

Gustan Cho
Loan OfficerMy Favorite Discussions
-
All Discussions
-
-
I am looking at Tiny homes and financing. I currently have a few rv parks that i am looking to put in some tiny homes, eventually i would like to make a community of these maybe have up to 40. The homes will be on a permanent foundation with county water and central sewage. I was wondering if anyone has financed these type of projects or tiny homes in general. I will upload a few pictures but am working with an architect for the site plan. I have sites mainly in oklahoma but also in texas and south carolina.
-
Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) takes the Senate Floor to address the rampant widespread sexual harassment at the FDIC. FROM racial comments to sexual innuendos, to high ranking FDIC officials visiting brothels, the FDIC is totally out of control. Self enforcement of the agency is not possible because the abusive behavior is from top on down. Recent reports have highlighted serious issues of sexual harassment and misconduct at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). An independent review conducted by the law firm Cleary Gottlieb, commissioned by the FDIC’s Special Review Committee, revealed pervasive sexual harassment, discrimination, and bullying within the agency. The investigation, which included accounts from over 500 current and former employees, found that these behaviors were tolerated by senior leaders for years, with complaints often met with retaliation instead of being properly addressed.
The report criticized the FDIC’s “patriarchal, insular, and risk-averse culture,” stating that management’s response to allegations of misconduct was “insufficient and ineffective.” It detailed incidents of senior executives pursuing romantic relationships with subordinates and other inappropriate behaviors. Despite these findings, the report stopped short of recommending the removal of FDIC Chair Martin Gruenberg, although it questioned his ability to lead the necessary cultural transformation.
In response to the findings, Gruenberg expressed his remorse and committed to implementing the report’s recommendations, which include establishing an anonymous hotline for reporting misconduct, developing a more transparent process for handling complaints, and ensuring better support for victims.
The situation has sparked calls from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers for significant changes at the FDIC, with some demanding Gruenberg’s resignation. This controversy not only highlights the immediate need for reform within the FDIC but also raises broader concerns about leadership and accountability in government agencies.
For more detailed information, you can refer to sources like Politico, the FDIC’s official report, and Reuters.
See the video clip of Senator John Kennedy.
https://youtu.be/zf3D3vq7bGQ?si=7OwNHPb7tGF7dYg1
-
This discussion was modified 10 months, 1 week ago by
Gustan Cho.
-
This discussion was modified 10 months, 1 week ago by
-
Look at this short video. This is exactly how NOT to act if you are pulled over by a police officer for a traffic infraction. What a POS idiot.
facebook.com
He thinks he’s above the law… 🙄
-
“Okay class, simmer down, simmer down, this weekend’s reading assignment will be pages one through fifty in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Yes, Jimmy, you have a question?” Yes’m ma’am, my momma and daddy won’t let me read that book.” Why replied the teacher? “ It’s offense to my parents, it uses the N word.” Jimmy, go home and tell you parents it’s supposed to offend us. Banning books is like banning history, oh wait they want to change that, too because it offends people. You know what happens if you start banning books? Your freedom is challenged. First Mockingbird, next Huck Finn, and maybe the Bible, who knows? American Literature is a history lesson. When John Steinbeck wrote, “Of Mice and Men,” he depicted the era of Depression. Where else would we get a first hand lesson by an eye witness of the Depression. Not many people are still alive to talk about it. Was there a lesson? When Atticus Finch states, “ you will never know a person until you walk in their shoes.” Yes, a big lesson about racism. Huck Finn befriends Jim a slave. Message? Mockingbird and Huck Finn are called, “coming of age,” novellas. When a child starts on one path and sees the other path. A story of personal growth. Mockingbird, similar genre, only he is an adult. An attorney who finally debates racism. They don’t write them like that anymore. There are lessons people refuse to see. You can’t ban books, you are giving up your First Amendment. Next they will ban, “Old Man and the Sea,” because of animal cruelty. He killed a marlin. Oh, wait, the message, did he really kill a marlin? Or was their some other meaning to the story.
