortgage rates down. Is the time right to seek a refi?

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4 things to know before you refinance

webmaster — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Before you rush to refi, take these steps to determine if the move will be good for you.

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Fed buying billions in securitized home loans

webmaster — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

The Federal Reserve’s announcement sent mortgage rates down.

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Loan modification in bankruptcy

webmaster — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

After declaring bankruptcy, persistence is required in contacting the lender to modify your mortgage, says the Bankruptcy Adviser.

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Sprucing up buyers’ credit

webmaster — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Some home builders are implementing credit-coaching programs to jump-start housing sales, says the Real Estate Adviser.

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Jumbo mortgage deadline looms

webmaster — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Some mortgage borrowers are about to get squeezed by the shrinking of something called the jumbo conforming limit.

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Jumbo mortgage changes by county

webmaster — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

The jumbo conforming loan limits changed for hundreds of counties. Did yours?

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Video: No-closing-cost mortgages

webmaster — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Offers of no-closing-cost mortgages are not always what they seem.

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Rates fall for third week in a row

webmaster — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Mortgage rates fell for the third week in a row, as the economy settled uncomfortably into its recession.

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Is ‘intentional foreclosure’ ethical?

webmaster — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 21:15:04 +0000

A homeowner with an upside-down mortgage wonders if he can walk away and start over with a new home, says the Real Estate Adviser.

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Check terms of loan before refinancing

webmaster — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 21:15:03 +0000

Don’t forget to check the terms of your mortgage before refinancing to a new loan.

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HUD revises the good-faith estimate

webmaster — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 21:15:04 +0000

In an effort to make it easier to understand the good-faith estimate, HUD has revised the form.

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Mortgage rates make modest move down

webmaster — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 21:15:04 +0000

The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell 5 basis points, to 6.39 percent, according to the Bankrate.com national survey of large lenders.

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Plan before interest-only loan adjusts

webmaster — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 21:15:04 +0000

It’s important to study all options before the terms change on your interest-only mortgage.

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