Adjustable Rate Mortgages

• Compare Mortgages: 3 Year Arm Vs. 5 Year Arm Interest Rates

  Adjustable rate mortgages can definitely make your mortgage payments more affordable. Keep in mind though that what you take on with the ARM's lower mortgage rate is increased risk. Understanding how to minimize risk in regard to adjustable rate mortgages is an important aspect of the mortgage borrowing process.

• Fixed Rate or Adjustable Mortgage Loans?: Comparing Mortgage Interest Rates

  Comparing mortgage rates between adjustable rate mortgages and fixed rate loans can be complicated. Understanding the complications of the two different home mortgage loans can help you make the best decision for your situation.

• How Do Interest Rate Increases Affect Adjustable Rate Mortgages?

  The Federal Reserve has increased mortgage interest rates yet again. How will this affect your adjustable rate mortgage? Read on to find out.

• View more Articles from 'Adjustable Rate Mortgages' >>>

ARM Purchase Loans

• Pros and Cons of an Adjustable Rate Mortgage

  Adjustable rate mortgages offer up-front savings for many homebuyers. But the real trick is in managing for the long-term.

• The Parts and Pieces of an Adjustable Rate Mortgage

  An adjustable rate mortgage is a complicated ever changing loan. Here is what you need to know about this form of home loan.

• View more Articles from 'ARM Purchase Loans' >>>

Auto Insurance Guide

• Auto Insurance Basics

  If you own a car, auto insurance is the best way to take care of legal concerns in the event of an accident. Being in an accident or having your car stolen, auto insurance will alleviate any stress associated with getting everything taken care of. This article will go over auto insurance basics and the important things you'll want to know about them.

• Auto Insurance Basics: How to File a Claim

  Filing an insurance claim is a tricky venture. Even something simple as asking your agent about possibly filing a claim is often recorded on your insurance record. Read the following to find out how to properly file an auto insurance claim.

• Auto Insurance Basics: Insuring A Teenage Driver

  One your child becomes old enough to drive, the burden of finding the right auto insurance coverage rises. Unfortunately, teenagers are inexperienced drivers who tend to get into more accidents. This article will go over what you'll need to know to properly insure your teenager.

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Business Loans Guide

• Bank Loans For Small Businesses

  Commonly, banks tend to be conservative with their funds. Unlike many venture capitalists or angel investors, most banks prefer approving loans for established businesses over a startup company. Read this article to learn what it takes to get a loan from a bank.

• How the Small Business Administration Can Help Your Small Business

  Are you getting ready to start your own small business? The Small Business Administration (SBA) can help you to get off to a very good start. They offer more than financial assistance, read this article to find out.

• How to Find Capital For Your Small Business

  One of the difficulties a small business owner may face is trying to find startup capital. Although basic in nature, the process can be both complex and time-consuming. Read this article to find out ways of raising money for your business.

• View more Articles from 'Business Loans Guide' >>>

Cash Advance Services Guide

• Be Careful When Considering A Payday Loan

  Some consumers are quick to turn to cash advance services or 'payday loans' in order to get quick money. Unfortunately, these loans usually come at an incredibly high price. Read this article for more information regarding payday loans.

• Cash Advance Services Options

  People may find cash advance services in their local area or on the Internet. With the large variety of companies to choose from, a person may be able to find a great rate and deal on the short term loan he or she may be seeking out.

• Some Things to Know About Cash Advance Services

  Before opting for a cash advance loan, make sure you know what they are, and how they work. Cash advance loans tend to get costly so be careful when considering them. This article will guide you through the basics.

• View more Articles from 'Cash Advance Services Guide' >>>

Comparing Mortgage Lenders

• An Overview of the Top 10 Mortgage Lenders

  As the old saying goes, 'You can't tell the players without a scorecard,' in mortgage lending this has never been more true. Mortgage lenders today come in many forms and do business through many outlets. The following is your scorecard to tell who the mortgage-lending players are.

• Comparison of Mortgages: A Listing of Common Mortgage Lending Programs and Their Benefits

  There are unique homebuying and home mortgage loan programs in every state. Whether you are shopping in the expensive coastal market in California or you are looking at the most rural location in Alaska, there are programs that can help you. The Federal Government also has numerous programs to help you get the home or home mortgage of your dreams.

• How to Compare Mortgage Lenders: Not All Mortgage Lenders Are the Same, Here's Why

  How is it that home mortgage lenders in the same market can offer such different rates? Why is it that my bank branch can't get the same rate on a loan from their parent company as my home mortgage broker? Read on to find out why all mortgage lenders can't, or won't, compete on the same playing field.

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Creative Financing Guide

• 40 Year Mortgage Lenders: Advantages and Disadvantages of 40 Year Mortgages

  Housing prices continue to rise exponentially; because of this lenders have begun to offer the 40-year mortgage. As a homeowner the rise in prices are good news for both financial and flexibility reasons. With a forty-year loan you can structure your refinance for a great deal more without an increase in monthly payments.

