After Foreclosure: Mortgage Help

After suffering through a foreclosure, you're faced with rebuilding your life and your credit profile, one step at a time.

GMAC, Countrywide Post Huge Losses on Mortgages

Countrywide and GMAC LLC on Tuesday reported big first-quarter losses as they continue to be hurt by credit problems.

Rate Update 2008-04-30: Fed Cuts Rates .25%

The Federal Reserve announced today it would cut key short term interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point.

Retirement Savings Outlook Bleak

Nearly 50 percent of Americans aren't sure that they're saving enough for retirement. Don't fall into that camp.

Know Your Bond Terms

If you don't know an inverse yield curve from an accrued market discount, it's time for a little review session on bond terms.

An Overview of FHA Loans

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) was established around the time of the Great Depression to help Americans buy homes. Today, the FHA continues to insure loans by offering low down payments and refinancing options with attractively high loan-to-value ratios.

An Overview of Mortgage Changes

New mortgage rules have sprung up during the past few months, inspiring intense debate and controversy. Hopefully, some will actually protect consumers and taxpayers.

Rate Update 2008-04-29: Rates Down Despite Weaker Than Expected Economic Reports

Bonds were up, rates were down today despite stronger than expected data. Retail mortgage rates dropped about .375 to price.

Understanding Cash back Mortgage Refinance Loans

Learn how to raise the money you need by leveraging your home with a cash back mortgage refinance loan.

Bank of America Pledges Help to Troubled Owners

With the takeover of home-loan giant Countrywide Financial Corp imminent, the Bank of America took time off its round table negotiations to promise help to the troubled 265,000 borrowers struggling to keep their homes over the next two years by refinancing or modifying at least $40 billion in mortgages.

Rate Update 2008-04-28: Rates Flat in Anticipation of Weeks Data

Rates were unchanged today and the bond market flat with no economic news released and the stock market calm as well.

Freddie Mac Mortgage Portfolio in March Rise

Freddie Mac, the second largest funder of US home loans on Friday announced that its agreement to purchase mortgages rose to its highest level in March after its regulator eased capital constraints.

Are FHA Loans Too Expensive?

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insures loans to make them more affordable for Americans. But lately, banks that write the FHA-insured mortgages have added their own fees, making them more expensive and undercutting the whole notion of less costly FHA loans.

Airlines: Trouble For Consumers And Investors

Air travel is getting less convenient and more expensive-but there doesn't seem to be anything anyone can do about it.

Goldman Sachs Mortgage Chief Steps Down

The head of Goldman Sachs' mortgage department, Daniel Sparks will leave his post for personal reasons, the company revealed on Friday.

FHA Loans: Four Mistakes To Avoid

Strapped homeowners are crying "uncle" as home values dip and foreclosures continue. "Uncle" in this case would be "Uncle Sam" and his Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans.

Are Multiple Inquiries Killing Your Credit?

A common fear is that multiple inquiries on your credit report will lower your score. That's partially true, based on who's doing the inquiring. If you're shopping for a car or home loan, inquiries won't lower your score. But if a landlord or credit card company takes a peek at your credit report, it's a different story.

Is Debt Counseling Right for You?

Debt counseling can help those who have no other options, but there are risks involved.

Understanding Cash back Mortgage Refinance Loans

Learn how to raise the money you need by leveraging your home with a cash back mortgage refinance loan.

Is The Credit Crunch Killing Car Loans?

The subprime mortgage crisis has claimed many victims during the last year. The latest casualty involves a head-on collision with car loans.

Rate Update 2008-04-25: Rates Up Despite Stock Weakness

Rates were up this morning despite weakness in the sttock market. Rates should increase today by .125 to the points.

Inflation Fears Push Up Mortgage Rates

Rates on 30-year mortgages topped 6 percent for the first time in six weeks as financial markets grew more worried about rising inflation pressures.

Saving During a Recession

Don't let an economic recession do more damage than it has to. You can still keep saving even when times are tough.

Getting The Most From Your 401(k)

A 401(k) can be your best friend when planning for a comfortable retirement. Learn how to use this powerful tool.

Mortgage Applications Volume Sinks as Rates Soar

Application for mortgages plunged during the week ending April 18, with surging interest rates contributing to fewer purchases and less refinancing, a weekly application survey by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), revealed.

Rate Update 2008-04-24: Rates Up On February Adjustment to Durable Goods Orders

Bonds opened down today despite a weaker than expected Durable Goods orders report. Rates will likely increase by .375 to price.

Types of FHA Loans

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has quietly supported the dream of homeownership for more than 70 years. Mortgage loans available through the FHA serve low- to middle-income homeowners and homebuyers.

Bank of America to Tighten Mortgage Standards

Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) on Tuesday outlined proposed plans to implement new lending guidelines for its consumer mortgage business ' as soon as is practical' following the completion of its proposed acquisition of Countrywide Financial Corp (NYSE: CFC).

