20 Nov 2023
By divfundposts

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – November 20, 2023

Financial Reports

With the release of the CPI and PPI data, much of the broader market has been anticipating the potential cooling of inflation numbers month-to-month and those expectations have been met. There’s a consistent trend of inflation slowing down which brings a greater potential for the end of any rate hikes from the Federal Reserve, signaling a soft-landing for the economy which has been touted by Jerome Powell. With a soft landing, it does also signal a strong potential for the Federal Reserve to begin lowering rates in the coming future. 

Consumer Price Index

Despite the report beating inflation expectations and leading to optimistic outcomes for a future soft-landing for the economy, there is still plenty to be cautious about with the reports also signaling the largest reduction was due to the price of gasoline declining significantly from the prior month. The overall cost of living has remained stable and not increased, but there is still plenty to look out for with the coming reports.

  •  The consumer price index was flat in October from the previous month but increased 3.2% from a year ago.
  •   Excluding volatile food and energy prices, the core CPI rose 0.2% and 4%, against the forecast of 0.3% and 4.1%. The annual rate was the smallest increase since September 2021.
  • The flat reading on the headline CPI came as energy prices declined 2.5% for the month, offsetting a 0.3% increase in the food index.

Producer Price Index
The Producer Price Index for final demand fell 0.5 percent in October, seasonally adjusted, after advancing 0.4 percent in September, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. (See Table A). The October decline is the largest decrease in final demand prices since a 1.2-percent drop in April 2020. On an unadjusted basis, the index for final demand rose 1.3 percent for the 12 months ended in October.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
The last 3 weeks have seen a week-to-week decline in rates.

  •     15-Yr FRM rates seeing a week-to-week decrease by -0.05% with the current rate at 6.76%.
  •     30-Yr FRM rates seeing a week-to-week decrease by -0.06% with the current rate at 7.44%

MND Rate Index

  •    30-Yr FHA rates increased week to week seeing a -0.21% increase for this week. Current rates at 6.70%
  •   30-Yr VA  rates increased week to week seeing a -0.02% increase for this week. Current rates at 6.72%

Jobless Claims
Weekly jobless claims have exceeded expectations this week, with it showing a slight uptrend. Initial Claims have increased to 231,000 compared to the expected claims of 220,000. The prior week was 218,000. 

What’s Ahead
Thanksgiving week, being next week will see a reduction in the data release schedule. The largest ones will be U.S. leading economic indicator reports, with the usual initial jobless claims, and lastly the final consumer sentiment report for the quarter.

17 Nov 2023
By divfundposts

Financing Your Oasis with a Construction Loan for Swimming Pools and Spas

Home Values

Creating a backyard oasis with a swimming pool, hot tub, or water feature can transform your outdoor space into a haven for relaxation and entertainment. However, financing such a project often involves careful planning and consideration. One popular financial option for these endeavors is a construction loan.

Understanding Construction Loans

Construction loans are specialized financing options designed to fund the building or renovation of properties. They differ from traditional home loans in that they provide funds in stages, often referred to as “draws,” as the project progresses. These loans typically have variable interest rates and shorter terms compared to standard mortgages.

Financing Pool and Spa Installations

When it comes to installing swimming pools, hot tubs, or other water features, construction loans offer a flexible solution. Here’s a breakdown of how these loans can be utilized:

1. Single-Close Loans: These loans are particularly useful for financing the entire project, from excavation to completion. They cover the cost of both the home and the pool or spa installation. Single-close loans simplify the process by combining the financing for the home and the outdoor amenities into a single loan.

2. Home Equity Loans or Lines of Credit: If you already have equity in your home, you might consider leveraging it to fund your pool or spa installation. Home equity loans or lines of credit allow you to borrow against the value of your home, making it a viable option for financing home improvement projects.

3. Construction-to-Permanent Loans: These loans start as construction loans and then convert into traditional mortgage loans once the project is complete. This option can be beneficial if you’re planning a larger project that includes significant landscaping, such as multiple water features or extensive outdoor renovations.

Things to Consider

Before opting for a construction loan to finance your pool or spa installation, consider the following:

1. Credit and Eligibility: Lenders typically assess creditworthiness and eligibility criteria before approving a construction loan. Ensure your credit score and financial standing meet the lender’s requirements.

2. Costs and Budgeting: Factor in not just the cost of the pool or spa installation but also additional expenses like landscaping, decking, or ongoing maintenance. Create a comprehensive budget to understand the full scope of the project.

3. Interest Rates and Terms: Construction loans often come with variable interest rates and shorter terms. Be prepared for fluctuations in interest rates and ensure you’re comfortable with the repayment schedule.

Installing a swimming pool, hot tub, or water feature in your backyard can significantly enhance your home’s value and your quality of life. Financing these projects through construction loans provides a practical and structured way to fund your dream outdoor oasis.

Before embarking on this journey, it’s wise to research various lenders, understand the terms and conditions of the loan, and carefully assess your financial capability to undertake and repay the loan. A well-thought-out plan will not only ensure a smooth financing process but also help you create the backyard paradise you’ve always envisioned.

16 Nov 2023
By divfundposts

Comparing Temporary and Permanent Mortgage Buydowns

Mortgage Tips

When it comes to mortgages, a “buydown” generally refers to paying an extra fee upfront to reduce the interest rate over a specific period. There are typically two types: temporary buydowns and permanent buydowns.

Permanent Buydown:
With a permanent buydown, the borrower pays extra fees at the beginning of the loan to permanently reduce the interest rate over the entire life of the loan. This differs from a temporary buydown because the reduced rate remains constant for the entire loan term, potentially resulting in lower overall interest payments.