• A 50-year Mortgage Could Soon Be a Reality

  Industry experts are talking about someday offering a 50-year mortgage. A longer term means lower monthly payments; but will the buyer be alive to pay it off?

• A Bridge Loan Can Help Ease the Transition Between Homes

  Finding the funds to finance a home purchase before an old home has sold can be difficult. A bridge loan can help out.

• View more Articles from 'Creative Financing Guide' >>>

Credit Cards Guide

• Comparison Shopping: Credit Cards Versus Debit Cards

  Consumers have more payment options than ever before. Here are some notes on two ways to spend: credit cards and debit cards.

• Look for Cash Back From Credit Cards, Not Frequent Flier Miles

  Instability in the airline industry is making people question the solvency of their air miles. Using a cash back credit card gives you a guaranteed benefit. Read this article to learn how to take advantage of it.

• Spending Spotlight: Watch For These Credit Card Secrets

  Some credit card insights that can save you money.

• View more Articles from 'Credit Cards Guide' >>>

Credit Guide

• Credit Guide: All About Bankruptcy

  Bankruptcy is a tool of last resort. But for those in serious credit trouble, this option can get you on a plan for the future.

• Finding and Improving Your Credit Score

  It is important to know your credit score, and, if you are not pleased with it, take the necessary steps to improve it. Read on to find out how!

• Five Habits That Lead to Debt Trouble

  Debt problems don't appear out of thin air -- they often blossom in a perfect storm of bad financial decisions. Here are five leading ways consumers ruin their credit score.

• View more Articles from 'Credit Guide' >>>

Debt Consolidation (State Specific)

• Arkansas Debt Consolidation Options for Consumers and Homeowners

  Debt consolidation can be done in many ways. Here are a few tools, including mortgage loans and credit cards, for residents of AR.

• California Debt Consolidation Using a Mortgage

  Debt consolidation can be a good way to lower the cost of interest and reduce long term financial obligations. Here are some ways CA homeowners can use a mortgage to ease costs.

• Connecticut Consumers Can Use Home Loans As a Debt Consolidation Tool

  Mortgages, refinance loans, and home equity lines of credit are all ways to consolidate debt balances. But Connecticut consumers who lack real estate should not fret, there are a few other great options.

• View more Articles from 'Debt Consolidation (State Specific)' >>>

Debt Consolidation Guide

• Credit Counseling: What Is a Debt Management Plan

  One way that credit counselors assist their clients is by getting them into a debt management plan. What does a debt management plan mean for the indebted patient? A move past financial headaches.

• Debt Consolidation for Low Credit Score Consumers

  Debt consolidation is a great way to get out from underneath a burden of debt. But often consumers looking to consolidate have already ruined their credit score. Here are some tips.

• Debt Consolidation Loans: When Is a Debt Consolidation Loan the Right Option?

  You can wait too long to decide on debt consolidation. Once you find that you cannot meet current debt obligations you may find it difficult to get a loan that will help you bring your finances under control. When consolidating debt, the sooner the better.

• View more Articles from 'Debt Consolidation Guide' >>>

Fixed Rate Mortgages

• How Do I Determine What Is the Best Fixed Rate Mortgage Loan for Me?

  Once you have decided that you would like a fixed-rate home mortgage you have a few other choices. Those choices include the term length of the home loan and the rate you are willing to pay.

• How Does a Federal Interest Rate Hike Affect Your Fixed Rate Mortgage?

  The Federal Reserve has raised interest rates 13 times since hitting record lows. How will the rising rates affect a fixed-rate mortgage this time, or any other time it happens?

• Mortgage Interest Rates: The Difference Between Adjustable Rate and Fixed Rate Mortgage Loans

  Adjustable rate mortgages and fixed rate mortgage loans each have their advantages, depending on the situation. The hard part, of course, is understanding which type of mortgage is your best home loan option and when.

• View more Articles from 'Fixed Rate Mortgages' >>>

Fixed Rate Purchase Loans

• Pros and Cons of a Long Term Fixed Rate Mortgage

  Fixed rate 20, 25 and 30 year mortgages make up the lions share of home loans. Here are the pros and cons.

• Pros and Cons of a Short Term Fixed Rate Mortgage

  Homeowners looking to pay off a home quickly can use a 10 or 15 year mortgage. Here are the pros and cons.

• The Difference Between a Fixed-Rate Mortgage and Adjustable Rate Mortgage

  Homebuyers need to decide which home mortgage loan is right for them. Here is a brief description of the two most popular types: fixed-rate and adjustable rate loans.

