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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Claudia Hohlt
Homes Plus Real Estate Services
4031 Highland Pass
Montgomery, TX. 77316
Phone: 936-537-1656
Fax: 936-582-4955
Email: claudia@claudiahohlt.com

I am a long time Montgomery County resident who is very familiar and committed to this area. If you are considering buying or selling, I have the experience necessary to efficiently and effectively manage the process and help you maximize value in your next real estate transaction. Helping people on the move is my business........

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