Posts Tagged ‘Pa’

  • And the question is?

    MP900390083[1]
    Haven’t played Jeopardy in a while or watched it on TV. But I always thought that the premise was a good one. Give someone the answer and see if they can come up with the right question.  It occurred to me that I am usually walking around with what I think are  all the right answers to all kinds of questions. I guess  I might now recognize that I am somewhat pretentious in my conclusion.  I guess I need your help. How about I give you some answers and you give me what you think are the right questions. Hopefully, I can learn something with you and become a better agent.

    You know, years ago when I first got into the Real Estate business, I had a Broker who told me “Sam, you don’t sell real estate, you solve people’s problems”. That’s stuck with me and I think I have done a pretty good job in asking the right questions to solve those problems. But I think its time to get the customer’s take on this and get you to ask some questions. Anyway, lets see where we go with this and work together. I’ll give you the answer. You let me know what the questions should be. I’ll look at your questions and post them later to get some other folks to chime in if they think you are right wron.  Let me give you an example. 3.5% down payment  is the answer. The question might be,” What is an FHA mortgage ? ” Okay, lets give it a try.

    1.  Seller Assist is the answer. What is the question? This is the format which I won’t repeat every time. You’ll get the drift.
    2. No down payment required
    3. 28%/36%
    4. Buyer’s Agent
    5. Seller’s Agent
    6. Multiple Listing Service
    7. Escrow
    8. Radon Gas
    9. Short Sale
    10. Transunion, Experian, Equifax
    11. Title Insurance
    12.Prepaid Items
    13. 2 years worth of tax returns
    14. A real estate agent
    15. Purchase offer

    Okay, that’s enough for now. Give it a shot. Either comment below with your questions or email me if you like. The more I think about it there can be several different questions for the answers. In addition here is  a podcast that will explain how one might go about purchasing a multi family home where you can  live in and collect rent to help pay for your mortgage. If you would like to pursue that let me know. It can be challenging , but it can  be the start of a pretty good investment portfolio.

    Contact me at 610-737-2310 or email me at salvatoreruta13@gmail.com. Appreciate it.

  • PODCAST: 2012 Outlook Survey – Poll-Optimism Rises

    At this time of year every 4 years we are inundated with all kinds of political polls. Who leads, who’s behind, who looks good, are we better off now than before and who told the last lie about the other’s spouse? Makes me sick to my stomach. All that matters  is who I will vote for behind the closed curtain that first Tuesday in November.  And I am not telling anybody….

    But there are some polls that I put my trust in. Attached are two podcasts that give some idea how we are all feeling right now about the American Dream of  home ownership. It’s encouraging.

    Forget the banks, the bailout, Europe, China and the Fed.  Well maybe we can’t totally forget the Fed. Seems like they have their hands around our throats and won’t be satisfied until they have our great grandchildren hijacked and locked into indentured servitude.

    But take a listen to these 2 podcasts and feel good about yourselves and the tenacity you have in not giving up dreams of home ownership.

    Optimism growing  podcast 1

    Optimism growing podcast 2

    Hey I am not here to guarantee anything, but I have to feel at least we are making progress.  Hope you do too.
    Don’t forget, if you have any questions, give me a call at 610-737-2310 or email me at samruta@yahoo.com

  • Foreclosure? You might be entitled to some cash back.

    As if we don’t have enough to deal with in this economy, there is a possibility that if you were foreclosed in the past couple of years, the big banks might have screwed you. There is a real shocker, big banks taking advantage of folks. A really fine article put out by the National Association of Realtors explains the problem, how you as a consumer can try to get some of this pay back. Its time consuming, but in some cases you might be looking at anywhere from $15,000 to $125000 coming back to you. Not bad. The eligibility requirements are narrow but its worth a look see. Call me at 610-737-3210 if you need help to see if you might qualify. We can discuss, and then if need be, contact a good local attorney who can assist you in making your claim. Email also if you have a mind at samruta@yahoo.com

    Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

    Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

  • 5 things you can do to make sure you don’t miss the home buying opportunity of a life time.

     

    Well we have six months under our belts for 2012. What happened and what is going to happen? Prognostication has always been fun, but after 30 plus years in the Real Estate Sales business, I think I can at least spot some trends that are critical.  Recognizing those trends might give you a leg up on the competition for the purchase of your home.

    1. Sales are up. It’s good news and bad news. More sales mean more sellers are getting rid of those houses they can’t handle any more. Bad news, the inventory is shrinking. That includes foreclosures and God help us, short sales. I have heard several cases of multiple offers on a single property and buyers being very disappointed.
    So the first thing you should do is to  get a good real estate agent to work with. Tell he or she that you definitely want to buy and you are motivated to move quickly. Tell them that it is incumbent upon them to keep you informed as far as what is available and be ready to see it fast.  Let them know that you will work exclusively with them if they preform.  If you are going to shop with other agents, most of them will put you on the back burner and you will not find the deals.