• View more Articles from 'Fixed Rate Purchase Loans' >>>

Foreclosure News

• Baltimore Housing Market: Foreclosures Ravage Suburbia

  Foreclosures in the Baltimore suburbs are rising at an alarming pace. Foreclosure filings in the 'burbs are up by more than 15 percent overall; in some of the wealthier Baltimore neighborhoods, filings are up by as much as 30 percent.

• California Foreclosures Predicted to Surge in the Coming Months

  More and more California homeowners are missing payments and finding themselves swept up in the foreclosure process. New data shows that California foreclosures are becoming all too common and suggests that lenders may be foreclosing on billions of dollars worth of California loans in the coming months.

• Double Trouble for Bay Area: Foreclosures Up, Home Values Expected to See Record Decrease

  New fourth quarter numbers released by DataQuick show the number of defaults sent out to Bay Area homeowners has increased by a whopping 133 percent. A separate report released today adds to the pile, predicting home value declines in the Bay Area will be some of the worst in the nation. How much trouble will this create for the cooling housing market?

• View more Articles from 'Foreclosure News' >>>

Health Insurance Guide

• Are Health Savings Accounts Going to Catch On?

  HSA, a plan designed to put peoples health care into their own hands, has never really caught on. The current programs confuse people, and don't really have many benefits. But now, all that seems close to change.

• Common Types of Health Insurance Plans

  When a person decides to get health insurance, they need to do their research. There are four main types of health insurance plans, and each offer something slightly different to the insured person.

• Healthy, Wealthy, Wise: Healthcare Fraud

  With Internet banking on the rise and face-to-face business contact on the decline, people need to be wary of financial scams now more that ever before. Whether you are a senior citizen trying to protect your retirement or a young investor looking to grow your wealth, staying clear minded about investment opportunities is the only way to build on what you have and keep what you've already created.

• View more Articles from 'Health Insurance Guide' >>>

Home Builder Reports

• Builders Across the Nation Slash Prices to Move Inventory

  The 'Bulls' say the housing market will begin an upswing in the spring of 2007, but there are some builders who aren't buying the bull. Across the nation, builders and developers are taking the brunt of the slowdown and have turned to slashing prices for Christmas in hopes of moving inventory before the end of the year.

• Drop in Housing Permits One of the Biggest on Record

  If you want proof that the housing market is still in a slump, you don't need to look much further than the number of housing permits taken out in the month of April. There was an 8.9 percent decline in new construction permits-the sharpest drop since the housing downturn of 1990.

• Home Builders Struggle to Unload Backlog

  Home builders across the U.S. are being nailed to the wall by the housing market slump. With the correction in full swing, many home builders are reporting losses as they struggle to unload the glut of inventory the slowdown has created.

• View more Articles from 'Home Builder Reports' >>>

Home Buyer Closing Costs

• Falling Mortgage Costs Make Housing More Affordable

  Despite substantially rising prices over the last few years, new studies say housing is more affordable today than twenty years ago.

• Fees You Are Going to Be Charged When You Apply for a Mortgage

  From the mortgage application fee to the settlement fee; here is a list of fees you can expect to pay when purchasing a house.

• How Much Money Do You Need for Down Payment and Closing Costs?

  Down payment and mortgage closing costs are a huge part of financing real estate. But traditional rules of thumb are changing. Here's what you need to know.

• View more Articles from 'Home Buyer Closing Costs' >>>

Home Equity Lines of Credit

• Thinking of Getting a HELOC? - Some Important Home Equity Loan Information You Should Know

  Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) can be a very useful financial tool. When considering a line of credit you will want to make sure that it is the right fit for you.

• Three Reasons to Get a HELOC Instead of a Home Equity Loan

  A home equity loan can be a great option for some consumers, and a completely horrible one for others. Here is what you need to know to know before borrowing from your equity.

• Three Reasons Why A Home Equity Line of Credit Is Not For You

  Love is not the only thing that requires a perfect match. Some consumers are just not suited for a home equity line of credit. Here are three reasons to stay clear.

• View more Articles from 'Home Equity Lines of Credit' >>>

Home Equity Loan Rates

• A Home Equity Loan Offers Lower Interest Rate Than Credit Cards

  A home equity loan can be a great debt consolidation tool. Here is what you need to know about getting out of debt by borrowing on your home.

• Home Equity Loan Rates: What Determines Home Equity Rates?

  There are numerous factors that determine what rate is paid for home equity loans. There are two factors though that are much more important than the others when determining your home equity rate.

• How Rising Interest Rates Threaten Borrowers

  Rising interest rates are forecast to substantially increase lender payments; among those most at risk: home-equity borrowers.

• View more Articles from 'Home Equity Loan Rates' >>>

Home Equity Loans Guide

• 3 Signs Your Home Equity Loan Isn't Up to Par

  Ever been scammed? Ever thought you'd be? Here are a few signs that the home equity loan or line of credit you're applying for is a scam.

• Closing Costs: A Factor to Consider in Your Home Equity Debt Search

  Closing costs can affect your home equity debt decision. Here's some advice on what to look for in your home equity debt search.

