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30-Year Mortgage Rate Forecast Tips A great way to lock in the best mortgage interest rate is to shop around. By learning how to read a 30-year mortgage rate forecast, homeowners can pinpoint an ideal loan. Here are some useful tips for understanding mortgage forecasts to take advantage of the current lending climate. Tips for Analyzing a 30-Year Mortgage Rate Forecast 30-year mortgages offer multiple benefits for home buyers, including lower monthly payments and fixed interest rates. Because it is a long-term investment, it is important to lock in a good rate. Here are some tips for interpreting the current climate of 30-year mortgage rates. Track Rates Over a Few Months A mortgage forecast is a collection of data from a period of time, usually a few months or a week. There are often forecasts for the year in January, but because the market is subject to change, it can be difficult to predict the lending climate. So, in order to find an ideal rate, it is best to track 30-year mortgage rate forecasts over a period of time (a few months) to determine if you should lock in your rate now or wait until later. Your First Bank mortgage advisor can provide informed advice on this issue as well, as they follow the fluctuations of mortgage rates and are trained to predict market behavior. Know What Affects Interest Rates There are a few factors that impact the lending climate in the United States: The Federal Reserve (responsible for adjusting the amount of money put into circulation) 10-Year Treasury Yield (the anticipated return on government investment and assets) Housing Market Climate (the supply and demand for financed housing) Lending Market (current credit rating averages and requirements for loans) Inflation (rising inflation correlates with rising mortgage rates) The combination of these factors changes mortgage rates day-to-day, depending on the economy. In the past few years, for example, economic factors caused mortgage rates to significantly drop. Now that the economy is growing again, interests rates are projected to rise. Current Forecasts Currently, 30-year mortgage forecasts are fluctuating between 3% and 5%. If you are hoping to buy or refinance a home this year in South Carolina or North Carolina, First Bank can help you lock in a 3 min read

Mortgage Q&A: What Are Current FHA Rates? What are FHA mortgage rates? They’re the rates associated with an FHA mortgage. FHA mortgage rates will vary based on a number of factors. There are fixed rates and adjustable rates, down payments, credit scores of all levels and other factors that will affect the interest rates. The best thing to do is contact First Bank where one of our loan specialists can help answer what current FHA mortgage rates are available to you. What are FHA Mortgages? Before you explore current FHA rates, it is important to understand what FHA mortgages are. To start, FHA stands for Federal Housing Administration. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, “FHA mortgage insurance provides lenders with protection against losses as the result of homeowners defaulting on their mortgage loans.” What are FHA Mortgage Loan Requirements? Although some requirements can vary, FHA requirements usually include: A decent credit score. To receive a FHA mortgage, applicants should have a credit score of at least 580. Applicants with a credit score below 580 may still be eligible for a FHA loan, but will most likely be required to put down a 10 percent down payment. Verifiable income. According to FHA.com, “FHA loan rules for income have more to do with stability of income, the ratio of monthly financial obligations compared to that income, and the reliability of the paychecks rather than scrutinizing the amount itself.” Why Get a FHA Mortgage? In general, FHA mortgages are easier to qualify for than conventional loans, require smaller down payments, and have lower interest rates. For buyers who have decent credit, and who do not have a lot of money to put down, an FHA mortgage can provide the chance to buy a home — a chance that many may otherwise lack. Call First Bank Today Now that you have a basic understanding of FHA mortgages, you can inquire with First Bank about what the current FHA rates are. We have representatives who are available by phone Monday through Friday to assist you. Give us a call today to get started. ———- Sources: HUD: http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/housing/fhahistory FHA: http://www.fha.com/fha_credit_requirements 2 min read

