04 Jan 2024
By Mark Feder

15-Year vs. 30-Year Loans Compared

Mortgage
Choosing the right mortgage term is a critical decision when purchasing a home. The two most common options are 15-year and 30-year mortgage terms. Let's compare the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you make an informed decision: 15-Year Mortgage Advantages: Interest Savings: The most significant advantage of a 15-year mortgage is the amount of interest you can save over the life of the loan. With a shorter term, you pay less interest because the loan is repaid more quickly. Faster Equity Building: Monthly payments for a 15-year mortgage are higher, but a larger portion of each payment goes…
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03 Jan 2024
By Mark Feder

The Role of Mortgage Escrow Accounts in Property Tax and Insurance Payments

Home Mortgage Tips
A mortgage escrow account, also known simply as an escrow account, is a financial arrangement set up by a mortgage lender to manage and disburse certain payments related to the property on behalf of the homeowner. The purpose of an escrow account is to ensure that essential expenses, such as property taxes and homeowners’ insurance, are paid on time. Here's how a mortgage escrow account works: Creation of Escrow Account: When you obtain a mortgage loan, your lender may require you to establish an escrow account. This account is typically separate from your mortgage loan account. Monthly Payments: As part…
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02 Jan 2024
By Mark Feder

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 2nd, 2024

Financial Reports
With the New Year, the final week only featured the normal reports of Jobless Claims, S&P Shiller Home Price Index (YoY), and the Chicago Business Barometer. All of them will have limited impact compared to the GDP and the Inflation data reports that have already been released. S&P Shiller Home Price Index (YoY)For the ninth consecutive month, home prices in prominent U.S. metropolitan regions have surged, reaching an all-time high. This increase is attributed to an ongoing shortage of available homes for sale. In October, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller 20-city house-price index, after seasonal adjustments, showed a 0.6% rise compared…
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29 Dec 2023
By Mark Feder

Mortgage Rate Locks: When and How to Secure the Best Rate

Mortgage Rates
Rate locks play a crucial role in the mortgage application process, helping borrowers secure a favorable interest rate for their home loan. Here's an explanation of the importance of rate locks and when and how to secure the best rate: Interest Rate Protection: Mortgage rates are subject to market fluctuations and can change daily or even multiple times a day. Rate locks protect borrowers from potential rate increases during the loan processing period. Budgeting and Planning: Knowing the exact interest rate allows borrowers to budget more effectively and plan their finances with certainty. It prevents unexpected increases in monthly payments,…
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