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Questions and Answers concerning Bellingham Home Loans and Refinancing
| Q1: | I am looking to refinance my home loan. Should I choose a 15 or 30 year loan? |
| | A1: | The answer depends on your situation. The 30 year loan will have lower payments required and thus will be be easier to obtain and pay off. On the other hand, the 15 year home loan will likely have a lower interest rate, which will be beneficial. Furthermore, the 15 year loan will be paid off in half of the time and will save you considerable money over the life of the loan. |
| Q2: | I want as low as rate as possibile. Should I choose a variable loan (ARM), or a fixed rate loan? |
| | A2: | The advantage of a variable rate loan is that the initial interest rate is lower. However, if interest rates increase, then you could end up paying more. One in-between program would be an "Intermediate" ARM, which is set at a lower fixed rate for 1,3, or 5 years, and becomes variable for the remainder of the loan. |
| Q3: | I have had some problems with my credit such as prior late payments on a mortgage and an overdue credit card account. Can I still get a loan? |
| | A3: | Very few people have perfect credit. Often there are errors on a credit report that can be "cleaned up" so it will not inhibit you in getting a loan. Each situation is different and prior bad credit even prior bankruptcy does not necessarily bar someone from getting a home loan. |
| Q4: | Can't I just go to a bank for a loan? Don't they have mortgage bankers there? |
| | A4: | Banks certainly make some loans to the public. However, banks are usually limited to a narrow choice of programs. A mortgage banker can choose from a variety of financial institutions to provide the loan package that is best suited (and more competitive) for the customer. |
| Q5: | How long will it take for my loan to be processed once I apply? |
| | A5: | The answer depends on the lending institution that is being used as well how organized the customer is in getting their documentation organized. A loan can usually be completed between 30 and 45 days after applying. Starting the process early and getting pre-qualified can save a great deal of time. |
| Q6: | Does it cost more to go to a Mortgage Banker, as opposed to a Bank? |
| | A6: | A Mortgage Banker should be able to obtain a more competitive rate, without adding any "junk fees". It is a good idea to inquire with the Mortgage Banker you are meeting with to make sure you are not paying any extra fees, compared to a typical bank's fees, such as unnecessary application or processing fees. |
| Q7: | Where can I get more information or get pre-qualified and start the loan process? |
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Mortgage Calculator
