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Jennifer Fisher

Length of Credit History Tips
·         If you have been managing credit for a short time, don’t open a lot of new accounts too rapidly.
New accounts will lower your average account age, which will have a larger effect on your score if you don’t have a lot of other credit information. Also, rapid account buildup can look risky if you are a new credit user.

New Credit Tips
·         Do your rate shopping for a given loan within a focused period of time.
FICO scores distinguish between a search for a single loan and a search for many new credit lines, in part by the length of time over which inquiries occur.

·         Re-establish your credit history if you have had problems.
Opening new accounts responsibly and paying them off on time will raise your credit score in the long term.

·         Note that it’s OK to request and check your own credit report.
This won’t affect your score, as long as you order your credit report directly from the credit reporting agency or through an organization authorized to provide credit reports to consumers.

Types of Credit Use Tips
·         Apply for and open new credit accounts only as needed.
Don’t open accounts just to have a better credit mix – it probably won’t raise your credit score.

·         Have credit cards – but manage them responsibly.
In general, having credit cards and installment loans (and paying timely payments) will raise your credit score. Someone with no credit cards, for example, tends to be higher risk than someone who has managed credit cards responsibly.

·         Note that closing an account doesn’t make it go away.
A closed account will still show up on your credit report, and may be considered by the score.

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The Federal Reserve and Mortgage Rates

Consumers are often misled when it comes to the subject of the Federal Reserve and how it affects mortgage interest rates. Often the media is the culprit causing the confusion. Many times, the Fed has taken action that caused mortgage interest rates to move in a direction other than what consumers expected, because the media provided weak reporting on the subject.

The Federal Reserve affects short-term interest rate maturities, the Fed Funds rate, and the Overnight Lending rate. These factors have a direct impact on the Prime rate. If you took only this into consideration, you may mistakenly conclude that changes made by the Fed will cause a similar movement in mortgage interest rates. However, mortgage interest rates are dictated by the trading of mortgage-backed securities, which trade on a daily basis. The real dynamic at the heart of interest rate movement is the relationship between stocks and bonds.

Stocks and bonds compete for the same investment dollar on a daily basis. There is literally only so much money to be invested. When the Federal Reserve feels that interest rates need to be decreased in an effort to stimulate the economy, this reduction in rates can often cause a stock market rally. When the market becomes bullish, the money to invest in stocks comes from the selling of mortgage-backed securities.

Unfortunately, selling mortgage-backed securities to fuel stock market rallies causes interest rates to go up, not down.

Historically, there have been many times when the Federal Reserve has increased interest rates. Stocks then sell off in fear that the increase will affect corporate profit margins, and the liquidated stock assets need a place to park until the next rally comes along. The safe haven is found in mortgage-backed securities which cause mortgage rates to drop.

The daily ebb and flow of money is what matters most when it comes to the movement of mortgage interest rates. I make it a point to continuosly monitor interest rates for my clients, and advise them of opportunities to manage their mortgage debt at a better rate. This is the foundation of my business model as a Trusted Advisor.

Let’s us know how we can help with your Real Estate purchase in the Seattle area!

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Rates for the Weekend

by Jennifer Fisher on December 10, 2010

www.jenniferjfisher.com

Jennifer Fisher Sr. Mortgage Planner|Partner

Conforming
(< $ 417,000)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  4.750%/4.893 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed  4.125%/4.388 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM  3.250%/3.391 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed  4.750%/5.911 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM  3.500%/3.746 APR                                   

High Balance
(> $ 417,000 – $567,500**)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed   4.875%/4.995 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed   4.250%/4.474 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM   4.125%/3.387 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed   4.875%/4.833 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM   4.750%/3.794 APR   

 
Jumbo
(> $ 567,500)
30 Year Fixed  5.750%/5.870 APR
15 Year Fixed  5.375%/5.595 APR
5 Year ARM  4.250%/3.711 APR   Super Jumbo Option
(> $ 1,000,000)
5/1 ARM = 4.125% / 4.151 APR
7/1 ARM = 4.500% / 3.956 APR   

 Please let me know if I can be of any assistance. 
It is an honor and pleasure to serve you.
     

