Alpharetta Cumming Lake Lanier Real Estate Blog

Mortgage markets worsened overall last week for the first time in 5 weeks.

Better-than-anticipated economic data plus dwindling concerns for Greece’s sovereign debt combined to a spark a bond sell-off. Conforming mortgage rates moved higher as a result.

Rate shoppers were hit especially hard last Tuesday.

At Monday’s close, conventional fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgages were posting their lowest levels of 2011, but by Tuesday’s market close, rates had climbed as much as 0.250 percent across the board. In some cases, more.

The spike highlights how quickly mortgage rates can change in a recovering economy, and why “floating” a rate can be costly.

This week, mortgage rates figure to be equally volatile. There’s a large set of market-changing data planned for release, and several Fed members have planned public appearances, including a 9:00 AM ET, Monday morning kickoff from Fed Chairman Bernanke.

•Monday : Bernanke speech; Homebuilder Confidence Survey
•Tuesday : Housing Starts; Building Permits
•Wednesday : FOMC Minutes
•Thursday : Existing Home Sales
In addition, Thursday brings a second rate shopper-risk.

The Initial Jobless Claims will be released at 8:30 AM ET and it will be closely watched by Wall Street. Initial claims are sharply higher since the end of April and investors believe the jobs market is key in a sustained economic recovery. If the data shows that initial claims receded, mortgage rates are expected to rise in response

Labels: alpharetta homes for sale, cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates

April 11th, 2011
Mortgage markets worsened last week as energy costs remained high, and jobs data looked strong. The safe haven buying that characterized the March mortgage market has subsided.

It's driving mortgage rates higher.

Conforming and FHA mortgage rates rolled back 8 weeks worth of improvements last week and are now back to mid-February levels. The rise in rates is hurting refinance activity and home affordability.

The biggest story from last week figures to carry forward into this one - the Federal Reserve's take on inflation.

In the minutes from its March meeting, the FOMC was shown to have discussed the possibility of raising the Fed Funds Rate ahead of schedule, and to be watching near-inflation closely. Both developments are in response to a growing economy with rising price pressures.

Mortgage rate shoppers should take note.

Inflation is a mortgage-rate killer. When inflation is present in the economy, all things equal, mortgage rates rise. Sometimes by a lot. And, usually, just the expectation of inflation is all it takes to make mortgage rates jump.

That's what we saw last week.

This week, keep a close watch on new inflation-related data set for release. This includes Tuesday's Retail Sales data, Wednesday's Producer Price Index, and Thursday's Consumer Price Index. Each release can potentially move mortgage rates although, if recent trends are an indication, expect for rates to rise.

Mortgage rates remain historically low. If you're shopping for a mortgage, consider locking as soon as you can.

Labels: best realtor in town, current mortgage rates

March 15th, 2011
Mortgage markets improved last week in a week of few economic releases. The one major data point - Retail Sales - showed stronger-than-expected, but markets reacted mildly. The report's strength was whispered in advance of the actual release; its reading validated Wall Street's growing faith in the U.S. economy.

Most action last week revolved around the Middle East:
• Libya's internal turmoil continued
• Bahrain clashes intensified
• Saudi Arabia's citizens planned a Day of Rage
In response to these events, Wall Street continued its flight-to-quality. Mortgage-backed bonds are now at their best levels since early-February. Mortgage rates have improved 4 straight weeks.

Unfortunately for rate shoppers, the gains have been meager. Conforming mortgage rates have only dropped slightly.

This week, however, the market could move in either direction.

The biggest news on tap is the Federal Open Market Committee's 1-day meeting, scheduled for Tuesday. The Fed is expected to leave the Fed Funds Rate near 0.000 percent, but that doesn't mean that mortgage rates won't change. The FOMC's post-meeting press release will be closely scrutinized on Wall Street. Any changes in theme, tone, or message will cause mortgage rates to dart.

This week also marks the return of housing data with Housing Starts, Building Permits, and Homebuilder Confidence due for release. Housing is believed to be key to the economic recovery so strength in these reports should lead mortgage rates higher.

In addition, several inflation-related data sets will be released including Consumer Price Index and Producer Price Index. Inflation is generally bad for mortgage rates and with gas prices rising to a multi-year high, pressure will be on for mortgage rates to rise.