Temporary Buydowns

A temporary buydown is a type of mortgage financing in which the borrower pays an upfront fee to temporarily reduce the interest rate on the mortgage for a specific period of time. During this period, the borrower enjoys lower monthly mortgage payments, which can help make homeownership more affordable.

The temporary buydown typically lasts for the first few years of the mortgage, usually 1 to 3 years. The borrower pays a one-time fee at closing, which is used to fund the temporary reduction in the interest rate. The fee can either be paid in cash or financed into the loan amount.

During the buydown period, the borrower’s interest rate is lower than the fully indexed rate. For example, if the fully indexed rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage is 4%, a temporary buydown might reduce the interest rate to 2% in the first year, 3% in the second year, and 4% in the third year, after which it would revert to the fully indexed rate for the remainder of the loan term.

The lower interest rate during the buydown period results in lower monthly mortgage payments for the borrower, which can make homeownership more affordable in the early years of the loan. This can be particularly beneficial for borrowers who anticipate lower income during the early years of homeownership but expect to earn more in the future.

It’s important to note that while a temporary buydown can lower monthly payments during the buydown period, it does not reduce the total amount of interest paid over the life of the loan. In fact, the total interest paid over the life of the loan may be higher due to the upfront fee paid to fund the buydown.

Better to do a Temporary Buydown or buy the rate down forever?

Deciding whether to do a temporary buydown or buy the rate down permanently depends on your specific financial situation and goals.

If you plan to stay in the home for a long time and have the financial means to pay the upfront fee, buying the rate down permanently may be a better option. This will result in a lower interest rate and lower monthly payments for the entire term of the loan, which can save you money in the long run.

On the other hand, if you plan to sell the home or refinance the mortgage before the buydown period ends, a temporary buydown may be a better option. The lower payments during the buydown period can help make homeownership more affordable in the short term, without committing to a higher interest rate for the life of the loan.

In general, it’s important to carefully consider your financial goals and circumstances when deciding whether to do a temporary buydown or buy the rate down permanently. You may want to consult with a financial advisor or mortgage professional to help you make the best decision for your individual needs.

14 Nov 2023
By divfundposts

Speed Your Mortgage Approval up by Following This Checklist

Mortgage Application

Have you finally found your dream home after months of searching, and then you are told that the seller has received other offers? No buyer wants to find themselves in a bidding war against another buyer as it is a stressful situation. Being unprepared and not having your finances in order will make it even more stressful. Here are a few quick ways if you’re looking to speed up your mortgage approval process, here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

·        Review your credit report: Maintain a good credit score by paying bills on time, reducing existing debt, and avoiding new credit inquiries. Check your credit report for errors and make sure your credit score is in good shape. A good credit score can positively impact the approval and interest rate you receive.

·        Gather financial documents: Gather all necessary paperwork beforehand, including pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and any other financial documentation. Having these readily available will expedite the application process.

·        Save for a down payment: A larger down payment can reduce the risk for lenders, making them more inclined to approve your loan faster. It can also decrease the time needed for certain approval processes.

·        Stay at your job: It’s best to avoid changing jobs during the mortgage approval process.

·        Avoid new credit: Don’t apply for new credit or take on new debt during the approval process.

·        Don’t make big purchases: Avoid making large purchases, such as a car, during the approval process.

·        Respond promptly to requests: Once you’ve applied for a mortgage, respond promptly to any requests from your lender. Delays often occur when there’s a lack of communication or slow responses to queries or requests for additional information.

·        Work with a reputable lender: Choose a lender with a good reputation and experience in the mortgage industry.

·        Get pre-approved: Consider getting pre-approved for a mortgage before house hunting to speed up the approval process.

Stay informed about the process and ask questions if you’re unsure about any step. Following this checklist can help speed up your mortgage approval process and make the process smoother and less stressful.  Good communication with your lender is key to ensuring a smooth and expedited process.

13 Nov 2023
By divfundposts

Which Big Tax Breaks Are Available From Home Credits

Taxes

There are several big tax breaks available from home credits that can help homeowners save money on their taxes. Here are some notable examples:

Mortgage Interest Deduction: This is one of the largest tax breaks for homeowners. You can deduct the interest paid on your mortgage loan, up to a certain limit, as an itemized deduction on your federal income tax return. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 reduced the mortgage interest deduction limit for new mortgages, but it still remains a significant tax break for many homeowners.

Property Tax Deduction: Homeowners can deduct the amount they pay in property taxes on their primary residence and any other real estate they own. The property tax deduction is an itemized deduction and can help reduce your taxable income.

Energy-Efficient Home Improvements: The Residential Energy-Efficient Property Credit allows homeowners to claim a tax credit for certain energy-efficient improvements made to their homes. This includes installing solar panels, solar-powered water heaters, wind turbines, geothermal heat pumps, and fuel cell systems. The credit is a percentage of the cost of the improvements and can provide substantial tax savings.

Home Office Deduction: If you use a part of your home regularly and exclusively for business purposes, you may be eligible for a home office deduction. This deduction allows you to deduct a portion of your home-related expenses, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, utilities, and home insurance, based on the percentage of your home used for business.

First-Time Homebuyer Credit: Although the federal first-time homebuyer credit was phased out in 2010, some states offer their own versions of this credit. These credits are designed to assist first-time homebuyers with their down payment or closing costs. Eligibility criteria and available amounts vary by state, so you should check with your state’s tax authority or a tax professional to see if you qualify.

It’s important to note that tax laws can change, and eligibility for these tax breaks may vary depending on your specific circumstances. It’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional or refer to the latest tax guidelines to understand the most up-to-date information and determine your eligibility for these tax breaks.