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The Best Time to Buy a Home Is….
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The Importance of Checking Homeowners Insurance Premiums Before Buying a House
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The Importance of Checking Homeowners Insurance Premiums Before Buying a House

Are you considering buying a home in California or already own one? If so, you need to pay close attention to your homeowners insurance premiums. Recently, insurance companies have been leaving the state for various reasons, and this trend could significantly impact your finances and homeownership experience. As you embark on your journey to homeownership, it's crucial to understand the implications of these developments. Here's why checking your homeowners insurance premiums is more important than ever: Impact on Your Finances: Homeowners insurance premiums directly affect your monthly expenses. With insurance companies leaving California or increasing premiums, your monthly payments could skyrocket. This unexpected financial burden can strain your budget and make homeownership less affordable. Higher Closing Costs: When purchasing a home, closing costs can add up quickly. Insurance premiums are a significant component of these costs. If insurance companies are raising premiums or leaving the state, your closing costs will likely increase. Being aware of these potential expenses beforehand allows you to budget effectively and avoid any last-minute financial surprises. Long-Term Financial Commitment: Buying a house is a long-term investment, typically spanning several decades. Your mortgage payments, including insurance premiums, are commitments you'll need to uphold for years to come. Therefore, understanding the trajectory of insurance premiums helps you make informed decisions about your financial future. Availability of Coverage: With insurance companies exiting California, finding adequate coverage may become more challenging. Remaining insurers may impose stricter eligibility criteria or offer coverage at higher rates. By proactively assessing your insurance options, you can secure coverage that meets your needs without compromising your budget. Consultation with Experts: Engaging with insurance agents or experts is crucial during the homebuying process. They can provide insights into the evolving insurance landscape, including potential premium hikes or changes in coverage availability. Consulting with these professionals empowers you to navigate the complexities of homeowners insurance and make well-informed decisions. In light of these considerations, it's imperative to take proactive steps to safeguard your financial interests: Evaluate Your Current Coverage: Review your existing homeowners insurance policy and assess whether it meets your needs. Determine if your insurer plans to remain in California and if any premium increases are imminent. Compare Insurance Providers: Research alternative insurance companies operating in California. Obtain quotes from multiple insurers to compare coverage options and premiums. Doing so enables you to identify cost-effective solutions without compromising on coverage quality. Budget Accordingly: Factor in potential changes to insurance premiums when calculating your housing budget. Ensure that you can comfortably afford your monthly mortgage payments, including insurance costs, to avoid financial strain. Seek Professional Guidance: Don't hesitate to seek guidance from insurance agents, real estate professionals, or financial advisors. They can offer personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances and help you navigate the complexities of homeowners insurance. In conclusion, staying informed about homeowners insurance premiums is essential for anyone buying or owning a home in California. By understanding the implications of insurance industry trends and taking proactive measures, you can protect your financial well-being and enjoy peace of mind in your homeownership journey. Take the time to assess your insurance needs, explore available options, and make informed decisions that align with your long-term goals.
Navigating Remote Work: How It Impacts Mortgage Qualification
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Navigating Remote Work: How It Impacts Mortgage Qualification

🏡💼 Unlock the secrets to homebuying in the age of remote work! From navigating hourly rates to understanding variable compensation, we've got you covered. Check out our guide for mortgage qualifiers diving into the world of remote employment! #Homebuying #RemoteWork #MortgageTips 📝✨ Are you drawn to the independence and tranquility of remote work? Working from the comfort of your own space can be a dream come true. However, if you're considering buying a home while working remotely, it's essential to understand how this decision can affect your mortgage qualification. Here's what you need to know: Occupancy Requirement: When applying for certain home loans like USDA, FHA, VA, and some conventional loans, the lender may require you to occupy the purchased property as your primary residence. If your intent is to work remotely from this property, it shouldn't pose a problem as long as you meet other criteria. Stable Income: Mortgage underwriters prioritize stable and consistent income. Whether you're paid hourly or receive an annual salary, demonstrating steady earnings is crucial. If you earn variable income through overtime, bonuses, or commissions, it can still count towards your qualifying income. However, you'll need to prove its stability over the last two years through documentation like tax returns and verification from your employer. Permission to Work Remotely: Underwriters may need assurance that you have permission from your employer to work remotely indefinitely. This typically requires a letter from your employer confirming your remote work arrangement. This documentation helps underwriters assess your ability to maintain your income stream while working remotely. Every individual's situation is unique, considering factors like job type, length of remote work experience, and income variability. It's essential to consult with a trusted lender to understand how your specific circumstances may impact your mortgage qualification. Contact Terry Roberts at TerryRoberts.com to get personalized guidance and ensure you have a reliable pre-approval. Avoid the frustration of a denied loan after investing time and money into the homebuying process. With the right information and support, you can confidently pursue homeownership while enjoying the benefits of remote work.
Buying a House Without a Realtor: What You Need to Know
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Buying a House Without a Realtor: What You Need to Know

