Mortgage Rates

Selling a home is an emotional decision at the best of times. Of course, the obvious financial implications are added into the mix. Imagine if you're a senior who has lived in a home for 40 years or is facing a move to a seniors' home. The complexity of the situation goes up a hundred fold.

Major Decision

Factor in falling house prices and selling a home can be a huge dilemma for seniors. Yet they do not have to face this situation on their own. There is help out there for seniors who are contemplating this life-changing decision.

Getting Help

Firstly, seniors need to access trusted sources to help with selling property. Of course, the need for professional advice in this area is a 'given' and it applies to anyone in any age group who is planning to sell a home.

Real Estate Specialist

Seniors can take advantage of the expertise of various Seniors Real Estate Specialists (SRES) across the country. Everyone may not be aware that there are realtors who specialize in seniors' services. Actually, there are more than 7,000 agents in 50 US states who hold this designation.

Having this category in the industry makes perfect sense. When selling their homes, seniors have some of the same concerns as any other age group but they also have a separate set of issues. It pays for seniors to enlist the help of a Seniors Real Estate Specialist.

Falling House Prices

Today's seniors have to face the reality of falling house prices. They must confront a common issue - to sell now or wait and sell at a better time. With seniors, however, the issue becomes way more complicated because health issues or having a spouse pass away can increase the urgency of the situation.

Not All Gloom and Doom

Of course, there is always a bright spot in every market. Sometimes a senior who bought their house decades ago for a low price is surprised to see how it has risen in value over 40 years. The home's worth might have decreased in recent years but seniors are often shocked by the market evaluation. Even if seniors are pleased with the price, they still deserve to get the best advantage in today's market. An experienced realtor can guide them through the real estate process.

Their lifestyle will play a huge role in the final decision. Are they able to maintain this home in their present state of health? Are they living in a safe and comfortable environment for their age and condition? Is this the right neighborhood for them anymore? Maybe they no longer drive and need to be near public transportation. Is this the best area to live in at this stage of their lives?

Moving Forward

Seniors need the answers to a thousand and one questions. Industry experts can provide the answers. Health professionals can also advise them about the type of accommodations that would work best for them – whether a smaller home or a seniors' home. After all, selling a house is not just about leaving a home. Seniors also have to consider the cost and implications of moving to another home.

What seniors should know about selling a home

What Challenges Do You Perceive For Seniors Selling Their Homes?

Image courtesy of seniorsrealestateservice.com.au

Ah, home sweet home! Make that home 'small' home for an increasing number of home builders and home buyers. House construction is seeing smaller and less expensive homes because builders are not getting the same price as before for expansive, upscale properties. A few builders claim that they are not making back the construction costs.

Shrinking Size

Some builders are getting rid of homes at a loss and concentrating instead on the business of renovation. Although in uncertain economic times, neither one is a safe bet. Everything has experienced a decrease in this economy (in certain areas more than others). Everything from house appraisals to new homes to house prices is seeing a decline – and now houses are also shrinking in size.

Part of the decision to go 'smaller' is fuelled by varied events that have undermined people's confidence in the market. Such issues as foreclosure rates, flawed foreclosures, lending issues, and more, are causing a build up of anxiety among potential home buyers. Of course, home builders share their anxiety.

"It's slowing the recovery of new construction. It's sapping confidence," says Robert Filka, CEO of the Michigan Association of Home Builders

In a certain Michigan suburb, a 3,600-square-foot home with 10' ceilings, is selling at a loss for the builder at $699,000. In 2008, that same home was priced at $875,000. Within the past decade, homes in that neighborhood had sold for $2,000,000. Times have changed and builders are changing with them.

No Luxury

With unpredictable appraisals that can come in even $80,000 less than expected, luxury homes can be a problem. Appraisers have to factor in recent sales in the neighborhood. At present, neighborhood sales can include anything from a short sale to a foreclosure.

As well, home buyers are often asked for higher down payments (even up to 25%). Luxury homes may start looking less and less appealing to home buyers. Builders who have noticed that trend are opting to construct smaller homes. Maybe a less expensive home will not seem as intimidating to the potential home buyer.

Hard times force home builders to think small

Downsizing

Some people are adamant about the benefit of small houses. Cost-effectiveness, smaller mortgages, and a simpler lifestyle are a few reasons that people give for choosing smaller and less expensive homes. Even environmental reasons play into the desire for smaller homes. They use fewer resources in building and for maintenance.

