Experts Questions and Answers

May 5
2010

Mark, with all the recent changes to the qualifying process for obtaining a mortgage and signs that the rates are beginning to increase, I'm not sure that this is a good time to be looking for a new home. What's your opinion? John

posted by John Taylor to Mark Leibold  :  Views (42)
Hi John, Today’s ever changing mortgage environment has really been a challenge to keep up with. As a mortgage agent it is enough of a challenge and this is my full time job. Let me take a few minutes of your time to talk about the trends that we are seeing in the mortgage interest... [ more ]
Feb 16
2010
With mortgage rates being so good right now, I'm thinking of buying a home however the announcement buy the Finance Minister, Jim Flaherty has me concerned as to whether I will be able to qualify for a mortgage. How will his new rules affect my getting the mortgage that I need? Shelley
posted by Shelley Milhaven to Mark Leibold  :  Views (72)
Shelley, Thank you for asking this question. There are three changes that have come forward, basically only one of them will make any changes for people buying there first home or principal residence. The three changes are: 1) People who are refinancing a home that they currently own can... [ more ]
Dec 1
2009
What information is required to be Pre-approved for a Mortgage?
posted by Janet to Mark Leibold  :  Views (113)
Hi Janet. If you are applying to be pre-approved for a mortgage, you should start to gather the following. A letter of employment. Have your employer give you a letter on company letterhead outlining your name, position, gross annual income, and number of years employed with the company. If you... [ more ]
Dec 1
2009
Why is verifying my Down Payment important?
posted by Andrew to Mark Leibold  :  Views (109)
To answer your question Andrew, if there is ‘one’ thing that causes problems that can delay the closing of your house it’s verification of the Down Payment. Here’s why: To meet the Requirements of CMHC or GE, on or before the issuance of a lending commitment you will be... [ more ]
Nov 19
2009
What is a good Beacon Score and in these difficult financial times, how can I maintain a good score?
posted by Bob to Mark Leibold  :  Views (110)
Let me give you a few basic tips on how to protect your beacon score, Bob. Now I know that no one wants or intends to miss their monthly payments. What you have to remember is that if you do miss a payment, make it as soon as you can. Too often people throw the credit card bill back in the... [ more ]
Nov 19
2009
How do lenders determine if my credit qualifies me for a mortgage?
posted by Bob to Mark Leibold  :  Views (111)
Well Bob, Beacon Scores are the first thing most mortgage lenders look at when sizing up a borrower. They're a single number that summarizes your credit situation and shows lenders what kind of risk you're likely to be as a borrower. The name Beacon is actually a brand of credit score issued by... [ more ]