Conventional Mortgage Loans Applying for a home loan can be a strenuous process, especially if you’re unsure which type of loan is the best fit for your financial situation. Before you apply, it is important to understand the two types of loans available to you: conventional mortgage loans and a government-backed loans. In this article, we’ll break down the basics of conventional loans. What are Conventional Mortgages? Conventional loans can have fixed or variable interest rates, which can be impacted by your credit score. Qualifications for conventional loans are usually stricter than government-backed loans because they carry a higher risk for banks and private lenders. If the borrower defaults on the loan, the banks and private lenders are not protected. These kinds of loans are not insured by the federal government, but they are still required to follow guidelines set by the Federal National Mortgage Association—a.k.a. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. A Conventional Loan to Meet Your Needs If you live in North Carolina or South Carolina and are looking for a flexible and affordable conventional loan,* look no further than your local First Bank. We offer both adjustable-rate and fixed-rate mortgages with a range of features and benefits that are sure to fit your specific financial needs. Conventional Adjustable-Rate Mortgages This kind of mortgage loan changes periodically depending on shifts in the corresponding financial index associated with the loan. ARMs generally have a lower initial interest rate than fixed-rate mortgages. Both your interest rate and your P&I (monthly principal and interest) payments will stay the same for an initial period of 3, 5 or 7 years. After that it will adjust periodically. Interest rate caps set a limit on how high your interest rate can go for your P&I payment for each adjustment and over the life of the loan. Loans are available for 30-year amortization schedules. Conventional Fixed-Rate Mortgages Your interest rate and P&I payments stay the same for the life of your loan. That predictability for your monthly P&I payments enables you to budget more easily. This kind of loan is available in a variety of loan term options, and it protects you from rising interest rates no matter how high they fluctuate. This option is good for individuals or 3 min read

Bank Owned Homes – Find Bank Owned Homes for Sale in Your Area If you’re in the market for a great deal on a home, a bank-owned home could be just the thing for you! With First Bank, you can easily search through a list of our bank-owned properties for sale. Bank-owned properties typically make great investments for first-time home buyers or for new business opportunities. Click here to see a list of First Bank’s available properties. About Bank Owned Homes (REO Properties) – Learn More Before You Buy A bank-owned home or real estate owned (REO) home is a home that has been foreclosed on be the mortgage lender. When you purchase a bank-owned property, you go directly through the bank, so you won’t have to deal with any homeowners. Once the mortgage lender or bank owns the property, they can evict the current residents, pay off any necessary tax liens, and make any necessary repairs. In today’s market, buying a home can be pretty expensive—especially when you add in extra costs and potential upgrades or home repairs—so if you are looking to purchase a home, but don’t have a lot of money to spend, a bank-owned home could be a good option. Bank-owned properties make great investments for first-time home buyers or anyone looking for new business opportunities. Advantages of Buying a Bank-Owned Home Bank-owned homes give real estate investors and homebuyers opportunities that are not available in the pre-foreclosure and auction phase of the foreclosure process. Some other advantages of buying bank-owned homes include: Bank-owned properties are typically cheaper than newer homes and often offer great terms like low down payments and low interest rates. Buying bank-owned homes can involve less risk and less competition than traditional markets. Bank-owned properties are typically clear of any liens against the property. The bank that owns the foreclosed property is usually the mortgage lender, so it might be easier to negotiate closing costs. Bank owned properties are typically vacant, which can save you from having to evict its current residents. For more information on bank owned homes, check out our article on how to shop for bank-owned properties. ——— Sources: Investopedia: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/foreclosure.asp Investopedia: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/taxlien.asp 2 min read

Where to Get 15-Year Mortgage Rates If you’re ready to buy a home, you’re probably wondering where to get 15-year mortgage rates, or you may just be wondering what a mortgage is. First Bank will go over your options with you and help you determine what type of home loan is best, whether that be a 15-year mortgage, or a 3/3 adjustable rate mortgage. Types of Loans at First Bank Before we tell you how and where to get 15-year mortgage rates, we’ll go over some of First Bank’s mortgage options. We offer: Conventional loans Jumbo loans Government loans VA loans Construction loans Dream It, Own It If you are a first time home buyer, you’re probably looking for a conventional loan. We offer two types of conventional loans: fixed-rate and adjustable-rate. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages vs. Fixed-Rate Mortgages Conventional adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) have interest rates that will change periodically depending on shifts in a corresponding financial index that’s associated with the loan. This basically means that your rate will change, causing your monthly payment to increase or decrease. ARMs can be beneficial for some home buyers because they typically have lower initial interest rates than fixed-mortgages, and they provide homeowners flexibility. Conventional fixed-rate mortgages offer a more straightforward approach to home buying. With a fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly interest rate never changes, making it easier for you to set a monthly budget. A lot of people prefer fixed-rate mortgages because they offer protection from rising interest rates for the life of the loan. Secure a Mortgage with First Bank We hope you feel a little more prepared to take on a mortgage and buy the house of your dreams. If you’re ready to apply for a mortgage loan*, visit your local First Bank, or contact our mortgage loan experts. *Loans subject to credit approval. ———— Sources: Investopedia: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/arm.asp 2 min read