Of course, buying a 'too small' home is not a wise move. A home can be as small as anything - as long as it suits your needs. If a home does not have sufficient space, it will not work for a growing family.

Perfect Fit

Yet if the size suits you, a small home might be the right choice. People have found 'small home' ownership to be an exhilarating experience. It frees up savings for travel and it frees up the precious commodity of time.

'Small home' ownership means less time spent cleaning and fewer hours required for maintenance. Smaller homes allow you to have more quality time with family and friends. Maybe though not everyone will want to go as 'small' as this home builder.

Take a look at - World's Smallest House!

Have You Been Dreaming of Building a Small House?

Would A Small Home Suit Your Needs?

The word 'foreclosure' strikes enough fear into people's minds without adding 'flawed' into the mix. Yet the nation is now facing the issue of "flawed foreclosures." What a mess!

Flawed Mess

Most of us have been faced with the issue of messy paperwork in our offices from time to time. This latest fiasco makes it evident, however, that even banks let their paperwork get out of hand. A scary thought – considering how much trust we are required to put in our financial institutions.

"Robo-Signing"

Vermont was one of the latest US states to become part of the joint investigation into the banks' use of flawed disclosure documents. The banks are been accused of "robo-signing" foreclosure documents. Supposedly, many recent foreclosures might have been based on false affidavits. A person signed the documents confirming that they had knowledge of the situation. The claim is that many officials had no knowledge of the circumstances regarding specific foreclosures.

Vermont joins other states in foreclosure investigation

Checking Signatures

Suspected incidents of flawed foreclosures have cropped up across the country. This flawed process comes as a surprise to everyone who trusted the system. One would think that all documents were double checked during a foreclosure. One would also expect officials to know the score when they sign their name to a document. Unfortunately, the whole process has to be rechecked because there seems to be monumental mistakes.

Foreclosure Moratorium

Despite the flaws that have come to light, the Obama administration does not want to issue a national moratorium on foreclosures. Their reasoning is that it might backfire and cause a decline in housing prices. Yet industry experts disagree and think that it might restore confidence in the market.

"...If you buy a foreclosed home, you would have confidence there would be no title fights down the road and someone else couldn’t make a claim to the house you are living in,..." says housing expert, Dean Baker."

Of course, a few banks, including GMAC’s Ally Bank, JPMorgan Chase, and Bank of America have issued their own moratorium on foreclosures. If you take comfort in that fact, don't let it make you feel too relaxed about the system. Obviously, banks are looking out for their own interests. If they were certain that they have no flawed foreclosures, the banks would proceed with normal business.

Most likely, they are not 100% sure about their practices. Did we double check these figures? Did our officials know the score? Inefficiency within a bank is cause for concern at the best of times. When you consider how tied up people's lives are in foreclosures, these flaws take on nightmarish proportions.

What You Need to Know About Flawed Foreclosures

Home Owner Response

Home owners are now left wondering if they have clear titles to their home – and they have to find the answers. Many people do not even know the details of their title insurance policy. Home owners need to know what is covered by that policy. A good real estate lawyer can be well worth the investment if it helps you to figure out this flawed process.

An Honest Mistake

Different sources have classified the flawed foreclosures as everything from technical mistakes to deliberate actions. We can expect the banks to favor the 'technical mistake' angle. U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson thinks that the 'mistake' was a deliberate action. Grayson has called for a criminal investigation.

"These banks are still claiming that the massive fraud they have perpetrated amounts to nothing more than a series of technical mistakes," says Grayson. "This is absurd. This is deliberate, systemic fraud, and it is a crime."

Grayson calls for criminal foreclosure probe

Do You Think That Flawed Foreclosures Were Honest Mistakes?

Home ownership – an integral part of the American dream - is the "dream that never dies." Despite a difficult economy, the dream of home ownership is alive and well and living in the hearts and mind of potential home owners. Actually, there are plenty of reasons to continue to live the dream.

Heart's Desire

Home ownership starts in the heart. The need for home and family is at the core of our being. If you are located in eastern Canada, you can even buy a home in Heart's Desire or live at your home at in Heart's Content.

Low Pricing

When house prices are at their lowest, it is the perfect time to pick up a home. Whether you are buying for the first time, moving to a bigger place, or planning an investment, buying during favorable conditions is a wise move.

