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Mortgage Insurance Basics

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 31, 2008

Mortgage insurance, commonly referred to as PMI or private mortgage insurance, plays a small but important role in our real estate economy. Because the insurance protects investors, it translates into more affordable and accessible loans for those Americans wanting to buy homes.

Mortgage Legislation: New Legislation Impacts Owners of Multiple Home

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 31, 2008

The housing stimulus package giveth and taketh; a tax-saving strategy used by the wealthy will soon be cut off to offset the costs of other tax breaks included in the stimulus package.

Auto Insurance: Finding the Right Policy

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 30, 2008

Auto insurance is like any other financial product: It seems like thousands of companies offer it, and all of them claim to have the perfect rate for you. How do you find the right policy?

Stress-free Investing: Lifecycle Mutual Funds

By:: Anders Bylund - MortgageLoan.com | August 30, 2008

Too busy or too nervous to invest in stocks? Lifecycle mutual funds could be your ticket to a happy retirement.

30 Year Mortgage Rate Continues to Decline

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 29, 2008

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate continues to decline slightly everyday. Currently, it has reached its lowest level in 6 weeks and is lower than the same time last year.

Mortgage Rate Forecast

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 29, 2008

Current interest rates are holding steady, but daily pressure to keep mortgage rates low is wearing thin because of today's weak-dollar economy. Most experts agree that it's not a question of if-but when-today's rates will rise.

Loan Locks and Mortgage Rate Trends

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 29, 2008

Before locking in a home loan, it's wise to understand the general trend of current mortgage rates. Such knowledge improves your chance of getting the best or lowest rate at today's going prices.

Mortgage Fraud Increases, Could be Next Market Challenge

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 29, 2008

Mortgage meltdown discussions are peppered with discussions of the "liar loan," or the infamous streamline "no doc" mortgage. These mortgages filled the portfolios of most of the recently failed lending institutions. However, increased scrutiny on all types of lending should have closed off this risk. Or has it?

Fannie Mae Management Shakeup Announced Late Wednesday

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 28, 2008

In late mortgage market news, Fannie Mae's CEO and board of directors announced a shuffling of the executive suite. No doubt these moves were to restore confidence in the rapidly falling mortgage finance giant.

Mortgage Rates Continue Fall

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 28, 2008

Mortgage rates continue to fall slightly, but don't expected it to be the long-term trend.

Back to school: Get frugal now!

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 28, 2008

As summer comes to a close, the back-to-school shopping ads are blitzing the airwaves and cramming mailboxes. Stores are clamoring for your school supply dollars, knowing that you'll probably spend between $200 to $500 per child for supplies and clothes. You have a choice: get frugal or go broke.

Mortgage Help-Government Assistance to Troubled Borrowers Increases

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 28, 2008

The US government and the nation's largest banks have teamed up to stem the rising tide of foreclosures and mortgage delinquencies. However, statistics from July show that it is going to be tough to outpace escalating borrower troubles.

HELOCs: Accentuate the Positive

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 27, 2008

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) can give you the financial flexibility you need-and you might even feel like singing about it.

FOMC Minutes Signal Rate Hikes

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 27, 2008

Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) recent minutes suggest that members, having "significant concerns about the upside risk to inflation," are likely to move toward a hike in rates as the next Fed policy move. However, the committee appears to be in conflicted discussion on what the data really means and timing of any policy decisions.

Rate Update 2008-08-27: FOMC Minutes

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 27, 2008

The recently released FOMC Minutes reflect a general consensus that inflation is the primary Fed concern.

Could a Mortgage Loan Modification Prevent Your Foreclosure?

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 26, 2008

At least 25,000 homeowners recently got a gift letter from the Federal Regulators--offering them a new, more affordable mortgage payment. Could you be as lucky as these mortgage borrowers from the recently failed IndyMac Bank?

Benefits of a 40-Year Mortgage

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 26, 2008

The 40-year mortgage may have a place in your finances, as long as you know both its good and bad sides.

Can a Reverse Mortgage Secure Your Retirement?

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 25, 2008

According to a recent study of working-age households, 45% of Americans are going to fall short of retirement hopes. The Center for Retirement Research at Boston College cites "...the demise of traditional pensions, rising longevity, soaring health care costs, and falling returns" as reasons that current workers must strive to save more.

Mortgage Rate Forecast

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 25, 2008

Existing Home Sales Up

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 25, 2008

The National Association of Realtors report that existing home sales climbed in July, exceeding expectations.

Pay Off Debt with a Home Equity Loan

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 24, 2008

The consumer is the true engine of our economy. The more people buy, the better our capitalist system works. While consumerism works well on a macro level, sometimes people over-extend themselves on the micro-level and accumulate debt. If you need to get yourself out of the red, consider using a home equity loan.

