Friday, July 17, 2009

First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

A new client contacted me this week and asked--"Are you an approved lender for the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit?" Interesting question. The fact of the matter is, the mortgage professional you work with does not make a difference in qualifying for the credit! But, working with a true mortgage professional (rather than a "mortgage guy") will make a difference in how the whole process goes for you!

The next few posts here will help you choose the right mortgage professional. Today's tip:

Ask the following question: What are mortgage interest rates based on?

The only correct answer is Mortgage Backed Securities or Mortgage Bonds, NOT the 10-year Treasury Note. While the 10-year Treasury Note sometimes trends in the same direction as Mortgage Bonds, it is not unusual to see them move in completely opposite directions. DO NOT work with a lender who has their eyes on the wrong indicators!