5 Mortgage Tips to Help You Get the Best Deal Applying for a home loan can be a confusing and sometimes frustrating experience for prospective home buyers, but it doesn’t have to be. By keeping these mortgage tips in mind, you can make the home-buying process easier and ensure you are getting a loan that meets your budget and needs. 5 Tips for Getting the Best Mortgage Loan 1. Check your credit. Finding out your credit score should be the first thing you do before considering your home buying options. Your credit score will impact the types of loans you are eligible for, how much money you can borrow and your interest rate. 2. Set a budget. Use a mortgage calculator to determine how much house you can afford and stick to it. You should also keep in mind how much you will have to pay in property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, maintenance costs, furnishings and utilities. According to LearnVest, you should take the top amount you are approved for take 20% off of it to make sure you can afford the extra expenses that go along with home ownership. 3. Understand your loan options. By learning about your loan options before you apply, you can make sure the lender you choose offers the best type of loan for you. Types of mortgage loans include the following: Fixed-rate mortgages Adjustable rate mortgages Government loans Construction loans Professional loans 4. Shop around. When shopping for a mortgage, you don’t have to go with the first lender you talk to. You might get a better interest rate from one lender than you do for another. You’ll likely find that local community banks like First Bank will offer the most competitive rates and best service with all their lending options. 5. Prep your documents. Find out what documents you’ll need to apply for a mortgage and gather them before you meet with a lender. Required documents typically include: Credit report Tax returns Pay stubs Two forms of ID Proof of current property owned Visit First Bank’s Financial Education Center for more tips on buying a home, or talk to a First Bank mortgage loan expert near you to learn more about our home loan options. ——— Sources: http://www.learnvest.com/knowledge-center/7-top-mortgage-shopping-mistakes-to-avoid/3/ http://www.realtor.com/advice/14-step-pre-approval-checklist/ http://www.consumerfinance.gov/askcfpb/137/how-do-i-find-the-best-loan-available-when-im-shopping-for-a-home-mortgage-loan.html 2 min read

Jumbo Home Mortgage Loans If you are thinking of buying a home with a higher property value and can handle larger monthly mortgage payments, a jumbo loan could be a suitable option for you. Jumbo loans are typically offered with the same options as conventional loans, and you may even be able to add extra features, such as interest-only payments or temporary buydowns. What Is a Jumbo Mortgage Loan? A jumbo home mortgage, or non-conforming, loan is any mortgage amount that exceeds the conforming loan limit set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Because jumbo loans cannot be issued by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, they often carry more credit risk and have slightly higher interest rates than other loan options. The current conforming loan limit is set at $510,400 for a one-unit property in the contiguous United States (including D.C. and Puerto Rico). So, if you want to buy a house for more than $510,400, your loan will be considered jumbo. Jumbo loan limits also vary depending on location of property and number of units on it. In Alaska, Guam, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, jumbo loan limits are higher. Things to Consider: Interest rates are usually slightly higher with jumbo mortgage loans than on conforming loans with lower amounts. If you choose the interest-only option, you cannot build equity through monthly payments without making voluntary principal payments during the interest-only period. Jumbo Loans from First Bank: First Bank offers jumbo loans in a variety of fixed-rate and adjustable-rate options. To learn more about our Jumbo Loans or any of our other home mortgage options, visit your local First Bank branch to speak with a mortgage specialist. Loans subject to credit approval. ———- Sources: Jumbo Mortgages: Definition, Rates and Loan Limits http://www.investopedia.com/terms/j/jumboloan.asp https://localfirstbank.com/mortgage/loans-programs/jumbo-loans/ Locations 2 min read

