Jeff Thomas
My Posts:
Combined Loan-to-Value Requirements for Refinance Transactions
Fairfax-VA. The ML 2010-24 is guidance for Combined Loan To Value (CLTV) refinance transactions – only. The new policy and guidelines are more restrictive than the old FHA policies guidelines. In the past FHA policies did not have a restriction on minimum equity limits (LTV and CLTV in loan talk), but Wall Street and the big banks added their own restrictions that allowed an FHA loan to be underwater... [Read more]
Federal Housing Administration Reform Act
Fairfax, VA – The House of Representatives approved the Federal Housing Administration Reform Act. The purpose of FHAR is to bring stability to the FHA lending program. Currently, FHA loans make up about 30 percent of the loans originated in the US. This is a far cry from early to mid 2000’s when real estate agents frowned on any government loan of any type. The FHAR Act is a two-step... [Read more]
FHA loans – Changes are here
Fairfax, VA – With the increased role FHA has taken in the lending world since 2007, FHA has experienced an increase of foreclosures which caused FHA to tighten lending guidelines, increase down payment requirements and institute minimum credit score requirements to qualify for an FHA loan. Here are some changes that have been made or are on the horizon. Credit Scores – A minimum credit... [Read more]
First-time homebuyer tax credit extended
The Homebuyer Assistance and Improvement Act of 2010 extends the closing date requirement for the first-time homebuyer tax credit from June 30, 2010, to September 30, 2010. This gives qualifying individuals who, prior to May 1, 2010, entered into a binding written contract to purchase a home, an additional three months to close on the purchase. Click on the title above and watch the video for... [Read more]
The Credit Crunch and Student Loans
You’ve heard about the Credit Crunch and its tightening effect on lending guidelines in the mortgage industry, but what does it mean to millions of Americans who need student loans to help pay their college tuition? The student loan market looked pretty bleak during the first quarter of 2008. Not only did the reduced benefits created by the College Cost Reduction and Access Act in 2007 kick... [Read more]
FHA seller concession rules
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA home loans in Virginia) is eliminating one of the mainstays to its program sometime this summer. Gone will be the 6 percent seller concession and in will be the 3 percent seller concession. The reason for eliminating the concession according to FHA is the 6 percent seller concession exposes them to too much risk. This has been one of the key selling points with... [Read more]
The First Two Steps in Buying a Home
Fairfax, VA – Statistics suggest that the Internet is the first destination and source of information for potential home buyers. In fact, nearly 80% of potential buyers reportedly begin their home buying process online. And why not? The Internet has a wealth of information and resources that can aid in the beginnings of the home buyer’s search and make them feel more comfortable... [Read more]
Home Buyer Tax Credit Extended for Military Personnel
Fairfax, VA – The popular Home Buyer’s Tax Credit has expired for all Americans, except for three very deserving groups: the brave men and women of the uniformed services of the U.S military, members of the Foreign Service of the U.S., or employees of the intelligence community who are actively serving outside of the U.S. on “official extended duty.” Official extended... [Read more]
Rates Have Hit All-Time Low Levels Again
Interest rates have rallied and improved dramatically on the heels of the recent European debt concerns…and what is most important is that due to the highly unusual set of circumstances that exist in the market, those who are acting quickly are saving. In fact, Freddie Mac reported last week that rates have met either all-time lows or 2010 lows. Bottom line, they are “smokin’ hot”... [Read more]
Interest Rates on the Rise?
Fairfax, VA - For the last couple of years, home buyers have benefitted from an affordable combination of lower home prices and lower interest rates. But if you’ve been on the fence about buying a home, or waiting for even better buying opportunities, now might be the time to give us a call to see if buying today makes sense for your individual goals and needs. Even though the government’s... [Read more]
Age Old Debate: Payoff Your Mortgage or Invest?
Why Payoff Your Mortgage Fairfax, Virginia: Homeowners have been arguing this point since the invention of mortgages many years ago. Should a homeowner payoff their mortgage faster in order to save interest? Or should the homeowner invest that money into 401-K and other retirement vehicles to accumulate more money for retirement? The true answer lies in what is the right choice for your financial... [Read more]
Taxes Are Your Biggest Expense!
Fairfax, Virginia: Do you realize that your biggest expense every month is TAXES? If you don’t believe me, just look at your paycheck and see how much you earned versus how much you are actually bringing home! As you strive to save more money, eliminate debt, and build a successful financial future, minimizing your tax expenses each year can make a huge difference in your financial success. The... [Read more]
USDA Zero Down Home Loan In Jeopardy!
Fairfax, Virginia: Although USDA loans are not a big deal in the northern Virginia area, but they are HUGH deal in the outlying counties of Fauquier, Prince William and Loudoun. It was recently been announced that the USDA 100% (zero down) loan program will be out of money by the end of April 2010. Typically the USDA program has sufficient funds to cover the needs of potential borrowers. But as... [Read more]
Life After Bankruptcy
Fairfax, Virginia – Bankruptcy is an uncomfortable subject for a variety of reasons. I have been talking with clients since the economy and housing crisis began over two years ago about bankruptcy. But because I am in the mortgage business and filing for bankruptcy affects one’s ability to get a mortgage I get tons of calls. The most obvious is the potential havoc it can wreak on your finances.... [Read more]
Market Snap Shot for Fairfax, Virginia
Market Snap Shot for Fairfax, Virginia Mortgage Interest Rates and Local Real Estate By Sigma Research By Tuesday, March 02, 2010 Treasuries and mortgages started weaker this morning with the stock index futures pointing to a nice open in equities at 9:30. No real data this morning, the only thing on the schedule is Feb auto and truck sales that will be out this afternoon. At 9:00 the DJIA... [Read more]