    2. Get pre approved for a mortgage ahead of time so that you can move fast when you find the home you want. Your offer will be much stronger if you can indicate that your mortgage approval is conditioned only upon an appraisal for a home.
    Mortgage companies and banks in some cases are no longer willing to give you this service because of cost and risk. Have your real estate agent help with his or her contacts. Or start with your own bank and put the squeeze on them.

    3.  Look at bank owned properties (foreclosures) , than conventional, then short sales.  Start with bank owned.  No need to go through a lot of  paperwork from the seller to the bank to you. By this time, they own it and they want to get rid of it.  Your chances of getting a good price here are strong since there is no emotion attached or mortgage to pay off.
    Then try conventional. If the owners are not underwater and there is equity and they have to move, the motivation will be strong to keep the  selling price at similar levels of foreclosures.
    Last, Go ahead and try short sales, but you have to be patient. Make sure your agent is familiar with the process as well as the listing agent. And by the way, do not agree to use a short sale negotiating company that wants to charge you a fee as the buyer.  This could literally add thousands of dollars to your closing costs. This should be the responsibility of the seller.
    If you are a seller and need to sell because you are underwater, my advice is to contact an attorney who is familiar with negotiating with creditors. In most cases that means finding a good Bankruptcy attorney. You do not have to file bankruptcy to use these attorneys. But they are used to doing deals with creditors and they know the paperwork. You will pay a fee but it might be worth it to  renegotiate a first or second mortgage to get the house sold if you have a buyer.

    4. Do it soon. Interest rates are not going to stay this low forever. Let me give you an example. A  $200,000  mortgage at 3.5 %  for 30 years will mean monthly payments of $898.  That same mortgage at 5% will cost $1073 a month. And these amounts do not include taxes or insurance.

    5. Regardless of the offer, don’t forget to ask the sellers to help you with closing costs. Sellers are motivated to sell. But,…. And this is a big But. Don’t insult the seller with a low ball offer and ask for closing cost help.  You will probably put yourself in a lousy negotiating position and also insult the seller. Be reasonable. In any negotiation, both parties have to feel like they won something.

    Now get out there and go buy or  sell  a house.

    If you want me to help, then call me at 610-737-2310 or email me at  samruta@yahoo.com

     

  • HUD HOMES, Can I buy?

    Here is a great primer for starting that search for the dream home. Info comes right off the HUD site. Need help? Give me a call at 617-737-2310 or email me at samruta@yahoo.com

     

     

    GETTING STARTED

     

    1. HOW DO I KNOW IF I’M READY TO BUY A HOME?

    You can find out by asking yourself some questions:

     

     - Do I have a steady source of income (usually a job)? Have I been employed on a regular basis for the last 2-3 years? Is my current income reliable?
     - Do I have a good record of paying my bills?
     - Do I have few outstanding long-term debts, like car payments?
     - Do I have money saved for a down payment?
     - Do I have the ability to pay a mortgage every month, plus additional costs?

     

    If you can answer “yes” to these questions, you are probably ready to buy your own home.

     

    2. HOW DO I BEGIN THE PROCESS OF BUYING A HOME?

     

    Start by thinking about your situation. Are you ready to buy a home? How much can you afford in a monthly mortgage payment (see Question 4 for help)? How much space do you need? What areas of town do you like? After you answer these questions, make a “To Do” list and start doing casual research. Talk to friends and family, drive through neighborhoods, and look in the “Homes” section of the newspaper.

     

    3. HOW DOES PURCHASING A HOME COMPARE WITH RENTING?

     

    The two don’t really compare at all. The one advantage of renting is being generally free of most maintenance responsibilities. But by renting, you lose the chance to build equity, take advantage of tax benefits, and protect yourself against rent increases. Also, you may not be free to decorate without permission and may be at the mercy of the landlord for housing.

     

    Owning a home has many benefits. When you make a mortgage payment, you are building equity. And that’s an investment. Owning a home also qualifies you for tax breaks that assist you in dealing with your new financial responsibilities- like insurance, real estate taxes, and upkeep- which can be substantial. But given the freedom, stability, and security of owning your own home, they are worth it.

     

    4. HOW DOES THE LENDER DECIDE THE MAXIMUM LOAN AMOUNT THAT CAN AFFORD?

     

    The lender considers your debt-to-income ratio, which is a comparison of your gross (pre-tax) income to housing and non-housing expenses. Non-housing expenses include such long-term debts as car or student loan payments, alimony, or child support. According to the FHA, monthly mortgage payments should be no more than 29% of gross income, while the mortgage payment, combined with non-housing expenses, 4 should total no more than 41% of income. The lender also considers cash available for down payment and closing costs, credit history, etc. when determining your maximum loan amount.