• Co-Signing a Home Equity Loan or Home Equity Line of Credit

  Co-signing a loan can be very dangerous. Here are a few tips to help you protect your credit.

• View more Articles from 'Home Equity Loans Guide' >>>

Home Purchase Financing

• A Guide to Home Loan Options for Those Buying Homes

  Three main types of home loans are available to the would-be homeowner: adjustable rate, fixed rate, and combination rate mortgages.

• Advantages of Getting Pre-Approved for a Home Mortgage.

  Mortgage pre-approval simplifies the process of buying a home. Read this article to learn why it's often the best route for potential homeowners!

• Choosing the Best Home Loan for You

  With the three main types of home loan--adjustable rate, fixed rate and combination rate--people have many options in selecting the right kind of mortgage for them. Selecting the best loan depends greatly upon one's financial situation.

• View more Articles from 'Home Purchase Financing' >>>

Home Purchase Offers

• Is a Real Estate Offer to Purchase Binding?

  Better make sure your mortgage loan is lined up, because once you make that offer on a home you are walking down a path to purchase.

• Is the Mortgage Interest Deduction Worth Having a Giant Loan?

  Many people believe having a big, long mortgage is beneficial since you can write off interest payments, but only under certain circumstances is that true. Check this article out to learn more!

• Lowballing Your California Home Purchase Offer

  Homebuyers have a bit more power in a buyers market. Lowballing is the idea of suckering a seller into the cheapest price possible. Here is what you need to know and where you'll have the best luck in California.

• View more Articles from 'Home Purchase Offers' >>>

Home Purchasing Guide

• Buying a Historic Home: Antique, or Just Plain Old?

  Historic or antique homes are among some of the most beautiful on the market. Unfortunately, age sometimes bears its consequences. Read this article to learn how to inspect a potential buy to ensure that your investment is a sound one!

• Do You Need a Real Estate Attorney to Purchase a Home

  Residents of some states are required by law to hire a real estate lawyer for purchasing a home. Residents of other states are just advised to do the same.

• Five Real Estate Deductions for Homeowners

  Want to know how to make your home work for you this tax season? Here are five popular income tax deductions for homeowners!

• View more Articles from 'Home Purchasing Guide' >>>

Home Selling Guide

• Hiring a Professional Realtor V. Selling Your Own Home

  When it comes to home selling, people may either hire a realtor or sell the home themselves. There are advantages and disadvantages to both options, and it is up to the individual to make the right personal and financial choice.

• Home Improvement and Updating: How to Make Your Home More Sellable

  The appearance of a residence may play a large role in the home selling process. If a home seller does not think the house is up to selling caliber, there are certain things he or she can do in order to make the home seem more attractive to home buying candidates.

• Home Selling: How Employment, Refinancing and Health Can Affect Your Capital Gains Taxes

  The Capital Gains tax exclusion can save home-sellers thousands of dollars. Here's how to take advantage of it!

• View more Articles from 'Home Selling Guide' >>>

Homeowner's Insurance Guide

• Determining Your Needs: How To Review Homeowner's Insurance Policies!

  A regular homeowners insurance analysis will help you close gaps and prepare you for the next Category 5 hurricane.

• Do You Have Enough Homeowner's Insurance?

  It is absolutely crucial to determine whether or not your homeowners insurance policy goes far enough. Here are a few tricks of the trade that will help you do just that!

• Homeowner's Insurance Guide: Insuring Your Personal Property

  If your home is destroyed, homeowners insurance policies will often cover the value of your personal belongings. But make sure you have the right coverage.

• View more Articles from 'Homeowner's Insurance Guide' >>>

Housing Bubble News

• 10 Reasons to Sell Your House Now

  Worried about the state of the housing market? You should be. Millions are expected to be financially devastated by the downturn. Don't be one of them: read up on the situation and find out what's happening. To get you started, here are ten reasons why you need to sell your house NOW.

• 37 Percent of September Job Cuts Connected to Housing Industry

  As the housing slump deepens, more and more people are finding themselves out of work. Mortgage companies made the most job cuts in August and September, and more are expected in the coming months.

• 5 Easy Ways to Know When It's Time to Buy a House

  Thinking about buying into the housing market? You might want to look before you leap. We are in the middle of a housing recession. If you buy at the wrong time, you could spend a good portion of your life regretting the decision.

• View more Articles from 'Housing Bubble News' >>>

Housing Expert Interviews

• Bubbles and the LA Housing Market: Interview With LA Land Blog

  We continue our series of interviews with regional and national housing experts with an analysis of bubbles and the LA housing market from Peter Viles. Peter's LA Land Blog is sponsored by the LA Times.

