Reverse Mortgage Loans Florida News and Information

Seniors beware of reverse mortgage fraud

Tue, 03 Oct 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Mortgage fraud has been an underlying cause of many good deals gone badly, and reverse mortgage fraud is no better.

Is Paulsons Bill the only way out

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:00:00 GMT

In an effort to boost lending, the Bush administration asked Congress for unchecked power to buy $700 billion in bad mortgage investments like home loans, mortgage-backed securities, commercial mortgage-related assets, and others from US financial companies.

Government takeover of Fannie and Freddie not a cure

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:00:00 GMT

By now, almost everyone has heard of the government’s takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. But one thing almost everyone is unsure of is: how will this move improve the housing market?

Foreclosures break yet another record

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The current housing and mortgage crisis has had a reputation of exceeding many people’s expectations and continues to worsen despite many projections that the end of 2008 would be the light at the end of what has been the worst housing market since the Great Depression.

Sellers regret

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Seller’s regret or flashbacks to offers past is a new condition which is a result of the past culture of constantly rising real estate value and prices.

Mortgage applications down to lowest level in almost eight years

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Mortgage Bankers Association reported that mortgage application volume fell last week to its lowest levels in almost eight years. This data supports the fact that the housing market is still struggling and fewer customers are applying for mortgages.

Jobless rate shows economy still weak

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The four week average of initial jobless claims increased by 19,500 to 440,500 in the second week of August, which is the highest since April 2002.

Some seniors not ready to retire

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an American born in 1950 was expected to live to be 68 years old while the average person born in 2005 will live to be almost 78.

Have your own people when applying for a reverse mortgage

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

When shopping for a reverse mortgage loan it is important to be fully aware of everything that is presented and also to choose your lender carefully. Some lenders stay tight-lipped and don’t fully disclose fees and terms.

Lenders tightened rules too much

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

It seems that lenders have tightened their rules too much. From a time when they didn’t verify employment or income, today even a borrower with excellent credit may have a hard time getting financing.

Another cost will keep borrowers away

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The latest change for borrowers in this market is that the cost of their loan may increase. Fannie Mae will raise a fee it charges lenders to buy their mortgages or guarantee home-loan securities, and in turn this may increase costs for borrowers.

Are there any other options for seniors besides a reverse mortgage

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Some seniors just don’t want to get into any debt during their golden years and a reverse mortgage loan is, in fact, a debt.

Seniors who cant sell still have options

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Seniors who can’t keep up with the high cost of living must be in a very tough situation, especially if they are on a fixed income. If you can’t afford to live in your house anymore or you need to supplement your cash flow, you can consider a reverse mortgage.

July marks seventh straight month in job cuts

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

So far this year, the economy has lost a total of 463,000 jobs and July is no different, it marks the seventh straight month where employers eliminated jobs.

Seniors should you sell or stay

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:00:00 GMT

If you are in a tight financial situation and are on a fixed income, your choices of making more money are somewhat limited. One way to see if you can live more comfortably is by answering the following questions.

Reverse mortgage improvements

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

If you are thinking of a reverse mortgage, then you will be happy to hear that there are many improvements being made to the government-sponsored program. These changes are only for FHA-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) program, and will take approximately 60-90 days to implement.

Housing bill on its way to White House

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008 is on its way to the White House for its final passing. It won final approval in Congress on July 23rd and will hopefully go into effect soon, as President Bush has said he will sign.

Lenders requiring money down to buy home

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Although today’s real estate market is a Buyer’s market, it most certainly is not a borrower’s market. With the excess inventory of homes for sale, it’s too bad that it isn’t that easy to buy a home unless you have a down payment of 10% or more ready.

Reverse mortgage lenders pay you to stay in your home

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

There are many different benefits to a reverse mortgage. First and foremost, you get money from the equity you have built in your home to use however you please.

No end in sight for economic slowdown

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Expect the unemployment rate to rise as Wachovia announced that it is cutting 10,750 jobs as a result of a net loss of $8.86 billion in the second quarter.