In recent times, the question of whether you need a realtor to buy a house has become more prevalent. There are various reasons behind this, with one of the primary ones being the rise of for sale by owner (FSBO) properties. Many home sellers opt to sell their homes without involving a realtor to save on commission fees, which typically amount to around 6% of the sale price. However, before diving into a home purchase without professional representation, it's crucial to understand the potential challenges and considerations involved, particularly from the buyer's perspective. Price Evaluation: As a buyer, determining the true value of a property is essential. Without the guidance of a realtor, it can be challenging to assess whether the asking price aligns with the property's market value. This is crucial, especially if you're planning to secure financing, as lenders will require an appraisal to ensure the property's value matches the loan amount. Navigating the Process: Beyond price evaluation, there are various logistical aspects to consider when purchasing a home without a realtor. These include negotiating terms of the agreement, scheduling inspections, choosing a title company, and coordinating with lenders. Without professional assistance, buyers may find themselves navigating these processes alone, potentially increasing the risk of oversights or misunderstandings. Mitigating Risks: One significant risk of buying a home without a realtor is the lack of protection and guidance throughout the transaction. For example, earnest money deposits, typically handled by a neutral third party like a title company, may become contentious if not handled correctly. Similarly, understanding the nuances of contract terms and contingencies becomes crucial to avoid potential legal issues down the line. Making Informed Decisions: While purchasing a home without a realtor is feasible, it requires careful consideration and thorough research. Buyers must assess the property's condition, evaluate comparable properties in the area, and weigh the potential savings against the added responsibilities and risks of handling the transaction independently. Conclusion: In conclusion, buying a house without a realtor is a decision that requires careful deliberation. While it may offer potential cost savings, it also entails additional responsibilities and risks. Whether you choose to proceed without professional representation or enlist the help of a realtor, it's essential to approach the homebuying process with diligence and informed decision-making to ensure a successful transaction. Contact me to learn more at www.terryroberts.com Terry Roberts, USMC Veteran | Sr. Loan Officer NMLS 397987 | Bell Bank Equal Housing Lender
How to Ditch Private Mortgage Insurance: A Guide for Homebuyers and Real Estate Agents
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How to Ditch Private Mortgage Insurance: A Guide for Homebuyers and Real Estate Agents