• Cash in on the Coming Real Estate Crash: Author Interview

  In an effort to share opinions from both sides of the housing bubble debate we have interviewed David Decker, co-author of Cash in on the Coming Real Estate Crash: How to Protect Yourself From Losses Now, and Turn a Profit After the Bubble Bursts. He recently sat down with us to share his thoughts on the housing bubble, lending guidelines, and the art of buying and selling in a slow market.

• Chicago's Housing Crash: Interview With ChicagoBubbleBlog

  Next up in our series of interviews featuring housing experts from around the nation, we have views from the Chicago area courtesy of the ChicagoBubbleBlog (chicagobubbleblog.blogspot.com). In this no-nonsense interview we learn the truth about Chicago foreclosures and home inventory, and find out how the Chicago housing market is faring compared to other housing markets across the country.

• View more Articles from 'Housing Expert Interviews' >>>

Housing News - Florida

• 31 Month Supply of Unwanted Condos Flooding Miami Housing Market

  A couple of years ago, condos were a hot commodity in Florida, particularly in Miami-Dade County. Today, there is a 31 month supply of existing condos on the Miami-Dade market, and a serious lack of interest from buyers.

• Buy a Florida Condo and Send Your Kid to College for Free

  With Florida condo sales slowing, many builders are getting desperate. One company is even offering to pay for four years of college tuition if you'll only sign on the dotted line.

• Buyers Priced Out of the Florida Housing Market

  During the boom, Florida home prices increased 84 percent. Wages, however, did not. The result is that workers in Florida's key occupations, such as firefighters, nurses, and law enforcement professionals, have been priced out of the housing market. Here is an interesting collection of charts detailing how many hours people in these key occupations need to work to afford fair market rent, and how much they would need to make each year to afford a median priced home in some of Florida's largest metropolitan areas.

• View more Articles from 'Housing News - Florida' >>>

Housing News - Northern CA

• 18 of America's 20 Least Affordable Metro Areas in California

  Home affordability has long been a problem for the state of California, but the problem seems to be growing out of control. With home prices climbing much faster than incomes, it is estimated that less than 25 percent of the residents in the state can afford to buy.

• 2007 Bay Area Housing Market Forecast

  Like most of the nation, the Bay Area was left with egg on its face in 2006 as the housing bubble began to burst and home sales plummeted. The events this year proved to be a hard blow to many homeowners, as well as those in the real estate industry. With 2007 finally upon us, it's time to find out where the Bay Area housing market is heading.

• Alameda County Home Sale Report

  Home sales in Alameda County are down significantly. Median home price are also decreasing in most cities within the County. Areas like Albany, Pleasanton, and Union City have seen the largest declines, while Berkeley and Oakland both experienced small increases.

• View more Articles from 'Housing News - Northern CA' >>>

Housing News - Southern CA

• 83 Percent of San Diego Homebuyers Used ARMS in June 2005

  The dreaded two-year ARM reset is about to hit everyone in the nation who took out an ARM to finance their home purchase in June of 2005. For San Diego County, where an estimated 83 percent of buyers took out an ARM, the anniversary is likely to bring payment shock and foreclosures.

• C.A.R. Misrepresents California Home Affordability

  The California Association of Realtors recently reported the percentage of California households who could afford to purchase an entry level home. While the C.A.R. reports this number as 25 percent, in reality, the number could be much lower.

• California Home Prices Predicted to Decline in 2007

  It looks like soaring home prices in California are about to be grounded. The California Association of Realtors expects home prices to decline in 2007 as sales continue to slow.

• View more Articles from 'Housing News - Southern CA' >>>

Interest Rates Guide

• Advice on Finding the Lowest Mortgage Rate: Tips for Home Mortgage Loan Comparison Shopping

  To find the best home mortgage loan equal parts luck, tenacity and patience can be a great deal of help. More importantly, you need to remember what's at stake. Whether you are looking for a purchase loan or to simply refinance your existing mortgage there are great deals of money that can be saved or spent depending on the choices you make.

• Compare Home Loan Rates: Fixed Rate Mortgages Vs. Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARM)

  Understanding the difference between adjustable rate mortgages and fixed rate loans involves a complex algebra. Being aware of why this is so can help you make the best borrowing decision for your situation.

• Comparing Mortgage Rates: 15 Year Mortgages Vs. 30 Year Mortgages

  There are a number of reasons to compare home mortgage loan terms, and rate is simply one. Choosing a 15-year over a 30-year term can save you a great deal of money on your home mortgage loan.

• View more Articles from 'Interest Rates Guide' >>>

Investing for Kids

• Attention Kids -- Watch Out For Identity Theft!

  Once you enter a life of investing, you are leaving the world of children and entering the world of adults. While it can be exciting to learn about all of the fantastic things investing can bring, it's important as well to learn how you can protect yourself. Read on to learn about identity theft!

• Banking for Kids: How Banks Work!