     

    5. HOW DO I SELECT THE RIGHT REAL ESTATE AGENT?

     

    Start by asking family and friends if they can recommend an agent. Compile a list of several agents and talk to each before choosing one. Look for an agent who listens well and understands your needs, and whose judgment you trust. The ideal agent knows the local area well and has resources and contacts to help you in your search. Overall, you want to choose an agent that makes you feel comfortable and can provide all the knowledge and services you need.

     

    6. HOW CAN I DETERMINE MY HOUSING NEEDS BEFORE I BEGIN THE SEARCH?

     

    Your home should fit way you live, with spaces and features that appeal to the whole family. Before you begin looking at homes, make a list of your priorities – things like location and size. Should the house be close to certain schools? your job? to public transportation? How large should the house be? What type of lot do you prefer? What kinds of amenities are you looking for? Establish a set of minimum requirements and a ‘wish list.” Minimum requirements are things that a house must have for you to consider it, while a “wish list” covers things that you’d like to have but aren’t essential.

     

    FINDING YOUR HOME

     

    7WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR WHEN DECIDING ON A COMMUNITY?

     

    Select a community that will allow you to best live your daily life. Many people choose communities based on schools. Do you want access to shopping and public transportation? Is access to local facilities like libraries and museums important to you? Or do you prefer the peace and quiet of a rural community? When you find places that you like, talk to people that live there. They know the most about the area and will be your future neighbors. More than anything, you want a neighborhood where you feel comfortable in.

     

    8. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I’M FEELING EXCLUDED FROM CERTAIN NEIGHBORHOODS?

     

    Immediately contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) if you ever feel excluded from a neighborhood or particular house. Also, contact HUD if you believe you are being discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, nationality, familial status, or disability. HUD’s Office of Fair Housing has a hotline for reporting incidents of discrimination: 1-800-669-9777 (and 1-800-927-9275 for the hearing impaired).

     

    9. HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT LOCAL SCHOOLS?

     

    You can get information about school systems by contacting the city or county school board or the local schools. Your real estate agent may also be knowledgeable about schools in the area.

     

    10. HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT COMMUNITY RESOURCES?

     

    Contact the local chamber of commerce for promotional literature or talk to your real estate agent about welcome kits, maps, and other information. You may also want to visit the local library. It can be an excellent source for information on local events and resources, and the librarians will probably be able to answer many of the questions you have.

     

    11. HOW CAN I FIND OUT HOW MUCH HOMES ARE SELLING FOR IN CERTAIN COMMUNITIES AND NEIGHBORHOODS?

     

    Your real estate agent can give you a ballpark figure by showing you comparable listings. If you are working with a real estate professional, they may have access to comparable sales maintained on a database.

     

    12. HOW CAN I FIND INFORMATION ON THE PROPERTY TAX LIABILITY?

     

    The total amount of the previous year’s property taxes is usually included in the listing information. If it’s not, ask the seller for a tax receipt or contact the local assessor’s off ice. Tax rates can change from year to year, so these figures may be approximate.

     

    13. WHAT OTHER TAX ISSUES SHOULD I TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION?

     

    Keep in mind that your mortgage interest and real estate taxes will be deductible. A qualified real estate professional can give you more details on other tax benefits and liabilities,

     

    14. IS AN OLDER HOME A BETTER VALUE THAN A NEW ONE?

     

    There isn’t a definitive answer to this question. You should look at each home for its individual characteristics. Generally, older homes may be in more established neighborhoods, offer more ambiance, and have lower property tax rates. People who buy older homes, however, shouldn’t mind maintaining their home and making some repairs. Newer homes tend to use more modern architecture and systems, are usually easier to maintain, and may be more energy-efficient. People who buy new homes often don’t want to worry initially about upkeep and repairs.

     

    15. WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR WHEN WALKING THROUGH A HOME?

     

    In addition to comparing the home to your minimum requirement and wish lists, use the HUD Home Scorecard and consider the following:

     

     - Is there enough room for both the present and the future?
     - Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms?
     - Is the house structurally sound?
     - Do the mechanical systems and appliances work?
     - Is the yard big enough?
     - Do you like the floor plan?
     - Will your furniture fit in the space? Is there enough storage space? (Bring a tape measure to better answer these questions.)
     - Does anything need to repaired or replaced? Will the seller repair or replace the items?
     - Imagine the house in good weather and bad, and in each season. Will you be happy with it year-round?

     

    Take your time and think carefully about each house you see. Ask your real estate agent to point out the pros and cons of each home from a professional standpoint.