No Mistake

Buying a home is hardly ever a mistake - if the buyer is aware of and prepared for the real deal. The smart home buyer checks into all important details before buying a home. They review the condition of the property and state of the neighbourhood as well as their financial obligations. When home buyers are ready for home ownership, only unforeseen circumstances can wreck their "perfect home."

Home Equity

Home equity is an invaluable asset. Home owners hope to benefit from that equity in the future. Having home equity beats paying rent - where you are just helping to feather someone else's nest.

Better Deal

According to recent studies, home owners, their families, and the community do better with home ownership. People who buy a home have a substantial investment and, according to research, better health. Children do better in school and communities grow and benefit from the participation and involvement of the home owners in the neighbourhood.

Long Term Gain

Home ownership is a long term commitment but there are long term gains for the home owner. And actually, little pain in the process, when you consider the comforts of home! It helps home owners to think of ownership in the long term. That perspective gets them in the frame of mind to live within their means and contribute to their savings.

Investment

Sometimes people buy homes as an investment. Even then, home ownership should still be seen as a long term investment. For the maximum investment possibilities, do not view home ownership in the short term.

Although many investors think about 'flipping' homes, sometimes you have to stay longer to make it pay for you. It is wise to look at buying a home as a 7-10 year investment. As well, there are tax deductions for home owners, but buyers need to be aware of the type of savings.

Home Sweet Home

Home ownership is about feelings and emotions. Of course, potential home buyers have to temper these thoughts with reality. Home ownership involves mortgages and maintenance.

You can't go to sleep in this dream. A home buyer has to be on their toes. They have to see things in the cold, harsh light of day. If home buyers are prepared for the deal, they can live the dream in their home, sweet home.

Realtors Weigh In: Is Home Ownership Still Part of the American Dream?

Are You Dreaming Of Home Ownership?

Image courtesy of enewhomesandliving.com

Often consumers feel overloaded with debt. In reality, many people try to handle too much debt for their available resources. Credit repair is possible but borrowers must be willing to admit that they are in trouble.

Addressing Debt

When it comes to debt, burying your head in the sand will just add to your burden. It does no good to avoid bankers' phone calls. Definitely, it does no good to buy 'more' to try to make yourself feel better about everything. As odd a solution as that may sound, more than one person chooses that route. When you find yourself overloaded with debt, you have to address the situation in a realistic manner.

No Instant Cure

Firstly, do not look for an instant cure. Debt settlement takes time. It makes perfect sense that settlement involves a step-by-step process. Bad credit did not happen overnight but many borrowers expect to escape from its wrath overnight –and with little pain. Credit repair does not work in that way. It takes time and effort.

Not only does bad credit build up over time but the credit can also arise from various sources. When you have major credit cards, department store cards, and maybe a loan agreement or two in your pocket, you have a disorganized mess. That tangle does not just refer to an untidy wallet. A ton of credit can add up to a ton of problems.

Debt Settlement

Yet borrowers can settle their debt. They need not expect it to be an easy process but negotiation is possible with lenders. Debt settlement is an agreement between a borrower and lender that settles the borrower’s debt. The arrangement involves a one-time payment and a lender accepts less than the original loan. The payment can be just 40%-60% of the loan.

Debt settlement can be used to settle varied types of debts - unsecured loans, personal loans, credit card debt, merchant loans, and medical bills. The earlier you request debt settlement, the best chance of the most favourable solution. The process can work better if you employ the services of a credit specialist.

They know how to negotiate with lenders. Credit experts understand the process. It is wise to have a knowledgeable professional in your corner.

Credit Specialists

Don't expect to phone your bank, request settlement, and get immediate agreement. Settling a debt is a complicated business. In fact, most banks refuse the first request.

Keep in mind that you are not the only one looking for debt settlement. A credit expert will be prepared for that initial rejection. They are familiar with the lender's approach and they know how to work within the system.

Lenders are willing to work with buyers – especially with buyers' representatives. As well, the consumer has to be prepared to work with lenders and their credit specialist. All parties must act in good faith. Lenders will put forth certain conditions. In addition, they want borrowers to bring something to the table.

Your credit specialists will work for you. Using a credit expert, you will probably settle for far less than the original debt. Credit experts can help you get maximum savings.

