Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Understanding Bridge Loans

Bridging finance, also referred to as bridge loans and bridging loans, have nothing at all to do with re-constructing the London Bridge. Bridging finance is typically a short-term loan that a business uses to supply cash for a real estate transaction until permanent financing can be arranged. The word bridge; conveys the fact that the loan is designed to get you over a temporary obstacle.

A typical use for a bridge loan is to cover situations such as when a company needs to close on a new office building before having sold their old one. They would use the proceeds of the bridge loan to continue making payments on the old building until it is sold.

Bridging finance almost always requires that you pledge some sort of collateralas security against the loan. You could offer up commercial or private real estate that you own,or are in the process of buying, machinery and office equipment or even existing inventory. If you have outstanding business and personal credit, as well as an outstanding relationship with your lender, you might be able to secure your bridge loans on just a signature.

Because the need for bridging finance sometimes arises suddenly and without warning, it is a good idea to establish a relationship with a lender before the actual need arises. When you do this you can arrange to be pre-approved for a specified loan limit. Later, when the need suddenly arises, you won't have to wade through all of the red tape. The typical term for a bridge loan runs from a fortnight to as long as two years. Of course, any terms can be negotiated and a motivated lender will work hard to match your needs.

Since bridging finance usually lasts for a relatively short period you may find that the interest rate you are being asked to pay is slightly higher than a more conventional type of loan. Lenders make their profit by charging interest across the life of the loan. The shorter the loan period the less interest they earn. As a result many lenders will often boost the rate by a 1/2 point or more. In general, the length of the loan, the amount of risk that is present for the lender, the quality of your credit history and the liquidity and value of your collateral all are used to help determine the interest rate.

Your best bet for securing a bridge loan at the most favourable rates and terms is to work with a qualified UK Commercial Mortgage Broker who understands the ins and outs of bridge loans. That way you can get your application in front of as many lenders as possible and end up with several who are willing to compete for your business.

Commercial Lifeline are Commercial Mortgage and http://www.commercial-lifeline.co.uk/bridging-finance.asp Bridging Finance specialists.

Tips for Buying a Second Home

Before shopping for your second home, consider how you'll pay for it so that it doesn't become a burden. Using a home equity loan is often the smartest path, because you can use otherwise untapped value in your home to your advantage without raiding assets such as bank accounts, stocks, or other savings.

Here are four ideas to help guide your decision:

1. Leverage equity

If you've accumulated equity in your home, don't just sit on it. Put it to work by borrowing against it while home equity loan rates are still attractively priced. You can also use a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Banks typically charge more interest for those loans, but you avoid many closing costs and still may be eligible for tax deductions of interest and other expenses.

2. Buy property conveniently located

Buy a second home that you'll definitely use, not one so far away that you'll never visit it. Location becomes especially important if you use the property as a rental for extra income, because it will be easier to check on tenants and perform routine maintenance.

3. Consider a fixer-upper

Rather than buying someone else's idea of a dream vacation home, consider creating your own. A less-than-perfect property can quickly pay for itself if you use home improvement loans to update it, and you'll have the satisfaction of remodeling or upgrading your second home to suit yourself.

4. Mix business with pleasure

Many investors combine their use of a second home as a vacation getaway with an occasional lease or rental. Not only will you make money by leasing, you'll save money by not paying for lodging at vacation time.

If you act now, while the buyer's market is still hot and overextended sellers are desperate, you can possibly acquire an undervalued second home at a discounted price. By using a home equity loan to finance it, you'll leverage your money in two ways. The existing value in your primary home can help acquire a long-term investment with built-in profit (and holiday pleasure) potential.

By Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com

Should I install a solar energy system using a home equity loan, even when rates are at 8.25%?

Q. What is your take on upgrading your house to include solar energy and taking the money out of the equity of your home even when rates are at 8.25%. They may not rise before summer, but do you see them rising after that?

A. It's often hard to determine whether solar heating or electrical systems will save much if any money in the long run. You not only have to consider the cost of buying, installing, maintaining and financing the equipment, but the price of natural gas and electricity over the next decade as well. That is very difficult to forecast. But most homeowners who install solar systems seem to be happy with their decision. Even if they don't save a lot of money, they have the satisfaction of knowing they did something good for the environment. How do you put a dollar figure on that?

But if you're going to do it, you should do it now because you should qualify for some generous tax credits that are only available this year. Whether you're installing photovoltaic panels that turn sunlight into electricity or a water heating system, you'll receive a tax credit for 30% the cost of the system, up to a maximum of $2,000. Each project must meet specific criteria and the work must be completed by 2007. Your contractor should know the details. (You can also get tax credits for other improvements, such as new windows, air conditioning units and water heaters.)

As far as where the prime rate will go this year, the best guess is that it should stay at 8.25% at least until August. What the Federal Reserve decides to do after that will depend on the economic data we see over the next six months. If you decide to go with a home equity loan to finance your project, be sure and shop around. Some banks, particularly smaller ones, are offering rates that are 0.5% or even 1.0% below prime. You can find the best deals on our comparison charts of home equity rates.

Another option would be a cash-out refinancing. This is where you refinance your primary mortgage for more than your current balance and use the extra cash to pay for your solar project. With home equity rates so high, that has become a very popular way to get money for home improvements and to pay off credit card debt, because average mortgage rates are still below 6.5%. If you're paying more than 7% on your current mortgage, or you have an adjustable rate loan that's poised to go that high, this could be a less expensive way to go.

By: http://home-equity.interest.com

Protect Yourself From Home Equity Loan Scams

It's become almost instinctive these days for some people to rush to tap into the equity in their homes when they find themselves in need of cash. That's because of the growing awareness that home is where the money is. However, it pays to stay alert as you pursue funding, since your budget will be affected for years to come.

There are a wide variety of home equity loan scams out there. Whether you're planning to tap your equity through a home improvement loan, a home equity loan, or a home equity line of credit (HELOC), here are some tips to keep you out of trouble.