     

    16. WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD I ASK WHEN LOOKING AT HOMES?

     

    Many of your questions should focus on potential problems and maintenance issues. Does anything need to be replaced? What things require ongoing maintenance (e.g., paint, roof, HVAC, appliances, carpet)? Also ask about the house and neighborhood, focusing on quality of life issues. Be sure the seller’s or real estate agent’s answers are clear and complete. Ask questions until you understand all of the information they’ve given. Making a list of questions ahead of time will help you organize your thoughts and arrange all of the information you receive. The HUD Home Scorecard can help you develop your question list.

     

    17. HOW CAN I KEEP TRACK OF ALL THE HOMES I SEE?

     

    If possible, take photographs of each house: the outside, the major rooms, the yard, and extra features that you like or ones you see as potential problems. And don’t hesitate to return for a second look. Use the HUD Home Scorecard to organize your photos and notes for each house.

     

    18. HOW MANY HOMES SHOULD I CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING ONE?

     

    There isn’t a set number of houses you should see before you decide. Visit as many as it takes to find the one you want. On average, homebuyers see 15 houses before choosing one. Just be sure to communicate often with your real estate agent about everything you’re looking for. It will help avoid wasting your time.

     

    YOU’VE FOUND IT

     

    19. WHAT DOES A HOME INSPECTOR DO, AND HOW DOES AN INSPECTION FIGURE IN THE PURCHASE OF A HOME?

     

    An inspector checks the safety of your potential new home. Home Inspectors focus especially on the structure, construction, and mechanical systems of the house and will make you aware of only repairs,that are needed.

     

    The Inspector does not evaluate whether or not you’re getting good value for your money. Generally, an inspector checks (and gives prices for repairs on): the electrical system, plumbing and waste disposal, the water heater, insulation and Ventilation, the HVAC system, water source and quality, the potential presence of pests, the foundation, doors, windows, ceilings, walls, floors, and roof. Be sure to hire a home inspector that is qualified and experienced.

     

    It’s a good idea to have an inspection before you sign a written offer since, once the deal is closed, you’ve bought the house as is.” Or, you may want to include an inspection clause in the offer when negotiating for a home. An inspection t clause gives you an ‘out” on buying the house if serious problems are found,or gives you the ability to renegotiate the purchase price if repairs are needed. An inspection clause can also specify that the seller must fix the problem(s) before you purchase the house.

     

    20. DO I NEED TO BE THERE FOR THE INSPECTION?

     

    It’s not required, but it’s a good idea. Following the inspection, the home inspector will be able to answer questions about the report and any problem areas. This is also an opportunity to hear an objective opinion on the home you’d I like to purchase and it is a good time to ask general, maintenance questions.

     

    21. ARE OTHER TYPES OF INSPECTIONS REQUIRED?

     

    If your home inspector discovers a serious problem a more specific Inspection may be recommended. It’s a good idea to consider having your home inspected for the presence of a variety of health-related risks like radon gas asbestos, or possible problems with the water or waste disposal system.

     

    22. HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM LEAD IN THE HOME?

     

    If the house you’re considering was built before 1978 and you have children under the age of seven, you will want to have an inspection for lead-based point. It’s important to know that lead flakes from paint can be present in both the home and in the soil surrounding the house. The problem can be fixed temporarily by repairing damaged paint surfaces or planting grass over effected soil. Hiring a lead abatement contractor to remove paint chips and seal damaged areas will fix the problem permanently.

     

    23. ARE POWER LINES A HEALTH HAZARD?

     

    There are no definitive research findings that indicate exposure to power lines results in greater instances of disease or illness.

     

    24. DO I NEED A LAWYER TO BUY A HOME?

     

    Laws vary by state. Some states require a lawyer to assist in several aspects of the home buying process while other states do not, as long as a qualified real estate professional is involved. Even if your state doesn’t require one, you may want to hire a lawyer to help with the complex paperwork and legal contracts. A lawyer can review contracts, make you aware of special considerations, and assist you with the closing process. Your real estate agent may be able to recommend a lawyer. If not, shop around. Find out what services are provided for what fee, and whether the attorney is experienced at representing homebuyers.

     

    25. DO I REALLY NEED HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE?

     

    Yes. A paid homeowner’s insurance policy (or a paid receipt for one) is required at closing, so arrangements will have to be made prior to that day. Plus, involving the insurance agent early in the home buying process can save you money. Insurance agents are a great resource for information on home safety and they can give tips on how to keep insurance premiums low.

     

    26. WHAT STEPS COULD I TAKE TO LOWER MY HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE COSTS?

     

    Be sure to shop around among several insurance companies. Also, consider the cost of insurance when you look at homes. Newer homes and homes constructed with materials like brick tend to have lower premiums. Think about avoiding areas prone to natural disasters, like flooding. Choose a home with a fire hydrant or a fire department nearby.