Consumer Proposals

Has Debt Settlement Worked For You?

Real estate therapy is an extension of retail therapy – except the stakes are higher and there are not as many players. You will find more people buy clothes or gadgets for 'feel-good' therapy than stack up houses on their shopping list. Yet real estate therapy is a reality.

Psychological Issues

Real estate – buying and selling – is tied up in psychology as much as it is in money. More than one person moves – and moves again – and again – not out of necessity – but for psychological reasons. Often people move because they need a bigger home or they see it as an investment. Some home owners keep buying and renovating and making a profit.

On The Move

Yet there is another group of home buyers that stay 'on the move' for other reasons – a need to keep moving forward, a desire to keep up, a drive to acquire more "stuff" ( in this case, houses). Another possibility is that real estate therapy is just retail therapy - gone out of control. Of course, buyers who trade houses like shoes might be in the minority.

Playing It Cool

You cannot, however, take the psychology of 'buying and selling' out of real estate. Sellers do not want to seem too desperate to get rid of their home. Buyers do not want to seem too eager to close the deal. Both sides have to play it cool throughout the process.

Nobody wants the other side to sense their urgency or excitement – depending on your position. Buying and selling is a delicate dance. Nobody should try to step on anyone's toes. Everyone wants to come out of this 'feeling good' about the deal. It is human nature to want to feel that you got the best deal.

Buying and Selling 

'Buying and selling' is influenced by emotions. Over–priced houses belong to people who cannot let go of their emotional attachment to their home. Often sales happen because buyers have a specific vision of the 'perfect' home. Of course, they envision a "perfect life" in a "perfect home." No matter how practical you think you are, your reaction to a home has a psychological basis.

The Psychology of the Sale

Housing Bubble

Indeed, industry experts even refer to the 'psychological' stages of the market as it works off a housing bubble. The distinct stages of a housing bubble include enthusiasm, greed, denial, worry, capitulation, and loss of hope. In the 'enthusiasm' stage, lenders extend a welcoming hand to buyers.

Everyone feels feverish, everything is looking great, and everyone makes money in the second stage of the housing bubble. Yet as prices decline, people go onto denial. With regards to market psychology, there is not much distinction between the capitulation (surrender) stage and the state of despair.

Psychological Stages of a Bubble

Foreclosure

Foreclosure can be the end stage for many home owners. Since people have such intense attachments to their homes, foreclosure can be a devastating experience. On the positive side, foreclosure allows people to let go of a burden, move forward, and rebuild their lives. Yet few home owners who are in danger of foreclosure can see the positive angle. Home ownership is a psychological issue.

Psychological Obstacles of Selling

Are You Planning A Little Real Estate Therapy?

'Renovation' is a powerful word. It can send chills down your spine or fire up your creative urges. Yet renovation is not a 'black and white' issue. Even a minimalist style can have a touch of drama! There is always a grey area. Should I or shouldn't I?

A Real Dilemma

Whether you are a home buyer or home seller, nobody escapes the 'renovation' question. Will I renovate before I sell my home? Should I buy a bargain and bring it back to life? Will I be able to afford this home when I factor in improvements? Home renovation poses a real dilemma.

Home Buyers

If you buy a home and plan to fix it up, you have to be prepared to live with chaos. The home buyer must be able to handle the 'process' and renovation can range from a mild inconvenience to an intolerable situation. Bathroom renovations come to mind.

'Fixing up' a home can take its toll. Sometimes home owners have to seek out other accommodations while the work is in progress. If individuals have allergies or breathing problems, hotel costs seem a small price to pay to protect one's health.

Yet all renovations come with a cost – quite possibly, a considerable expense. Home buyers need to think about resale values – especially in an uncertain economy. Before home buyers decide on improvements, they must be clear about the cost.

A home inspector can shed light on that area. Be warned, however, that it can be difficult to get enough financing to handle a massive renovation. FHA 203k loans are available (with certain restrictions) for homebuyers who want to make immediate home improvements.

"In this market, you need to be very careful about how much cash you invest to make sure you get that back in resale value," Valerie Huffman, a regional vice president and manager of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase office of Weichert Realtors.

Cost-saving found in more than price

Home Sellers

Home sellers also have to confront the renovation dilemma. Should they renovate before selling or will they just sell at a bargain? If a house is not up to the standard of neighborhood homes, renovation is a wise idea.