Credit Report Intricacies

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 24, 2008

If you're confused by the information shown in your credit report, you may end up overlooking problems that are affecting your credit score.

Commercial Mortgage Slump

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 23, 2008

Even as companies struggle to lure customers during these harsh economic times, they may be forced to scale back plans for ordering year-end inventory or improving their facilities. A new scarcity of loans at affordable mortgage rates is putting the brakes on businesses expanding their businesses.

Learning from the Wealthy

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 23, 2008

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. If you long to be rich, try imitating rich people-not how they spend, but how they save and invest.

Rate Update 2008-08-22: Bernanke Speaks Today

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 22, 2008

A full agenda of challenges greets the Federal Reserve governors at there annual Jackson Hole, Wyoming symposium.

Five Tips to Reduce Homeowner's Insurance

By:: Anders Bylund - MortgageLoan.com | August 22, 2008

Changing deductibles isn't the only way to save money on your home insurance.

Bernanke:Inflation Uncertain

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 22, 2008

Bernanke assures market the Fed will "act as necessary."

What Does Fannie and Freddie Mean to Borrowers?

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 22, 2008

It seems the inevitable approaches for the US government and its "supported entities" Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Both, moving in tight alignment, have lost over 60% of their market value in the preceding 30 days. Hovering dangerously between $3-$5 a share. Something is certain to break. So, where does will a Fannie, Freddie meltdown leave mortgage borrowers?

Election Day May Be About Taxes

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 21, 2008

The election of our next President quickly approaches. The ads, debate, and polls fill every media outlet. However, a bigger theme maybe brewing on state election ballots--tax reform.

Comparing Money Markets to CDs

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 21, 2008

Money markets and certificates of deposit (CDs) are not one and the same.

Mortgage Rates Decline, but...

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 21, 2008

Mortgage rates continue to show slight declines, but look at it as a temporary trend or if you are a borrower a fleeting opportunity.

Rate Update 2008-08-20: Mortgage Rates Stagnant

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 20, 2008

Mortgage rates continued to hold steady yesterday despite the expected report of steep declines in housing starts.

The New Housing Bill: What it Means for You

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 20, 2008

Congress recently passed a new housing bill, and lawmakers claim that it will do much to help distressed homeowners. While many will now be able to refinance their loans to more affordable ones, it may be others who really benefit from the bill-including people who don't yet own a home.

Homeowners Need Refinance Assistance More Than Ever

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 20, 2008

Foreclosures rates continue to rise, borrowers have found themselves trapped in loans where payments and principle balances balloon, and housing values continue to plummet. This is mixing a toxic cocktail of homeowner despair. However, the government is trying to formulate an antidote.

Benefits of a 40-Year Mortgage

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 20, 2008

The 40-year mortgage may have a place in your finances, as long as you know both its good and bad sides.

Building a Home-Based Business

By:: Anders Bylund - MortgageLoan.com | August 19, 2008

Fulfill your own potential, and save money by doing it the right way.

Government Backed Loans Surge

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 19, 2008

When borrowers talked about getting a mortgage you typically heard discussions of Countrywide and IndyMac--now you hear FHA. Only a few months ago you would have been hard pressed to find a lender, much less a borrower, that knew this acronym. Borrowers now ask for FHA loans, by name. Meanwhile, mortgage brokers are rushing to become approved FHA lenders.

Rate Update 2008-08-19: Housing Starts Today

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 19, 2008

Expect a brief early trading panic as housing starts are expected to be off on a 10% decline--returning to little or no change for the day.

Debt Consolidation Not for the Wealthy

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 18, 2008

As the economy worsens, consumers are looking for new ways to scrounge up a buck. Many are turning to debt consolidation as a method to make ends meet. For the wealthy, however, debt consolidation is the last thing on their minds.

Can a Bad Appraisal Cost You Your Home?

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 18, 2008

In the exuberance of the mortgage boom, it was broadly accepted that home values were moving upward quickly. Were these swiftly rising home values justified? Home owners are beginning to feel the pain of inflated appraisals. In some cases it is even costing them their homes.

Rate Update 2008-08-18: Mortgage Rates Expected to Remain Quite

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 18, 2008

With a light week of economic reports expect a quite week in mortgage rates.

The Truth About Credit Scores

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 17, 2008

What's the truth about bad credit scores? You can alter them, even when your access to credit is limited.

Use Internet for Best CD Rates

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 16, 2008

The Internet is your best resource for finding low CD rates from reliable banks.

