Joe Knows Mortgages Minute

News & Article

What Are Points and When Do You Pay Them?

Points are fees that a borrower pays directly to their lender at their closing, in exchange for a lower interest rate. 1 point is 1% of the mortgage amount…

Can You Refinance a VA Loan?

Hello! This is Joe Harris with Morgan Financial and here is your “Joe Knows Mortgages MINUTE”. This week, we answer the question: Can you refinance a

What is a Cash Out Refinance?

What is a Cash Out Refinance?
A Cash out Refinance is when you replace your current mortgage with a new loan that allows you to pay off your current balance and uses the available equity in your home to give you additional funds for other purposes such as home improvement, debt consolidation or home repairs.  This might also be a great option for those looking to lower their interest rate. 

What is an earnest money deposit?

Hello! This is Joe Harris with Morgan Financial and here is your “Joe Knows Mortgages MINUTE”. This week, we answer the question: What is an Earnest money deposit?
An earnest money deposit is also known as good faith money, or an escrow deposit. This is the amount that you put down as a deposit when a real estate offer is accepted. This money can typically be used towards your transaction at closing. If you do not close on your transaction, you may be entitled to a refund of your earnest money, as long as you meet the stipulations of the contract. In some instances the earnest money deposit may be forfeited if the timeframes and stipulations of withdrawal from the contract are not met.
Thank you for tuning into this Joe Knows Mortgages MINUTE If you have any home loan related questions, we want to hear from you! SO please comment down below! Also, please feel free to like and share this information with your family and friends. See you again next Monday!

If I have student loan debt, can I still qualify for a loan?

With approximately 70% of college graduates graduating with some type of significant student loan debt, this topic is certainly a hot one, and on many peoples mind. The reality is that student loan debt alone will not preclude someone from getting a loan.

To Qualify For A VA Loan, Do You Need To Occupy The Property Immediately?

As a benefit for those on active duty or serving overseas, military members can qualify for a VA loan if they have intentions to return home within one year as long as a Spouse or dependent children will also occupy the property in the meantime. Otherwise they must occupy within 60 days. 

What is PITI?

PITI is an acronym for your payment and it stands for principal, interest, taxes and insurance.