No rose-colored glasses: Don't be dazzled by dollar signs. Make sure that you've considered all the costs and conditions of any loan before signing on the dotted line. Since your intention is to solve a short-term problem with a long-term solution, consider whether the loan you choose makes sense over the long haul.

Don't succumb to pressure: Avoid being bullied into accepting home mortgage products that you don't want, such as credit insurance. Shop around for the extras that you do want before allowing them to be rolled into your loan. They may be cheaper somewhere else. If you can't reasonably handle the monthly payments or the loan costs, reject the offer. Follow your gut instinct-it's probably right!


Watch what you sign: Read everything carefully before you sign anything, and make sure that you understand it. Don't put your John Hancock on anything that has blank spaces that could be filled in later.

Don't deed your property: If you think that you should deed your property over to another party for any reason whatsoever, consult with an attorney first.

Even if you're desperate, act like you're not. Take your time, stay on your toes, and make a good decision. You'll need to live with it for a very long time. And you'd like to live with it inside your own home, not on the street because you inadvertently lost it.

By Jan Lindsey - MortgageLoan.com

One Closing, Two Home Mortgage Loans

A little efficiency in life can go a long way. Since free time seems to come at a premium these days, why not consider killing two birds with one stone using one loan closing to obtain two home financing instruments? Not only will you save time down the road, you'll also realize some compelling benefits.

HELOC Basics

HELOCs are powerful, versatile, and very popular financial instruments. They function like any other revolving credit account, in that you can take cash withdrawals and make payments as needed. Even better, you can choose not to draw on the account and it won't accrue any interest. Having access to a large sum of cash can be a comforting precautionary measure, particularly if you don't have a liquid fund set aside for emergencies. Other common uses for HELOCs include debt consolidation, big-ticket purchases, college tuition, and home improvement projects, among others.

HELOCs and interest rates

Unlike a conventional mortgage, the HELOC carries a variable rate of interest. While variable rate debt can be riskier, it's a good long-term companion to the fixed-rate debt of your conventional mortgage loan. A fixed rate mortgage insulates you from rate increases, but doesn't give you access to rate decreases. Over a complete cycle of rising and falling rates, the characteristics of the two instruments are complementary. Incidentally, your credit cards also have variable interest, but at rates much higher than a HELOC. This is why HELOCs are often used for debt consolidation purposes.


On a conventional HELOC, the interest rate will be quoted as a margin plus or minus the prime rate. As is true with all mortgages, the best rates are reserved for borrowers with excellent credit. Borrowers with bad credit will be offered somewhat higher rates.

Leveraging the time and energy you put into your first home mortgage loan to close a HELOC at the same time will increase your purchasing power and provide you with access to emergency cash. The other upside is the time you'll save, which is absolutely priceless. And since time is money, saving time also means saving money.

By Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com

I want to rent my home. Should I refinance to an option ARM just in case it doesn't rent?

Q. I wish to rent my home and keep it as an investment property. I currently have a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage of 5.5% on this property. It's appraised at $240,000. and I owe $104,000 on the loan. Should I refinance with an option arm just in case it doesn't rent?

A. The way we see it, you have a great rate on your first home and a relatively small balance left. If you refinanced to almost any other type of mortgage you'd have to pay a higher rate -- or would have to pay a higher rate very soon after the low promotional rate used to lure you into the loan reset. Option ARMs are the worst when it comes to raising rates. While traditional adjustable rate mortgages wait at least one year before resetting, some option ARMs begin raising rates after the first month.

The other problem with option ARMs is that you'll be tempted to make the "minimum payment" each month. That payment is lower than with any other type of loan because it isn't even enough to cover the monthly interest charge on the loan. The difference is added your balance and so your debt actually grows each month. You've got a lot of great equity in this house and reducing that is no way to build wealth.

So why not stick with the great mortgage you have now and see if you can make it work before trying to refinance into a loan that could wind up costing you more or adding to your debt?

By: http://home-equity.interest.com

Home Equity Loans for the Credit-Challenged

If you have bad credit, finding a home equity loan, or any loan for that matter, can be a frustrating task. In today's market, however, mortgage loans for people with bad credit are available, even though the interest rates that they�ll face will be higher than those for borrowers with stronger credit numbers. Unfortunately, you should also expect to pay slightly higher fees on your loan as well. Despite the elevated costs, you can still find a good home equity loan if you gather as much information as you can, and follow the tips listed below:

  • Understand the product and process. Unfortunately, the mortgage industry still has its shared of lenders who will take advantage of potential borrowers with poor credit and a lack of knowledge about mortgages and the mortgage marketplace. It's important to understand the basics and specifics of your mortgage, and how loans differ. For example, an adjustable-rate mortgage will give you a low monthly rate for an initial period of two- to seven years; but then the rate adjusts upward. On the other hand, a balloon mortgage will have the same initial, low payment period, but when it concludes, the entire mortgage will be due in full.

  • Comparison shop. Competition in the marketplace is a good thing for the consumer; it naturally regulates costs. When it comes to home equity loans, there's plenty of competition out there to choose from. And with more competition comes cheaper prices. Research lenders on the Internet and compare quotes from several lenders on rates and closing costs. Before making a commitment, check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure a lender doesn't have any complaints lodged against it.

  • Pick a loan that�s right for you. As long as you qualify, most lenders will be happy to give you as much money as you want. They don't mind if you have to start making huge monthly payments on the loan. Make sure the that loan benefits you in the long run. Will it help you get your finances back on track, and eventually qualify you for a better loan? That should be the ultimate goal of this financial transaction.

  • Check closing costs diligently. Each mortgage lender is required by law to provide you with a Good Faith Estimate detailing the proposed costs of the loan. Make sure that you understand all the charges, and keep a watchful eye out for inflated origination fees and so-called �junk fees�, which only serve to increase a lender�s profit yield.