     

    27. IS THE HOME LOCATED IN A FLOOD PLAIN?

     

    Your real estate agent or lender can help you answer this question. If you live in a flood plain, the lender will require that you have flood insurance before lending any money to you. But if you live near a flood plain, you may choose whether or not to get flood insurance coverage for your home. Work with an insurance agent to construct a policy that fits your needs.

     

    28. WHAT OTHER ISSUES SHOULD I CONSIDER BEFORE I BUY MY HOME?

     

    Always check to see if the house is in a low-lying area, in a high-risk area for natural disasters (like earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, etc.), or in a hazardous materials area. Be sure the house meets building codes. Also consider local zoning laws, which could affect remodeling or making an addition in the future. Your real estate agent should be able to help you with these questions.

     

    29. HOW DO I MAKE AN OFFER?

     

    Your real estate agent will assist you in making an offer, which will include the following information:

     

     - Complete legal description of the property
     - Amount of earnest money
     - Down payment and financing details
     - Proposed move-in date
     - Price you are offering
     - Proposed closing date
     - Length of time the offer is valid
     - Details of the deal

     

    Remember that a sale commitment depends on negotiating a satisfactory contract with the seller, not just Making an offer.

     

    Other ways to lower ins-insurance costs include insuring your home and car(s) with the same company, increasing home security, and seeking group coverage through alumni or business associations. Insurance costs are always lowered by raising your deductibles, but this exposes you to a higher out-of-pocket cost if you have to file a claim.

     

    30. HOW DO I DETERMINE THE INITIAL OFFER?

     

    Unless you have a buyer’s agent, remember that the agent works for the seller. Make a point of asking him or her to keep your discussions and information confidential. Listen to your real estate agent’s advice, but follow your own instincts on deciding a fair price. Calculating your offer should involve several factors: what homes sell for in the area, the home’s condition, how long it’s been on the market, financing terms, and the seller’s situation. By the time you’re ready to make an offer, you should have a good idea of what the home is worth and what you can afford. And, be prepared for give-and-take negotiation, which is very common when buying a home. The buyer and seller may often go back and forth until they can agree on a price.

     

    31. WHAT IS EARNEST MONEY? HOW MUCH SHOULD I SET ASIDE?

     

    Earnest money is money put down to demonstrate your seriousness about buying a home. It must be substantial enough to demonstrate good faith and is usually between 1-5% of the purchase price (though the amount can vary with local customs and conditions). If your offer is accepted, the earnest money becomes part of your down payment or closing costs. If the offer is rejected, your money is returned to you. If you back out of a deal, you may forfeit the entire amount.

     

    32. WHAT ARE “HOME WARRANTIES”, AND SHOULD I CONSIDER THEM?

     

    Home warranties offer you protection for a specific period of time (e.g., one year) against potentially costly problems, like unexpected repairs on appliances or home systems, which are not covered by homeowner’s insurance. Warranties are becoming more popular because they offer protection during the time immediately following the purchase of a home, a time when many people find themselves cash-strapped.

     

    GENERAL FINANCING QUESTIONS:THE BASICS

     

    33. WHAT IS A MORTGAGE?

     

    Generally speaking, a mortgage is a loan obtained to purchase real estate. The “mortgage” itself is a lien (a legal claim) on the home or property that secures the promise to pay the debt. All mortgages have two features in common: principal and interest.

     

    34. WHAT IS A LOAN TO VALUE (LTV) HOW DOES IT DETERMINE THE SIZE OF MY LOAN?

     

    The loan to value ratio is the amount of money you borrow compared with the price or appraised value of the home you are purchasing. Each loan has a specific LTV limit. For example: With a 95% LTV loan on a home priced at $50,000, you could borrow up to $47,500 (95% of $50,000), and would have to pay,$2,500 as a down payment.

     

    The LTV ratio reflects the amount of equity borrowers have in their homes. The higher the LTV the less cash homebuyers are required to pay out of their own funds. So, to protect lenders against potential loss in case of default, higher LTV loans (80% or more) usually require mortgage insurance policy.

     

    35. WHAT TYPES OF LOANS ARE AVAILABLE AND WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF EACH?

     

    Fixed Rate Mortgages: Payments remain the same for the the life of the loan

     

    Types


  • Weighing 30 year vs 15 year mortgages.

    Weighing 30- and 15-year Fixed-Rate Mortgages

     

     By  Salvatore(Sam)Ruta

    Choice Properties

     

    Pod cast Perspective on Optimism

     

    In searching for Lehigh Valley Homes for sale,  one important decision home buyers face is whether to secure a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage or go for a 15-year one, which carries a lower interest rate.