Lenders standards are getting higher

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The housing and mortgage crisis has been responsible for many changes going on in the economy. As early as a few months ago, borrowers with a FICO score of 700 were usually eligible for the lowest mortgage rates.

Fannie and Freddie are crucial to market recovery

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

It was announced early last week that the Treasury Department and Federal Reserve plans to take steps to make funds available to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac if necessary.

Bernanke urged to implement new changes

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke was urged by the US Treasury Secretary to overhaul the regulatory structure of the financial markets.

Some foreclosures are preventable

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

According to Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, many foreclosures can’t be prevented. In addition to lax lending standards that accompanied the housing boom which allowed people to buy homes they could not afford.

Emergency Housing Bill delayed

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The proposed emergency housing bill intended to help as many as 50,000 homeowners on the brink of foreclosure to renegotiate their mortgages has been delayed and may be weeks away from passage.

States raising taxes to replenish treasury

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

With record numbers of home foreclosures, gasoline prices and a downward slide in unemployment, it’s no wonder lawmakers are uneasy over finances. Unfortunately this means that they are shying away from major expansions of public-health insurance programs and free preschool classes.

Seniors can enjoy retirement without monthly mortgage payment

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Reverse mortgages have been around for a long time, since 1988 to be exact, when Ronald Reagan signed the bill authorizing HUD to insure reverse mortgage through the FHA.

No laws protecting renters

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Renters are deeply affected by this mortgage crisis. While homeowners are having trouble making their monthly mortgage payments, one extra source of income is from their renters.

Baby boomers helping out younger generation too much

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Older baby boomers were able to get out of debt very quickly in the ‘70s, as they lived through an era of high inflation when property values and wages grew very quickly, doubling about every 7 years. To think that today’s average salary will double in the next 7 years sounds a little exaggerated.

Housing situation not even halfway over

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

It seems that every day there is another news story that reports a different view on the housing market. In article from Reuters David Lowman, chief executive officer of home lending at JPMorgan Chase, states that the downturn of the housing and mortgage market has yet to reach its midpoint.

Easy mortgage contributing to artificial demand

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

It is well known that the terrible status of the mortgage market today can be mostly blamed on lenders practically giving away loans to ineligible borrowers. During the housing boom, a first time buyer could easily buy a home with no money down.

FBI taking control over mortgage fraud offenders

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

If the housing market is still full of excess inventory and the number of foreclosures is still rising, then why are the mortgage interest rates rising too? How are buyers supposed to relieve the surplus of homes when the interest rates are so discouraging?

Leave something extra for your heirs with a reverse mortgage

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

One reason why some seniors choose not to take out a reverse mortgage is because they want to leave their home for their heirs. With a reverse mortgage, the house is sold by the bank once the last remaining borrower dies.

What are our countrys top officials doing to help the mortgage crisis

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Well, Connecticut Senator Christopher Dodd’s plan allows mortgage lenders to dump up to $300 billion of their worst loans on to taxpayers. This would be done via a new Federal Housing Administration refinancing program.

Is 2008 the year of cleanup

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The chief economist for the National Association of Realtors said that by 2013, home prices in South Florida could be 20% to 30% higher. He called Florida’s property market turmoil a ‘short-term slump’ due in part from a short term over supply.

Mortgage brokers vs mortgage bankers

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

How are mortgage brokers different from mortgage bankers? For one, mortgage bankers have direct access to their company’s funds. For example, a mortgage banker could be one that represents Goldman Sachs and can strike a deal with the borrower but only with funds from his or her lender.

Selling a home while saving and getting maximum exposure

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

When it comes to selling real estate we now have many different ways of doing it. You can choose the traditional way where you hire an agent and at the time of sale they collect a 6% commission or a model where you can save thousands in commissions.

Is a jumbo reverse mortgage right for you

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

At least 90% of reverse mortgages are the Federal Housing Administration’s government insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM). The other 10% are jumbo or proprietary reverse mortgages, which are not backed by the FHA.

Get professional advice before signing any papers

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

If you are seriously thinking about a reverse mortgage, it is important to talk to family, friends, and a financial advisor about it. If you are married, it may be a good idea to make sure that both you and your spouse are listed on the deed.