FHA Mortgage Loan Insurance If you’re in the market for a new home, it’s quite likely that you have thought about acquiring mortgage loan insurance through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Established in 1934, the FHA has helped millions of people insure their properties. Over the years, especially following the economic crisis of 2008, the FHA has implemented requirements for potential homebuyers. Loan Limits To remain eligible for FHA loan insurance, consumers must fall within the loan limits. These limits are not only divided by state but are also doled out per county. If you’re curious as to what your state’s FHA loan limits are, you can refer to the Federal Housing Administration’s website. Debt-to-Income Ratio This ratio was set to ensure homebuyers do not purchase a property that they cannot afford. By using these calculations, it can be determined whether or not a person has the potential to meet the demands of owning a home. The ratio is looked at in two different ways: Mortgage payment expense to effective income = Total mortgage payment divided by gross monthly income. The maximum qualifying ratio is 31%. Total fixed payment to effective income = Total mortgage payment added to monthly revolving and installment debt, which is then divided by gross monthly income. The maximum qualifying ratio is 43%. Credit FHA requires that a borrower have good credit standing. In order to receive approval, a lender analyzes the borrower’s past credit performance. Loan approval will likely be declined should the credit history reveal slow payments, poor financial decisions, and delinquent accounts. Other issues are having no credit history, filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, making late payments, being subjected to foreclosure, and receiving collections, judgements, or federal debts. Apply for an FHA Loan with First Bank You have a friend at First Bank to better understand the loan requirements. We work with the Federal Housing Administration to offer FHA insurance mortgages. In order to quicken the process, you can apply online. Just be prepared with some financial information, such as income, assets, and expenses; you will also have to know the property’s information, like the estimated purchase price and down payment (if buying) or estimated property value and loan amount (if refinancing). ——— Sources: 2 min read

FHA Loans vs. Conventional Loans: How to Tell the Difference Overwhelmed with the prospect of buying a home? FHA loans and conventional loans are likely two sources of financing that you’ve considered. Let First Bank help you understand these options and come to a conclusion about which best suits your needs and budget. After all, choosing the right loan is key for timely, affordable payments. Choose the Right Loan with First Bank If you’re a first-time homebuyer or interested in purchasing your second home, there are different qualifications for each loan you should consider: FHA loans—The FHA, or Federal Housing Administration, provides mortgage insurance on loans made by approved lenders. Single and multi-family homes in the United States (and U.S. territories) can qualify. First Bank can help put you on the right track to securing one of these loans. The advantages of an FHA loan can be: Owing a lesser down payment, as low as 3.5%. Enjoying quicker eligibility following a major credit issue such as bankruptcy or foreclosure. Allowing a co-applicant to help you get the loan, even if you don’t live in the same household. Conventional Loans—A non-government insured loan that can be used with a second home purchase or an investment. Unlike FHA loans, conventional loans can require a higher credit score (often a minimum of 640), but they can have some major advantages for you. Conventional loans can allow: A risk-based premium, unlike FHA where one set premium rate is required from everybody, MI if applicable. Your monthly payments to be lower, even if you have a higher interest rate. Your loan to cover a higher loan amount. You to cover different types of loans like, investment or second home (FHA doesn’t do those types). When considering an FHA loan versus a conventional loan, keep in mind that conventional loans are not affiliated or insured with the government like FHA loans. Additionally, an FHA requires mortgage insurance and conventional loans do not, unless the LTV exceeds 80%. There is an upfront MI premium (1.75%) that is required on FHA loans that is not required on Conventional loans. For a more detailed look at FHA loans versus conventional loans, or assistance with applying, call or meet with your local mortgage loan professionals. *Loans subject to credit approval. 3 min read

FHA Loans 101: 3 Major Requirements If you have a strong understanding of the FHA loan requirements, you’ll experience a quicker and smoother loan application process. FHA loans provide homebuyers of all income levels the opportunity to purchase a home with lenient qualifying terms and lower down payment requirements. There are, however, three major requirements that prevents people from purchasing an unaffordable home. Three Major Requirements Debt-to-Income Ratio:There are two debt-to-income ratio requirements that FHA lenders will look at in order to determine if a buyer can afford a home: Mortgage payment expense to effective income: Add your total mortgage payment and divide it by your gross monthly income. The maximum ratio to qualify is 31%. Total fixed payment to effective income: Add your total mortgage payment and all recurring monthly debt and divide it by your gross monthly income. The maximum ratio to qualify is 43%. FHA Credit: FHA loans are more lenient when it comes to qualifying terms, but there are still certain credit requirements applicants must meet. If you have no credit history, filed for bankruptcy, have a history of late payments, been foreclosed on, or sent to debt collections, it will be harder to get approved for a loan. Application: Aside from financial requirements, there are a few FHA loan application requirements buyers must meet and present to their loan officer: Address (past two years) Social Security number Names and location of your employers (past two years) Gross monthly salary at your current job(s) Information for all checking and savings accounts Information for all open loans Complete information for other real estate you own Approximate value of all personal property Certificate of Eligibility and DD-214 (for veterans only) Current check stubs and your W-2 forms (past two years) Personal tax returns (past two years), current income statement, and business balance sheet for self-employed individuals If you understand the FHA loan requirements and are ready to apply for a loan, you can apply online with First Bank.* Have more questions about FHA loans? Visit the FHA’s website, or contact your local First Bank branch to learn more. *Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #474504. Loans subject to credit approval. ——— Sources: http://www.fha.com/fha_requirements_debt http://www.fha.com/fha_requirements_checklist http://www.fha.com/ 2 min read