Are you a homeowner burdened by private mortgage insurance (PMI)? Or perhaps you're a real estate agent looking to advise your clients on navigating this financial hurdle? Either way, understanding the ins and outs of PMI is crucial for saving money and building equity in your home. In this blog post, we'll delve into what PMI is, why it exists, and most importantly, how to rid yourself of it. What is Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)? When purchasing a home with a down payment of less than 20%, most lenders require borrowers to obtain private mortgage insurance. This insurance protects the lender in case the borrower defaults on their loan. Unfortunately for homeowners, PMI adds an extra expense to their monthly mortgage payments without contributing to their equity or reducing the loan principal. The Cost of PMI The cost of PMI can vary significantly based on factors such as the loan amount, credit score, and down payment. Monthly premiums can range from a modest $50 to a staggering $700, depending on the specifics of the loan. Ways to Eliminate PMI For homeowners with conventional loans (i.e., not FHA or VA loans), there are strategic methods to eliminate PMI and free up those extra dollars in your monthly budget. Here are the steps: Reappraise Your Home: If you've owned your home for several years, its value may have appreciated, potentially putting you in a position to have more than 20% equity. Getting a new appraisal can help determine if your home's value has increased, making it eligible for PMI removal. Calculate Loan-to-Value Ratio: Once you have the new appraisal value, calculate your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. This is the ratio of the amount you owe on your mortgage to the appraised value of your home. If your LTV is less than 80%, you may qualify to have PMI removed. Contact Your Lender: Reach out to your mortgage servicer and inform them of the updated appraised value of your home and the reduced LTV ratio. They will typically have specific requirements and paperwork for PMI removal, but meeting the 80% threshold should result in the elimination of PMI from your loan. FHA Loans and PMI For those with FHA loans, the process of eliminating PMI is less straightforward. Generally, the only way to remove PMI on an FHA loan is to refinance or pay off the mortgage entirely. However, if you've had the loan for more than 10 years and your LTV is below 80%, the PMI will automatically fall off. Conclusion Private mortgage insurance can be a significant financial burden for homeowners, but it's not a permanent fixture. By understanding the requirements and taking proactive steps to build equity in your home, you can eliminate PMI and save money in the long run. For real estate agents, being knowledgeable about PMI removal can be a valuable tool in assisting clients with their home financing goals. If you found this information helpful, be sure to follow our blog for more tips and insights on navigating the world of homeownership and real estate. Follow me at MortgageTipDaily.com or on social media: @mortgagetipdaily Terry Roberts, Loan Officer NMLS 397987
Unlocking Real Estate Investment: Strategies to Acquire Properties with No Money Down
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Unlocking Real Estate Investment: Strategies to Acquire Properties with No Money Down

Are you eager to enter the world of real estate investment but hindered by financial constraints? Look no further! In this guide, we unveil two easy and accessible methods to acquire your first, second, or even third investment property with little to no money down, tailored to attract savvy real estate investors. Option 1: Harness the VA Home Loan Benefit for Zero Down Payment For veterans, the VA home loan benefit presents an invaluable opportunity to secure properties with no down payment required. With this loan, you can purchase a duplex, reside in one unit, and lease out the other. By fulfilling the requirement of occupying the property as your primary residence for at least a year, you can leverage rental income to cover the mortgage in its entirety. After this initial period, transition out of the property, rent out the unit you vacated, and replicate the process with another duplex. Since VA loans permit subsequent purchases without selling the initial property, you can amass multiple units over time without any upfront costs. Refinancing the initial property into a conventional loan once equity has accrued unlocks your VA entitlement, enabling further acquisitions and perpetuating the cycle. Option 2: Utilize Conventional Financing with Minimal Down Payment For non-veterans, conventional financing offers an alternative path to property acquisition with as little as a 5% down payment. While this requires a modest initial investment, it remains an accessible avenue for entering the realm of real estate investment. By strategically leveraging financing options and rental income, aspiring investors can gradually expand their portfolios, regardless of their initial financial resources. These strategies present lucrative opportunities for astute real estate investors seeking to diversify their portfolios or generate passive income through property investment. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a newcomer to the field, the key lies in understanding and leveraging the available resources and opportunities in the real estate market. Ready to embark on your journey to financial freedom through real estate investment? Contact us today for expert guidance and assistance in navigating the intricacies of property acquisition. Together, let's unlock the doors to your financial future with strategic and lucrative investments.
Understanding VA IRRRL for Veterans and Active Duty Homeowners
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Understanding VA IRRRL for Veterans and Active Duty Homeowners