Unemployment rate not a good sign for economy

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

It is unsettling to hear that in May alone, nervous employers cut 49,000 jobs. The unemployment rate soared from 5% in April to 5.5% in May, which is the biggest one month jump in the rate since February 1986.

Why are some homeowners able to fix their loans and others are not

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Everyday struggling homeowners call the foreclosure Help Hotline for advice on how to save their homes and avoid foreclosure. The next step is called the foreclosure prevention process.

Is reverse mortgage permanent

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

It’s a hard decision to commit to a reverse mortgage because after you sign the papers, there really is no going back. It is possible to refinance a reverse mortgage loan, but once you borrow against the equity in your home, the only way for your house to earn more equity is by appreciation, which is not a factor in anyone’s control.

Renters are victims of foreclosure too

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

As we already know, this housing slump is affecting everyone in different ways. Whether it is a homeowner going into foreclosure, mortgage brokers out of work, or home values dropping drastically, everyone is sharing the pain.

Use reverse mortgage to pay off debt

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

In March, the Federal Reserve reported that consumers had a record $957 billion of credit-card and other types of revolving debt outstanding, which is up about 8% from a year earlier.

Will Bush veto the Foreclosure Prevention Act

Thu, 29 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The House recently approved the American Housing Rescue and Foreclosure Prevention Act. The bill fell short of the margin needed (the vote was 266-154) to override President Bush’s threat to veto the bill.

Housing prices still declining

Wed, 28 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

According to Standard & Poor, a quarterly index that covers all nine US Census divisions, prices nationwide are at levels not seen since the third quarter of 2004, but it is still up 60 percent versus 2000.

Treat reverse mortgage as final option

Tue, 27 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

For seniors who have not prepared for their retirement as well as they had hoped, there is always a reverse mortgage. But a reverse mortgage loan shouldn’t be looked at as a backup; instead it should be seen as an option when all others are gone.

Is reverse mortgage due if you move to a nursing home

Fri, 23 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Reverse mortgages have several benefits, especially since the money you receive from it isn’t counted as additional income, and therefore is tax free.

Reverse mortgage great for seniors who own house

Thu, 22 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Seniors who are cash-strapped are looking for options to help their financial situation. Reverse mortgages are a great option, but are usually better suited for those whose homes are either paid off or have a low mortgage balance, and who want to live in the residence for the rest of their lives.

Three steps towards a smarter financial decision

Wed, 21 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

So you’ve already heard about reverse mortgage loans and how you can access your hard earned equity. You are also aware of predatory lenders and that you should carefully consider all available options and speak to family and friends before making a financial decision.

Behavioral changes in consumer spending habits

Tue, 20 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

There have been many behavioral changes in consumers since we entered this credit crunch. A survey of Wal-Mart buyers by Reuters found a significant increase in store traffic from the end of the month to the first of the month.

Seniors pressured into buying unnecessary financial products

Mon, 19 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

When seniors are approached by someone trying to sell them a reverse mortgage, they should pay specific attention to the fine print and if the person is trying to add on other financial products.

Reverse mortgage great for those who dont want to move

Fri, 16 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

One way to find out if a reverse mortgage loan is right for you is to look at your future plans for your home. Do you plan on staying there for a long time? Or do you plan on moving or selling in the near future?

Fixed Rate Loans build equity slowly

Thu, 15 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Fixed-Rate Loans seem like a good deal: fixed monthly payments that will never increase, and about 40 or 50 years to pay it off. The problem with 40-Year and 50-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgages is that they build up equity too slowly.

Interest Only Mortgage not very economical

Wed, 14 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

An Interest-Only Mortgage is not the greatest and most economical way to afford a home. There are different products that offer interest-only payments like the Three-Year, Five-Year, Seven-Year, and 10-year Interest-Only Option on an ARM.

Why you should avoid ARMs

Tue, 13 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Like the Multiple-Choice Mortgage and Cash-Out Financing, Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMs) should also be avoided. ARMs are pretty popular, but they are also tough on budgets, as the monthly payments are variable in just one to three years.

