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How Loan Sales Work After Closing: What Borrowers Should Expect

It’s common for your mortgage to be sold after closing, especially when dealing with correspondent lenders. loan is typically sold after closing by correspondent lenders These lenders originate, underwrite, and fund the loan using their own money, but the loan is typically sold after closing to a larger investor like Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. […]

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How Zoning Laws Can Limit Your Property Rights

Zoning laws, set by local governments, dictate how land can be used, significantly impacting property rights.  These regulations classify areas for residential,  commercial, or industrial use and impose restrictions on construction, density, and even permitted activities like home-based businesses or short-term rentals. Consequently, a homeowner’s bundle of rights may be limited by zoning laws, affecting

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How to Check If Your Mortgage Lien Has Been Removed From the Title

After paying off your mortgage, it’s crucial to verify the lien’s removal from your property title to ensure clear ownership. Your lender should send a “Satisfaction of Mortgage” or “Release of Lien.” If not received within 30-90 days, search your county’s public records or get a title search. If the lien persists, contact your lender,

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What Is a Quiet Title Action and When Do You Need One?

A Quiet Title Action is a legal process to resolve property ownership disputes and clear defects on a home’s title, ensuring clear ownership. This action becomes necessary in various scenarios, including when a Deed of Reconveyance goes missing, leading to an uncleared lien, or in cases of inherited property, boundary disputes, or errors in public

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Should You File Bankruptcy to Discharge Mortgage Deficiency Debt?

Can bankruptcy eliminate post-foreclosure debt? Yes, both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy can discharge or restructure mortgage deficiency debt. Chapter 7 offers quick relief by wiping out unsecured debts, including deficiencies, typically within months. Chapter 13 provides a 3-5 year repayment plan, after which remaining qualifying debt is discharged. Choosing bankruptcy depends on your

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Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a VA Loan: From COE to Closing

  Are you eligible for a VA loan but unsure where to begin? Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned real estate investor, or a professional helping military clients, understanding the VA loan process from start to finish is crucial. The VA loan is one of the most powerful tools available to military service members,

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Lien Theory vs. Title Theory: What Borrowers Need to Know Before Closing

Mortgage laws differ by state: Lien Theory states (e.g., FL, TX) see the borrower holding legal title, with the lender having a lien. Title Theory states (e.g., CA, AZ) have a trustee holding legal title until the loan is paid. Understanding how defeasance clauses operate differently in lien vs. title theory states is key; in

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How to Build a Monthly Curtailment Plan Without Breaking Your Budget

A monthly mortgage curtailment plan helps homeowners pay off their loan faster and save substantial interest without breaking the budget. By consistently making small extra payments directly to the principal—even just $50 or $100 monthly—you’ll see how small extra payments add up over time, significantly shortening the loan term and saving tens of thousands of

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Curtailment vs. Refinancing: Which Saves You More in the Long Run?

To accelerate mortgage payoff, consider curtailment or refinancing. Curtailment means making extra principal payments, significantly reducing total interest and shortening the loan term without fees—showing how simple curtailment strategies reduce your mortgage fast. Refinancing replaces your loan, usually for a lower rate, potentially reducing monthly payments but incurring closing costs. Choose based on your current

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Predicting Rate Trends: How Economic Factors Shape Mortgage Decisions

Mortgage rates are primarily shaped by inflation, Federal Reserve policy, employment data, and the 10-year Treasury yield. Understanding how today’s market influences mortgage choices is crucial; for instance, high inflation typically raises rates, while strong employment might signal further hikes. This economic interplay dictates affordability and strategy for homebuyers and investors alike, emphasizing the need

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