Lastly, there's Japan.

The nation's earthquake, tsunami, and (now) looming nuclear threat will have implications on the global bond market. Mortgage rates may benefit while the crisis remains unresolved.

If you've floated a mortgage rate over the past few weeks, it may be time to lock that rate down. Economic factors should be pushing rates higher, but geopolitics and natural disasters are keeping them low.

It's a perfect time to commit to a loan. Please call our preferred mortgage lender today if you have any questions.

CURRENT RATES (PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS)
Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.75 %
15-yr Fixed = 4.00 %
Conforming ARMS*
Conforming 5/1 = 3.375%
Conforming 7/1 = 3.875%
Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 3.875%
7/1 ARM = 4.25%
10/1 ARM = 4.875%
30-year Fixed JUMBO = 5.50%
FHA Loans:*
30-yr Fixed = 4.50%
5/1 ARM = 3.875 %

Call Phil Now For More Details!
*Based on pricing as of Monday, March 14th, 2010 at 12:00PM.
Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions.
This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee # 22745, Florida Licensee # CL0800186,
North Carolina Licensee # B-147025, Covenant NMLS # 144774


For More Information Call or Email
Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790, GA License# 26422

Labels: cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates, homes for sale in alpharetta

CURRENT RATES (PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS)
Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.875 %
15-yr Fixed = 4.250 %

Conforming ARMS*

Conforming 5/1 = 3.625 %
Conforming 7/1 = 4.000%

Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 3.50%
7/1 ARM = 3.875%
30-year Fixed JUMBO = 5.50%

FHA Loans:*
30-yr Fixed Range = 4.875% - 5.00%
5/1 ARM = 3.75 % Qualify at Start Rate


*Based on pricing as of Friday, February 4th, 2010 at 12:00PM.
Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions.
This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee # 22745, Florida Licensee # CL0800186,
North Carolina Licensee # B-147025, Covenant NMLS # 144774


For More Information Call or Email Mike and Melodys preferred lender
Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790, GA License# 26422

Labels: cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates

CURRENT RATES FOR PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS
Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.75 % Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 4.25 % Purchase Only

NEW!
Conforming 5/1 = 3.50 % amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1 = 3.875% amortized
(Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes)

Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 4.25%
7/1 ARM = 4.50%
NEW! 30-year Fixed JUMBO = 5.50%
FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range = 4.625% - 5.00%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM = 3.50 % Qualify at Start Rate

Call Phil Now For More Details!
*Based on pricing as of Friday, January 21st, 2010 at 12:00PM.
Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions.
This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee # 22745, Florida Licensee # CL0800186,
North Carolina Licensee # B-147025, Covenant NMLS # 144774


For More Information Call or Email our Preferred Lender
Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790, GA License# 26422

Labels: Alpharetta, cumming, current mortgage rates, homes for sale

CURRENT RATES (PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS)
Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.625 % Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 4.00 % Purchase Only

NEW!
Conforming 5/1 = 3.375 % amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1 = 3.875% amortized
(Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes)

Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 4.25%
7/1 ARM = 4.50%
NEW! 30-year Fixed JUMBO = 5.50%
FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range = 4.375% - 5.00%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM = 3.25 % Qualify at Start Rate


*Based on pricing as of Friday, January 14th, 2010 at 12:00PM.
Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions.
This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee # 22745, Florida Licensee # CL0800186,
North Carolina Licensee # B-147025, Covenant NMLS # 144774


For More Information Call or Email our Preferred Lender
Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790, GA License# 26422

Labels: alpharetta homes for sale, cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates, milton homes for sale

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.75% Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 4.25% Purchase Only

NEW!
Conforming 5/1 = 3.50% amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1 = 3.875% amortized
(Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes)

Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 4.25%
7/1 ARM = 4.50%
NEW! 30-year Fixed JUMBO = 5.625%
FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range = 4.75% - 5.00%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM = 3.25% Qualify at Start Rate

Call Me Now For More Details!
*Based on pricing as of Friday, December 31st, 2010 at 12:00PM.
Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions.
This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee # 22745, Florida Licensee # CL0800186,
North Carolina Licensee # B-147025, Covenant NMLS # 144774


For More Information Call or Email Mike and Melody's preferred lender
Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790, GA License# 26422