Why house prices rise or fall

Mon, 12 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

During the housing boom a few years ago, it didn’t matter if the door was painted raspberry red or electric yellow, most houses were surging in value.

Avoid Cash Out Mortgages

Fri, 09 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Another type of mortgage that should be avoided is the Cash-Out Financing. These products are also called 103s, 107s, and 125s.

One mortgage to avoid

Thu, 08 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

For first time buyers trying to take advantage of the foreclosure market, it may be smart to avoid certain types of mortgages.

Predictions of the foreclosure market

Wed, 07 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

What is the future of the foreclosure market? Credit Suisse estimates that over the next five years, an astounding 6.5 million families, or one out of 8 American homeowners will end up in foreclosure.

Seniors with or without mortgage can qualify for reverse mortgage

Tue, 06 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

According to the latest census data from 2000, 74.9 percent of owners 70 and older had no mortgage on a primary dwelling. Sometimes there are people in the middle of their working years that are lucky enough to have their homes paid off.

Reverse mortgage will never exceed home value

Mon, 05 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Great news for seniors who have a reverse mortgage protected by the FHA, or for those who are thinking about getting one: the meltdown in home values does not affect your loan!

Jobless rate falls but economy is still troubled

Fri, 02 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The problematic economy that we are facing today is affecting everyone. Aside from affecting grocery and gas prices, this falling economy is stripping many hard workers of their jobs.

Is housing market to blame for commodities running out

Thu, 01 May 2008 15:00:00 GMT

People around the country are beginning to worry about what may be a food shortage. The plunging economy as a result of the housing market needs to get back on its feet before our everyday necessities get any more expensive.

Foreclosure filings continue to rise

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Foreclosure filings continue to increase all over the country, and in Alachua County, Florida, it has gone up by 175%. Many reasons contribute to delinquent mortgages: loss of income, job loss, or health reasons that make it impossible to make the monthly payment.

Types Of Mortgage Which One Is Right For You

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

So, you are planning to buy your perfect house or commercial property but don’t know what your options are in the mortgage department.

Signs Of Good Mortgage Brokers

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

A good mortgage broker is something every potential homeowner or experienced real estate investor needs to have on their side.

Second Mortgage What Is It Exactly

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Everyone has heard a friend or relative complain about having to take out a second mortgage but don’t really know what that means. Let’s find out!

Factors Of Mortgage Approval

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

When applying for a mortgage, the lender you have chosen will take many factors into account, which will determine what your monthly payments will be and how many years you will take to pay the loan off completely.

Reverse Mortgage Alternative

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

For seniors between 65 and 85 who want to access the equity tied up in their homes, it seems that they have to refinance or take out a reverse mortgage loan. But there is another way.

What Is A Mortgage

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Every homeowner knows what a mortgage is but do you? Many people have heard that term on movies, television shows, and commercials but don’t really know what it really means.

Seniors wait for home value to rise

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Many people are trapped in this housing slump. Seniors who want to retire are having trouble liquidating their assets, as most of their investment is secured in their houses.

Reverse mortgage like a second Social Security check

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Figures based on data from Golden Gateway Financial, report that the money seniors save from making mortgage payments, together with their monthly reverse mortgage checks will easily exceed the amount of their Social Security check.

Seniors struggle paying for mortgage and health care

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

In an AARP study, 28% of seniors cited “Health or Disability” as a reason for looking into a reverse mortgage. Their worries are justified, as the need for health care increases as seniors get older.

Paying for long term care insurance on a fixed income

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Seniors reaching retirement age are often worried about how to pay for expenses if they cannot take care of themselves. Many of them also worry that they will become a burden on their children.

FINRA cautions homeowners about tapping into home equity

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Last week, there was an Investor Alert issued by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). It cautions homeowners over the age of 60 to be wary of tapping into their home equity through reverse mortgages.

Common reverse mortgage concerns

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Most people in the market for a reverse mortgage loan ask the usual questions like: How much money will I get? How much are the fees? What is the interest rate?

