Mortgage Market Update for the week of March 18, 2024

We have the FOMC meeting wrapping up this Wednesday. While we don’t anticipate any changes to the Fed Funds rate, what Chairman Powell has to say following the meeting may impact mortgage rates. For more detail, check out my latest Mortgage Market Update video.

Home Improvement and Construction Loans

There are many options available for financing home improvements not to mention using cash or available funds.

What type of program is used may depend on the scope and amount of funds needed for the project. We can help you with everything from a home equity line of credit where you can do the work yourself or a full construction loan if you’re working with a vacant lot or a complete tear-down property. Larger projects may require a general contractor and/or to have the contractor approved by the lender.

Loans that do not require a general contractor are our home equity line of credit, stand-alone second mortgage or a cash-out refi. With the home equity loan of credit or second mortgage, you could keep your existing first mortgage (if there is one).

Here are some possible programs to consider: [Read more…]

My Seattle Kitchen Remodel: Flooring

Probably one of the toughest decisions we had to make, next to the counter-tops, was what to do with our flooring. We had a wood floor with a beautiful painted surface. Unfortunately, it was a real challenge to keep it clean and the paint was wearing off. Plus the lighter blond finish didn’t really go with our cabinets.

[Read more…]

Rehab Mortgage Loans for Remodeling Your New or Existing Home

Want to build an ADU on your garage? Are you having a hard time finding a home that has your dream kitchen? Whether you are buying or refinancing a home, you may want to consider a “rehab” mortgage. At Mortgage Master Service Corporation, we currently have a couple options available. [Read more…]

Where do I start with an FHA 203k Rehab loan?

mortgageporterhouseI just received this question from one of my readers:

My wife and I are very interested in pursuing a 203K type mortgage, but do not know where or how to start.  I would appreciate any assistance you could offer.  Thanks!

An FHA 203k mortgage allows improvements to be made to a home using an FHA insured mortgage. The borrower is able to finance the cost of the improvements with one mortgage. Since it is an FHA mortgage, it has a reduced down payment, FHA upfront and monthly mortgage insurance and the loan is subject to FHA loan limits in the county the property is located in.

[Read more…]