    “All things equal, a 15-year mortgage allows you to pay off your mortgage twice as fast while saving a significant chunk of money on interest,” explains Mark Crosby, a mortgage expert in Wilmington, Del. Still, “I think the 30-year mortgage is a logical choice for most people because it has more advantages.”

    For starters, mortgage payments are less expensive with a 30-year mortgage, enabling more consumers to qualify for home purchases. “With a 30-year mortgage you are almost always free to make additional principal payments necessary to pay off your loan [faster] without penalty,” Crosby says. “With the 15-year loan, you are committed to giving that extra money to your lender each month, whether you can really afford to at the time or not.”

    Higher payments that come with a 15-year mortgage make little sense if they keep you from building savings or contributing to a 401(k) plan, IRA, and perhaps your kids’ college funds, adds Dan Green, a loan officer with Waterstone Mortgage in Laurel, Md. “You could be needlessly tying up too much of your money into your house.”

    Green said another reason people favor a 30-year fixed mortgage is the tax benefit that can be achieved. “This is because the amortization schedule of 30-year fixed is back-heavy, with early-term payments big on interest and light in principal,” he explains. “By contrast, the 15-year fixed is always light on interest which lowers its taxpayer benefits.”

    While it’s true you gain more of a tax break from a 30-year loan, it shouldn’t be the main consideration when deciding on a term. The 30-year borrower pays less in yearly taxes because he or she pays significantly more in interest.

    So it all comes down to choice and circumstances. Choose the 15-year loan if you have the financial wherewithal to assume the payments. Your interest savings will be substantial and you’ll own your home faster. Opt for the 30-year loan for lower payments and greater flexibility. You can always choose to pay more on your mortgage when the money is available.

  • Make your Offer Standout

    MC900136619

     

    Make Your Offer Stand Out

     

     

    By Salvatore(Sam)Ruta

    Choice Properties

    Searching for Lehigh Valley Homes for sale.

    Real estate consumers are realizing that there has rarely been a better time to buy a home. In fact, historically low mortgage rates coupled with lower home prices have even sparked bidding competition in markets around the country.

    A good home in a solid location may attract ample attention only hours after being listed. Home buyers can make their offers stand out from the rest through one or more of the following strategies:

    Price. Obviously, price tends to be the primary consideration for sellers. When you’re competing for a home, to get an edge, think about adding a clause stating that you will beat the highest offer by “x” dollars up to “x” amount. Cash offers can be more attractive to sellers as well. Although sellers will receive their money at closing whether buyers pay with cash or take out a loan, cash offers don’t require lender approval.

    Financing. It’s not enough to be pre-qualified. Pre-qualification only tells how much you can afford. Pre-approval goes a step further. Your lender will thoroughly evaluate your application—including verifying employment information and financial disposition—then clear you for a loan of a determined amount. Having your loan pre-approved gives you a sizeable advantage by putting you on equal footing with cash buyers.

    Good Faith Deposit. Buyers offering a larger-than-customary amount of “earnest money,” a deposit that accompanies an offer, may get a seller’s attention. By committing more money up front, buyers demonstrate greater sincerity and motivation to close the transaction. Your real estate professional can guide you as to the appropriate sum for your specific transaction.

    Contingencies. Consider minimizing contingencies, those clauses that allow buyers to back out of a contract if certain conditions are not met. For example, it’s common for buyers to make the purchase contingent upon their securing satisfactory financing. Obviously, offers with the fewest conditions tend to be more attractive to sellers.

    From a contingency standpoint, first-time buyers are often better prospects for a seller’s home than move-up buyers. That’s because first-time buyers’ offers are not contingent upon the sale of a present home. Even if a move-up buyer has an offer in hand, that buyer’s offer may be contingent on another contingency, and so on down the line. If one transaction derails, they all might.

    Relationship. Help the seller get to know and identify with you by looking for ways to connect. Find common interests, such as a shared appreciation of gardening. You can then persuade the seller that her prize roses will be well tended. Share brief family stories. The more the seller gets to know and like you, the better chance your offer will stand out in a competitive environment.

    Considerations for Short-sale and Foreclosure Transactions – Bank-owned properties represent a significant portion of today’s housing inventory. Competition can be most keen for these homes as their prices can run 10% to 20% below current market value.

    Banks conduct extensive research to set these prices and generally base them on current market value less the cost of required repairs. Make your offer based on your own check of comparable sales and other due diligence. Banks won’t get offended by a low offer, yet a realistic offer will more likely keep you in the running.

    Remember, patience is essential when buying bank-owned property as the process can take up to six months and longer.

    Work with your local Choice Properties Real Estate sales professional to buy your dream home or investment property. His or her knowledge, skill and expertise will help you make sound real estate decisions today or any other time.