“People will forget what you said, and people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”
- Maya Angelou  
   

Rates are for a Purchase or Refinance, based on 740+ credit score, Full Doc Income, Conventional 80% Loan To Value, Conventional 80% Combined Loan To Value, FHA Purchase 96.5% Loan to Value, Primary Home, Single Family Residence, King County, 25 Day Lock with 1% Loan Origination Fee & 0% Discount Points and does not include any add-ons to rate or fee for such things as Cash Out, 2nd Home, Investment Property, 2nd Mortgages, etc. **County Limits Apply, Max for King, Pierce & Snohomish = $567,500.  You can visit Jennifer’s website www.jenniferjfisher.com  for more information or to apply for a loan.  Cobalt Mortgage is an Equal Housing Lender.     

     

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Rates for the Weekend

by Jennifer Fisher on October 22, 2010

www.jenniferjfisher.com

Jennifer Fisher Sr. Mortgage Planner|Partner

Conforming
(< $ 417,000)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  4.000%/4.641 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed  3.500%/4.197 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM  3.000%/3.639 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed  4.000%/5.097 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM  3.125%/5.747 APR   

  
High Balance
(> $ 417,000 – $567,500**)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed   4.250%/4.366 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed   3.625%/3.826 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM   3.750%/5.488 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed   4.375%/4.690 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM   3.375%/5.094 APR    

 
Jumbo
(> $ 567,500)
30 Year Fixed    4.875%/4.989 APR
15 Year Fixed    4.625%/4.821 APR
5 Year ARM    3.625%/5.415 APR  

  
Super Jumbo Option
(> $ 1,000,000)
5/1 ARM = 3.500% / 3.513 APR
7/1 ARM = 3.875% / 4.169 APR  

Please let me know if I can be of any assistance. 
It is an honor and pleasure to serve you.
    

“Everyone who got where he is has had to begin where he was.”
– Robert Louis Stevenson
  

Rates are for a Purchase or Refinance, based on 740+ credit score, Full Doc Income, Conventional 80% Loan To Value, Conventional 80% Combined Loan To Value, FHA Purchase 96.5% Loan to Value, Primary Home, Single Family Residence, King County, 25 Day Lock with 1% Loan Origination Fee & 0% Discount Points and does not include any add-ons to rate or fee for such things as Cash Out, 2nd Home, Investment Property, 2nd Mortgages, etc. **County Limits Apply, Max for King, Pierce & Snohomish = $567,500.  You can visit Jennifer’s website www.jenniferjfisher.com  for more information or to apply for a loan.  Cobalt Mortgage is an Equal Housing Lender.    

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Rates for the Weekend

by Jennifer Fisher on October 8, 2010

www.jenniferjfisher.com

Jennifer Fisher Sr. Mortgage Planner|Partner

Conforming
(< $ 417,000)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  4.125%/4.270 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed  3.625%/4.068 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM  2.875%/5.210 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed  4.125%/4.629 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM  3.125%/5.025 APR 

  
High Balance
(> $ 417,000 – $567,500**)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed   4.250%/4.440 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed   3.750%/3.987 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM   3.875%/5.529 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed   4.375%/4.768 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM   3.375%/5.119 APR   

 
Jumbo
(> $ 567,500)
30 Year Fixed    4.750%/4.906 APR
15 Year Fixed    4.500%/4.770 APR
5 Year ARM    3.625%/5.595 APR 

 
Super Jumbo Option
(> $ 1,000,000)
5/1 ARM = 4.250% / 3.802 APR
7/1 ARM = 4.625% / 4.473 APR 

Please let me know if I can be of any assistance. 
It is an honor and pleasure to serve you.
  