Small steps to help relieve homeowners

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

There is a lot of criticism of how the Bush Administration is handling the current housing and mortgage crisis. Here are their latest initivatives.

Reverse mortgage loans have changed

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Reverse mortgage loans have changed a lot since they first appeared in the market. Since a reverse mortgage is based on the equity in your home, what happens if you outlive the equity in your home?

Eager sellers may find success at auction

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Potential buyers who can afford buying a home during this down market are searching for homes in less traditional places, like auctions.

Mortgage life insurance can provide security

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Mortgage life insurance will pay off your mortgage if you die before it is completely paid off.

Latest proposals to improve mortgage and housing industry

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The Senate is still trying to stabilize the mortgage and housing industry with proposals, is it enough?

Pay for living expenses with a reverse mortgage loan

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

A survey by Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Atlanta, Inc., found that the main reason most homeowners who took out a reverse mortgage loan was to pay for living expenses.

Reverse Mortgage laws are varied

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Reverse Mortgage laws are varied, and though the borrower(s) uses their house as security, they still have certain responsibilities.

Home value may drop but benefits continue with a reverse mortgage

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

As many Americans are struggling to keep their home, more and more seniors are looking into reverse mortgages. Although the value of your home can drop, your benefits do not reduce.

Fixed interest rate reverse mortgages are now available

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Until this week all reverse mortgage loans came with a variable interest rate. This of course made it hard to predict how expensive a reverse mortgage would be by the time the mortgage was closed.

In crime with predatory lenders

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Was the Bush administration partners in crime with predatory lenders? In article written by former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer, light is shed on the Bush administration and their handling of the current housing crisis.

Sales of existing homes fell by 12.7 percent in 2007

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Sales of existing homes fell by 12.7 percent in 2007, the biggest decline in 25 years. Over the past two years, the severe credit crunch forced the housing market into a steep downturn. But according to the National Association of Realtors, the sales of existing homes rose by 2.9 percent in February.

Attempted or suspected mortgage fraud

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Between September 2006 and October 2007, lenders and financial institutions across the nation filed 46,717 reports of attempted or suspected mortgage fraud. This number is up 32 percent from the previous year, and the FBI tallied 260 convictions on mortgage-related crimes in 2007.

Florida sunset has finally set

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

It seems like Florida’s sunset has finally set. In 2007, 37% fewer people moved to Florida than in the previous year, setting the slowest pace of growth in ten years.

Fixed rate home loans are getting higher

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Although the Feds cut interest rates even further on Tuesday, fixed rate home loans are actually getting higher.

Another move to help relieve US homeowners

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight is making it easier for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to absorb problem loans in an effort to stabilize falling home prices.

Housing market slump is really hitting working class families

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Florida’s real estate needs help, as its problems are complicated. Some community activists believe that just because they were her before the next person, that only newer residents should pay the higher costs of a new water supply.

Foreclosure filings jumped 60 percent

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

In February, foreclosure filings jumped 60 percent and bank seizures more than doubled. President Bush said yesterday, that "The program is beginning to work, beginning to help.

Suspected cases of mortgage fraud

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Executive deputy chief of the fraud section in the Justice Department's criminal unit, John D. Arterberry announced that law enforcement agencies are cracking down on suspected cases of mortgage fraud.

Another $200 billion to help mortgage market liquidity

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The Federal Reserve plans to lend $200 billion, in an effort to improve market liquidity. They also plan to lend another $200 billion to help mortgage market liquidity.

Criminal inquiry into the biggest mortgage lender

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Federal authorities have opened a criminal inquiry into Countrywide Financial, the country’s biggest mortgage lender.

In denial about our economy

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Those who are still in denial about our economy being in recession must not understand the gravity of the situation.

Nearly 3 million homeowners were behind on their mortgages

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The Mortgage Bankers Association reported that at the end of last year, nearly 3 million homeowners were behind on their mortgages, and over a million borrowers were at risk of imminent foreclosure.

Declining home prices are the reason behind the foreclosures

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

States like Florida and California, where there was an overbuilding of new homes, total 30% of the mortgages that are beginning the foreclosure process. Unfortunately, declining home prices are the reason behind the foreclosures.