Understanding VA IRRRL for Veterans and Active Duty Homeowners Are you a veteran or active duty service member with a VA loan? If you're eyeing the dropping interest rates and wondering about your refinancing options, the VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL), also known as the VA Streamline Refinance, might be exactly what you need. This refinancing option is designed specifically for those with existing VA loans, aiming to lower your interest rate to the current market rate, potentially saving you money on your mortgage payments. What You Need to Know About VA IRRRL Closing Costs A common question regarding the VA IRRRL is about closing costs. Yes, like with any refinancing or home purchase, there will be closing costs. However, the VA IRRRL is known for its relatively low closing costs, primarily limited to title company fees. Many lenders may also waive their fees for a VA IRRRL. You'll need to set up a new escrow account for taxes and insurance, but you should be reimbursed for the current escrow account balance, making it a negligible cost. How Much Will Closing Costs Be? When considering a VA IRRRL, it's crucial to inquire with your lender about the specific closing costs you can expect. Typically, these costs are minimal and can be rolled into your loan, meaning you won't have to pay anything out of pocket. If you're concerned about the impact on your loan balance, remember that the primary goal of an IRRRL is to reduce your monthly payment through a lower interest rate, which can offset the slight increase in your mortgage balance due to rolling in the closing costs. The Refinancing Process Timeline With a VA IRRRL, you might have the option to skip a month or two of mortgage payments post-refinancing, but it's important to understand that this doesn't mean you're avoiding these payments entirely. The interest for these months will be added to your loan balance. It's a common misconception that these payments are "skipped" without consequence. Your first payment after refinancing will depend on the closing date of your refinance. For more insights into the VA IRRRL process and to explore whether it's the right option for your situation, visit https://www.terryroberts.com. Our goal is to support veterans and active duty service members in making informed decisions about their home financing options. **Disclaimer:** This video and its content are intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The views expressed are personal and do not necessarily represent those of any affiliated institutions. Always consult with a financial advisor or lender for advice tailored to your situation.
How to Buy Investment Properties with No Money Down (For Veterans & Non-Veterans)
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How to Buy Investment Properties with No Money Down (For Veterans & Non-Veterans)

Are you a prospective real estate investor looking to break into the market with minimal down payments? In this video, we explore two straightforward methods to acquire your first, second, or even third investment property with little to no money down, catering to both veterans and non-veterans alike. For veterans, the VA home loan benefit offers a remarkable opportunity for no down payment and no private mortgage insurance. By utilizing this benefit, you can purchase a duplex, reside in one unit, and rent out the other. After a year of occupancy, you can repeat the process, leveraging your remaining entitlement to expand your real estate portfolio. For non-veterans, conventional financing options allow for investments with as little as 5% down. Similar to the VA option, purchasing a duplex and renting out one unit while residing in the other can kickstart your real estate journey with minimal upfront costs. By strategically leveraging your equity and entitlement, you can rapidly scale your investment portfolio, potentially owning multiple cash-flowing properties within just a few years. Learn how to refinance your initial properties into conventional loans to unlock additional purchasing power, allowing you to repeat the process and multiply your assets. Whether you're a veteran or not, these proven strategies provide a pathway to financial independence through real estate investing. Watch now to discover how you can enter the market with confidence and minimal capital investment. Don't miss out on this opportunity to build wealth through real estate – start your journey today! Contact me at TerryRoberts.com for more details or follow me at mortgagetipdaily.com or @mortgagetipdaily on Instagram or TikTok #RealEstateInvesting #NoMoneyDown #PropertyInvestment #VAHomeLoan #ConventionalFinancing #RealEstateTips #FinancialIndependence
VA Loan Assumption Process Explained: Tips for Sellers & Buyers
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VA Loan Assumption Process Explained: Tips for Sellers & Buyers

Hey guys! Are you navigating the VA loan assumption process and finding it to be a nightmare? You're not alone! In this video, I'm breaking down my experience with having my VA home loan assumed and sharing crucial tips to streamline the process. As a real estate expert with over 10,000 service members helped through the VA home loan journey, I understand the frustrations and complexities involved. From dealing with loan service providers to ensuring a smooth transition for buyers, there are key steps to take to avoid unnecessary delays. Join me as I dive into the intricacies of the VA loan assumption process, including: Understanding the timeline: Discover why waiting 90 to 120 business days for loan assumption approval is unacceptable and how to expedite the process. Qualifying buyers: Learn why it's crucial to ensure buyers are pre-approved according to VA guidelines before initiating the assumption process. Communicating effectively: Find out how direct communication between sellers and buyers can streamline paperwork and prevent misunderstandings. Taking action: Explore steps to take if your loan service provider is dragging their feet, including filing a complaint with the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB). Plus, I'll share personal insights and strategies to help you navigate the VA loan assumption journey with confidence, whether you're a seller or a buyer. Don't let the VA loan assumption process overwhelm you! Watch now to gain valuable tips and insights, and visit my website terryroberts.com for pre-approval services and more real estate resources. For daily mortgage and home financing tips, follow me on TikTok and Instagram @mortgagetipdaily. And remember, if you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out – I'm here to help! #VALoanAssumption #RealEstateTips #HomeFinancing #MortgageAdvice #CFPBComplaint #VAHomeLoan #MortgageTipDaily #TerryRoberts

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