” The only reason why a cheetah rarely misses its prey is not because of its speed; it’s because it only focuses on one. In life, we need to identify our goals, go for them and not get distracted.”
~Author Unknown
 

Rates are for a Purchase or Refinance, based on 740+ credit score, Full Doc Income, Conventional 80% Loan To Value, Conventional 80% Combined Loan To Value, FHA Purchase 96.5% Loan to Value, Primary Home, Single Family Residence, King County, 25 Day Lock with 1% Loan Origination Fee & 0% Discount Points and does not include any add-ons to rate or fee for such things as Cash Out, 2nd Home, Investment Property, 2nd Mortgages, etc. **County Limits Apply, Max for King, Pierce & Snohomish = $567,500.  You can visit Jennifer’s website www.jenniferjfisher.com  for more information or to apply for a loan.  Cobalt Mortgage is an Equal Housing Lender.  

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Rates for the Weekend

by Jennifer Fisher on October 1, 2010

www.jenniferjfisher.com

Jennifer Fisher Sr. Mortgage Planner|Partner

Conforming
(< $ 417,000)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  4.125%/4.270 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed  3.625%/4.068 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM  2.875%/5.210 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed  4.125%/4.629 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM  3.125%/5.025 APR
 
High Balance
(> $ 417,000 – $567,500**)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  4.375%/4.512 APR
Conv. 30 Year Fixed   4.250%/4.440 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed   3.750%/3.987 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM   3.875%/5.529 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed   4.375%/4.768 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM   3.375%/5.119 APR 

  
Jumbo
(> $ 567,500)
30 Year Fixed    4.750%/4.906 APR
15 Year Fixed    4.500%/4.770 APR
5 Year ARM    3.625%/5.595 APR  

 
Super Jumbo Option
(> $ 1,000,000)
5/1 ARM = 4.250% / 3.802 APR 

7/1 ARM = 4.625% / 4.473 APR 

Please let me know if I can be of any assistance. 
It is an honor and pleasure to serve you.
 

“I not only use all the brains that I have, but all that I can borrow.” 

– Woodrow Wilson 

Rates are for a Purchase or Refinance, based on 740+ credit score, Full Doc Income, Conventional 80% Loan To Value, Conventional 80% Combined Loan To Value, FHA Purchase 96.5% Loan to Value, Primary Home, Single Family Residence, King County, 25 Day Lock with 1% Loan Origination Fee & 0% Discount Points and does not include any add-ons to rate or fee for such things as Cash Out, 2nd Home, Investment Property, 2nd Mortgages, etc. **County Limits Apply, Max for King, Pierce & Snohomish = $567,500.  You can visit Jennifer’s website www.jenniferjfisher.com  for more information or to apply for a loan.  Cobalt Mortgage is an Equal Housing Lender. 

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Rates for the Weekend

by Jennifer Fisher on September 24, 2010

www.jenniferjfisher.com

Jennifer Fisher Sr. Mortgage Planner|Partner

Conforming
(< $ 417,000)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  4.250%/4.407 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed  3.625%/4.202 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM  3.125%/5.289 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed  4.250%/4.599 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM   3.125%/5.057 APR
 
High Balance
(> $ 417,000 – $567,500**)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  4.375%/4.512 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed  3.875%/4.094 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM  4.000%/5.575 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed  4.625%/4.978 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM   3.375%/5.129 APR
 
Jumbo
(> $ 567,500)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  5.000%/5.136 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed  4.875%/5.109 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM  3.875%/5.534 APR
 
Super Jumbo Option
(> $ 1,000,000)
5/1 ARM = 4.500% / 3.900 APR
7/1 ARM = 4.625% / 4.473 APR

Please let me know if I can be of any assistance. 
It is an honor and pleasure to serve you.