When it comes to home equity loans for people with poor credit, the biggest favor that you can do for yourself is to study the mortgage marketplace and what�s available in it. There�s a plethora of information available to anyone who needs it. Familiarize yourself with the different types of loans that are offered. Find out how you can improve your credit. An excellent place to start your research is in the Mortgage Loan Education Center. You�ll find valuable calculators, tools and information to help you pinpoint the best mortgage available. In the end, you'll get a loan that will help, and not hurt, your financial situation.

By: www.finweb.com

Jumbo Loans Explained

In some real estate markets, a house in the $400,000 range is little more than a starter home. So why is it that a home loan in the mid $400's is considered a Jumbo Mortgage Loan?

Good question. While the rest of us may see the term "jumbo" as relative, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, two government sponsored mortgage entities, have definite opinions. Each year, a new "conforming loan limit" is published by these organizations.

What is the Conforming Loan Limit?

The conforming loan limit is the maximum loan size eligible for purchase by either Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, who purchase the underlying securities from mortgage originators. Those funds are then reinvested in new mortgages, and the flow-of-funds cycle continues.

The conforming loan limit, or "Jumbo Loan amount" is set every January. The 2006 limit for single-family homes and condominiums is $417,000. Quicken Loans conforming loan limit has also been raised to $417,000.

When a Loan Becomes a Jumbo

When a loan amount is higher than the conforming limit, it becomes a Jumbo Loan, or non-conforming loan, with slightly higher interest rates. Jumbo Loans, combined with historically low mortgage rates, can bring greater flexibility for some home buyers to purchase the house they want and make the payment they want.

Getting a Home Equity Line of Credit

Credit cards are a good thing, but a home equity credit line is a great way to use the equity in your home to finance big ticket items such as home improvements, paying off high-interest debt, financing a car, or paying for college tuition.

A credit card is a revolving line of credit that you use when you need it, and make payments only if you use it. But credit cards can charge very high interest rates. A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is also a revolving line of credit. You draw from it again and again as you need it, and make payments only if you use it. But, unlike most credit cards, you get a much lower interest rate with a home equity line of credit than with a credit card.

Using a home equity line of credit is a way to turn bad debt into good debt. In other words, the interest on the debt you have on your high-interest credit card cannot be deducted from your taxes. But the interest on your HELOC is usually tax-deductible*.

There is also flexibility that can be built into home equity loans that you wouldn�t get for say, an auto loan. There are different home equity programs that have an interest-only option. With an interest-only loan, you can pay only the interest for a pre-determined amount of time and pay as much principal as you want, even none. You can�t do that with an auto loan. Most lenders offer home equity lines of credit for up to $100,000. But Quicken Loans offers a line of credit for up to $500,000! This is a great option to have when buying your dream vacation home.

It�s fairly easy to get a home equity line of credit. That�s one of the best things about it! Nowadays, many companies allow you to apply online and close within a very short period of time, 7-10 days typically. There�s less paperwork to deal with, the closing costs are less expensive and the process is just as easy as applying for a credit card. If you get a home equity line of credit at the same time as your first mortgage with the same lender, you only have one closing to go to for both loans.

The Best Uses for Home Equities

There are number of ways in which Home Equity loans can be used to your advantage. Although you should never lose sight of the fact that home equities are debt, secured debt against your home, if utilized properly they can actually help to improve your personal finances. But always be careful; falling behind on a home equity loan can subject your dwelling place to the possibility of foreclosure. Let�s look at some of the most valuable and beneficial ways that these loans can be used.

One of the main uses of home equity loans for many people is for debt consolidation. This allows you to combine your credit cards, installment loans and other personal unsecured debt into one monthly payment which could be substantially lower than the sum total of those individual payments. Because of the money saved on a monthly basis, you�ll have more income at your disposal. These funds can be saved, invested, or used for any purpose that you see fit. And because mortgage interest, even on a second mortgage, is very likely to be lower than personal loan- and credit card interest, the total amount that you�ll pay in interest charges will be greatly reduced. In addition, using a home equity loan for debt consolidation can also improve your credit over the long term, because your lower monthly payment will make you less of a risk to lenders.

Another great use for home equity loans is home improvements and renovations. Your house is an investment, and the more you put into it, the more value it will give back to you. Adding improvements to your home can greatly increase its worth, both to you personally as well as on the housing market, and you could realize a very hefty profit if you someday chose to sell it.

You must, however, be extremely careful when making choices on what improvements to make. You should spend money to improve areas that will greatly increase the value of your home. Remodeling either a kitchen or bathroom will bring the most value to your home. Adding an additional bathroom will also add substantial market worth. A good rule of thumb is that every dollar of improvement money spent should raise the value of the home by at least two dollars. You�ll also want to make sure that the improvements you make enhance the beauty of the home. While adding carpet and paint won't greatly increase value, they will make the house more appealing and easier to sell if done properly.

Many people also use home equity loans to pay for the cost of higher education for their children. Like home improvements, using a home loan to pay college expenses can be an investment. It can keep your children out of debt. Of course, it can also backfire if the kids don�t graduate.

These tend to be the best uses for home equity loans. The equity that you use should provide the prospect of a long-term investment or benefit. Many people do use home equity loans to buy other things that they want or need, things such as a boat, a nice car, a vacation, or to cover major medical bills.

By: www.finweb.com

Home Refinancing With Poor Credit

Home refinancing with poor credit should only be considered if the homeowner has much equity in their home or if the original mortgage loan carries an unbelievably high rate. Credit scores directly determine the interest rate that will be offered. Refinancing a house is not a good idea if the borrower's credit has fallen since the origination of the mortgage loan. If the borrower is adamant about refinancing, choosing a mortgage brokerage or lending institution with low closing costs and no points is the wisest course of action. Sometimes it is not always beneficial to refinance. Determining if the time is right for an individual will rely on knowledge, research, help, and faith in God for guidance. "In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion" (Psalm 71:1).

