Coldwell Banker Hedges Realty has partnered with Green State Credit Union (GreenStateCU.org) to provide a convenient financing option for our clients. If you are looking at financing a home, Green State Credit Union offers competitive rates, great service, and does not charge a 1% origination fee. You can even submit your application online!
Mortgage Calculator
Find out how much you can afford? Should you rent or buy a home? Want to calculate your monthly payments? These mortgage calculators can help you figure it all out!
Financing FAQs
Pre-approval vs. Pre-qualification
You will greatly improve the negotiating position when you are preapproved for a mortgage. Sellers are more apt to negotiate with someone who already has a mortgage approved. The pre-approval letter lets the seller know they are working with a serious buyer. A pre-qualification is not a full mortgage, but an estimate of what the buyer can afford.
Pre-approval
Pre-approval uses basic information as well as electronic credit reporting. It is a true mortgage commitment. A preapproved buyer can also close on a property more quickly which is another major consideration for a motivated seller. You can receive a free pre-approval through Cedar Rapids Mortgage Company and they can help you through the pre-approval process. Ask your Coldwell Banker Realtor for more information.
Pre-qualification
Pre-qualification, on the other hand, is not a full mortgage approval, but an estimate of what you can afford. When you prequalify for a mortgage, the lender collects basic information regarding your income, monthly debts, credit history and assets, and then uses this information to calculate an estimated mortgage amount. You can also receive a free pre-qualification through Cedar Rapids Mortgage Company. Ask your Coldwell Banker Realtor for more information.
Fixed-Rate vs. Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM)
There are many different mortgage types available with the two largest categories being fixed and adjustable-rate mortgages, each with consideration.
Fixed-Rate Mortgage
The fixed-rate mortgage is a traditional method of financing a home. The interest rate stays the same for the entire term of the loan; terms are usually 15, 20 or 30 years. The interest and principal portions of your monthly payment remain the same throughout the term of the loan. Interest rates tend to be higher on a fixed-rate mortgage than on adjustable-rate loans. Historically, fixed-mortgage rates today have never been this low and more clients opt for this method of the mortgage.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)
The interest on an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is linked to a financial index, so your monthly payments can vary over the life of the loan. Terms are usually 25 to 30 years. Most adjustable-rate mortgages have a lifetime cap on the interest rate increase to protect the borrower. The lower initial payments on ARMs make it easier for buyers to qualify. Some ARMs may be converted to fixed-rate mortgages at specified times, within the first five years.
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