For every sale you miss because you’re too enthusiastic, you will miss a hundred because you’re not enthusiastic enough.
– Zig Ziglar

Rates are for a Purchase or Refinance, based on 740+ credit score, Full Doc Income, Conventional 80% Loan To Value, Conventional 80% Combined Loan To Value, FHA Purchase 96.5% Loan to Value, Primary Home, Single Family Residence, King County, 25 Day Lock with 1% Loan Origination Fee & 0% Discount Points and does not include any add-ons to rate or fee for such things as Cash Out, 2nd Home, Investment Property, 2nd Mortgages, etc. **County Limits Apply, Max for King, Pierce & Snohomish = $567,500.  You can visit Jennifer’s website www.jenniferjfisher.com  for more information or to apply for a loan.  Cobalt Mortgage is an Equal Housing Lender.

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Life After Bankruptcy

by Jennifer Fisher on August 25, 2010

Bankruptcy is an uncomfortable subject for a variety of reasons. The most obvious is the potential havoc it can wreak on your finances. Running a close second is the negative stigma which is often attached to the process. This negativity is important to mention because strong emotions can sometimes lead to unsound financial decisions with devastating results.

Bankruptcy becomes a viable option for someone who is “upside down” in terms of cash flow. In other words, when a person has more money going out each month than coming in, bankruptcy should be considered if no reversal of this negative cash flow is within sight. The longer someone waits to explore the various options available, the more serious his or her situation may become.

One of the worst things people can do in this situation is to borrow more money to try and pay off their debts. On paper, this is clearly an unwise financial decision. In the real world, however, it is very common for individuals to pursue this strategy in an attempt to buy time and hold off on filing for bankruptcy. On the surface, this is certainly a noble notion; however it can often compound the problem and serves only to delay the inevitable.

For many homeowners in the midst of this upside down cash flow, speaking to a qualified mortgage professional is a much better option. An experienced loan officer can objectively look at your finances and help you determine if restructuring your mortgage would not only help, but possibly even alleviate any need for bankruptcy.

If bankruptcy is the only option, seek out a reputable bankruptcy attorney and credit counselor. A qualified mortgage specialist can provide references for you as well, as he or she works with these professionals on a regular basis. Reliable references are essential in this case because experienced professionals greatly increase the odds of a successful bankruptcy experience. It’s that simple.

When filing for bankruptcy, be completely honest and accurate regarding every aspect of your financial situation. This includes any changes to your income which may occur throughout the process. Bankruptcy is a federal procedure, adjudicated by real judges, and scrutinized by representatives who coordinate with the Department of Justice, the FBI, and the IRS.

Here are some additional steps you can take to make the bankruptcy process as painless as possible:

  • Save all paperwork regarding your bankruptcy, and keep it organized. This will prove beneficial after your bankruptcy as you now have all of the pertinent information in one place. Also, be sure to write down your discharge date. It’s surprising how many people forget to do this.
  • Establish a household budget. This can be accomplished in many ways, but there are several inexpensive computer programs available which do an excellent job
  • Throughout the bankruptcy, do your best to not only live below your means, but to save as much cash as possible. You never know what you may need it for once the process is completed
  • Be prepared for a barrage of junk mail. There will be sharks on the loose who are hoping to capitalize on your need for credit. 

Tips for Rebuilding Credit:

  • If you must buy a car, focus on transportation as opposed to style. Buy an inexpensive, used car, and try to get a loan for it. It’s a good idea to figure out what your budget allows in terms of a dollar amount first. This means obtaining financing prior to looking for a car.
  • Get a secured credit card. Secured credit cards allow for the cardholder to deposit a said amount of money into an account, thus establishing the spending limit of the card. Missed payments result in deductions from the account. Some of these cards will reward responsible borrowers by upping the limit without an additional deposit. Some will even convert the account into a traditional credit card. (Be wary of offers of “easy credit” or any card which asks you to call a 900 number. You will be charged for the call.)
  • Meet with a credit repair specialist. Not only can they help you clean up the damage to your credit report, they can advise you on specific ways to rebuild the credit you lost as well.

