Category Archives: Mortgage Guidelines

Government Releases Additional HARP Guidance For Underwater Homeowners

Tuesday, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac unveiled lender instructions for the government’s revamped HARP program. Continue reading

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Banks Resume Tightening Mortgage Guidelines

After a 2-year easing cycle, the nation’s biggest bank banks report that they’ve reversed course, and are raising the bar on mortgage approvals. Continue reading

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The Government’s Revamped HARP Program For Underwater Homeowners

The Federal Home Finance Agency announced big changes to its Home Affordable Refinance Program Monday. More commonly called HARP, the Home Affordable Refinance Program is meant to give “underwater homeowners” opportunity to refinance. Continue reading

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Conforming Loan Limits Drop In High-Cost Areas

For homeowners in high-cost areas nationwide, conforming and FHA loan limits have dropped by as much as 14 percent. Continue reading

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After A Pause, Mortgage Guidelines Resume Tightening

Mortgage guidelines appear to be tightening with the nation’s largest banks. Continue reading

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Is An FHA Mortgage Better Than A Conforming One?

The FHA is insuring a greater percentage of loans than during any time in recent history. In 2006, it insured roughly 5 percent of the purchase mortgage market. Today, it insures one-quarter. “Going FHA” is more common than ever before — but is it better? Continue reading

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Temporary Conforming Loan Limits Expire September 30, 2011

If you live in a high-cost area, keep an eye on your calendar. Effective October 1, 2011, temporary conforming loan limits will be lowered nationwide. Perhaps by as much as 14 percent. Continue reading

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Mortgage Guidelines Start To Loosen At The Country’s Biggest Banks

The Federal Reserve’s quarterly survey of senior loan officers revealed that an overwhelmingly majority of U.S. banks have stopped tightening mortgage requirements for prime borrowers. Continue reading

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Mortgage Guidelines Start To Loosen At The Country’s Biggest Banks

The Federal Reserve’s quarterly survey of senior loan officers revealed that an overwhelming majority of U.S. banks have stopped tightening mortgage requirements for prime borrowers. Continue reading

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Conforming ARMs From 2004-2006 Are Adjusting To 3 Percent

If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage that’s due to reset this season, don’t rush to refinance. For at least one more year, you can benefit from low rates and low payments. As for the next adjustment, though, that’s anyone’s guess. Continue reading

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