Impact on Your Overall Debt Load

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Understanding Quantitative Tightening and Its Impact on Mortgage Rates

Quantitative tightening (QT) is a monetary policy tool employed by central banks, such as the U.S. Federal Reserve, to reduce the amount of liquidity ...

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How to Check and Improve Your Credit Score for a Better Mortgage

Your credit score is far more than just a number; it is the cornerstone of your financial profile and a critical factor in the mortgage application pr...

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Conventional Conforming vs. Non-Conforming Loans: A Homebuyer’s Guide

Navigating the mortgage landscape requires understanding the fundamental categories of home loans, primarily the distinction between conventional conf...

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What You Need to Know About HOA Fees When Getting a Mortgage

When purchasing a home, particularly a condominium, townhouse, or a property in a planned community, prospective buyers must account for more than jus...

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How Mortgage Points Work to Lower Your Interest Rate

In the complex landscape of home financing, the concept of mortgage points offers a strategic tool for long-term savings. Essentially, mortgage points...

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Why Your Credit Score Is the Key to Your Mortgage Rate

When you begin the journey of purchasing a home, you quickly learn that your credit score is more than just a number—it is the financial passport th...

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Loan Officer (LO) Comp: This refers to the commission paid directly to the individual loan officer for the loans they originate. Branch/Business Producing Manager (BIC) Comp: This is the compensation for the “Branch Manager in Charge” or a producing manager, which typically includes their own personal loan production commissions PLUS an override (a smaller percentage) on the volume closed by the other loan officers they manage.

Closing Delays: The home buying process is time-sensitive. Starting over can add 2-4 weeks, potentially causing you to miss your closing date and breach the contract.
Losing Your Earnest Money Deposit: If the delay causes you to fail to close on time, the seller could be entitled to keep your deposit.
Additional Costs: You will likely have to pay for a new appraisal and may lose application fees paid to the first lender.
Straining Seller Relations: The seller may become anxious and less willing to negotiate if issues arise.

Act immediately and proactively. Do not ignore the problem. Your options include:
Contact Your Lender: Lenders have hardship programs and may offer forbearance, a loan modification, or a repayment plan.
Explore Government Programs: Programs like the FHA’s Partial Claim or VA options may be available.
Seek Counseling: A HUD-approved housing counselor can provide free, expert advice.

Furnishing the interior is typically the higher priority for most homeowners, as it’s essential for daily living. However, you should also budget for at least basic landscaping (like grass and a few shrubs) to protect your soil and prevent erosion. Major landscaping projects can often be phased over several years.

Be prepared to walk away. If a lender is unwilling to discuss their rates or fees, it may be a sign of poor customer service. Thank them for their time and take your business to a lender who is more responsive. Having multiple offers ensures you are never forced to accept a bad deal out of desperation.