Labels: best lender in town, best realtors in town, current mortgage rates

CURRENT RATES (PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS)
Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.25% Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 3.50% Purchase Only

NEW!
Conforming 5/1: 3.125% amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1: 3.25% amortized
HOT PRODUCT Conforming 10/1: 4.00% amortized!!!**
(Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes)

Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 3.875%
7/1 ARM =4.000%
NEW! 30-year Fixed JUMBO: 5.00%
FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range= 4.125% - 4.50%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM: 3.125% Qualify at Start Rate

Call Me Now For More Details!
*Based on pricing as of Friday, November 12th, 2010 at 12:00PM. Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions. This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee #22745, Florida Residential Mortgage Licensee#CL0800186, NorthCarolina Licensee #B-147025, Covenant NMLS# 144774


For More Information Call or Email our Mortgage Man

Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790, GA License# 26422

Brought to you by Mike and Melody Vanderhoff

Labels: alpharetta homes for sale, cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates, dawsonville homes for sale, lake lanier homes for sale

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.00% Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 3.375% Purchase Only

NEW!
Conforming 5/1: 3.00% amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1: 3.375% amortized
HOT PRODUCT Conforming 10/1: 3.875% amortized!!!**
(Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes)

Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 3.875%
7/1 ARM =4.125%
NEW! 30-year Fixed JUMBO: 4.875%
FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range= 3.875% - 4.50%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM: 2.875% Qualify at Start Rate

Call Me Now For More Details!
*Based on pricing as of Friday, October 22nd, 2010 at 12:00PM. Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions. This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee #22745, Florida Residential Mortgage Licensee#CL0800186, NorthCarolina Licensee #B-147025, Covenant NMLS# 144774


For More Information Call or Email

Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790, GA License# 26422

Labels: alpharetta homes for sale, cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates

CURRENT RATES (PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS)
Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.25% Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 3.75% Purchase Only

NEW! Conforming 5/1: 3.25% amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1: 3.50% amortized
HOT PRODUCT Conforming 10/1: 3.875% amortized!!!**
Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes

Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 3.875%
7/1 ARM =4.125%
NEW! 30-year Fixed JUMBO: 5.125%
FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range= 4.25% - 5.00%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM: 3.25% Qualify at Start Rate

Call Me Now For More Details!
*Based on pricing as of Friday, August 20th, 2010 at 12:00PM. Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions. This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee #22745, Florida Residential Mortgage Licensee#CL0800186, NorthCarolina Licensee #B-147025, Covenant NMLS# 144774


For More Information Call or Email our preferred Mortgage Planner
Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790

Labels: alpharetta homes for sale, cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates

August 23rd, 2010

Mortgage markets stalled last week in back-and-forth trading as Wall Street grappled with weak housing data, falling builder confidence, and worsening jobs numbers nationwide. Because markets were volatile, rate shopping was challenging.

Conforming mortgage rates managed to make a new all-time low last Thursday, but quickly gave up those gains. Most of Friday afternoon was spent in the red and, as a result, for the second straight week, mortgage rates failed to fall overall. But, although last week's action puts a damper on this summer's mortgage rate rally, the Refi Boom is still going strong!

According to Freddie Mac, as compared to April 8 when mortgage rates touched their recent high-point, pricing is hugely improved across 3 popular loan products.
 30-year fixed : Then, 5.21%; Now, 4.42%*
 15-year fixed : Then, 4.52%; Now, 3.90%*
 5-year ARM : Then, 4.25%; Now, 3.56%*
As an example of potential savings, a homeowner with a $250,000 30-year fixed rate mortgage would save $96 per month at today's rates as compared to April's. Over the life of a loan, that's a savings of $34,560!

This week, it's unlikely that the Refi Boom will meet its end, but that doesn't mean you should wait for rates to fall further. Mortgage rates tend to change quickly and without notice, and should rates rise, you may find that you've missed the market bottom. If today's rates appeal to your finances and budget, consider locking something in and moving forward. Call our Mortgage Specialist Today!

Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790

Labels: alpharetta homes for sale, cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates, refinance

CURRENT RATES (PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS)
Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.25% Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 3.75% Purchase Only

NEW! Conforming 5/1: 3.375% amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1: 3.625% amortized
HOT PRODUCT Conforming 10/1: 4.125% amortized!!!**
Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes

Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 3.625%
7/1 ARM =4.625%
NEW! 30-year Fixed JUMBO: 5.25%
FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range= 4.25% - 5.25%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM: 3.50% Qualify at Start Rate

Call Me Now For More Details!

Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790

*Based on pricing as of Friday, August 13th, 2010 at 12:00PM. Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions. This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.

Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee #22745, Florida Residential Mortgage Licensee#CL0800186, NorthCarolina Licensee #B-147025, Covenant NMLS# 144774

Labels: alpharetta homes for sale, cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates, dawsonville homes for sale, low mortgage rates

CURRENT RATES (PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS)
Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.25% Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 3.75% Purchase Only

NEW! Conforming 5/1: 3.375% amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1: 3.625% amortized
HOT PRODUCT Conforming 10/1: 4.125% amortized!!!**
Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes

Jumbo Loans:Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 3.875%
7/1 ARM =4.875%
NEW! 30-year Fixed JUMBO: 5.375%
FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range= 4.25% - 5.25%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM: 3.50% Qualify at Start Rate

Call Me Now For More Details!
*Based on pricing as of Friday, August 6th, 2010 at 12:00PM. Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions. This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z".
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee #22745, Florida Residential Mortgage Licensee#CL0800186, NorthCarolina Licensee #B-147025, Covenant NMLS# 144774


For More Information Call or Email

Phil Blankstein
Mortgage Planner
Cell 678-938-7111
phil.blankstein@mycovenantmortgage.com
NMLS # 251790, GA License# 26422

Labels: alpharetta homes for sale, cumming homes for sale, current mortgage rates, dahlonega homes for sale, dawsonville homes for sale, lake lanier homes for sale, milton homes for sale

CURRENT RATES (PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS)

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.875% Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 4.25% Purchase Only

NEW! Conforming 5/1: 3.50% amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1: 4.00% amortized
**HOT PRODUCT Conforming 10/1: 4.50% amortized!!!**

Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes

Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 4.50%
7/1 ARM =4.875%
Hottest JUMBO Loan...90% No PMI up to $500,000!
Call Me Now For More Details!

FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range= 4.875% - 5.25%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM: 3.875% Qualify at Start Rate

*Based on pricing as of Friday, May 7th, 2010 at 12:00PM. Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions. This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee #22745, Florida Residential Mortgage Licensee#CL0800186, NorthCarolina Licensee #B-147025 Covenant NMLS# 144774,


Call Mike and Melody to help you find the perfect home.

Labels: current mortgage rates, homes for sale in alpharetta, homes for sale in cumming

CURRENT RATES (PURCHASE TRANSACTIONS)

Conforming Loans: Loan amounts $417,000 & under*
30-yr Fixed = 4.875% Purchase Only
15-yr Fixed = 4.00% Purchase Only

NEW! Conforming 5/1: 3.50% amortized; 3.75% interest only
Conforming 7/1: 4.00% amortized
**HOT PRODUCT Conforming 10/1: 4.50% amortized!!!**

Consult your Covenant Mortgage Professional for Refinance Quotes

Jumbo Loans: Loan amounts over $417,000*
5/1 ARM = 4.50%
7/1 ARM =4.875%
Hottest JUMBO Loan...90% No PMI up to $500,000!
Call Me Now For More Details!

FHA Loans: *
30-yr Fixed Range= 4.875% - 5.25%
NEW! FHA 5/1 ARM: 3.875% Qualify at Start Rate

*Based on pricing as of Friday, April 30th, 2010 at 12:00PM. Prices, guidelines, and programs subject to change without notice. Subject to errors and omissions. This information is not intended to constitute an advertisement for purposes of the Truth-in-Lending Act or Regulation "Z". It is intended solely for use by Real Estate professionals.
Residential Mortgage Licensee: GA Licensee #22745, Florida Residential Mortgage Licensee#CL0800186, NorthCarolina Licensee #B-147025
Covenant NMLS# 144774,

If your thinking about buying a new home, now is the time. Just call Mike and Melody and let them help you find the perfect place.

Labels: best realtors in town, current mortgage rates, homes for sale in alpharetta, homes for sale in cumming