If your home is on the market, you do not want to have the worst house on the street. Even when a home is selling for a lower price, the 'below standard' house might not attract buyers. They might decide to pay a little extra and avoid the hassle of renovations.

Removing 'dated' features is a good plan. A 1970s kitchen will not excite the 2010 home buyer. Of course, kitchen renovations are a huge commitment. You have to consider your budget, time constraints, and willingness to live with the upheaval.

Minor renovations can make a big improvement at a low cost. A 'lighter' look is always appealing to home buyers. A fresh and airy feel is a welcoming touch but go easy on bold and bright shades.

You might think that vibrant red would jazz up your space. Remember though that you are the seller and therein lies the root of the real dilemma. People tend to decorate in their preferred style but home sellers must renovate to attract home buyers.

Renovating to Sell

Are Home Renovations Posing A Real Dilemma For You?

Many things look good in Dubai – at least, according to tourist statistics. Dubai is the one of the most visited cities in the world. As one of the seven United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai is expecting to accommodate 15 million tourists by 2015.

Looking Good

Everything looked promising today as Cityscape Global 2010 (the world’s largest business-to-business real estate investment and development event) opened in Dubai. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, presided over the opening ceremony of Cityscape Global at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The city has hosted this event for the past nine years. This four-day show spotlights emerging trends around the globe.

No Problems

Within the next two years, residential property prices are expected to stabilize in Dubai. Once again, investors are taking a serious look at the city's real estate. A leading consultant firm does not foresee any problems with the Dubai market.

“As long as the property supply doesn’t surpass the demand too much, we should see a stabilization of Dubai’s residential property prices within the next two to three years," explains a major consultant firm.

New Developments

By the end of 2011, Dubai is expected to see 50,000 new residential developments. Maybe the scale of development will not reach that exact number. Yet developments are now in the works that were on hold. As well, many buyers say that they plan to stay in Dubai for at least 3-5 years. Despite the downward trend in the past six months, things are looking up for this United Arab Emirate. An industry leader offered an explanation for the decline in Dubai residential rentals and sales in recent months.

"This downturn probably was mainly due to the holy month of Ramadan and summer vacations as well as buyers adopting a wait-and-see attitude. Many of the prudent investors were in anticipation that the prices would fall further, or the mortgage rates would get cheaper,” said a top consultant.

Good News

Banks are lowering mortgage rates in Dubai – sometimes to 5.99 per cent. The good news for Dubai buyers is reflected in pockets elsewhere around the world but Dubai is the darling in development at this time. Recently, there have been major encouraging announcements including today's news that the Real Estate Regulatory Agency would work with banks to raise up to $1.36 billion to finish 48 developments.

Emerging Trend

The truth is that mature economies are finding it difficult in recent years. Heavy debt is always a major issue – whether you are an individual or a mature economy. Developing economies are not burdened with that degree of debt and, therefore, they can grow at a faster rate. Rapid growth means higher returns and that fact is not lost on investors who are eyeing the Dubai market.

Dubai's residential sector in recovery mode

Eyeing Dubai

The Dubai real estate market looks attractive to investors and, no doubt, the city is a favorite with tourists. Yet the best measure of a city is how it cares for and nurtures its residents so that 'everyone' can live a productive and pleasant life within its boundaries.

Do You Have Your Eye On Dubai?

Today's home buyers are facing a different marketplace than home purchasers in past decades. Even if we look at home buyers during previous economic downturns, today's buyer is not living the same reality. Yet a glaring similarity exists between modern home buyers and purchasers in other decades (or even - centuries) in US history. Home buyers have a dream.

Home Buyer Education Programs

Another fairly common thread between home buyers of the past and present is the challenge of turning that dream into a reality. The path is not always as clear as the dream. In fact, more than one financial expert is convinced that many people do not understand the home buying process. A few US and Canadian organizations are addressing this issue with the introduction of Home Buyer Education Programs.

Realizing The American Dream

Beginning in October, Freedom Debt Management, a non-profit in Boca Raton, has partnered with Citi Group to begin a Home Buyer Education Program. This initiative will help South Florida first time buyers. The company hopes to help 100 families within the first year. Appropriately, the education program, consisting of two four-hour courses, is called, "Realizing The American Dream."