Good mortgage brokerages may not always be easy to find. A good brokerage will let the borrower honestly know if home refinancing with poor credit is even worth their time. If calculations are done, and the time and money spent are added up, the end result should be either a decrease in monthly payments, or a decrease in the total amount of interest paid throughout the life of the loan. If these benefits do not exist for the borrower, and the mortgage company does not point that out, the consumer should not accept the deal. In recent years, there has been a record number of mortgage fraud cases that have left the consumer with more debt and much worse problems than they originally had. In cases where something does not seem to be right, it is important to drop negotiations to keep from losing a great deal of money.

With some help, home refinancing with poor credit can be changed by the end of the month. The fastest way to lower a credit score up to 30 points in 30 days is to pay down the balances on all cards and accounts until they reach under 20% of the total spending limit. This proves to lenders that the applicant is a responsible consumer. Lenders make refinancing difficult for some, but if credit is improved, the process is a breeze and can be completed in as little as 2 weeks. This situation may begin poor, but it doesn't have to end that way. As the borrower makes regular monthly payments to the refinance mortgage, their credit will begin to improve even more.

Taking advantage of home refinancing with poor credit enables those that have made mistakes in the past to come clean and embark on a new path, free from the consequences of bad or no credit. In today's real estate financing market, there are many creative avenues for financing homes, refinancing homes, or financing businesses and commercial properties. Thorough research should be done prior to application with any mortgage brokerage or lending institution. Experts advise a quick check with the BBB or Better Business Bureau. The BBB rates businesses and companies according to customer complaints and compliments.

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/homerefinance

Home Builder Spec Home Loans

Home builder spec home loans are available on the Internet, and most include a convenient application process. Users looking for financing for an upcoming building project can find a lender that will allow him to begin his payments after the construction has been completed. A spec house is a home that is built on speculation, or includes plans to build a house without a pre-sale of the building. After the spec house is finished, the buyer puts it up for sale. With this type of financial arrangement, a builder can finance up to 90 percent of his project. He can also draw requests for money online at any time during the construction phase.

An applicant can get home builder spec home loans for as much as 1.5 million dollars. Land equity and prepaid costs can be used as a down payment for some deals. But the builder must have an average or better credit rating score and provide a 10 percent post-closing liquidity of the total amount. He must also have a 15 percent minimum gross profit margin to qualify. Some lenders also require that the applicant have a certain number of years' experience, or a co-signer with home-building experience, in order to qualify.

Applicants can hold up to ten contracts at one time, enabling them to begin more than one construction project at a time, as long as he meets the other qualifications. The terms are normally 12, 15, or 18 months, giving the home builder plenty of time to complete the project and sell the speculative house. The total amount of home builder spec home loans a person can take out at one time may equal a sum of no more than 1.5 million dollars no matter how many houses they have being built. Once a person applies for a contract, the lender will work with him to process the paperwork and to help him get the most from his loan and glorify God at the same time.

In Luke 14:27, Jesus gives us advice about building: "Which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?" That's what makes taking out home builder spec home loans so important. Each person must first sit down and count the cost. Without the right kinds of financing, many projects would fail before they began. The right financing can make the difference in any construction business.

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/homeloans

Monday, June 9, 2008

Refinancing? Five Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Lender

The world of mortgage loans is foreign to the majority of us. It's riddled with its own jargon, rules and unique mathematical formulas. To make your visit to this strange planet a beneficial one, arm yourself with knowledge. Even though you've already been through the mortgage process once, it's easy to forget. Here are some questions you'll want to ask when shopping for a new mortgage.

Question 1: How much are the closing costs?

Closing costs generally total two to five percent of a home's purchase price. They're not part of the down payment, and include such charges as an appraisal fee, credit report fee, title insurance, and prorated property tax. If your first mortgage wasn't obtained too long ago, you may be able to use some documents from your original closing. One thing you'll particularly want to watch out for is points, which are lender's origination fees. You'll receive a Good Faith Estimate well before you close the loan. Be sure to scrutinize it.

Question 2: What are the options for locking in a rate?

Some lenders give you the option of either locking in a rate or "floating," which means waiting for rates to potentially get lower. "Floating" can be tricky; be sure to ask your lender for details.

Question 3: Is there a prepayment penalty?

This is a fee, sometimes quite sizable, designed to discourage you from refinancing your loan at a later date. Try to avoid these, if at all possible. Also, make sure that the mortgage you're refinancing doesn't have one, or you may be in for a surprise when you pay it off.

Question 4: Will I need to escrow insurance and taxes?

Some lenders give you the option of escrowing your own insurance and taxes. You may not like the extra monthly payments that you've been giving the bank for this purpose, and are hoping a new lender will let you handle them yourself. There may be an added fee for this privilege, so make sure you check.

Question 5: How long will it take to close?

Closing times vary by lender. If you need to close the loan sooner than later, make sure that your lender can accommodate you.

So what do you do now that you're armed with knowledge? Heed the sage lyrics of Toni Tennille, who crooned, "My momma told me: 'You better shop around.'" Start shopping for lenders and ask them the questions listed above. They'll help you to make an apples-to-apples comparison that should ultimately result in a loan that's music to your ears.

By MortgageLoan.com

Overcoming Bad Credit Scrores with a Home Equity Loan or Second Mortgage

If you have bad credit, but want to save some money and repair your credit score, take out a home equity loan. Of course you need to own a home first, but if you already own a home, and are serious about raising credit score and saving money, then a 2nd mortgage is a great start. Home equity loans will enable you to pay off collections, bad debts, judgements, and past due credit cards. Even if you had a bankruptcy years ago, home equity loans can offer solutions to many high interest debt problems. Second mortgages have become somewhat easier for homeowners to qualify for with credit issues, such as, low credit scores, late payments, or collection accounts.

The down-side is that you won�t be offered prime interest rates from any second mortgage lender if you have low credit scores and past late payments reported with your mortgage loans. Is paying a higher rate the end of the world? Of course not� It is a temporary finance solution to get you back on track.