  You may be a kid, but chances are you know how banks work! You simply go deposit your money for safekeeping, and withdraw it when you need it, right? While this is true, the entire banking process is actually a lot more complicated. Read this article to learn what really goes on behind the scenes of your local bank, and what it means for your money.

• Banking for Kids: Start Saving Money by Creating a Budget

  So you want to start investing, huh? Well, you need some cash first. Even if you're a kid, you can still benefit from establishing a budget. Read this article to find out how!

• View more Articles from 'Investing for Kids' >>>

Life Insurance Guide

• How Much Does Life Insurance Cost?

  The cost of a life insurance policy varies, depending on what sort of coverage is purchased and on how much the policy pays out.

• Selecting a Life Insurance Policy

  It is important for a person to explore the needs of their loved ones in order to decide which kind of life insurance policy may be the right one for them.

• What Are the Different Types of Life Insurance?

  People who are interested in purchasing life insurance will find that there are two main types, term and whole, both of which offer different kinds of coverage.

• View more Articles from 'Life Insurance Guide' >>>

Mortgage Down Payments

• Don't Have Enough Cash to Make the Down Payment? Check Out These Options!

  Getting enough money to make a down payment is a tough thing accomplish. Here are three tips to help you reach your goal.

• How to Lower Costs When You Can't Afford 20 Percent Down

  Lenders require private mortgage insurance when buyers finance more than 80 percent of the selling price. Here is a way to lower the costs.

• The Down Payment on Your First Home: How Big Should It Be?

  Three things to factor into your down payment decision.

• View more Articles from 'Mortgage Down Payments' >>>

Mortgage Guide (By State)

• A Couple of Tools to Help You Sell Your Arizona Real Estate

  The Arizona housing market has been on fire since the mid-nineties. Mortgage rates and immigration provided fuel for a boom. Here are a couple of necessary steps for those now hoping to sell.

• Adjustable Rate Mortgages in Ohio

  With so many loan options available in Ohio's market, it's easy to get overwhelmed by jargon and numbers. ARMS, or adjustable rate mortgages, are a popular option for first time home buyers, as it allows or some breathing room early in the life of the loan. But watch out- many homebuyers overextend, borrowing beyond their means or biting off too much house for their budget. According to Mortgages for Dummies, here are a few questions for the OH homebuyer considering an adjustable rate mortgage.

• Affordable Home Loan Options in the State of Delaware

  DE is home to a number of top universities and colleges, and of course, the annual Delaware Sangerbund Oktoberfest. If you are considering purchasing a home this state, here are a few affordable mortgage choices.

• View more Articles from 'Mortgage Guide (By State)' >>>

Mortgage News

• 90 Percent of Appraisers Feel Pressure to Inflate Home Values

  Inflated home appraisals helped drive up home prices across the country to levels that couldn't be sustained. A new study finds that 90 percent of appraisers now feel pressure to inflate home values. Some are even being asked to turn in appraisals without looking for a home. Those who don't cooperate face negative ramifications from clients and employers alike.

• Are Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Out of Control?

  Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and have been embroiled in an ongoing accounting scandal for some time now. Although the two mortgage giants have made progress, federal regulators say supervision is still needed to oversee and help correct the massive problems which are becoming a risk for our entire financial system.

• Balloon Loans Could Cause Trouble for Homeowners

  Balloon loans have allowed many people to achieve the dream of home ownership, but they can also be problematic for some borrowers. If you are thinking about getting a balloon loan, you had better think carefully.

• View more Articles from 'Mortgage News' >>>

Mortgage Rate History

• Mortgage Rate History: Overview of Home Mortgage Rates From 2000 - 2005

  While rising rates have been one of the distinguishing characteristics of the current mortgage market it is probably no time to panic. Now that the past thirty-year trend of falling rates seems to be coming to an end, what should the home mortgage loan borrower expect?

• Mortgage Rate History: Overview of Home Mortgage Rates in the 1970's

  The seventies were a tough time for home mortgage loans. For many it seemed that with each passing day mortgage rates would continue their upward march. Ironically, the rising rate environment was neither good for home mortgage lenders or borrowers.

• Mortgage Rate History: Overview of Home Mortgage Rates in the 1980's

  Eighties' mortgage rates were a disaster for the most part. Throughout most of the decade, home mortgage loans would have cost borrowers well above 9%. The biggest question is whether or not these conditions will return?

• View more Articles from 'Mortgage Rate History' >>>

Mortgage Refinancing Guide

• An Inflated Real Estate Appraisal Can Tweak Your Refinance Plans

  Some home appraisers have a tendency to bias their estimates to the high side. A high appraisal has the potential to alter your refinance plans. Here is what you can do.

• An Overview of the Largest Mortgage Companies in the US

  Sticking with trusted names in the home mortgage business can be a good way to protect your investment. Keep in mind that home mortgage loan rates can vary not only among lenders but among these lenders various outlets. Shop for the best rates as well as fees among the many different ways these lenders offer their home mortgage loans.