Rate Update: 2008-04-23: Rates Tick Up on Stock Gains

Mortgage rates are up again as the stock market posted gains. Rates should increase by approximately .125 to the points.

Coping with Job Loss

Homeowners who have defaulted on a mortgage are not the only victims of the subprime crisis. Workers in the subprime mortgage sector have lost their jobs as the industry has crumbled. These workers can find new jobs, but they'll need to be persistent and innovative.

Rate Update 2008-04-22: Rates Up As Stocks Markets Post Losses

Bonds were up today on stock market weakness. Earnings news on Wall Street prompted stock selling today, bringing treasury bond prices up. We'll see a lift in improvement by .25 to price.

Fed Champions Clearer Mortgage Standards

Federal Reserve Board Governor Randall Kroszner has called for greater transparency in an industry bugged down by unease and uncertainty.

Rate Update 2008-04-21: Quiet Week Ahead for Rates?

Bonds are down Monday despite stock market losses. Rates, however should improve by up to half of a discount point due to strength in bonds left over from last Friday afternoon.

Freddie To Purchase 'Conforming Jumbo' Loans

Freddie Mac announced on Thursday that it would finance $10 billion to $15 billion in large mortgages called Jumbo Loans from four of the largest U.S mortgage lenders.

Treasury Secretary Gets Into The Mortgage Reform Act

A plan to completely overhaul the financial system would make the U.S. Treasury the main watchdog and "cop" for a wide range of financial agencies and institutions. But the controversial plan has strong opposition.

How to Apply for an FHA Loan

FHA loans offer many advantages to homeowners who qualify for these low-cost mortgages. Before applying for one, it helps to know what the requirements are, and how to improve your chances of getting approved without problems or delays.

Paying Student Loans With Home Equity

When students graduate from college, they begin to enjoy the fruits of their labors. Many land good jobs, and some buy new homes. After a few years of home ownership, if the market is rising, they may also eyeball their student loans, and consider the pros and cons of using a home equity loan to pay off their debts.

All About Debt Consolidation Loan Agencies

When times are tough, you need to know all your options. Here's your chance to find out what a debt consolidation agency is, and how it can help you get out of debt.

MGIC Reports 1Q Loss

The nation's largest mortgage insurer, MGIC Investment Corp., lost $34.4 million in the first quarter as it paid out more claims with more homeowners struggling to meet their mortgage payments.

Rate Update 2008-04-18: Stock Market Up, Interest Rates Up

Rates increased again on Friday on stock market strength. Expect an increase of .375 to the points today.

Car Dealerships and Bad Credit Loans

Searching for a car can be an exciting process. If you have bad credit, however, you'll need to temper your enthusiasm with caution if you plan to ask a car dealership for an auto loan.

FBI in Mortgage Fraud Probe

The FBI is currently investigating cases of potential fraud in the U.S home mortgage industry, with FBI Director Robert Mueller saying, there's a been a "tremendous surge" in mortgage fraud cases, with the trend likely to continue.

Rate Update 2008-04-17: Mortgage Rates Up on Inflation Woes

Bonds opened down today as weakness from yesterday's market carried over into today's trading. Rates should increase by about .375 to price today.

Three Top Tax Scams

The IRS recently published its "Dirty Dozen," a list of the top tax scams. Some of them are used to con taxpayers like you, while others are employed to con the IRS itself.

Fannie and Freddie Pose Risk to US Economy

An S&P report, published on Monday, further exasperated the plight of stricken homeowners by estimating the potential bill to U.S taxpayers to bail out Wall Street firms hit by the credit crisis could grow to as much as $400 billion. With Fannie Mae (FNM) and Freddie Mac (FRE) added to the equation, any rescue package could pose significant economic risks to the United States.

Students Loans and Bad Credit

Going to college is a time to grow intellectually, but many critical lessons extend beyond the classroom. Undergraduates with bad credit will learn that lenders regard them very differently when it comes to granting student loans.

Rate Update 2008-04-16: Rates Up On Strong Industrial Production

Rates were up today on stock market strength and strong industrial production data. Mortgage rates will increase by .25 to price.

Is Refinancing the Answer to Credit Card Debt?

There are two ways to overcome credit card debt. The first is refinancing your home, and using a new mortgage as a debt consolidation loan. The second is to modify your behavior and pay off your credit card debt slowly.

Rate Update 2008-04-15: Rates Up on PPI News

Rates were up today on renewed inflation concerns. Stocks were also down in trading today. Rates should increase by .375 to price today.

3 Cities Added to Watch List of Declining Markets

Boston, Cape Cod and the South shore have been added to a watch list of declining real estate markets by six of the nation's major insurers where they seek more stringent lending requirements.