The bottom line you need to focus on is whether or not the home equity loan offers you monthly savings by consolidating your debt. If you save a few hundred dollars a month and eliminate revolving credit cards, then who cares what about the interest rate. Besides, as soon as your credit score increases to a 680 fico, you can refinance the sub-prime equity loan for a reduced rate second mortgage and save even more a month. Remember, �Rome wasn�t built in a day.� With debt consolidation, it�s not all or nothing. If you can save money now with a bad credit home equity loan, then take advantage of the monthly savings.

By: www.simplifiedbadcreditrepair.com

IRS Home Loan Refinance

If IRS home loan refinance taxes are due, then the loan receiver must notify the IRS agent in order to report any income gained financially through the loan. Refinancing is generally done when interest rates drop and it is more beneficial to the homeowner to apply for a lower rate thus allowing the monthly payment to decrease. They also have the option of pocketing that extra interest rate money into their bank accounts in one lump sum. Another reason homeowners refinance is to turn an adjustable rate mortgage into a fixed rate mortgage.

"And Jesus answering said unto them, 'Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.' And they marvelled at him" (Mark 12:17). IRS home loan refinance taxes are due with a homeowner's regular income tax. This information should be included on the federal tax return the following year. In order to find the best refinanced mortgage rate, it is advised to check the Internet. Lenders update interest rates daily and printed publications cannot keep up with the information as effectively as online publications. Information to be aware of when refinancing is listed in the closing costs a lender charges. Each lender charges a different amount of closing costs.

A third party mortgage broker may have additional fees included in the closing costs, but may offer a better interest rate than traditional banking institutions. Consumers should use online mortgage calculators to figure out the difference in interest rates compared with the closing costs to see which offer is more economically suited to the homeowner. The taxes are only paid on the actual income earned by lowering the interest rate if taken out of the equity. IRS home loan refinance taxes do not apply to an increase in a home's equity growth because of the refinance loan.

Those that are interested in learning more about IRS home loan refinance taxing regulations can view the IRS website for additional information or contact an IRS agent with any questions concerning his/her individual situation. This tax may not be due for everyone, and it is important to be aware of the tax laws as they pertain to home ownership and home financing. It is recommended that before choosing a refinancing lender, to research and review at least three other lenders and their lending options. Making an informed decision about the largest purchase in one's life should not be a decision made without adequate research and information.

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/homerefinance

Home Equity Line of Credit Loans

Home equity line of credit loans are a way of using the money that you've invested in your mortgage by borrowing against it. Essentially, a home equity loan is a 'second mortgage' - a loan secured by your property. If you don't make good on your payments, the lending company or bank can force the sale of your house to recover their money.

There are two major types of Home equity line of credit loans - home equity loans and home equity lines of credit, also called HELOCs. Most lenders that offer home equity loans offer both kinds. A home equity loan for $10,000 and a home equity line of credit for $10,000 are two completely different animals though they have a lot of similar features.

Home Equity Line of Credit Loan

If you apply for and are granted a home equity loan for $10,000 at 7% APR for 15 years, you will receive a check or a deposit to your bank account of $10,000. That is the full amount of the loan that you can ever draw on that particular application. Depending on the terms agreed upon, you may have one to several months before you have to begin repaying the loan. You'll pay a fixed amount every month until the full amount of the loan and the interest charge is paid off. You'll know from the very start how much you'll be repaying.


Home Equity Loan - Line of Credit

A home equity line of credit - a HELOC - is much more like a credit card. When you apply for and are granted a home equity line of credit, the bank establishes a 'line of credit' - which functions just the way that a 'credit limit' does on your credit card. You may receive special checks or a plastic card with which to access your line of credit - but you don't receive the full amount at one time.


In fact, you don't have to take any of it immediately. You can draw on the line of credit at any time, up to the full amount of the line of credit throughout the agreed-upon life of the loan. Suppose that you're doing some home repairs. You can use your home equity line of credit to pay for $2,000 worth of roofing tiles. That leaves you $8,000 in your line of credit. Three weeks later, you can use your line of credit to pay for $4,500 worth of windows - and still have $3,500 left that you can borrow against.

If you then start paying back on your home equity line of credit, that money becomes available to you again. If you pay back $1,000 of what you've borrowed, you now have $4,500 on your line of credit.


HELOC Interest Rates

HELOCs usually have variable interest rates which are typically tied to the prime interest rate. The interest due on a HELOC is calculated on a daily basis based on the outstanding balance. HELOCs do not have interest rate adjustment caps, so if the prime interest rate were to go very high, the interest rate on a HELOC would also be high. The maximum interest rate that may be charged on a HELOC is 18%, except in North Carolina where it is 16%. Some home equity lines of credit do allow conversion to a fixed-rate loans.


HELOC Term

Home equity lines typically have a draw period of five to ten years, followed by a repayment period of 10 to 20 years. There are many variations on this theme.

HELOC Fees

Up front costs for obtaining a home equity line of credit are typically low. Many lenders charge no fees to set up a HELOC. Some lenders charge continuing annual fees or access fees.

Uses for a Second Mortgage

The most common uses for a home equity line of credit is to obtain equity from a borrower's home for some other purpose. Typical uses for the money obtained from a HELOC may include:

  • Obtaining cash for home additions, remodeling, repairs, or renovations

  • Obtaining cash for other significant purchases

  • Obtaining cash to pay off or consolidate other debt (such as credit card debt, car loans, or student loans)

Bad Credit Loans Made Easier by Pre-Approval

Imagine the indignity of finding your dream home, having your offer accepted by an eager seller, and then having the lender say, "No!" You end up upset and embarrassed. The seller gets angry that you tied up his home. Worst of all, you may lose the contract.

You can avoid all this by getting pre-approved for a mortgage. It's even more important to seek pre-approval if your credit history is bad.

Pre-qualification

To pre-qualify for a bad credit loan, you'll need to provide information about your income, your total debt, and your assets. The lender will then review those numbers and estimate the amount of the loan for which you would qualify. The lender, however, is not obligated to lend you the money until the information that you provide is verified.

Although pre-qualification is free and can give you an idea of how much you can afford to spend on a house, pre-approval gives you a financial foundation, much like your house's foundation.


