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Lending / Financial

Buying real estate is even more challenging for those of us whose eyes glaze over at the mere mention of decimals, percentages or anything else that even hints of mathematics.


The financial aspect of purchasing the largest investment of your lifetime, though, is the most important. Nobody wants to lose money. Nobody wants to leave money on the table.


If you're in the market for information on mortgages, credit scores and interest rates, you've come to the right place. The financial and mortgage pros here at ActiveRain even tell you how to shop for and compare lenders, how to raise your credit score, how to get a mortgage after a short sale or foreclosure and how to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan. Even Mom and Dad can't give the great advice you'll find here at ActiveRain.


Plan to spend some time here because ActiveRain's content library is massive. Lucky for you we've arranged it so that it's über user-friendly. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to put your finger on just the information you're looking for without having to surf a million other pages.

Recent blogs on Lending / Financial
By Eric L. Green, Your IRS Tax Litigator
(Tax Rep LLC)
I am a tax attorney in New Haven, Connecticut that helps taxpayers struggling with tax debt all over the country.  Dealing with tax matters can feel overwhelming, for any taxpayer. Whether its dealing with mounting debts or the looming threat of IRS enforcement actions the financial strain can be quite daunting. Fortunately there are options to help individuals facing challenges one being the option to acquire Uncollectible Status, also known as Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status from the IRS.Uncollectible status offers a relief for taxpayers experiencing hardship and unable to fulfill their tax obligations. When granted status the IRS puts a pause on collection activities providing some respite from asset or income levies. Despite the tax debt remaining in place there are advantage...
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By Kimo Stowell, REALTOR Associate® RS-76763 - Honolulu Hawai'i
(HI Pro Realty LLC RB-21531 )
               Latest rates, based on 20 percent down, $200,000 owner-occupant mortgages. The rates and terms may vary; check with lenders for details. Rates may have changed click here to verifyWednesday, February 28, 2024  Lender Term/Type Interest Rate % Points % *APR American Savings Bank808-593-1226NMLS#423168 15-YR Fixed 5.750 1.875 6.178 30-YR Fixed 6.500 1.875 6.771 5-YR ARM 6.000 2.000 7.436 Bank of Hawaii877-616-2636 15-YR Fixed 6.375 1.000 6.534 30-YR Fixed 6.500 1.625 6.658 5-YR ARM 6.250 1.000 7.399 Central Pacific Bank808-544-0500NMLS#416603 15-YR Fixed 5.750 2.125 6.228 30-YR Fixed 6.375 2.000 6.661 5-YR ARM 6.875 0.000 7.798 Finance Factors808-548-3300NMLS#449916 15-YR Fixed 5.750 2.125 6.318 30-YR Fixed 6.375 2.250 6.742 5-YR ARM 6.375 1.500 7.656 First Hawaiian Bank808...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Have you driven along Will Buechner Parkway? This incredible roadway connects Martin Luther King Drive (AL Hwy 14) to Richland Road, providing a smooth and convenient route through our beautiful city.But this parkway is more than just a roadway—it’s a tribute to a hero. Named after Officer Will Buechner, it commemorates the only police officer in Auburn city history to make the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Let’s never forget the memory of this brave man who gave his greatest sacrifice protecting us all.As your local realtor, I’m here to guide you through all things Auburn. Whether you’re buying or selling a home in our vibrant community, count on me for the knowledge and expertise you need to make the right decisions.#berkshirehathawayhomeservicespreferredrealestate #WillBuec...
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By Eric L. Green, Your IRS Tax Litigator
(Tax Rep LLC)
I am a tax attorney in New Haven, Connecticut that helps taxpayers struggling with tax debt all over the country.  Facing a tax debt can be a daunting experience, but the IRS offers options for taxpayers to manage their obligations through installment agreements. However, these agreements come with their own set of rules and considerations that taxpayers and practitioners must understand to navigate effectively.An installment agreement is essentially a structured payment plan between the IRS and a taxpayer to settle back taxes over a period of time, typically in monthly installments. While it offers relief by spreading out the payments, there are key points to grasp before initiating negotiations.Firstly, it's crucial to acknowledge the IRS's stance on installment agreements. The IRS ai...
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By Michael Mahoney, Boston Realtor
(Real Broker, LLC)
The Truth About Down PaymentsIf you’re planning to buy your first home, saving up for all the costs involved can feel daunting, especially when it comes to the down payment. That might be because you’ve heard you need to save 20% of the home’s price to put down. Well, that isn’t necessarily the case.Unless specified by your loan type or lender, it’s typically not required to put 20% down. That means you could be closer to your homebuying dream than you realize.As The Mortgage Reports says: “Although putting down 20% to avoid mortgage insurance is wise if affordable, it’s a myth that this is always necessary. In fact, most people opt for a much lower down payment. See the full article - The Truth About Down Payments here
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By Bob Elliot, 30+ Yrs Industry Experience
(eXp Realty)