Existing Need

Some people may argue the value, or indeed, the need for such Home Buyer Education Programs. Yet online forums alone suggest that many first-time home buyers are not savvy about the process. Organizing these programs is not being condescending towards the first-time home buyer.

The simple truth is that if individuals never traveled a certain path, or doesn't know the way to get there, they cannot arrive at their destination – at least not in the most efficient manner. Yet some observers question how much first-time home buyers can learn in eight-hour sessions. If the program is well-organized and has valuable content, there is, however, no doubt that a home owner comes out with a better advantage.

The Program

The director of the Boca Raton program explains that their initiative enhances people's concept of saving and budgeting. In addition, the program focuses on possible credit traps, scams, and other threats to one's financial future. Class topics include mortgage affordability, understanding credit, getting a mortgage loan, shopping for a home, and keeping a home, as well as other related subjects.

"Strong financial skills can lead our residents to be able to buy homes, be prepared for financial emergencies, and be more comfortable in retirement, which leads to a stronger and healthier community. We are here to help our residents get their financial future in shape!” says Darish Still, Director of Counseling with Freedom.

Freedom Debt Management, Inc. offers homebuyer education program

Educating The Nation

Of course, Boca Raton is not the only city with a Home Buyer Education Program. The courses (or shorter but similar workshops) are in operation across the US in places such as Stockton and Norwalk. Canadian first time home buyers are also attending classes. Tarion Warranty Corporation offers online New Home Buyer Education Seminars online to help Ontario first-time home owners understand the warranty process and coverages with new homes.

Online education available for new home buyers 

Do You See Value In Home Buyer Education Programs?

The FHA (Federal Housing Administration) Short Refinance Program, an initiative to help qualifying underwater US home owners, came into effect on September 7, 2010, and is set to run until December 31, 2012. The program will help home owners who owe more on their mortgage than the worth of their home. To qualify, borrowers must be current with their monthly payments.

Low Demand

Many home owners find themselves 'underwater' as sale prices in some areas have fallen more than fifty per cent. Within some US counties, more than half of home owners find themselves 'underwater' and in danger of losing their homes. Yet despite the number of financially-strapped families, lenders are not noticing a huge demand for this program. Of course, the FHA Short Refinance Program is a voluntary program but still a greater response was expected to the initiative.

Big Benefits

Taking part in this program can result in a considerable drop in one's monthly mortgage payment. Participating lieu holders must write down a borrower's mortgage – at least by ten per cent. Yet to date, there are few takers for the FHA Short Refinance Program – at least compared to the number of home owners who owe more than their home value.

Borrowers

Maybe all home owners are not aware of the benefits. The program has just gone into effect in recent weeks. As well, it targets a specific group – not all 'underwater' home owners.

The lack of response may also be attributed to the specific guidelines of the program. Many home owners are, however, eligible for help. Yet if individuals are delinquent on their mortgages, they do not qualify for assistance.

"…This group is in a "less serious" situation than borrowers who are already delinquent on their loans. But there's no question eligible homeowners would benefit from assistance," says Jill Perry, Northern Nevada director of Consumer Credit Affiliates.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the FHA Short Refinance Program, homeowners must be able to refinance under FHA. They must be current on their existing non-FHA-insured loan payments, use the home as their primary residence, and have a FICO credit score of 500 or above, as well as meet standard FHA underwriting requirements.

Lenders

In addition to hesitant home owners, not all lenders are embracing the program. Keep in mind that this initiative is also voluntary for lenders. Banks may not be ready for a while to refinance loans through this program.

Yet it makes sense for lenders to be participants. The hope behind the initiative is to stop foreclosures and help home owners stay in their homes. Obviously, this program will cost lenders but the expense is insignificant compared to the cost of foreclosures.

"…Servicers ought to be motivated by their best interest," says Bob Ryan, chief risk officer for the Federal Housing Administration.

Goal 

There is divided opinion about the level of assistance that this program will provide to US home owners. The government hoped that 500,000-1.5 million homeowners could be helped by the FHA Short Refinance Program. Yet industry analysts think that the program will assist only 200,000-300,000 home owners. Since the program is not yet even a month in operation, it is difficult to make an accurate prediction about the end result. Hopefully, all eligible home owners become aware of this new plan and are able to receive relief from it.

The FHA’s ‘Short Refinance’ Program: Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Think That The FHA Short Refinance Program Provides Enough Relief?

Image courtesy of flickr.com