    Here is some good news to help give you the encouragement that you need. Listen to the following short podcast.

    Optimism grows

  • Lets talk VA for a moment.

    VA Loans Are Opening Homeownership Doors for More Vets
                 By Salvatore Ruta,  Choice Properties

     

     

    Past and current military personnel looking for financing in today’s more stringent mortgage environment can take advantage of the VA loan program, which has been available for more than six decades to help members of the military own their own homes. Lets not forget the vet in searching for Lehigh Valley Homes for sale.

    The program, established in 1944 as part of the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, is available for any individual who has served in active duty in any branch of the U.S. military for a minimum of 90 days.

    “The beauty of this loan is that it allows financing without requiring a down payment,” said Eric Kandell, founder of lowvarates.com. “It also doesn’t allow the mortgage lender to charge the veteran private mortgage insurance.”

    A VA loan does require the borrower to pay a one-time funding fee on their purchase, which can be paid up front or financed into the total cost of the loan. The funding fee for regular military members is 2.15% of the loan. Reservists pay a fee of 2.40%.

    Non-active duty personnel, such as individuals in the Army Reserves or National Guard, may apply for a VA-backed mortgage provided they have completed six years of service. Spouses of deceased or missing military members are also eligible if they have not remarried. Those who were dishonorably discharged from any military branch are not eligible.

    “I’ve closed more VA loans in the past two years than in the past decade,” said Steve Thorne, area manager for First Financial Services, Inc. in Raleigh, N.C. “It really is a great benefit to the veteran in the ‘New Mortgage World.’ The key to getting more veterans to take advantage of this benefit is simply an awareness of the benefit.”

    Statistics provided by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs show that roughly 25 million people are eligible  for a VA loan yet only 10-15 percent of those have taken advantage of it when buying or refinancing.

    One reason is that for many years leading up to the mortgage crisis, there were many conventional mortgage products that were easier or more economical to the veteran than the VA loan.

    “In the wild, wild west of mortgage lending from the early 2000s to 2008, 100% financing was common,” Thorne said. “So why pay the VA funding fee just to have 100 percent financing? Not to mention the VA control of the appraisal process, understanding residual income and all the additional disclosures. It was just a more cumbersome process then the ‘come on down, everybody gets a loan’ of the conventional arena.”

    Many veterans, especially those not so recently discharged, aren’t sure of VA loan benefits or that the program even exists. With the VA loan the veteran can buy a home with little to no money out of pocket.

    “In the past, veterans were told about other financing on the market and people were more inclined out of ignorance to use non-VA loan financing,” Kandell said. “[The VA loan] is a great loan and you are going to see a massive shift in numbers going forward.”

    Talk to a mortgage representative for more on VA financing.

  • You’re Credit Challenged?

     

    These guidelines can be a little tedious to work through, but if there is any strong advice that I can offer,  its to plow through the paperwork and work with an experienced real estate agent and mortgage officer. If you do,   and you are looking for that Lehigh Valley home for sale you have a great chance to get the home of your dreams.

    Many Credit Challenged Buyers Purchase HUD Homes!

    FHA underwriters have a great deal of discretion when they decide who will be approved and who will not be approved for loans. They are allowed to use compensating factors to offset conditions when a borrower’s profile falls outside general loan parameters. Any compensating factor used to justify mortgage approval must also be supported by documentation.

    The table below describes the compensating factors that may be used to justify approval of mortgage loans with ratios that exceed FHA benchmark guidelines.