Florida foreclosure courts are months behind

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

In Dade and Broward counties, there is now an 8-10 month wait to get a court date to have a foreclosure filing. Some borrowers who own multimillion dollar homes have ceased to pay their mortgages.

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke is urging banks

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke is urging banks to not only cut interest rates on some troubled mortgages, but to also cut the size of the size of the loans.

Worst real estate slump since the Great Depression

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Many companies are not prepared for the worst real estate slump since the Great Depression. One business that may be worsening the housing crisis and pushing the US economy closer to recession is mortgage servicers.

Will the monetary and fiscal stimulus packages work in the long run

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Will the monetary and fiscal stimulus packages work in the long run? It’s hard to say, but from the way it looks, the answer is probably doubtful.

Cost-of-living seems to be increasing everywhere

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

As the cost-of-living seems to be increasing everywhere, Key West, Florida is no exception. Many are blaming rents and mortgages which are twice as high as on the mainland.

Freddie Mac is changing the rules

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Freddie Mac, the government-backed funder of U.S. home loans is trying to help mortgage insurers by purchasing loans covered by mortgage insurers that don’t meet its standards for the amount of capital backing their policies.

Federal Housing Administration to allow purchase transactions in its reverse mortgage program

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

A new legislation that authorizes the Federal Housing Administration to allow purchase transactions in its reverse mortgage program is expected to take effect shortly. The legislation would limit the amount of cash a purchaser would need to buy a home without being burdened by a typical mortgage.

NAR reports that national median price drop of 5.8 precent

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that national median price drop of 5.8% during the last 3 months of 2007 set a record for the biggest-ever quarterly drop. They blame the credit crunch in the jumbo loan market which started in August of last year for the price drop.

Number of homes in foreclosures has yet to decrease

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

In an effort to reduce the number of foreclosures, the Bush Administration rolled out a new initiative called Project Lifeline.

Mortgage brokers have been put out of work

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The situation concerning the mortgage market really is as bad as one may think. More importantly, it is affecting employment within the industry. To be exact, over 26,000 mortgage brokers have been put out of work, according to federal statistics.

People start preparing for the upcoming recession

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

As many people start preparing for the upcoming recession, others already think we’re in it. Many factors are responsible for this, especially since the credit crunch that started in August 2007.

Real estate market in Florida is particularly bad

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The numbers of houses in foreclosure in Florida, ready for auction tripled since 2006 to 10,209 in 2007, with another 1,467 from last month.

Downfall of the housing market is felt throughout many industries

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

As we already know, the downfall of the housing market is felt throughout many industries. The mortgage industry, in particular is one that is being blamed for risky lending practices.

Can we stave off a recession in Florida

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

One of the many problems in Florida and other Sunbelt states that contributed to the downfall of the housing market is that many people overextended themselves on rising mortgage debt that they really couldn’t afford.

Reverse Mortgage Proceeds Protection Act

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Given the slowdown of the mortgage market, more and more lenders are offering reverse mortgages. In December of last year, U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) filed for legislation of the Reverse Mortgage Proceeds Protection Act.

Federal Reserve and Congress are taking action

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The Federal Reserve and Congress are taking action to help stimulate the economy through interest rate cuts and tax rebates. The US House of Representatives passed a bill that would let those borrowing up to $730,000 take advantage of the rate cuts.

Your age affects the amount you may receive with a reverse mortgage

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

If you are over 62 years old and thinking about a applying for a reverse mortgage loan, you should also think about how your age affects the amount you may receive.

Florida voters approve Amendment 1

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

As of 10:10pm on January 29, the Florida Department of State, Division of Elections' unofficial election night returns indicate Florida voters have approved Amendment #1.

Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum cautions seniors about reverse mortgages

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum has cautioned seniors about scams relating to reverse mortgages. He issued a consumer advisory that warns senior citizens in Florida about predatory lenders or brokers trying to capitalize on their situation.

