Frequently Asked Questions

Are you looking to buy or refinance a home or investment property? Here you can use our tools to learn more about home loans and find the best loan options to suit your needs and goals.

I have access to the top lenders in the United States and virtually every financing program. I am free to pick and choose from any of these various lenders to find exactly the right financial product that meets your needs. I am not forced to select just one financial product form one source, and I will develop a custom program to meet your specific needs.

Below are common questions.  At any point, feel free to e-mail or call me regarding any questions you may have. You can find my contact information at the bottom of each page. I am here to personally help you through the entire home financing process.

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Ø        What do your clients say about your service? Answer

Ø        Where can I buy or refinance real estate with your financing solution? Answer

Ø        Do you offer traditional financing, i.e. 30-year fixed rate products? Answer

Ø        How do I know how much house I can afford? Answer

Ø        What is the difference between a fixed-rate loan and an adjustable-rate loan? Answer

Ø        How is an index and margin used in an ARM? Answer

Ø        How do I know which type of mortgage is best for me? Answer

Ø        What does my mortgage payment include? Answer 

Ø        How much cash will I need to purchase a home? Answer


Q:What do your clients say about your service?
A: Read the testimonials.
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Q: Where can I buy or refinance real estate with your financing solution?
A: I am licensed in the following states: AL, AZ, CA, FL, MD, VA, and DC.
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Q:
Do you offer traditional financing, i.e. 30-year fixed rate products?
A: Absolutely, I offer the full range of conventional financing solutions.  The Asset Builder Loan is a special product that has tighter lending standards.  Also, it's not suitable for every situation.  Once I have a full understanding of your financial goals and current situation I can recommend the best solution.
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Q:
How do I know how much house I can afford?
A: Generally speaking, you can purchase a home with a value of two or three times your annual household income. However, the amount that you can borrow will also depend upon your employment history, credit history, current savings and debts, and the amount of down payment you are willing to make. You may also be able to take advantage of special loan programs for first time buyers to purchase a home with a higher value. Give me a call, and I can help you determine exactly how much you can afford.
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Q:
What is the difference between a fixed-rate loan and an adjustable-rate loan?

A: With a fixed-rate mortgage, the interest rate stays the same during the life of the loan. With an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), the interest changes periodically, typically in relation to an index. While the monthly payments that you make with a fixed-rate mortgage are relatively stable, payments on an ARM loan may change depending on the program. There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of mortgage, and the best way to select a loan product is by talking to me.
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Q
: How is an index and margin used in an ARM?

A: An index is an economic indicator that lenders use to set the interest rate for an ARM. Generally the interest rate that you pay is a combination of the index rate and a pre-specified margin. Three commonly used indices are the Monthly Treasury Average (MTA), the Cost of Funds of the 11th District Federal Home Loan Bank (COFI), and the London InterBank Offering Rate (LIBOR).  (See comparisons)
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Q
: How do I know which type of mortgage is best for me?

A: There is no simple formula to determine the type of mortgage that is best for you. As in a piano, where there are no bad notes - only notes played at the wrong time, your mortgage choice depends on a number of factors, including your current financial picture and how long you intend to keep your house.  I can help you evaluate your choices and help you make the most appropriate decision.
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Q
: What does my mortgage payment include?

A: For most homeowners, the monthly mortgage payments include three separate parts:

  • Principal: Repayment on the amount borrowed
  • Interest: Payment to the lender for the amount borrowed
  • Taxes & Insurance: Monthly payments are normally made into a special escrow account for items like hazard insurance and property taxes. This feature is sometimes optional, in which case the fees will be paid by you directly to the County Tax Assessor and property insurance company.

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Q:
How much cash will I need to purchase a home?
A: The amount of cash that is necessary depends on a number of items. Generally speaking, though, you will need to supply:

  • Earnest Money: The deposit that is supplied when you make an offer on the house
  • Down Payment: A percentage of the cost of the home that is due at settlement
  • Closing Costs: Costs associated with processing paperwork to purchase or refinance a house

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