We may not be comparing real apples and oranges, but we’re coming pretty close in the home financing industry. And if you’re at all interested in using your home’s equity to access cash, then this comparison is for you.
As we discussed in our last email, there are two common ways to get cash from your home—a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) or a cash-out refinance.
In the current environment, many people want to keep the great interest rate they already have on their home loan, so they automatically choose a HELOC over a refinance. But wait—there’s a big difference that can make the benefits hard to compare at a glance. HELOCs have adjustable interest rates, whereas most home loans are fixed.
Take a look.
If you’re interested in exploring your options more or you have questions about home financing, please reach out. I’ll be happy to help.
Good news! When it comes to documenting income, self-employed borrowers can get back to normal.
What does this mean?
Borrowers who rely on self-employment income may now submit their most recent tax returns, so long as they are no earlier than 2020, in typical scenarios.
How does this help?
Under previous Covid-era rules for certain government-backed loans, self-employed borrowers had to submit recent P&L statements, asset account statements and more. It’s much easier for most to supply tax returns instead.
A good credit score is important for more reasons than just obtaining new credit. These days, it can factor into everything from landing a new job to getting the best deal on your insurance policies. It's more important than ever to avoid late payments on your mortgage!
A 100 point drop for one late mortgage payment? It’s true. A single 30-day-late mortgage payment can cause your score to drop by as much as a hundred points. Credit scoring algorithms vary based on many factors, and in some instances, the damage may be even greater and last for years.
The costs accumulate. At the time, a single missed payment will cost you only a late fee, but the expense really adds up on your next loan or missed opportunity. Low credit scores typically mean a higher rate and cost. Higher rates can mean hundreds or thousands of dollars of extra expense over the life of a loan.
Missed payments are usually unplanned. Usually, events beyond our control lead to late payments, such as an accident, illness, job loss or family issue. At other times, carelessness or a hectic life may result in a forgotten payment.
What can you do?
Little other than time will decrease the negative impact of a late payment, so prevention is the one sure remedy. If you don't already have a good system in place to assure timely payments and are not sure what's best, reach out anytime. We'll be happy to help set up a plan that's right for you.
Today’s rates
New Home Purchase
Conforming Interest rate
30-yr fixed 3.250%
Rates are not static, they often change throughout the day.
If another lender offers a lower rate, there's a buy-down involved.
Often not mentioned when quoting the lower rate
Actual rates vary based on Loan Amount, Middle Credit Score, DTI, Term
Today’s rates based on a purchase 760 middle score, conforming loan, detached, primary residence, non-self-employed, detached, primary home
Jason, this is the last communication in my series about HELOCs. Thank you for allowing me to send you information these last several weeks. I hope you’ve found it valuable.
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