Rate Update 2008-04-14: March Retail Sales Data Stronger Than Expected

The market opened Monday down on stronger than expected economic news. Rates should increase today by about .125 to the points.

Men in Charge: Protecting Your Wife

Women have come a long way in the last 50 years, but the number of widows living in poverty is still surprisingly high.

Homeowners Who Walkaway Will Feel Pain

Mortgage Lenders, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have issued a warning to persons looking to join the growing number of struggling homeowners to "walkaway" from their mortgages.

Pros and Cons of a Nationwide Mortgage Guild

Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, Jr. has announced plans to establish stringent national licensing standards for mortgage brokers. While many embrace the idea, others say that it will be a disservice to both brokers and American consumers alike. Some say it will make no difference at all.

"Rescue" Scams Add to Homeowner Woes

Crooks, hustlers, con artists…call them what you will, but a new breed of opportunists have crawled out of the woodwork to steal what little cash, troubled home owners may still have left.

Three Alternatives to Home Equity Loans

With the slumping real estate market ravaging home values, consumers strapped for cash are considering financial tools other than home equity loans. Here's an in-depth look at three alternatives to traditional home equity loan financing.

Investing: Fundamental vs. Technical Analysis

There are a variety of techniques to learn if you're going to invest in the stock market. Whether you take a fundamental or technical approach depends on whether you have a short- or long-term horizon.

Rate Update: 2008-04-11: Bonds Up on Stock Market Losses

The bond market opened up today on stock market losses and weak economic data. However mortgage rates should increase today slightly due to weakness in bonds yesterday. Expect .125 to price increase.

Rate Update: 2008-04-09: FOMC Minutes Good News For Rates

Bonds were up on stock market losses today. Rates should be unchanged today due to weakness yesterday.

White House Unveils Foreclosure Aid

As Senate toiled away drawing up a bipartisan plan designed to stave off the effects of the credit crisis, the Bush administration on Wednesday announced plans to help homeowners fend off foreclosure.

Four Ways to Keep the Auditor Away

As April approaches, taxpayers across the land have begun to shake. Despite the prospect of tax refunds and rebates, the specter of an IRS audit strikes fear into the heart of virtually any American. Here are some tips to keep the auditor far from your door.

Rate Update: 2008-04-10 Bonds Down On Stock Market Gains

Bonds opened up today but have fallen as the stock market posted gains.

S&P Lowers Ratings for 4 Mortgage Insurers

Amid rumored losses within the mortgage insurance business, Standard & Poor's has lowered the credit rating for four guarantors.

Escape Financial Quagmire with Debt Consolidation

You can't continue to avoid the prospects of bankruptcy and foreclosure forever. Take action now by considering a strategic debt consolidation.

Ins and outs of Bad Credit Second Mortgages

With a recession waiting in the wings to be officially acknowledged, American consumers find mortgage credit in short supply at a time when they need it most. For many, the answer to their problems may lie in procuring a "bad credit" second mortgage.

Saving Our Homes: Plans to End the Subprime Crisis

More than a year into the subprime crisis, the mortgage industry hasn't shown any convincing signs of recovery. Politicians say that more needs to be done to help homeowners in distress, and they have some big ideas for action.

Mortgage Firms Pledge Help

Ohio Governor, Ted Strickland today announced that nine mortgage loan servicers agreed to sign a 'compact to Help Ohioans Preserve Homeownership,' the first agreement of its kind in the nation.

Mortgage Applications Rise

Applications for US mortgages, fueled by ongoing increase in activity for government-backed loan programs jumped 5.4 percent in the week ending April 4, according to data released by the Mortgage Bankers Association on Wednesday.

Refinancing Woes? Meet the Parents!

When you're facing foreclosure and you don't qualify for a refinance, consider asking mom and dad to help you out of the jam.

Building your Portfolio: No Better Time Than Now

Don't give up on your portfolio just because the market looks bad. This could be the perfect time to invest.

Remodeling During A Recession

Are you stuck with an investment property and a mortgage? Make the best of the situation-move in.

Consumer Crisis: The Fall of Bear Stearns

JP Morgan's bailout of Bear Stearns curtailed an imminent spillover that threatened to take down other major financial institutions. But the average consumer didn't benefit directly from the rescue. American taxpayers may, in fact, wind up paying for all these bailouts over time.

Rate Update: 2008-04-08:Fed Voices Concern About "prolonged and severe economic downturn''

The FOMC Minutes were released today showed Fed officials convinced of an economic contraction in the first quarter, and concerned about a protracted downturn in subsequent months.

Mortgage Association Can't Pay Own Mortgage

One can't help but chuckle at the irony, but according to recent reports, the Mortgage Bankers Association is having trouble paying the mortgage on its new building in Washington.