While it does take time, there is definitely life (and credit) after bankruptcy. Some mortgage lenders will even lend to you within a year after a bankruptcy. If you’re in serious financial trouble, the trick is to get the help and advice you need from professionals you trust.

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Conforming
(< $ 417,000)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  4.375%/4.557 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed  3.875%/4.190 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM  3.250%/3.420 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed  4.500%/4.842 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM  3.500%/3.937 APR
 
High Balance
(> $ 417,000 – $567,500**)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed  4.500%/4.653 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed  4.250%/4.961 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM  4.375%/4.594 APR
FHA 30 Year Fixed 4.750%/5.238 APR
FHA 5 Year ARM   3.875%/4.225 APR

 
Jumbo
(> $ 567,500)
Conv. 30 Year Fixed 5.250%/5.480 APR
Conv. 15 Year Fixed 4.875%/5.146 APR
Conv. 5 Year ARM 3.875%/4.022 APR
    
Super Jumbo Option
$1,250,000 Purchase Price
$1,000,000 Loan Amount
5/1 ARM = 3.875% / 4.022 APR
7/1 ARM = 4.250% / 4.467 APR

A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken.  ~James Dent

 
Please let me know if I can be of any assistance. 
It is an honor and pleasure to serve you.
  

 
Rates are for a Purchase or Refinance, based on 740+ credit score, Full Doc Income, Conventional 80% Loan To Value, Conventional 80% Combined Loan To Value, FHA Purchase 96.5% Loan to Value, Primary Home, Single Family Residence, King County, 25 Day Lock with 1% Loan Origination Fee & 0% Discount Points and does not include any add-ons to rate or fee for such things as Cash Out, 2nd Home, Investment Property, 2nd Mortgages, etc. **County Limits Apply, Max for King, Pierce & Snohomish = $567,500.

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VA Loan FAQ

by Jennifer Fisher on April 26, 2010

1. Is it hard to get a VA loan?
No, it is not.  After many years of successful closings, it is my privilege to guide you easily through the process.

2. What is a COE? Where can I get one?
COE stands for Certificate of Eligibility. This certificate proves that you are a veteran and, therefore, eligible for a VA-guaranteed home loan.  Cobalt Mortgage can help you get a COE for you during the loan process.  You may need to provide a copy of your DD-214 Form.

3. How do interest rates fluctuate?
Interest rates can change daily, sometimes even a couple times a day. They are based on the 30-year mortgage bond and many other market factors. Credit, employment status, loan program and many other factors can also affect interest rates.

4. Why should I use my VA home loan benefit?
The VA Loan Program helps active duty, reserve and retired military personnel purchase homes. The VA will guarantee 100% financing on a home at a competitive rate, without you having to pay mortgage insurance. The VA also limits the types of fees that can be charged, protecting you against predatory lending.

5. What is a funding fee? Do I have to pay for this?
The VA funding fee is a fee added to loans. The Department of Veterans Affairs uses these fees to help fund its VA loan program. The first time you use a VA loan, the funding fee will be 2.15% of the loan amount. For each subsequent use, the funding fee will be 3.3%. You will be required to pay it, unless you have a service-related disability of 10% or greater, in which case the funding fee is waived.

6. What does CobaltMortgage need from me to see if I qualify for a VA loan?
A VA lender will want to know your income and debts, and your social security number so that your credit history can be checked. After you supply this information to a lender, it will contact you in a few hours to let you know if you are eligible for a VA loan.

7. What are the benefits of a VA loan?
A VA loan offers 100% financing with no mortgage insurance fees. The loan is assumable, and you are eligible for streamlined refinancing if rates go down. A VA loan also offers great rates and is less strict on credit than most conventional loans.

8. Can I purchase only land with a VA loan?
No, VA loans are for home purchases and new home construction. The VA will not approve a loan that is only for land. However, you may use a VA loan to purchase a lot for a manufactured home.