• Are All Online Mortgage Brokers the Same? How Do I Find the One With the Best Mortgage Loan Program for Me?

  Knowing the rules and regulations in regard to home mortgage lending is often the best way to separate the good online home mortgage brokers from the bad. There are many rules that home mortgage lenders must follow in order to be in accordance with the law.

• View more Articles from 'Mortgage Refinancing Guide' >>>

New Home Loans Guide

• All About Prepayment Penalties

  Prepayment penalties are a tool lenders use to achieve favorable terms in the mortgage game. Here is some information you will want to know before signing on the dotted line.

• An FHA Loan Is a Great Mortgage Option For First Time Home Buyers

  The Federal Housing Administration will insure your mortgage so you can qualify for lower cost lending.

• Avoid These Common Mistakes When You Buy Your First Home

  Buying a home for the first time is an intimidating process. Avoid these costly mistakes.

• View more Articles from 'New Home Loans Guide' >>>

Personal Debt Guide

• A Beginner's Guide: What to Do When You Are Drowning in Debt

  Debt can be a good thing when bought intelligently and managed effectively. Yes, there is such a thing as 'good debt'. School loans, mortgages, and consolidation loans all can be considered good debt when handled properly. But, there is another kind of debt that most Americans are all too aware of: credit cards, high interest car loans, and bad mortgage products all fall under the category of 'bad debt'.

• Breaking Bad Spending Habits to Control Personal Debt

  Despite feeling hopeless over bad spending habits, there are resources available that help people reorganize their finances and learn proper spending habits.

• Brokerage Firms: Questions You Need to Ask

  When it comes to investment service providers, the options seem nearly endless. Local banks, discount brokers, online brokerage firms, 'click and mortars': it's easy for the average investor to get overwhelmed with choices.

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Personal Loan Rates

• How Credit Card Interest Rates Are Set

  Why have credit card interest rates remained high, in spite of record low prime interest rates over the last few years? Read this article to find out.

• Should Rising Interest Rates Dictate Whether You Lease or Buy a Car?

  New financing options are making auto leasing more rewarding for potential owners and their pocket books! What role should interest rates play when making major car buying and leasing decisions? Read on to find out!

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Real Estate Investing Guide

• A Few Misguided Beliefs About 1031 Exchanges

  A 1031 exchange is a great way to avoid the tax consequences of selling real estate. But, just to make sure you aren't on the wrong side of an IRS audit, read these observations.

• A Stock Investor's Perspective on Purchasing An Investment Home

  Your home will be a successful investment if you take a disciplined approach. Here are some things to think about before purchasing your property.

• A Tale About an Adjustable Rate Mortgage and the Flat Yield Curve

  Whether you want to be in an adjustable rate mortgage or a fixed rate mortgage depends on the slope of the yield curve.

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Refinancing Home Equity Loans

• Is It Possible to Refinance a Home Equity Loan?

  The answer is yes, but to find real cost savings the homeowner must use restraint.

• When Should I Refinance My Home Equity Loan?

  Home equity loans are subordinate to your purchase or first position loan. Because of this the rates for Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit are appreciably higher than a conventional home loan. It is because of this that one should refinance when the Home Equity Line or Loan repayment becomes as much of a burden as your mortgage payments.

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Rent vs. Buy Analysis

• A Tip on How to Make Money in a Housing Downturn: Rent

  There are many books and articles out there that tell you how you can profit from the real estate bubble. Some of them suggest you buy foreclosures in depressed areas; others say that commercial property is the way to go. But if you really want to make money during a housing slump, the easiest and most profitable thing to do is rent.

• Alameda County Rent Vs. Buy Analysis

  Like the rest of the Bay Area, Alameda County has a high cost of living. To top things off, the housing market has been very shaky as of late. Prices are coming down in certain cities and going up in others. If you are wondering whether or not you should continue to rent vs. buying a house, this Alameda County rent vs. buy analysis should help.

• Contra Costa County, California Rent Vs. Buy Analysis

  Rents in Contra Costa County increased slightly between 2006 and 2007. Home prices on, on the other hand declined significantly in many areas of the county. This Contra Costa County rent versus buy analysis breaks down the numbers to determine whether it is better to buy or rent at this point in time.

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Reverse Mortgages

• Reverse Mortgages for Seniors: The Basics

  Many seniors on a fixed income find it difficult to make ends meet. Retirement and social security funds often leave today's retirees coming up short at the end of the month, especially those with medical issues. Elderly homeowners have an option to supplement their monthly income so they can live a comfortable retirement- the reverse mortgage.

• Reverse Mortgages: An Interview With a Specialist

  Maggie O'Connell is a reverse mortgage specialist with Seattle Mortgage, the California/Nevada branch of the Seattle Mortgage Company. Maggie and her company have specialized in reverse mortgages for over a decade, and can be reached for questions at maggie@reversemortgagestore.com. Recently, Maggie sat down with us to discuss the ins and outs of this retirement finance option especially for seniors.