Pre-approval

Before a lender will pre-approve you for a bad credit loan, your credit and income information must be verified. A small fee is usually charged for this service, and once you're approved, you'll receive a letter that states the loan amount and the length of time that the offer will remain open.

This can be a persuasive piece of information to a seller, who won't have to worry about whether you'll be approved for financing and if you're able to complete a deal. Pre-approval can also speed up a closing because the lender has already done a lot of the legwork needed for the final loan commitment.

If you're looking for a bad credit mortgage, taking the time to get pre-approval can both save you the worry and embarrassment of being turned down for a mortgage, and get you into your new home much faster.

By Jan Lindsey

Bad Credit Does Not Mean You Are A Bad Person

Have you recently applied for a loan only to hear the dreaded word �denied�? This type of situation is one that can be devastating. It doesn�t mean you are irresponsible or shirk your bills. Regardless of the stigma attached to a low credit rating, there are probably logical reasons for your less than flawless credit. Still, the damage has been done. Now it�s time to fix it. If you follow some simple credit repair tips, you could be on your way to mending your credit.

The first credit repair tip to remember is that you can dispute any items on your credit report. The credit bureau must prove any claims. If they cannot prove them, they must remove the items from your credit file. If they don�t respond within one month of your disputing of an item, they must remove that item from your credit report.

Another credit repair tip is to contact any creditors with which you have outstanding accounts. Sometimes, being candid about your financial woes is the best option. Schedule a payment arrangement on the contingency that they update your credit report to reflect the account as being up to date. Make sure to keep your new payment arrangements. Getting behind again is the worst thing you can do when trying to boost your credit rating.

A simpler credit repair tip is one that might appeal to you if you are overwhelmed by the prospect of contacting creditors. You always have an option of having someone do the �fix-it� work for you. You can approach a credit repair company. Just be sure that you read all the fine print in any agreement. Remember that according to the Credit Repair Organization Act of 1997, credit repair companies are prohibited from accepting a dime from you until service has been rendered. Make sure that they have given you documentation of all payments, contract terms, etc. They should also be able to give you an estimated time frame of how long the reconstruction process will take.

No credit repair tip can magically erase the blemishes that taint your credit report. However, following these few simple credit repair tips can help shape your credit into that of a more desirable candidate. Take steps toward making your loan application disappointments turn into a thing of the past. Before you know it, you may hear that magic word �approved�!

By: www.businessremortgage.co.uk

Refinance Interest Rate

Refinance interest rates provide consumers with information regarding the percentage of interest that will be paid when they choose to refinance. This percentage can vary considerably from one mortgage company to another. If the consumer is researching available options for refinancing, there are many mortgage companies to choose from. Each will offer a different refinance interest rate. When a person chooses refinancing, they will be given calculations and worktables to help determine what kind of rate they will be able to achieve. Many of these calculations can be done before the individual officially completes the application process. It is important to seek quotes and information before beginning the application process.

An aspect of a consumers financial history that will affect his or her refinance interest rate is the credit score. Before applying for a loan, the individual should check his or her credit history to make sure they don't find any surprises. Sometimes, an error can show up on the credit report or the individual may even find credit items that they have never seen before. These errors and wrong reports can negatively affect refinance interest rates. It is vital to get them cleared up before going further with research so that it is possible to receive better deals from potential lenders.

Individuals can seek refinancing in a variety of forms. Lenders offer both fixed rate mortgages (FRM) and adjustable rate mortgages (ARM) for their loans. A FRM is a refinance interest rate that will stay the same over the term of the loan, whether that is 15 years, 20 years, or 30 years. With an ARM, however, the refinance interest rates will change. If the individual applies for an ARM, they should check to determine what basis the mortgage company uses to change the percentages. Also, it is important to research other factors affecting interest, such as the points that the lender charges and any other fees or restrictions you will incur.

The Federal Truth in Lending Law requires mortgage companies to truthfully report the APR (Annual Percent Rate) that they charge for each loan. By checking out the APR when looking at refinance interest rates, the consumer will be able to compare one company's quotes with another's. The individual will also be able to discover if a lender is charging hidden fees or up-front costs to the loan. The Internet is the greatest resource when seeking information on this and similar subjects. No matter where the individual seeks information, gathering as much knowledge on the subject will allow the consumer to make the best decision. "A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels" (Proverbs 1:5).

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/refinancemortgage

Bad Credit Debt Consolidation Services

If an individual can no longer handle his debt, a credit counselor can make an in depth study of his financial situation and suggest enrolling in a debt consolidation service or a debt management plan. In a debt consolidation service, the counselor negotiates with creditors for lower interest rates, waiver of fees and penalties and bargains for apportioning a larger amount of the debt repayment towards the payment of the principal amount. A new repayment plan is developed on terms favorable to the customer, so that debts can be paid off faster without the burden of high interest rates.

Upon agreement of the new terms and conditions of repayment, multiple debts are consolidated into equal monthly installments. The customer deposits this amount with the credit service who then makes payments to individual creditors. Once enrolled in a debt consolidation service, an individual has to pay the entire amount owed to the creditors.

Debt consolidation services are offered by profit and non-profit organizations. The terms of repayment are the same for both. A legitimate organization charges a flat monthly fee on every individual debt account handled.

It is important to keep track of how the consolidation service operates to make sure that each account is properly closed before the consolidation begins, and the reduction in the rate of interest and waiver of certain penalties has been granted. Also, it is wise to check whether the amount deposited under the debt consolidation service is properly disbursed to the concerned creditors.

A legitimate organization will not handle any account that is six months old and is charged off. It will make it a point to inform the customer of how long it will take to pay off individual accounts, and may offer the customer the option to select the debt accounts to be handled by the organization.

By: www.businessremortgage.co.uk

No Equity Home Loans Could Fix Leaking Roofs But Cost You a House

If you could wish yourself somewhere else, you would. Bills are mounting, the roof is leaking, and you're in the middle of the worst rainy season in recent memory. For the moment, however, you're pressed for time and strapped for cash, and there's not much you can do about these. Then, out of the blue, a lender shoves a mouth-watering offer at you, in the form of a no equity home loan. �Salvation,� you think.