Compare First Time Mortgage Rates with First Bank When you’re ready to buy a house, it’s easy to get caught up in all of the excitement of shopping and forget about the financial aspect. Once you’ve found the perfect house, the first thing you may be wondering is where to get 20-year mortgage rates, or even 30-year mortgage rates. But you may not know that you have other options. First Bank can help you determine what type of mortgage works best for you, and help structure a loan that meets your individual needs. About 20-Year Mortgage Rates Before we tell you where to get 20-year mortgage rates, let us explain what a 20-year mortgage is, and tell you about all of your options. Twenty-year mortgages are typically offered as fixed-rate mortgages, meaning your interest rate—and your total monthly payment of principal and interest—will stay the same for the entire term of the loan. A fixed-rate mortgage offers a predictable monthly payment, making it easier for you to follow your budget. With fixed-rate mortgages, you also have the option to take them out in 15 or 30-year terms. These other two options could work better for you depending on your financial situation. While a 20-year mortgage helps you pay off your home faster and build equity quicker than longer-term fixed-rate mortgages, a 15-year mortgage will help you pay it off even faster, and pay less interest. However, 15-year mortgages have higher payments than other longer-term mortgages. 30-year fixed-rate mortgages allow you to pay off your loan with lower monthly payments, but since the life of the loan is long, you’ll pay more interest and build equity slower than you would with a shorter-term loan. First Bank offers conventional fixed-rate mortgages in 15, 20, and 30-year terms, and we also offer adjustable-rate mortgages. To learn more about our loan options, or if you’re still wondering where to get 20-year mortgage rates, visit your local First Bank branch. Our loan experts will be happy to teach you more about mortgage loans and rates, or help you structure a loan that meets your needs. *Loans subject to credit approval. 2 min read

Current Mortgage Rates 30-Year Fixed Is now the right time to buy the house you have your heart set on? One important thing to consider is the current mortgage rate trends and whether a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is a good fit for you. At First Bank, our real-estate loan experts can answer your questions about mortgage rates and more. What is a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage? In the most basic terms, this kind of mortgage provides you with a guarantee that the “interest rate and your monthly payments for principal and interest remain the same for the entire length of the loan.” Budget-friendly: Easily manage and plan your monthly budget without worrying about fluctuating interest rates. It also gives you more breathing room in case your current financial situation changes for whatever reason at some point in the future. Save now: A 30-year loan means lower monthly payments spread out over a longer period of time, in contrast to the high monthly payments of a shorter-term loan. This means the money you save monthly with a longer-term loan can go into your savings or investment accounts now, instead of putting it towards paying off your mortgage immediately. Get flexibility: The beauty of a 30-year mortgage is that even though you have lower monthly payments, you can choose to submit a higher payment equivalent to the monthly rate for a shorter-term loan. This means you can decrease your overall total that much more when you have a bit of extra cash in the bank, but still submit your loan’s lower payment rate when your money is a little tighter. What determines my interest rate? Mortgage interest rates vary depending on several factors, including: The economy. Mortgage rates can fluctuate in some states due to unemployment rates, default and foreclosure rates and differing property values. State laws. States that allow recourse typically have lower mortgage rates. Size of competition. When you have multiple lenders competing for your business, loan costs are typically driven down. Market conditions. An increase or decrease in home building and sales can drive interest rates up or down. Government. Government policies like the Federal Reserve can cause mortgage interest rates to fluctuate. 30-Year Fixed Mortgages from First Bank With a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage from First Bank, home buyers can enjoy a fixed interest rate 3 min read

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