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Second Mortgages Guide

• Decided to Take Out a Second Mortgage? Check Out These Tips!

  Decided to take out a second mortgage? These simple tips may help you to save significant amounts of money down the line! Check this article out to learn more.

• Four Questions To Ask Yourself Before Deciding Between Second Mortgage of HELOC

  Second mortgages and home equity lines of credit are both secured loans tied to property. But major differences exist in the two forms of borrowing. Here are some questions you should ask yourself before deciding between the two.

• Home Loans and HELOCs and Seconds

  In the nebulous world of equity debt, it's easy for the novice investor to get tangled in the web of financial jargon. Home Equity Loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit are both secured with the same collateral- property-but are two very different types of financial product. Here's a short primer to help ease any confusion.

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Selling For Sale by Owner

• A Marketing Plan For FISBO Home Sellers

  Selling a home 'For Sale By Owner' requires a lot of work, a little patience, and a whole lot of dedication. From listing on the MLS to taking out a classified ad, here are a few marketing strategies for selling a home.

• Home Staging Tips for the Do-It-Yourself Home Seller

  Home staging is the art of making your house more attractive to potential buyers. Here are some tips from the pros.

• How To Sell Your House Swiftly (When Its For Sale by Owner)

  Deciding to sell your home on your own is a huge responsibility, but one that can save you big bucks. Here are some ideas for selling your house quickly.

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Stocks and Bonds Guide

• Big Investors Use Exchange-Traded Funds to Bet Against Market

  Large investors are using exchange traded funds to profit when the markets fall. Little guys can make money by paying attention.

• Choosing the Right Time to Sell Your Stocks

  Knowing when to sell your investments is the key to maximizing your profits.

• DIY Internet Investing Verses Investing With Financial Advisors

  It depends on the individual investor, their knowledge and investing style, on whether they wish to hire a financial advisor or do-it-yourself investing, in order to plan and save for the future.

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Sub-Prime Lenders Guide

• Arkansas Mortgage Choices for Sub-prime Borrowers

  From sub-prime lenders to government assistance, here are the choices for AR homebuyers with a low credit score.

• Credit Unions Launch Mortgage Program for Lower-Income Homebuyers

  Consumers making the median or below average income for a given region can now qualify for a home loan with an interest rate up to one percent lower than average ARM.

• How to Find the Best Mortgage Lender if You Have Bad Credit

  The first thing you should keep in mind when shopping for a mortgage with a less than stellar credit rating is that you are not alone. While there are lenders who prey on sub-prime borrowers, the fact is that competition is such that you can still find good lenders. Keep reading this article to find out how you can find the best mortgage lender if you have bad credit.

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Subprime Mortgage News

• $500 Million Dollar Bailout Extended to US Mortgage Borrowers

  Several different U.S. states have, or are set to announce, multi-million dollar bailout plans for mortgage borrowers who are in danger of losing their home. Will the money come from taxpayer pockets?

• 50 Percent of New York City Homeowners Have Subprime Mortgages

  A new report surfaced yesterday detailing the number of homeowners in New York City with subprime mortgages. The report shows the usage rate of subprime purchase loans has tripled, and it is estimated that 50 percent of the people in the city's 5 poorest neighborhoods have a subprime mortgage.

• 60 Percent of Liar Loan Applicants Exaggerate Income

  With defaults on the rise, liar loans have been getting a lot of press as of late. Lenders who are comparing loan applications to actual federal tax returns are finding that more than 60 percent of applicants are exaggerating their income to qualify for a loan.

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Tips and Advice

• 10 Get Rich Quick Tips Everyone Can Use

  Sick of living poor? Start to save more and spend less with these 25 get rich quick tips.

• 25 Debt Elimination Tips That Work

  It takes a lot longer to get out of debt than it takes getting into it. If you're looking for inspiration, here are 25 debt elimination tips that actually work.

• 5 Easy Ways to Get Free Money to Start a Business

  Sick and tired of your job? Why not start your own business? There is plenty of money out there for entrepreneurs who want to work for themselves. The key is knowing where to look.

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Using a Home Sales Agent

• Finding a Professional Realtor to Sell Your Home

  Some people may not know where to begin to find a realtor. Finding a qualified professional may seem difficult, which is why a good place to search for available realtors is the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

• Interview Questions to Ask Potential Real Estate Brokers Before Selling a Home

  At a cost of six percent of the selling price price, real estate agents can be an expensive part of the transaction. Here are a few interview questions to help you pick the right agent.

• Some Tips For Working With Your Realtor

  After you decide to sell your home, you must decide if you want to use a realtor, or go it alone. OK, forget 'go it alone', here's why you need a real estate agent, and what to do when you get one.

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