    COMPENSATING FACTORS BENCHMARK GUIDELINES

    Compensating FactorGuideline Description
    Housing Expense PaymentsThe borrower has successfully demonstrated the ability to pay housing expenses greater than or equal to the proposed monthly housing expenses for the new mortgage over the past 12-24 months.
    Down PaymentThe borrower makes a large down payment of 10 percent or higher toward the purchase of the property.
    Accumulated SavingsThe borrower has demonstrated· ability to accumulate savings, and· a conservative attitude toward using credit.
    Previous Credit HistoryA borrower’s previous credit history shows that he/she has the ability to devote a greater portion of income to housing expenses.
    Compensation or Income Not Reflected in Effective IncomeThe borrower receives documented compensation or income that is not reflected in effective income, but directly affects his/her ability to pay the mortgage.This type of income includes food stamps, and similar public benefits.
    Minimal Housing Expense IncreaseThere is only a minimal increase in the borrower’s housing expense.
    Substantial Cash ReservesThe borrower has substantial documented cash reserves (at least three months worth) after closing. The lender must judge if the substantial cash reserve asset is liquid or readily convertible to cash, and can be done so absent retirement or job termination, when determining if the asset can be included as cash reserves, or cash to close.Funds and/or “assets” that are not to be considered as cash reserves include· equity in other properties, and· proceeds from a cash-out refinance.Lenders may use a portion of a borrower’s retirement account, subject to the conditions stated below. To account for withdrawal penalties and taxes, only 60% of the vested amount of the account may be used. The lender must document the existence of the account with the most recent depository or brokerage account statement. In addition, evidence must be provided that the retirement account allows for withdrawals for conditions other than in connection with the borrower’s employment termination, retirement, or death. If withdrawals can only be made under these circumstances, the retirement account may not be included as cash reserves. If any of these funds are also to be used for loan settlement, that amount must be subtracted from the amount included as cash reserves. Similarly, any gift funds that remain in the borrower’s account following loan closing, subject to proper documentation, may be considered as cash.Note: Reserves from retirement accounts and gifts as described above may be considered as cash reserves when scoring the mortgage application through TOTAL.Reference: For information on acceptable sources of cash reserve funding, see HUD 4155.1 5.B.
    Substantial Non-Taxable IncomeThe borrower has substantial non-taxable income.Note: This applies if no adjustment was previously made when computing ratios.
    Potential for Increased EarningsThe borrower has a potential for increased earnings, as indicated by job training or education in his/her profession.
    Primary Wage-Earner RelocationThe home is being purchased because the primary wage-earner is relocating, and the secondary wage-earner· has an established employment history· is expected to return to work, and· has reasonable prospects for securing employment in a similar occupation in the new area.Note: The underwriter must document the availability of the potential employment.

     

    I have worked with several good bankers and mortgage pros over the years. If you want to consider a home purchase, my suggestion is to start with the financing. With a credit approval and estimate of home purchase in hand, you will be way ahead of others  in a similar credit situation.  Email or call me for a recommendation.

  • What is the Best Way to Finance a HUD Home?

     

    What Is the Best Way to Finance a HUD Home?

     

    FHA financing is the best way to finance a HUD Home for most buyers.

     

    FHA has certain advantages over conventional financing:

     

    • The total down payment for an FHA loan is only 3.5% of the sale price. (This number may increase in the near future. The down payment amount may also change to reflect risk factors in credit score. Check with your loan officer for the most up-to-date information.)

     

    • Debt-to-Income Ratios  are generally higher with FHA loans. Buyers can qualify with 29%  Front End Ratio  and 40% Back End Ratio , compared with similar conventional products that limit borrowers to 33-36% on the back end. Borrowers have more borrowing power with an FHA loan.

     

    • Example (front end): Monthly Income x 29% = Maximum PITI (principal, interest, taxes, and insurance). For a monthly income of $3, 000, that means that $870 is the maximum mortgage payment for qualifying purposes.

     

    • Example (back end): Monthly Income x 40% = Maximum PITI (principal, interest, taxes, and insurance). For a monthly income of $3,000, that means that $1,200 is the maximum mortgage payment for qualifying purposes.

     

    • FHA lets the buyer negotiate a 3% seller assist toward closing costs. In many cases, a borrower needs no more than 3% of the total sale price as a total cash-out-of-pocket investment. There are other alliances and programs that will let the seller pick up the whole tab. Some of these plans are under close scrutiny by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.

     

    • FHA is more lenient with credit issues than conventional lenders. Even bankruptcy discharges can work with FHA if good credit follows the discharge. FHA underwriters give much credence to letters of explanation about credit recitals.

     

    HUD Homes offered with FHA financing offer special incentives to buyers. HUD Homes eligible for FHA 203(b) financing have reduced closing costs because there is NO APPRAISAL fee. Lenders are required to use the appraisal that HUD has on file if the appraisal is less than 150 days old. (If you sell a HUD Home near the end of the 150-day window, you can make a written request to HUD to extend appraisal validity 30 days, to 180 days. That request must be in writing two weeks before the 150 day appraisal expiration date.)

     

    Keep in mind an important fact about FHA financing for HUD Homes:

     

    FHA will only finance a maximum loan amount that corresponds to HUD’s asking price. If a buyer is inclined to “bid up” a property and finance that property with FHA financing, he will have to make up the difference between the asking price and the bid amount with additional down payment monies.

     

    For instance: A buyer expects that there will be competing bids for a house at 123 Main Street. HUD’s list price is $85,000. The buyer is confident that the real value of the property is closer to $100,000. He bids $90,000. His down payment will increase from 3.5% of $85,000 ($2,975 down payment) to that amount PLUS an additional $5,000 ($6,912 down payment).

    I know that I mentioned this in my  last blog, but here is a good primer on searching for a loan for your new home. Click here for the video.

    Remember if you want a list of already approved HUD Homes or have in mind a conventional purchase using FHA financing, give me a call at 610-737-2310 or email me at samruta@yahoo.com.  Start your search on the right at the  Lehigh High Valley link.