Several years ago the U.S. Congress tried to protect consumers from a few unscrupulous lenders by requiring all lenders to calculate and disclose the annual percentage rate (APR) you pay on your mortgage loan. But most homebuyers will learn more by directing their attention to the Good Faith Estimate of Settlement Costs (GFE). Although Congress meant well, in practice the APR is not helpful and may be confusing.

If you are looking for a good way to understand your costs of borrowing and/or to compare one lender's costs to another, the GFE is your best bet. Get your lender(s) to provide a written GFE before you commit your mortgage business. When reviewing a GFE, keep in mind that the lender actually controls only a certain portion of the disclosed costs. Other parties typically control costs of appraisal, settlement, title insurance, recording fees and taxes, survey, and the "prepaid" expenses of homeowner's insurance, mortgage insurance, real estate taxes, etc. Review these origination fees, discount points, etc. and you will have the ability to understand the full costs of your proposed mortgage loan.

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Karen Richards Group
RE/MAX Premier Properties
5501 Independence Ste105
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My Personal Mission as your professional real estate advisor, is to focus on your satisfaction. My business is all about service and I am not happy until you are happy. My years in the business have provided me the experience to assist you with nearly every real estate need. Whether it's finding you a home, finding the best loan, or helping you to get the most out of selling your home, I am here to guide you. If there is anything you need, please let me know. International R.E. Specialist- Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS)- Real Estate Cyberspace Specialist (RECS)-GREEN, National Association of Realtors- Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)- Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI- Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)-Accredited Staging Professional (ASP)- Certified New Home Specialist (CNHS)- Residential Construction Certified (RCC)- Member Children’s Miracle Network- Platinum Club RE/MAX National

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