Don't Become A Negative Home Equity Statistic

Every month, American homeowners and consumers are setting new records for being financially unstable. To avoid becoming a participant in those dismal numbers, you must be vigilant. Learn to recognize the symptoms, and take proactive protective measures before it's too late.

Rate Update:(2008-04-07)

Bonds are down today on stock market gains. Rates however should stay neutral today due to strength in Friday afternoon bond market trading.

Capitol Hill to Tackle Mortgage Mess

The week sees the mortgage crisis take centre stage in the Senate as a bill aimed at helping homeowners and businesses affected by the subprime debacle comes up for a key procedural vote.

Mind Your Tax Breaks!

It's time to stop ignoring the impending tax deadline and start thinking about what you owe. But here's the good news: This year, you might qualify for some extra breaks.

Recession Reality Near as Bankruptcies Rise

All signs point to a U.S. economy recession as bankruptcy filings in states severely affected by the housing crunch witnessed a sharp rise in March.

Debt Problems? Learn the Art of Frugality

Life is all about balance, especially when it comes to finances. Overspend your hard-earned dollars, and you could wind up in need of a debt consolidation loan. On the other hand, while being frugal will keep you out of the red, you need to be careful not to become a miser in the process.

Getting Your Money from Reverse Mortgages

Reverse mortgages pay older homeowners for their home equity. But how you get your cash depends upon which mortgage options you choose. Decide what's best for your specific circumstances; then find a lender with a reverse mortgage that fulfills those needs.

Help your Teens Become Millionaires

Parents always want their kids to grow up and be successful. It's even better if that success includes a seven-figure savings account.

Help your Teens Become Millionaires

Parents always want their kids to grow up and be successful. It's even better if that success includes a seven-figure savings account.

Fannie Mae Tightens Loan Criteria

Fannie Mae, largest U.S. mortgage-finance company, has announced the introduction of a new minimum 580 FICO for all eligible loans. It will no longer buy most loans made to borrowers with credit scores below 580 as it again reacts to the slumping housing market by tightening its lending standards.

Recession-proof Your Portfolio

The next recession is coming on strong, but you're not helpless. Here's how to protect your investment portfolio in tough economic times.

Rate Update: Rates Down Friday On Weaker THan Expected Unemployment 2008-04-04

Bonds were up today on weaker than expected employment figures. Stocks are down and rates should improve today by about .375 to price.

Mortgage Application Volumes Drop

The volume of mortgage applications filed in the week ending March 28 tumbled 28.7 percent, according to a survey revealed by the Mortgage Bankers Association's weekly survey.

Rate Update: Rates Down On Weekly Unemployement Report 2008-04-03

Bonds were up today after the weekly unemployment report showed weaker than expected data. Expect rates to improve by a quarter to the points.

Credit Cards: When More is Merrier

At a time when consumers with credit problems have wreaked havoc on the mortgage industry, it's not surprising to find that many people carry more than one credit card. However, when you consider the advantages, having multiple charge cards makes sense.

FHA Raises Limits on Conforming Mortgages

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) runs several programs that rely on FHA loan insurance to protect lenders from defaults. These initiatives promote home ownership for American families. Now that allowable loan amounts have been increased, approximately a quarter of a million more buyers should reap the benefits in 2008.

New Jumbo Loan Limits May Ignite a Niche Market

Higher limits on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans may spark sales of high-end homes by making it easier and cheaper to finance them. The news is good for both buyers and sellers, and may inspire a surge in sales in a market that's been stagnant for months.

Rate Update 2008-04-01: Rates Jump Up on Strong ISM Report

Mortgage rates are up today on stock market gains. Rates can be expected to increase today by as much as 50 basis points

Senate Agree on Mortgage Bill

Despite varying points of view from both the Democrats and Republicans on how best to tackle the nation's housing related economic crisis, Senate today voted to consider legislation aimed at helping millions of homeowners avoid foreclosure.

Falling Prices? Keep Your Home Value Rising

With the news that Americans' percentage of equity in their homes has fallen below 50 percent, homeowners are looking for ways to increase the value of their properties. The methods that are most popular are cost-effective home improvements.

Rate Update: Rates Rise On Sanguine Stock Market 2008-04-02

Rates are again up today, as the stock market posted gains again.

Jackson sets resignation date

As expected, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Alphonso Jackson today announced his decision to step down from his post on April 18.

Stop the Bleeding with Debt Consolidation

When charge cards become a way of life, it's time to make some serious changes. Before you jump to debt consolidation as a solution, make sure that you're 100 percent committed to living without the plastic.

Avoid Penalty Points for Missed Payments

The fallout from delinquent subprime mortgages continues to illustrate how inter-connected our financial system truly is. Because of a penalty known as "universal default," a late payment on a mortgage can cause the interest rate on your credit card to rise.