February 25, 2008

What 80% of buyers find out the hard way

That their loan officer sabotaged their home purchase.

In speaking with a number of Escrow Officers, they estimate that about 80% of people signing their loan documents when buying their home are surprised to see that the rates and fees are higher than they were told. They try to reach their loan officer on the phone, but no one answers. Do they sign for the loan with worse terms, or do they risk losing the house?

Law requires that, if requested by the borrower, the closing statement figures must be given one business day in advance. Without this review, clients see the final figures for the first time at the closing table when they sign their papers. Victims of these bait-and-switch tactics are put on the spot and usually sign the papers with these higher terms in place.

There are several advantages of using an Integrated Agent from The Real Estate Group when purchasing your home. Integrated Agents are both real estate agents as well as mortgage loan officers. Your Integrated Agent will have all the important figures at hand throughout your transaction, so you will always have up-to-date figures available to you. Also, typically a real-estate agent will be with you when you sign your papers, but rarely/never your loan officer. As we are one in the same, you will have both at your signing to explain every figure and answer any questions.

An Integrated Agent from The Real Estate Group is your strongest ally in buying or selling your next home. Please call me or drop me an e-mail if you are interested in learning about the best way to buy a home.