A cash-out refinance is a powerful financial tool that allows homeowners to access the wealth they have built in their property. Unlike a traditional ...
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The journey of homeownership rarely ends with that very first mortgage. As life unfolds and circumstances shift, your initial home loan may no longer ...
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For many homeowners, their property represents their most significant financial asset, one that grows in value over time. This growth, known as home e...
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A mortgage is often the largest financial commitment a person will make, and the initial interest rate you secure is not necessarily the one you must ...
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The decision between a 15-year and a 30-year mortgage is one of the most significant financial choices a homebuyer can make, setting the trajectory fo...
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The choice between a 15-year and a 30-year mortgage is one of the most significant financial decisions a homebuyer or refinancer will make. This decis...
Read MoreLenders typically require an escrow account to protect their financial interest in your property. By ensuring that property taxes and insurance are paid on time, the lender prevents situations like tax liens (which take priority over the mortgage) or uninsured damage from a fire or storm, both of which could jeopardize the value of the property that secures the loan.
You will need a substantial amount of equity. Most lenders will require a minimum of 25-35% equity remaining in the home after the third mortgage is issued. For example, if your home is worth $500,000 and you have a $300,000 first mortgage and a $100,000 second mortgage, you have $100,000 in equity (20%). This likely wouldn’t be enough for a third mortgage. You would need a lower combined loan balance on the first two loans.
Recasting is an excellent strategy in specific situations, such as:
You receive a large sum of money (e.g., inheritance, bonus, or sale of an asset).
You want to lower your monthly obligations but have a low interest rate you don’t want to lose by refinancing.
You want a simple, low-cost way to adjust your mortgage after a significant principal paydown.
Your share is typically calculated based on your “percentage of ownership” in the common elements of the community, which is usually outlined in the HOA’s governing documents. This percentage is often, but not always, tied to the square footage or value of your unit relative to others.
While rare, servicer errors can occur. If you receive a late notice or cancellation warning from your tax authority or insurance company, contact your mortgage servicer immediately. They are responsible for making timely payments from your escrow funds. Keep all documentation and follow up in writing. The servicer is typically required to pay any late fees incurred due to their error.
