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Frequently asked questions

Home Loans

What documentation should I have to request a mortgage?

1. Tax returns – You will need to fill in a Form 4506-T, and provide your tax forms (the last 2 years should suffice).

2. Pay stubs, W-2s, or other proof of income -These include your recent salary stubs. If you are self-employed you must provide two recent tax return forms as well as profit or loss forms.

3. Bank statements and other assets – This includes proof of your possessions, assets, as well as other investment assets such as life insurance.

4. Credit history – Details of your credit history, including any episodes of bankruptcies or foreclosures.

5. Gift letters – If any friend or family member wants to help you with the down payment by offering you some cash you must provide a “gift letter” which states that the money is a gift and not a loan.

6. Photo ID – Recently taken personal photo passport style.

7. Renting history – Your history as a tenant on rent to guarantee you can pay your rent bills on time.

How long does the process take?

If all the documentation is in order and no unexpected issues are encountered, the process from the initial contact to the refinance approval can take as little as 10 days.

What are HOA fees?

The HOA Fees aka Home Owners Association Fees are monthly payments for the maintenance of the common areas and amenities if you live in a joint association such as a block of flats or condominium association.

What is a down payment?

A down payment is a type of payment, often in cash, made in the early stages of a purchase of a home. Our down payments can be as low as 3% depending on the type of loan except for the VA Loans (Veterans only), with a 0% down payment required.

What is the principal?

The principal is the money that you originally agreed to pay back on a home loan or mortgage refinance.

What is the loan term?

A loan term is the period of time a borrower takes to completely pay off a loan when payments are made out regularly and as previously agreed by both parties.

REFINANCE

How to Claim Refinance Tax Deduction and is mortgage interest tax deductible?

A deduction is a subtraction you can claim on your federal taxes that reduces your tax burden. There are a number of tax deductions that you can take advantage of if you refinance a mortgage loan. You can deduct the full amount of interest you pay on your loan in the last year if you did a standard refinance on a primary or secondary residence. You can only deduct 100% of your interest if you take a cash-out refinance, particularly if you use the money for a capital home improvement. Otherwise, you can only deduct the percentage of interest you paid on your original loan balance.

You can also deduct your discount points and any closing costs you pay toward a refinance on an investment property. You must spread these costs over the total term of your refinance and can only deduct these expenses if you itemize your deductions.

How does refinancing affect your credit score?

If you refinance your current mortgage please note your credit score (officially known as the FICO score) can be affected. This is because you are adding a new loan to an existing one. Nevertheless, this effect is usually only temporary.

What documentation should I have ready to request a refinance?

1. Pay Stubs – You will be required to show your recent salary stubs. If you are self-employed you must provide two recent tax return forms as well as profit or loss forms. If you have other income sources please provide 1099 forms.

2. Tax Returns and W-2s – Copies of your last W-2 statements and tax returns. Typically, lenders will ask for two years’ worth of information.

3. Credit Report – It is very useful to have your credit score checked if this information is required by our lenders and risk analysts.

4. Statements of Outstanding Debt – Details about your outstanding financial obligations. Account statements on all remaining debts, including your existing mortgage, home equity, lines of credit, car loans, and student loans.

Is refinancing worth it?

Yes, Refinancing can actually help you save money especially if the original loan you obtained had excessively high-interest rates. In this case, refinancing makes financial sense since it lowers the interest rate on your loan and can help you shorten the payment schedule.

Another advantage of refinancing your mortgage is that you can obtain cash out to pay off existing credit card debts, student loans, or invest in a home improvement project.

Are home appraisals required for refinancing?

Most lenders require that you get a home appraisal (valuation) before you refinance your mortgage. You may not need an appraisal to refinance your loan if you have an FHA loan, VA loan, or USDA loan. In some situations, you may be eligible for an appraisal waiver on a conventional loan as well. Consult with your loan advisor as to whether or not you are eligible for a property inspection waiver (PIW).