A government holiday followed by an extremely light release schedule has led to a limited amount of data, with the FOMC Minutes being the only impactful report for the prior week. The Federal Reserve had stated they will continue to maintain their current stance in light of the most recent inflation data. With rates holding into the year, as a result, lending partners have started back tracking some of their recent rate cuts. Lastly, Unemployment Numbers are seen to be well within expectations.FOMC Minutes“Most” officials noted the risks of moving too quickly to cut rates and wanted to carefully assess the data for more progress on inflation, the minutes said.Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index• 15-Yr FRM rates saw an increase by 0.17% with the current rate at 6.29%• 30-Yr FRM rates sa...
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By Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® e-Pro CRS RCS-D Vets, CEO of Vision Drive Realty - Coastal San Diego
(Big Block Realty 858.232.8722)
Jason Gordon was lender with Amerifirst Financial at the time of this interview.Since then he's upgraded to a much better company, CMG Home Loans. I've been experiencing an even more robust peripheral suite of bells and whistles from CMG as a REALTOR® and the same level of excellence that makes me follow the man, not the company. I've updated his contact info below. Also please be advised that any programs discussed in the video were limited to the previous company and are not applicable to CMG, but CMG offers a plethora of amazing programs. You can talk to Jason about directly!Jason E. Gordon is my #1 Lender and has become a friend over the 16 years+ we've been working together. Jason and I sat in the backyard of my Bay Park home that he helped me purchase and we discuss the myths and ...
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
During the home loan process, avoiding any actions that could negatively impact your loan pre-approval status is crucial. Lenders prioritize stability and consistency in your financial situation, and it's your responsibility to maintain this from the moment you receive pre-approval until the loan closes. Follow these tips and you'll be on your way to a new home loan:Top Tips For Home Loan Borrowers Today Please remember to "like" the post and the video on YouTube too! Thank you. 🏡  Link to all homes for sale in Tallahassee 📺 Subscribe To The Joe Manausa Real Estate Channel and Get More Housing Market Reports, Listings, Real Estate Marketing Tips, and answers to your frequently asked questions. 📘 Get the DIGITAL MARKETING BOOK Written by a Realtor for Realtors!
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By David Buck, Realtor-Broker
(Harcourts Island Real Estate)
What's exciting about that for the owners is the lease has been extended for another 65 years. They did not have to turn over the keys and walk away, which could have been the worse case scenario, when owning leasehold property in Hawaii. What's awesome about Sans Souci now is these owners have a chance to renew their lease for another 65 years. This creates some instant equity, versus not having anything left... Read More
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Owner Carry? A great concept in Paradise Valley, Arizona when puchasing a home among the rich and famous.Are you looking for an Owner Carry or Seller Carry Home For Sale in Paradise Valley Arizona between Camelback Mountain and Mummy Mountain, the most expensive place to live in Arizona? Here today are Paradise Valley homes for sale with Seller May Carry or Owner Financing next to Scottsdale Arizona and UPDATED DAILY on the MLS. Are you ready to move to Paradise Valley the most expensive place to live in Arizona? When buying a home one will need a jumbo loan if not buying with cash. However there are usually some Owner May Finance homes available.Paradise Valley Arizona Estates with Owner Financing or Seller Carry Financing AvailableSee Paradise Valley homes for sale with Seller May Car...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Your credit score is more than just a number; it's the key that opens doors to mortgage approval and favorable interest rates. Whether you're aiming for a cozy starter home or eyeing a luxurious estate, building a healthy credit score demonstrates creditworthiness and increases your approval odds for certain credit cards, car loans, mortgages and more. If you're ready to buy, send me a message and let's chat!#realestate #realestateagent #listreports #buying #selling #realestateexpert #homeowner #financehub #dreamhome #homeownership #homebuying #homesearch #buyingahome
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Charles Stallions recognizes preapproval as a pivotal milestone in the home buying journey, empowering buyers with a competitive edge in negotiations and expedited closing processes. Navigating Home Buying: Understanding Prequalification vs. Preapproval with Charles Stallions In the exhilarating journey of purchasing a home, understanding the nuances of prequalification and preapproval can significantly streamline the process. As you embark on this adventure, having Charles Stallions as your trusted realtor ensures a smooth and informed experience every step of the way. Prequalification and preapproval are pivotal milestones in the home-buying process, each offering distinct advantages and insights to prospective buyers. Prequalification: Prequalification provides an initial assessment...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
The C-Note is a short version of the monthly newsletter put out by Charles Stallions, (CRS) Certified Residential Specialist, (SREE) Senior Real Estate Expert, (CPI) Certified Property Investor, Author, and a 28-year broker of real estate, designed to put HUNDREDS, if not THOUSANDS, of dollars back in your pocket. There are as many ways to do real estate as there are probably agents, but here at Charles Stallions Real Estate Services, we "do it right," starting with the customer's end in mind. As the Pensacola real estate expert Charles Stallions explains, with a loan-to-value ratio of 80%, lenders typically won't require mortgage insurance. A borrower could put 10% down, securing an 80% first mortgage and a 10% second mortgage, thereby avoiding PMI. However, there's a slight caveat to ...
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By Anna Chroscicki, Realtor - St. Lucie County affordable Real Estate