9. May I use my VA eligibility more than once?
Yes, but you can only hold one VA loan at a time. After the first home loan is paid in full, your eligibility will be restored for another loan.

10. What is the funding fee for a second VA loan?
The funding fee is 3.3 %. But with a 5% down payment, the funding fee drops to 1.5%.

11. How important is my credit score to the VA?
The VA does not emphasize credit scores as much as conventional lenders. However, it does looks for a clear credit history in the borrower’s previous 12 months.

12. Can a family member use their grandparent’s or parent’s eligibility to qualify for a VA loan?
No, only a veteran or the surviving spouse of a veteran killed during active duty is eligible for VA loan benefits.

13. Can I use a co-borrower to help get approval?
VA guidelines only allow a spouse as a co-borrower. However, we offer conventional and FHA financing, which may be more suitable if a co-borrower other than a spouse is needed to secure a loan.

14. May my spouse co-sign so that I can get a larger VA loan?
Your spouse may co-sign in order to help you qualify for a VA loan. However, your spouse’s liabilities, in addition to your spouse’s income, will be considered when determining eligibility and loan amount.

15. Can I have two VA loans at once?
No. You can have only one VA loan at a time, and it must be used for a home that is your primary residence. After you pay off that loan, you are eligible for another VA loan.

16. Does it cost anything to prequalify for a VA loan?
No, it does not.

17. What are the differences between VA loans and conventional loans?
The main differences are that VA loans are guaranteed by the Veterans Administration, they require no money down, and they usually are easier to qualify for than conventional loans.

18. Are VA loan rates the same as conventional rates? Better? Worse?
Some days VA rates are better, some days they are worse. It depends on many market factors. However, VA loan rates are always close to conventional rates.

19. Does my credit score affect my VA loan rate?
No. Your credit score has no impact on VA loan rates. It can affect rates for a conventional loan.

20. If I filed bankruptcy, can I still get a VA loan? How long must I wait after filing?
Yes, you are still eligible for a VA loan. You must be at least one year out of Chapter 13 bankruptcy or two years out of Chapter 7. You also must have no late payments in the year leading up to applying for the loan.

21. Can a friend co-sign my VA loan?
Only spouses can co-sign on VA loans. However, other loans, such as conventional home loans and FHA loans, may allow a friend to co-sign.

22. As a veteran, will my VA loan entitlement ever expire?
Your entitlement never expires. However, your Certificate of Eligibility may need to be renewed if it is older than 12 months.

23. How much can I borrow with a VA home loan?
You may be able to borrow enough to cover 100% of your home purchase and could qualify for up to a $417,000 loan. In certain High-Cost counties the limit may be higher.   In Pierce, King, and Snohomish the limit is $481,250 and in  San Juan county $505,000.  For a refinance you can borrow up to 90% of the appraised value of your home.

24. May I use a VA loan to invest in real estate?
A VA loan may only be used for a home that you intend to live in as your primary residence.

25. Are VA loans provided by the U.S. government?
The Department of Veterans Affairs does not actually loan the money for VA loans. It insures loans that VA-approved lenders provide, which allows borrowers to get loan amounts for 100% of the appraised value of a home.

26. What is a fixed-rate VA loan?
A fixed-rate loan has an interest rate that stays the same. The interest rate at the time the loan is finalized is the interest rate for the life of the loan.

27. Do I need a down payment with a VA loan?
A VA loan covers 100% of the value of a home, so a down payment is not required. However, you have to pay any closing costs. But the seller can pay these closing costs for you up to an amount that equals 6% of the home’s value. This usually is more than enough to cover closing costs, so you can move into a home with no money out of pocket.

28. May I use a VA loan for a vacation home?
No, a VA loan can only be for your primary residence.

29. If I am on active duty, can I get a VA loan?
Yes, if the home will be your permanent residence and you are within 60 days of moving in.

30.  How do I get started? 

That one’s easy!  Call Jennifer Fisher today at 206.423.3904!

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