Before you jump in and take as much as the lender can give, take the time to mull over this question: is a no home equity loan truly the answer to your financing needs? There is a big gulf of difference between drawing on the value of your home when you get a no equity home loan and exceeding this value.


Consider the following before signing anything:


1. Can you take the risk?

Some experts see no equity home loan as a glossed-over nickname for a high loan to value, or LTV, home equity loan. An LTV loan is one where the loan granted will be equal to, or even exceed by as much as 25%, the mortgage value of your home.

2. Can you handle the interest rates?

Usually, a no equity home loan comes with high interest rates - say, 2 to 6 percent higher than the standard. However, while the rates of no equity home loans are typically higher, they vary depending on a host of factors, such as your credit status, the financing institution, interest rates prevailing in the market, and the loan�s structure.


3. Can you take on the added requirements?

In obtaining a no equity home loan, you must take out a private mortgage insurance, or PMI. This adds between 0.5 to 1 percent to your total loan. PMI covers the loan�s total amount that is more than 80% of your home�s total estimated value but not over 100% yet. This means PMI is tied to 20% of the secured portion of your loan.

4. Can you manage the tax implications?

Home equity loans with interests of up to $100,000 are tax deductible. If you have a spouse and both of you file separate tax returns, divide this amount by two. In high-LTV loans, no benefit like this applies. So, if you take out a no equity home loan, you had better be prepared for tax season because any loan amount in excess of your home�s actual value is not tax deductible.

5. Can you live with the inconvenience should you ever have to sell you home?

Suppose you have to sell your house on short notice. The house is valued at $200,000 and you owe $250,000 on it. You have a problem sitting on your lap, and it's the same problem that's lining your pocket. Failure to come up with the full amount you borrowed obviously causes default in your loan financing. Can you say bankrupt without wincing?

So, what now? Water still trickles down the roof, and your bills continue to pile up with clockwork precision. Loans may seem the only oasis in the financing desert, but applying for no equity home loan is not a practical solution to your financial woes. If you truly have to take out a loan to get that roof fixed, look for a hybrid of traditional home equity loan and unsecured personal loan. No equity home loans could fix the leak, but it might cost you a whole house later on.

By Rony Walker

Home Refinancing Rate

Home refinancing rates have been at an all-time low for the past decade and are only now moving upward at a slow rate. The drop in the American economy during the late 1980's when they skyrocketed caused more people to buy less property, but many used that period to save their expendable income. As the rates dropped in the 1990's, the homeowner market took a leap upward as many took advantage of the lower home refinancing opportunities to recover from other debts or to use equity in home values, which rapidly increased during that period, to purchase new investment property with the cash-out equity of their current mortgage. Discuss the terms in full with a lender and know what obligations the home refinancing rate demands.

A current rate is around the 4 - 6% range depending on the length of the loan and the ARM applicable to the fixed rate or variable rate loan. Some are higher than the 2-3% mortgages offered less than five years ago, but this current home refinancing rate is lower than only eight to ten years ago when the "good" rates were 7-9%. These numbers have changed dramatically and in turn so have the house values. Property is assessed at a much higher rate than ever before and a home built for less than $10,000 thirty years ago can now demand a resell price of over 15 times that amount. The trade off is the ability to draw off the equity of 5% more or less and reinvest in new property or pay off other debts or use it to lower previous home refinancing rates on earlier loans.

A homeowner can take advantage of these to use their homes equity or to hasten the path to getting out from under the mortgage debt burden. A lower home refinancing rate will allow the borrower to either redo their loan for a shorter period of time, lowering the amount of interest to be repaid, or the home refinancing rate loan will allow for lower payments on a greater amount of loan when using the equity to increase the loan amount. It is a wise move for a homeowner to take advantage of lower rates to make a means to get out from under their debts, or to make strategic financial moves to invest in property that will pay off. Like the Proverbs 31 woman, who "considereth a field and buyeth it" (Proverbs 31:16), there is a time to buy and a time to sell. Taking advantage of these opportunities is a wise move to reduce debts overall, but the wise homeowner will consider the "field" before buying it. In other words, know the terms and conditions attached to home refinancing rates.

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/homerefinance

Home Equity Loan Pros and Cons

A Home Equity loan is a second mortgage that is secured by the equity in your home. It generally comes in one of two forms. One is the Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC, which works much like a credit card and allows you to draw money against your equity whenever you need it. The other form of second mortgage is the home equity loan, or HEL, which gives you the proceeds of the loan in a lump sum. Unlike the variable-rate HELOC, this loan's interest rate is fixed and has a set repayment schedule. The term of a home equity loan is usually limited to no more than 20 years, and total loan-to-value levels (first and second mortgages combined together) are generally 80% or less.


Home equity loans can have many positives. To begin with, you have quick access to cash at a favorable interest rate. Lending institutions generally offer home equities at competitive rates, depending on your credit history and the prevailing interest rate climate. And your loan payment is at least partially offset by the fact that the interest paid on second mortgages is almost always tax deductible. In addition, as long as homes continue to appreciate in value, the equity automatically helps to replenish itself even as you pay back the loan.

Furthermore, if you were to compare the interest rate of a home equity loan with that of a credit card or standard personal consumer loan, you�d find the home equity rates to be considerably lower. Rates on those funds are generally in the double-digit range, and can be laden with service charges and hidden fees. A home equity loan is relatively inexpensive to obtain, and the money can be used for virtually any purpose that you�d like: home improvements, college tuition, debt consolidation, a new car or even a vacation.

There are a few drawbacks that must also be considered, however. Many homeowners do prefer the fact that the home equity loan comes with a fixed rate; however, that rate is almost always higher than that of a regular 30-year fixed-rate first mortgage because the loan is in the second lien position. This makes the loan somewhat riskier for the lender because, in the event that home values fall and the property is foreclosed upon, they might not be able to recoup all of their investment. This higher rate is often somewhat exacerbated by the fact that the term of the home equity is only 20 years, thus creating a somewhat higher monthly payment than might be expected. This can be offset to some degree by the fact that home equities are generally much smaller loans to begin with.

