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How do I know how much
house I can afford? |
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What is the difference
between a fixed and adjustable rate loans? |
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How is an index and margin
used in an ARM? |
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How do I know which type of
mortgage is best for me? |
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What does my mortgage
payment include? |
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How much cash will I need
to purchase a home? |
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Q
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How do I know how much
house I can afford? |
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A
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Generally speaking, you can
purchase a home with a value of two or three times your
annual household income. However, the amount that you
can borrow will also depend upon your employment
history, credit history, current savings and debts, and
the amount of down payment you are willing to make. You
may also be able to take advantage of special loan
programs for first time buyers to purchase a home with a
higher value. Give us a call, and we can help you
determine exactly how much you can afford. |
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What is the difference
between a fixed-rate loan and an adjustable-rate loan? |
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With a fixed-rate mortgage,
the interest rate stays the same during the life of the
loan. With an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), the
interest changes periodically, typically in relation to
an index. While the monthly payments that you make with
a fixed-rate mortgage are relatively stable, payments on
an ARM loan will likely change. There are advantages and
disadvantages to each type of mortgage, and the best way
to select a loan product is by talking to us. |
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How is an index and margin
used in an ARM? |
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An index is an economic
indicator that lenders use to set the interest rate for
an ARM. Generally the interest rate that you pay is a
combination of the index rate and a pre-specified
margin. Three commonly used indices are the One-Year
Treasury Bill, the Cost of Funds of the 11th District
Federal Home Loan Bank (COFI), and the London InterBank
Offering Rate (LIBOR). |
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How do I know which type of
mortgage is best for me? |
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There is no simple formula
to determine the type of mortgage that is best for you.
This choice depends on a number of factors, including
your current financial picture and how long you intend
to keep your house. APEX MORTGAGE COMPANY can help you
evaluate your choices and help you make the most
appropriate decision. |
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What does my mortgage
payment include? |
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For most homeowners, the
monthly mortgage payments include three separate parts:
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How much cash will I need
to purchase a home? |
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The amount of cash that is
necessary depends on a number of items. Generally
speaking, though, you will need to supply:
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