Video: What Is “Prime”?
What Is Prime? The Prime Lending Rate - sometimes just called "Prime" - is the interest rate that banks charge each other for overnight loans. Some consumer rates - like ARMs - are set in relation to Prime.
FOMC Statement: Fed Holds Steady on Rates
According to statement issued at the conclusion of today's Federal Open Market Committee meeting, committee members decided against raising the target federal funds rate. Mixed economic conditions, slower economic growth in the 4th quarter and low inflation contributed to the decision against raising rates. The target federal funds rate was raised in December to a range of 0.25 to 1.59 percent after remaining at 0.00 to 0.25 percent for several years. While rising fed rates were expected to cause a hike in mortgage rates, mortgage rates fell after December's rate hike.
Struggling to Get Approved Because of Your Income? 5 Reasons to Consider a FHA Loan
Buying a home isn't cheap. But if you're determined to become a homeowner, the FHA home loan program can help. This loan program, ideal for first-time buyers with low incomes, can help you to build your credit and make home ownership a reality.
A Guide to Financing Home Improvements and How Mortgage Refinancing Can Help
If you're planning to remodel or renovate your home in the near future - whether to provide a better living environment or as part of a house flip - you'll need to find a way to pay for your home improvements. There are several different possible sources of renovation money, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. One option that is gaining popularity is mortgage refinancing.
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 25, 2016
Last week's scheduled economic news included releases from the National Association of Home Builders, Housing Starts, and Existing Home Sales. Weekly reports on new jobless claims and mortgage rates were also released.
3 ‘Must Know’ Pieces of Advice for First-time Home Buyers
When delving into the realities of home ownership, there can be many factors involved that make it difficult to determine what you need to know and what can wait until later. If you happen to be a first-time buyer who's looking for the best tips for purchasing a home, look no further than the following three pointers to set you on the right path.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Getting Approved for a Mortgage Quickly
If you're ready to buy a home, getting approved for a mortgage is a critical step that you can't skip or rush. So how can you ensure your mortgage gets approved quickly and without any hassles? Here's what you need to know.
Home Builders Remain Confident in January
Home builders maintained December's confidence level according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Housing Market Index for January. The latest reading of 60 mirrored December's reading, but was two points lower than expected. Readings of more than 50 indicate that more builders were confident about housing conditions than those who were not.
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 18, 2016
In addition to weekly reports on mortgage rates and new unemployment claims, last week’s economic news included the Fed’s Beige Book report, retail sales and consumer sentiment. January’s Empire State Index showed an unexpected dip and Consumer Sentiment increased for January.
Who Is Exempt From The VA Funding Fee?
Who is NOT required to pay the VA funding fee? This video could save some veterans thousands. VA loan applicants pay a funding fee - as of 2014, 2.15% of the total loan amount - which can be thousands of dollars. Some veterans and spouses are eligible for exemption.
