Home Loans

If you are shopping for a home loan here is some information to help you avoid predatory lending.

According to Policy Matters, a non-profit research institute, one in every 71 households in Ohio filed for foreclosure in 2005 — quite an astounding statistic. Predatory lending is especially prevalent among first-time homebuyers and consumers unfamiliar with home financing. How can you avoid the pitfalls of predatory lending as a prospective homebuyer?

According to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), homebuyers need to ask the right questions when shopping for the least expensive loan. Questions such as:

What is my credit score? Can I have a copy of my credit report?

What is the best interest rate today? Do I qualify?

Is the loan's interest rate fixed or adjustable?

What is the term (length) of the loan?

What are the total loan fees?

What is the total monthly payment? Does this include property taxes and insurance? If not, how much more will I need to pay for taxes and insurance?

Is there an application fee? How much is refundable if I don't qualify?

Are there any prepayment penalties? If so, what are they and how long do they last?
It's important to understand all the details of your loan before signing anything — and ask questions! Also, the NAR offers these other strategies that homebuyers can follow to protect themselves from predatory lending:

Check out lenders with the Better Business Bureau®, government Web sites or other consumer groups. How long has the lender been in business? Have consumers filed many complaints? Does the lender belong to a trade association with ethics requirements for its members?

Ask for an estimate and compare with other lenders.

Refuse to participate in transactions that may be fraudulent.

Avoid unnecessary contract extensions that could cause your loan commitment to lapse.

Get educated on the value of your home by asking your Real Living agent for a comparative market analysis.

Review the HUD-1 closing settlement statement before closing. This statement itemizes all charges imposed upon a borrower and seller for a real estate transaction. Upon request, homebuyers have the right to see this information 24 hours before the loan closing.

Report possible violations to appropriate federal, state and local officials.

Questions or comments write or email:
eugene.dougherty@realliving.com
www.realtyone/eugene.dougherty
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