The Jobs Report was released this morning reporting unemployment trending higher at 9.5% and another 467,000 jobs lost last month which was worse than expected figures. Other points to consider is that people who have lost their unemployment benefits are not factored in this figure nor are those people who are out of work and do not... »
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Notice of Trustee Sales v. Trustee Deeds
Each month, Alan from Seattle Bubble religiously posts the Notice of Trustee Sale (NTS) numbers for King County. I’m very appreciative of his work because it saves me time each month so thanks again, Alan. Cruising SB last night, I found Alan’s numbers alarming for June: ... »
FHFA Gives the Green Light for 125% LTVs on HARP Refi’s
The Federal Housing Finance Agency just issued a press release that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are authorized to expand the Home Affordable Refinance Program to 125% loan to value. The existing limit is 105%. From FHFA Director James Lockhart: “The higher LTV refinancings will allow more... »
Why Home Inspection Negotiations Fail
Properties “falling out of escrow” due to the home inspection negotiation failing, is on the rise. In many cases this is because the buyer is asking for something the... »
FHA Condo Approval Process – MAJOR Guidline Changes
There are major changes on the way for developers of condo projects and existing condo owners who want to get approved for FHA financing. These changes are set to... »
Twice as many Open Houses!
In case you didn’t know, this weekend is WA Open House Weekend. Net result is if you are in the process of looking at houses to... »
Live Video Streams on RCG? With Facebook Chat?
I’ve been told my interest in using Facebook for marketing is a bit unhealthy, but I’ve been having so much fun, and this week I pushed the limits in... »
Calculating Income of Employed W2 Borrowers for Mortgage Qualifying
Jillayne wrote a post about the upcoming national licensing exam that mortgage originators will have to take and pass (unless they work for a depository institution) due to the... »
Friday’s Rates
Conforming Mortgage Rates (loan amounts up to $417,000 for 1-unit properties). The conforming rate quote below is based on owner occupied with a mid-low credit score of 740 or... »
Settlement Statement: Is the interest rate of the Note disclosed on the form?
It is routine for escrow departments of title companies and independent escrow firms to provide a Settlement Statement to a loan officer (and agents) prior to making appointments with... »
Will the New National Loan Originator Exam be Too Easy?
I just took a look at the sample questions provided by the National Mortgage Licensing System for the new national loan originator exam and I must say these are... »







