Economics Finance

Construed with the aim of rewarding American Veterans, a VA loan is the kind of mortgage loan that helps veterans, their survivors and families realize the dream of home ownership. This is done with the help of the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs who guarantee the loan provided by qualified lenders.

The loan guarantee program, which came into existence after the United States Congress passed the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act in 1944, has been one of the most important benefits that were distributed under the act. The guarantee makes sure that the lender gets his money back while at the same time removing the clause of down payment for the veteran.

Down to the details… Continue reading ‘VA Loans – An Overview’ »

One of the biggest concerns in contemplating the filing of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is how to go about reestablishing credit after the discharge is (hopefully) received and the bankruptcy case closed. Of particular importance is that the debtor regain the ability to qualify for a car loan and, ultimately, that he or she might in the not too distant future qualify for a mortgage loan. Here are some relatively simple steps to help achieve those goals:

1. Start small, but steady: As soon as your case is closed, apply for a credit card with a very low spending limit. Even if that limit is as modest as, say, $250, this fact is much less important than the fact that you must stay completely current on the account. Meaning that you should not merely make the minimum payment every month; rather, you should pay the entire account balance in full, and well before the due date. This will help you establish with the credit reporting agencies a track record of repaying debts reliably and on time. Continue reading ‘Recovering From Bankruptcy – It’s Easier Than You Think’ »

Whether you are applying for VA loan or any mortgage loan, a borrower has to pay the closing costs. But what exactly are you supposed to and not supposed to pay? If you’ve already began your research, you will notice words such as allowable and non-allowables. Veterans applying for VA mortgages or loans are only supposed to pay the “allowables.” David Reed, columnist for Realty Times and Mortgage Originator magazine, has created this easy to remember mnemonics (ACTORS) about the allowable closing costs for veterans:

Appraisal (aka Notice of Value, NOV) or inspection charges

Credit report fees
Title or title-related charges
Origination fees and points
Recording charges
Survey fees if needed Continue reading ‘VA Loan Closing Costs 101’ »

After having carefully planned and researched, you finally close on a VA home loan thinking that this is the end of all the troubles. As the years pass, so do your family dynamics. Maybe your family has grown in numbers and it’s time to add the extra bedroom, or maybe it’s just a matter of consolidating debt to take advantage of the tax benefits. Statistics show that the average mortgage loan is kept no longer than five years. And, most Americans move within ten years of buying their first home.

Like it or not, you’ll probably be refinancing; and if your considering taking cash out, then this article is for you!

What is a VA cash out mortgage refinance?
In the simplest of words, this is a program that provides you with the option of cashing out the equity that has accrued on your home during your period of stay. You can use the funds as per your requirements and choosing.

Before considering a VA cash out refinance, we recommend speaking to a certified mortgage planner and VA loan specialist. These people can offer you expert advice and also ensure your decision meets both your short and long term objectives. In other words, don’t just refinance your home, develop a plan that betters your financial well being and stick to it. Continue reading ‘VA Cash Out Refinance’ »

Construed with the aim of rewarding American Veterans, a VA loan is the kind of mortgage loan that helps veterans, their survivors and families realize the dream of home ownership. This is done with the help of the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs who guarantee the loan provided by qualified lenders.

The loan guarantee program, which came into existence after the United States Congress passed the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act in 1944, has been one of the most important benefits that were distributed under the act. The guarantee makes sure that the lender gets his money back while at the same time removing the clause of down payment for the veteran. Continue reading ‘VA Loans – An Overview’ »