Florida seniors have the opportunity to receive debt-free cash today

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

If you live in Florida and considering a reverse mortgage consider this. The EquityKey program is a debt-free alternative for those between the ages of 65 and 85 who are considering a reverse mortgage.

Sub-prime mortgage companies have put the housing economy upside down

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

It is easy to play Monday morning quarterback with why the sub-prime mortgage companies have put the housing economy upside down. At the time everyone was excited because home ownership rose to record levels and a lot of people were making a lot of money.

Property taxes in Florida takes a big toll on any homeowner income

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

On January 29, 2008, Floridians will have a chance to change the law on property taxes by voting on Amendment I.

Now is the time to refinance your home mortgage

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

By the beginning of February expect to see the lowest interest rates in years for home mortgages. Anyone who refinanced only six months ago may see as much as a 2 point different in their current rate compared to the rates today.

Using a reverse mortgage to purchase a vacation home

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The only problem is that not all seniors can afford to live in two homes and keep up with the costs. What many seniors are doing to make this possible, is to take out a reverse mortgage on their current home and purchase a vacation home.

Reverse mortgage may help you escape bankruptcy or foreclosure

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

According to forecasts made by Housing Predictor, Miami, Florida leads the list of the Annual Worst 25 Housing Predictor Market Forecasts for 2008.

Reverse mortgage numbers for 2007 are in by the FHA

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The FHA released their numbers for HECM reverse mortgage loans. As expected there was a significant increase in the number of HECM cases issued from the prior year.

Reverse mortgages are a great option as a source of extra income

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

For those seniors who are house rich, but cash poor, they could always sell their home and downsize to a smaller home. But most seniors are already settled and don’t want the hassle of looking for another home.

Prepare now for the potential collapse of the economy

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

If all this activity in the mortgage space so early in the New Year hasn’t woken you up to what appears to be the beginning of a major collapse in the economy then what signs are you waiting for?

Reverse mortgages can be very versatile

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

There are many ways in which seniors can utilize the equity in their home, some are wise, and others are not.

Seniors everywhere are looking into reverse mortgages

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

As the mortgage industry refuses to show any signs of improvement, seniors everywhere are looking into reverse mortgages.

Negotiate your reverse mortgage with a few lenders

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

When you decide to go shopping for a reverse mortgage there are two big ticket items that you can negotiate with the lender in an attempt to reduce the cost of the loan.

Extra income is only a reverse mortgage away

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

At 65 and older, it is hard to make any extra income. One way is to apply for a reverse mortgage loan. The loan will provide income based on the equity of your home and a few other factors.

Reverse Mortgage Estimates

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

FHA uses the following criteria to determine the amount of a reverse mortgage loan: the property value, the age of the youngest individual on the deed (provided that the senior is over 62), and the current interest-rate.

Can a reverse mortgage keep the elderly out of a nursing home

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The solution may be for the children to talk to their parents about a reverse mortgage. Although older people usually want to protect what they’ve worked long and hard for to their heirs, at the same time, all that equity is just sitting there doing nothing.

Reverse mortgage loans can save the day

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 17:00:00 GMT

It is interesting how a reverse mortgage loan can help different situations, but it is still important to be educated on all the properties of a reverse mortgage loan.

Florida Senator questions the FHA about reverse mortgages

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:00:00 GMT

Senator Mel Martinez from Florida asked if there were any projections as to how many reverse mortgages the FHA would insure if the cap that limits the total allowable number was raised.

Reverse mortgage might be a better option than selling

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:30:00 GMT

Although many real estate professionals are expecting the real estate market to improve by the middle of this year, for some homeowners, that may be to late. If you are over the age of 62 and own your home, a reverse mortgage might be a better option than selling.

Florida loses thousands of mortgage-related jobs in 2007 but reverse mortgages may help

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 17:45:00 GMT

Reverse mortgages may help save some jobs as seniors and lenders are turning to reverse mortgages to help stop foreclosures.

The myths of Reverse Mortgages

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:00:00 GMT

There are many myths about reverse mortgage loans that instill fear in some senior adults and their heirs, and prevent them from thoroughly investigating the details.