Mortgage Rates Hold Steady on Mixed Bag of Economic News

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 15, 2008

Home Mortgage Rate hold steady for the third straight week as the mortgage market is peppered with offsetting economic and housing indicators. Although there were several deviations from analyst estimates and expectations, notably in the Consumer Price Index and existing home sales, there were equally offsetting data in declining energy prices, a strengthening dollar, and record foreclosures. This mix and confusing bag of inputs seemed to leave the market feeling safer not to tinker with the status quo.

Rate Update 2008-08-15: Expect Little Change in Mortgage Rates

By:: Bill Rice - MortgageLoan.com | August 15, 2008

A day full of economic reports, but little news expected that is not already priced into the mortgage rate market.

Credit Cards: The Late Payment Curse

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 15, 2008

To the chagrin of millions of Americans, there's no easy way to shake off the curse of bad credit. Make a few late payments today, and they can severely impact your credit score tomorrow-and for a long time.

Home Equity Debt: Take the Good with the Bad

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 15, 2008

Forrest Gump once noted that life is like a box of chocolates-you never know what you're going to get. A home equity mortgage is a little different. You know that there are going to be pros and cons. Consider them all before you close on a loan.

Rate Update 2008-08-14: 30 Year Mortgage Rate Remains Flat

By:: Paul King - MortgageLoan.com | August 14, 2008

Freddie Mac reports the average 30-yr mortgage rate was flat 6.52% for the 3rd week, in the latest report while the 15-yrs dropped to 6.07% from 6.10% and the average 1-yr adjustable rate dropped to 5.18% from 5.22% (Reuters)

US Foreclosures Rise 55%, Banks Seizures Climb 184%

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 14, 2008

New US legislation, effective 1 October, meant to help home owners stay in their home may not be coming soon enough. Today RealtyTrac, an online marketplace for foreclosure properties, announced staggering increases in foreclosure and bank seizure rates. In their July US foreclosure data RealtyTrac reported foreclosure activity up 8% from the previous month and has risen to 55% from last years levels. Perhaps even more alarming is the steep increase of bank repossessions and REOs that surged to 184% year-over-year.

PMI Losses Might Hurt Consumers

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 14, 2008

Private mortgage insurance (PMI) is typically required for homeowners who have less than 20 percent equity in their property. But PMI providers are suffering huge losses, and that may translate into higher costs for consumers-even if they don't actually need coverage.

Finding Your Perfect Mortgage

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 14, 2008

In today's topsy-turvy financial world, finding a perfect mortgage is a tall order. However, you can find a mortgage that fits your personal financial situation. It will take some research, patience, and realistic goals. Here are a few simple tips to get you started.

Protect Yourself From Bank Failures

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 13, 2008

IndyMac Bank was taken over by regulators, and more banks possibly will follow. If you're worried about your bank, learn how to prepare for the worst.

Sale Leasebacks Make a Comeback

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 13, 2008

With millions of homeowners facing foreclosure due to adjustable-rate mortgage increases and slumping real estate values, sale leaseback strategies are in vogue. In this strategy, the homeowner sells her house and immediately leases it back as a tenant.

Nehemiah Launches Web 2.0 Campaign to Save DPAs

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 13, 2008

Nehemiah Corporation, operator of the largest down payment assistant (DPA) program in the nation, launches an aggressive 50 day Web and social media campaign to save a program axed by the recent Housing and Economic Recovery Act signed into law by President Bush two weeks ago today. As the ban marches towards its effective date of October 1, Nehemiah is attempting to surge awareness and action in support of a reinstating bill (H.R. 6694) introduced into the House of Representatives on July 31.

Speedy Does It: Quick Ways to Repay Your Mortgage

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 12, 2008

You don't need a mortgage expert or special advisor to help you pay back your mortgage early.

The Underbelly of Your Good Faith Estimate

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 12, 2008

Even the most well-intentioned ideas will fail if they're poorly executed. The Good Faith Estimate (GFE) is a perfect example. Created to provide consumers with some solid numbers in the mortgage process, it often results in confusion instead of clarity.

Credit Tightening Squeezes Out Motivated Home Buyers

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 12, 2008

The Federal Reserve continues to report broader consumer credit tightening--stretching across home loans into small business and credit cards. Defaults and delinquencies are beginning to spread into prime lending and economic indicators continue to show weakness. In response banks are rapidly tightening lending standards.

Paulson Says His Time is Short, Unlike US Economic Woes

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 11, 2008

Henry Paulson, in his Sunday "Meet the Press" gathering has said he believes challenges in the US housing markets are likely to persist beyond this year, unlike his tenure as Treasury Secretary which won't stretch beyond the Bush administration.

