Several years ago the U.S. Congress tried to protect consumers from a few unscrupulous lenders by requiring all lenders to calculate and disclose the annual percentage rate (APR) you pay on your mortgage loan. But most homebuyers will learn more by directing their attention to the Good Faith Estimate of Settlement Costs (GFE). Although Congress meant well, in practice the APR is not helpful and may be confusing.

If you are looking for a good way to understand your costs of borrowing and/or to compare one lender's costs to another, the GFE is your best bet. Get your lender(s) to provide a written GFE before you commit your mortgage business. When reviewing a GFE, keep in mind that the lender actually controls only a certain portion of the disclosed costs. Other parties typically control costs of appraisal, settlement, title insurance, recording fees and taxes, survey, and the "prepaid" expenses of homeowner's insurance, mortgage insurance, real estate taxes, etc. Review these origination fees, discount points, etc. and you will have the ability to understand the full costs of your proposed mortgage loan.

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Micki Patrick, Associate Broker
RE/MAX All Stars
Serving Botetourt County & The Roanoke Valley
1225 Roanoke Road
Daleville, VA 24083
Micki's Phone: 540-556-2525
Fax: 877-806-2525
Dayna Patrick: 540-342-9600
Email: Micki@MickiPatrick.com

Micki Patrick is a top producing Realtor/Broker with 30+ years experience in the Roanoke Valley of Virginia, which includes Botetourt, Bedford, Craig, Franklin, Floyd and Roanoke Counties. Micki’s daughter, Dayna Patrick, a Realtor since 1990, with five years experience in the custom-home construction field, assists Micki in delivering creative and highly individualized service to our clients throughout the whole home buying and/or selling process. Micki and Dayna specialize in country property, residential homes, horse farms and unique properties of all types. Their love of the region, chosen after a countrywide search for the ideal place to live, contributes to their enthusiasm in helping families relocate to the Roanoke area. Whether helping you to buy or sell your special place, Micki and Dayna make a dynamic team and can help you achieve your real estate goals with ease. Share your vision with us, and let us bring our market knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise to work for you.

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