Real Estate FAQ | Attorney G. Warren Thornell A.P.L.C.

Where should I shop for home loans or mortgages?

Many entities, including banks, credit unions, savings and loans, insurance companies, and mortgage bankers, make home loans. Lenders and terms change frequently as new companies appear, old ones merge, and market conditions fluctuate. To get the best deal, it's a good idea to compare loans and fees with at least a half a dozen lenders -- or to get the help of an experienced mortgage broker, who can help you sift through the latest offerings.

Because many types of home loans are standardized to comply with government rules, comparison shopping isn't difficult. (The Federal National Mortgage Association or "Fannie Mae," as well as other quasi-governmental corporations set these rules as a condition for buying loans off the lenders.)

However, you'll need to decide what type of mortgage you're interested in first, whether it's a fixed rate, adjustable rate, or one of the many hybrids available now. Once you've narrowed your sights to a particular size, type, and length of mortgage -- such as a 30-year fixed term mortgage for $300,000 -- you'll be ready to compare apples to apples.

Mortgage rates and fees are usually published in the real estate sections of metropolitan newspapers and on mortgage websites. It's wise to do some advance research even if you decide to work with a loan broker, so that you'll have a sense of the market. Some loan brokers charge the consumer directly, others collect a fee from the lender (though this ultimately adds a little to what you pay for your mortgage).

Be sure to check out government-subsidized mortgages, which offer both no-down-payment and low-down-payment plans. Also, ask banks and other private lenders about any "first-time buyer" programs that offer low-down-payment plans and flexible qualifying guidelines to low- and moderate-income buyers with good credit./p>

Finally, don't forget private sources of mortgage money -- parents, other relatives, friends, or even the seller of the house you want to buy. Borrowing money privately is usually the most cost-efficient mortgage of all. And its popularity is increasing as investors turn to real estate as a high-appreciation place to put their money.

What are low down payment options, for buyers who can't afford a 20% down payment?

Assuming you can afford (and qualify for) high monthly mortgage payments and have a high credit score, you should be able to find a low (5% to 15%) or even no down payment loan. However, you may have to pay a higher interest rate and loan fees (points) than someone making a larger down payment.

If you put down less than 20%, you may have to either pay for private mortgage insurance (PMI) or, to avoid PMI, take out two separate loans (a first mortgage and a second mortgage).

What is private mortgage insurance (PMI)?

Private mortgage insurance or "PMI" policies are designed to reimburse a mortgage lender up to a certain amount if you default on your loan and your house isn't worth enough to entirely repay the lender through a foreclosure sale. Most lenders require PMI on loans where the borrower makes a down payment of less than 20%.

Premiums are usually paid monthly and typically cost around one-half of one percent of the mortgage loan. You can normally cancel the PMI once your equity in the house reaches 20-25%, so long as you've made timely mortgage payments.

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.

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