Rate Update 2008-08-11: Bonds Down and Stocks Down Today

By:: Paul King - MortgageLoan.com | August 11, 2008

Bonds were down Monday despite stock market losses. Rates should however improve today on strength in bonds from last Friday afternoon. Improvement should be no more than .125 to price.

Surviving the Current Mortgage Rate Environment

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 11, 2008

Mortgage money is tight and getting tighter, so homeowners hoping to get a loan at a reasonable mortgage rate need to be better prepared. Lenders are more skeptical, require greater proof of income and assets, and may still charge higher fees if and when they do grant loan approval.

New Fed Restrictions on Mortgage Lenders

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 11, 2008

New mortgage rules governing the practices of mortgage lenders have been adopted and will go into effect about 18 months from now. They promise to protect consumers in ways that are long overdue, while simultaneously safeguarding the nation against a repeat of the subprime mortgage crisis.

Cost of Living Getting More Costly

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 10, 2008

You don't need to track reported inflation figures to know when a paycheck doesn't last as long as it used to.

Refinancing: Can the Government Really Help?

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 10, 2008

Government programs designed to help America out of the housing crisis may finally get pushed through to implementation. How much relief these programs can provide, however, remains to be seen.

Debt Consolidation for Students

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 09, 2008

Multiple student loan payments at varying interest rates may be confusing and inconvenient, to say the least. If you're a recent college graduate, it's worthwhile to look at a debt consolidation loan.

Steps to Reduce Property Taxes

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 09, 2008

When the real estate market was red hot, property tax assessments were keeping right in step with home values. Now that the bubble has burst, it's logical to think that taxes should decrease, too. It may be logical, but it's not realistic. Your property taxes may stay the same, unless you do something about it.

How Refinancing Can Hurt Insurance Rates

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 09, 2008

A mortgage refinance may have some negative consequences that you never anticipated.

Option ARMs Misused by Borrowers and Brokers

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 08, 2008

As the mortgage meltdown attention is focused firmly on the subprime market there is a subtle, yet alarming trend emerging in special mortgages made to good credit borrowers. Option ARMs, typically made to borrowers with good credit, are estimated by Barclays Capital to reach default rates as high as 48%.

Top Professions for Students

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 08, 2008

If you're a student entering college, you've embarked on a journey. You've taken the first step out of the nest, and next you'll begin to plot your career course. Picking the right occupation will become a top priority in the years to come, and may even determine what kind of student loans you choose.

Student Loans: Embracing the Current Economic Crisis

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 08, 2008

A troubled economy can help or hinder your family's ability to obtain loans for college expenses.

For Your Consideration: Early Retirement Buyout

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 07, 2008

Early retirement buyouts are becoming an increasingly popular means of downsizing for U.S. employers. What would you do if your employer offers you a severance package?

Six Tips for Beating Inflation

By:: Anders Bylund - MortgageLoan.com | August 07, 2008

Time is on your side when it comes to inflation, as long as you have some thoughtful preparation.

Five Ways to Thwart Scammers

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 07, 2008

Identity theft is no longer a novelty. Widespread reports of ID crimes have heightened consumer awareness of the need to protect personal financial information. While many have taken steps to ensure their protection, you can never be too careful. Here are additional steps to keep your information secure.

Paulson Turns to Morgan Stanley for Fannie, Freddie Guidance

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 07, 2008

Ahead of Freddie Mac's revelation of $821 million in second quarter losses and in anticipation of Fannie Mae's estimated report of a 15% downturn on Friday, Secretary of Treasury, Henry Paulson tasks Morgan Stanley to assess the current and pending damage to cornerstones of the mortgage market.

Fannie Mae Set to Raise Fees--Borrowers See it in Interest Rate

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 06, 2008

As Fannie Mae prepares for what is certain to be a brutal quarterly earnings report to analysts and investors on August 8, stockholders can rest assured higher fees are on the way.

Careers with Free Housing

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 06, 2008

With the housing market in a slump, nothing sounds better than having someone else cover the tab for your living expenses. By taking a job that offers free housing as a perk, you can contribute your saved cash to a fund that will enable you to buy a home of your own in the future.

New Mortgage Rules

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 06, 2008

After hammering out the details for months, the government recently unveiled tougher new rules and regulations related to the mortgage industry. They're meant to protect consumers while helping the nation avoid a repeat of the subprime mortgage crisis.

Troubles with Freddie, Fannie Affect Mortgage Rates

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 06, 2008

The nation's two largest mortgage institutions recently stepped close to the brink of collapse and bankruptcy, sending shock waves through the nation's economy. These problems can impact mortgage rates, which is important to those buying or refinancing a home.