The bottom line with home equity loans, as with all financial products, is to be mindful of your own personal bottom line. Equity in your home can seem like money growing on trees, but be careful how much you pick. Compare loans and lenders, take only what you need, and make sure that the monthly payment is comfortably within your budget.

By: www.finweb.com

Home Equity Can Help You Resume Life after Bankruptcy

First, the good news. Your bankruptcy has been discharged, and your monthly obligations are lower. While bankruptcy protection doesn't necessarily relieve you of all your monthly obligations, you probably wouldn't have filed if it didn't significantly improve your financial picture. You should be better equipped to manage your normal debt load.

Now, the bad news.

You still need cash and your credit is trashed. Filing for bankruptcy doesn't mean that life stops. You may find that you need money for education, a wedding, medical bills, or home improvement--but now you have a bankruptcy under your belt and no one wants to lend you money.

It's hard to blame creditors for being leery of offering financing to an applicant who has already demonstrated a willingness to write off debt--regardless of the reason. And some experts estimate that one in ten bankruptcies involving real estate financing is not the borrower's first. Creditors don't want to come out on the losing end of a future bankruptcy.

Next, the good news--maybe.

Lenders probably won't grant you an unsecured loan, but you might still be able to find the cash you need. If you own your home and were allowed to retain your equity when your debts were discharged, a loan secured by your house may be the most feasible and affordable way to raise cash.

If your need is great and immediate, and you know that you can make your payments, look into qualifying for a home equity loan after discharging your bankruptcy. Consider carefully the implications before committing to a loan--you will be securing it with your house, and failing to make the payments could cost you the only asset you have left.

Cashing in on Your Home Equity.

First, get an idea of what your home is worth by checking out recent sales in your neighborhood or using an online residential property value estimator. The lender will need to know the amount of available equity, and will want a copy of your bankruptcy documents and credit report. Check online or locally for post-bankruptcy home equity mortgages, compare rates and terms and find a deal you can live with.

By Gina Pogol
Mortgage Credit Problems Columnist


Equity Loans For A Modular Home

Equity loans for a modular home are loans that are granted to a borrower based on the equity in their current house. An equity loan for modular homes can have different interest rates and terms, depending on the lending company that a homeowner works with. There are many reasons that homeowners are looking for help in this area, and these reasons can span from financial troubles to vacation funding. There are many situations where these housing funds can be beneficial and save all homeowners money. To find what kind of things a homeowner may qualify for, they can browse the Internet where mortgage rates are advertised and lending agencies are looking for customers to work with that want help in this area.

A modular home equity is the financial difference between the amount owed on the house and what the market value of it is worth. For example, when a manufactured home has a market value of $100,000 and the homeowner owes $80,000 on the mortgage note, the equity is equal to $20,000. A homeowner can borrow money based on that information, and the equity loans for a modular home then becomes collateral for the equity loan for modular homes note. This is a second mortgage, and the house is at risk of repossession just as in the principal mortgage. When a lending company repossesses a house, then it is sold to pay off the debt, so if there is a default on equity loans for a modular home, the homeowner could be without their house.

There are a variety of equity loans for a modular home companies that will work with manufactured homeowners. Terms and interest rates for can vary depending upon the particular financial situation and the amount of investment in the home. Those looking for information will find that there are fixed rate loans available and there are adjustable rate loans available. Finding the right fit for individual needs can be accomplished online with the Internet.

The Internet is a wonderful place to inquire for more information about equity loan for modular homes companies who work with manufactured home lenders. There are hundreds of mortgage lenders advertising, and those looking for help can easily comparison shop and find good deals to negotiate from. Of course, a homeowner's personal credit report and history will have a vital impact on the interest rate extended in a contract. Using property value to borrow money can be a good and bad thing. Any debt that threatens your home or place of residence is risky. Those looking for help should carefully investigate these funds and review their own financial standing. Psalm 127:1 states,"Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain."

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/homeloans

Bankruptcy Home Equity Loan Choices

Many who file for bankruptcy use home equity in their settlement arrangement. Bankruptcy does not remove any liens on a home such as a mortgage. But if there is more home equity built up than is required to cover the loan, it is an asset that can be tapped into for needed cash in accordance with the rules of the type of bankruptcy a person has filed.

Bankruptcy is a legal proceeding where a debtor declares an inability to pay debts as they become due. Since the Bankruptcy Abuse Protection and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, personal bankruptcy filings for the year ending June 30, 2006, fell 9.46 percent to 1,453,008.


The two most popular bankruptcy options are:

Chapter 7 - Its purpose is to achieve a fair distribution of the debtor�s available non-exempt property. Unsecured debts not reaffirmed are discharged, providing a fresh financial start.

Chapter 13 - Available only to someone with regular income whose debts do not exceed specific amounts. It is used to budget future earnings under a plan to pay unsecured creditors.

In a chapter 7 bankruptcy, every state has its own laws regarding the type and amount of property a person can keep. Under chapter 13, a person does not have to surrender any property.

�It�s important to have competent counsel advise you,� says Ted Janger of The American Bankruptcy Institute; �both about the choices among chapters and about how best to make sure that bankruptcy operates to solve your financial difficulties, rather than just as a hiatus.�

Bankruptcy negatively impacts your credit in the short and medium term because it remains as a black mark on your credit report for up to ten years. However, some creditors offer new loans to bankruptcy debtors because they cannot file bankruptcy again for many years.

Mike Hamel is the author of three business books and several articles about mortgage financing. His material is featured on sites like http://www.badcreditmortgagerefinancingnow.com To see if a bankruptcy home equity loan makes sense in your particular situation, you can complete the no-obligation loan request at Bad Credit Mortgage Refinancing Now.

By Mike Hamel