(Re/Max Masterpiece Realty)
 When a lender pulls a buyer’s credit report, the credit agencies (Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian) sell the buyer's contact information to other mortgage companies; these are called “trigger leads.”  The buyer’s information is immediately sent out to these mortgage companies. Buyers start getting phone calls and emails within 30 minutes of pulling their credit.  The contact information the credit agencies give out is information they have on record, not the information we input on the mortgage application.  Unfortunately, this is a legal practice. The credit agencies are allowed to sell their contact information.  Some mortgage companies will even try to trick the buyers into giving them information by calling and stating they are “following up” on the mortgage application they submi...
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By Bob Elliot, 30+ Yrs Industry Experience
(eXp Realty)
Last week's release of CPI and PPI resulted in slightly higher than expected inflation rates which led to speculation that the Federal Reserve's decision to cut rates will likely come much further in the year than anticipated. There was some suspicion that if inflation rates would continue to exceed predictions, it could result in another rate hike. Lending partners have responded in kind with the first significant increase in lending rates since the end of November. However, The Federal Reserve will likely maintain its current stance. Other reports such as US Retail Sales are showing a drop, but this is contrasted by the Consumer Sentiment reports which show an opposite effect — with the economic landscape showing an overall declining inflation rate and strong job market.Consumer Price...
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By Joseph Lorenzo, Your Law And Order Realtor
(Frank Rubi Real Estate LLC)
In our series "Real Estate Terms You Should Know," today we are going to talk about what is meant by a jumbo loan. This type of loan is crucial in the real estate market, especially for buyers looking into higher-priced properties that exceed the limits set by conventional mortgages. A jumbo loan, also known as a jumbo mortgage, is a type of financing that exceeds the limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Unlike conventional mortgages that are purchased by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and adhere to their set limits, jumbo loans are designed to finance luxury properties and homes in highly competitive local real estate markets. Key Characteristics of Jumbo Loans: Higher Loan Amounts: The primary feature of a jumbo loan is its ability to provide financing for a home that ...
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By Fred Sweezer Sr. CMI, LLC., HUD 203k Consultant
(Hud Certified 203K Consultant)
Many friends and family ask me all the time are you still working at 77 years old? the answer is YES! I just finished several renovation projects as a FHA Renovation 203k Consultant helping first time home buyers get there first home with this program. The physical labor part of it is left to my younger experienced consultants and Contractors that I have trained in the profession to be as skilled as I am in the construction industry. I love what I do, both as a family man and professional man. I have references.Fred Sweezer Srhttps://california203kconsultant.com/ 
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Pensacola, Florida: With 28 years of real estate expertise spanning Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Charles Stallions, CSE (Certified Senior Expert), has been a trusted guide for countless seniors and their families. His seasoned assistance extends from navigating the complexities of Medicare to strategic tax reduction and asset sales. Don't miss out on invaluable insights—subscribe to his monthly newsletter now. Discover essential information tailored for those over 60, alongside crucial advice for your family members. Credit life insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed to provide financial protection for borrowers and their families in the event of the borrower's untimely death. This insurance is often associated with loans, including mortgages, and is specifically tie...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Purchasing your first home is an exciting milestone, but it often comes with a significant financial hurdle: the down payment. For many first-time buyers, scraping together enough money for a down payment can feel daunting. However, various sources of assistance are available to help ease the burden and make homeownership more accessible. Here are some avenues first-time home buyers can explore to secure their down payment: 1. Government Programs: FHA Loans: The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers loans with lower down payment requirements, typically around 3.5% of the purchase price. These loans are popular among first-time buyers because they have more flexible eligibility criteria. VA Loans: If you're a veteran or active-duty service member, you may qualify for a VA loan, whi...
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By Joseph Lorenzo, Your Law And Order Realtor
(Frank Rubi Real Estate LLC)
In our series "Real Estate Terms You Should Know," today we are going to talk about what is meant by variable interest rate. This type of interest rate is a key concept in the world of mortgages and lending, and understanding it is crucial for anyone considering a home loan or currently managing one.A variable interest rate, also known as an adjustable-rate, is an interest rate on a loan or mortgage that can fluctuate over time. Unlike fixed interest rates, which remain constant throughout the life of the loan, variable rates are tied to a benchmark interest rate or index that changes with market conditions. This means that your monthly payments can go up or down, depending on how the benchmark rate evolves.Variable interest rates are often lower than fixed rates initially, making them ...
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