Pay Option ARMs Next Wave of Foreclosures?

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 06, 2008

While analysts are tabulating and predicting default rates on less-credit worthy subprime portfolios there may be another specter lurking in the shadows of many good credit (prime) mortgage portfolios--payment option ARMs.

Fed Boss in Interest Rate Conundrum

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 05, 2008

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke faces one of his more challenging Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) interest rate decisions this afternoon.

Rate Update 2008-08-05: Fed Holds Rates Unchanged at Conclusion of FOMC Meeting

By:: Paul King - MortgageLoan.com | August 05, 2008

The Fed held rates steady at the conclusion of its meeting today, citing in a post meeting statement that although the economy has slowed, the threat of inflation remains.

Finding the Perfect Mortgage Broker

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 05, 2008

These are extremely challenging times for consumers browsing for a mortgage, and it often helps to use the services of a broker. Before hiring one, it's important to shop for one who's reliable, resourceful, and reasonably priced.

To Rent or Buy Your Next Home

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 05, 2008

Not sure about renting vs. owning your next home? Take a closer look at the conveniences of renting compared to the financial benefits of owning.

All About Reverse Mortgage Scams

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 05, 2008

Reverse mortgages can be a fantastic deal for older Americans, or their biggest nightmare. Here are some common reverse mortgage scams to steer clear of.

Don't Count on Your HELOC

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 04, 2008

Home equity lines of credit, or HELOCs, have begun to dry up across the U.S., leaving many homeowners strapped for cash. If you can find one, they're no longer as dependable as they once were, so borrowers should wean themselves from them as soon as possible.

Obstacles to Home Equity Loans

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 04, 2008

Two years ago, the easiest way for most Americans to raise fast cash was through a home equity loan. But nowadays, those same home equity products are among the hardest to qualify for, as lenders continue to tighten up on their application rules and purse strings.

Rate Update 2008-08-04: Mortgage Rates Up on Strong Consumer, Manufacturing Reports

By:: Paul King - MortgageLoan.com | August 04, 2008

Mortgage rates increased on Monday on stronger than expected economic data, mortgage rates should be up .25 to the points today.

Common Misunderstanding About Credit Cards

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 03, 2008

A misunderstanding between friends can lead to hurt feelings and strained relations. A misunderstanding regarding the way your credit card works could cost you money, leave you vulnerable to identity thieves, and hurt your credit score.

Five Bankruptcy Misunderstandings

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 03, 2008

Bankruptcy arouses love, hate, and confusion among the general public.

Learn About Non-Profit Debt Consolidation Companies

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 03, 2008

Are non-profit debt consolidation companies legitimate? How can they help you with your debt problem? Are you going to get ripped off? Find the answers to these questions below.

Refinancing in Today's Environment

By:: Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 02, 2008

The financial formulas used in the past to help homeowners make mortgage refinance decisions may be obsolete. Before refinancing, it's important to put the decision into an updated and accurate perspective.

Take Credit for Tax Credits

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 02, 2008

Tax credits reduce your tax liability dollar-for-dollar; that's practically the same thing as money in your pocket.

Car Talk: Buy or Lease Your Next Car?

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 02, 2008

Decisions abound when you're purchasing a new car, and one of the biggest is whether you should lease or buy. The answer will be dictated by your personal financial situation. If you establish your priorities first, you should have no problem making the right decision.

Bad Credit? Find Cash Now!

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 02, 2008

Everyone gets into a cash flow crunch sometime. If it happens to you, know where to go to raise money in a hurry.

Rate Update 2008-08-01: Rates Increase On Mixed Employment Report for July

By:: Paul King - MortgageLoan.com | August 01, 2008

Bonds were down Friday on mixed economic news. Rates should increase by .125 to price.

IndyMac Files for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

By:: MortgageLoan.com - MortgageLoan.com | August 01, 2008

The second largest mortgage lender in the United States, IndyMac has filed for bankruptcy protection less than three weeks after it was seized by federal regulators following a bank run by depositors.

Time to Refinance Your Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

By:: Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | August 01, 2008

The lessons of the subprime mortgage crisis are obvious: If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage, refinancing to a fixed-rate home loan is a smart move. The sooner you act, the less likely you'll get caught between rising interest rates and declining home values.

Severance Survival Kit

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 01, 2008

Based on recent economic data, the chances that you're going to be laid off are higher than they were just a few short months ago. That's reason enough to be proactive about having a plan so that you can get by until you land another job.

Household Stuff: Found Money

By:: Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 01, 2008

Your attic, basement, or closets could be hiding valuable assets that are just waiting to be turned into cash.