-
The Curse of the Sopranos
Most everyone has seen the Soprano’s, one of the greatest television shows ever. I was a late comer to the Sopranos when it started in 1999. I was working nights and didn’t have HBO. My sister in New York would call me and tell me about this new mafia comedy set in New Jersey. Of course I knew Jersey mobsters growing up, they differed from New York mobsters. Now, rasicm comes in all shapes and sizes. I was writing for a local newspaper and I was the food and wine editor. Some other writers, who studied journalism were on the staff. They never paid me any mind until the Sopranos, each Monday morning when the discussions should have been about current events, turned to discussions about the TV show, which I had never seen. Always asking me what do this mean, or what does that mean. One question which took me a while to figure out was, what does, “Maname?” I would answer I don’t know what you mean. Then one day I figured it out, “Madonna Mia.” Mother Mary or my mother was the answer.
My sister would still call and ask if I saw the show. I still never saw it. Yes, I am a New York Italian. Not all of us were in the mafia. If you want to piss off and Italian, put ice in your wine, and ask him about the mafia. We all knew who they were growing up. Suddenly, I was looked at as a once member. I tried to dispel this theory, but to now avail.
My sister would call and say have you seen the show and finally I did. It’s a friggin comedy! And the funny part all the ‘boys’ were comics in real life. I remember drinking with Ralph Gigante and he made me pee my pants. I recall when I was treated unfairly in a neighborhood business deal Ralpie spoke on my behalf. He said watch this, we walked into the shop of the unfair person took one look at Ralpie, “The Beast.” and cowarded on the floor pleading, “don’t tell Vinny, please!” The intimidation was a comedy act, like the Sopranos.
I was really perceived as a New Jersey mobster, I would say, “I’m from New York ,” it didn’t make a difference. Fast forward to 2008, I return to New York armed with incomparable wine knowledge. No New York restaurant would hire me, I was too New York and represented the mob. This was difficult to overcome. I was home and I didn’t fit in. Fast forward once again to 2022. My financial advisor shows up at my home one afternoon with real bad news. The first thing he says is, “don’t hit me, but I lose 20 percent of your investment, “please don’t hit!” What the fuck! I think, he’s watching too many Soprano shows. Yes, I am intimidating, I’m big with broken fingers from boxing, and I’m Italian! Now I get it! Okay lets fast forward one more time to 2023. My wife and I at the deli counter ordering cold cuts, that’s what we call them,not sandwich meat, cold cuts. I ask the deli man for a half pond of capicola. My wife asks what’s that, and I answer ‘gabbagoul.” Looking shocked she says, “that’s what Tony Soprano eats!”
The problem with racism is that the book IS judged my its color. Some parts may be true. One time my daughter was having a problem with a guy she worked with in California. Me living in Florida told her, “you know I’ll be on the next flight out, just to talk to him.” And I add, “tell him where I was born and show him a picture and ask him, “do you what to meet my dad?”
The guy never bothered her again. My own daughter was scared of my appearance, but she knew better, she knew me.
Please don’t fear me, and please don’t piss me off.
-
When an automaker says only 400 cars made worldwide and there’s 500 VIN numbers, what’s up with that. Here’s a very informative video clip classic and exotic auto enthusiasts will find it very interesting. I think before watching the attached video clip, car makers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and others were legitimate when they produced limited production exotic and classic cars. The Ferrari Enzo is a high-performance supercar produced by the Italian automaker Ferrari. Here are some key features and details about the Ferrari Enzo:
-
Production: The Enzo was produced from 2002 to 2004, with only 400 units made, making it a rare and highly sought-after vehicle.
-
Design: Named after the company’s founder, Enzo Ferrari, the car’s design was inspired by Formula 1 technology. It features a carbon-fiber body, advanced aerodynamics, and a sleek, aggressive look.
-
Engine and Performance: The Enzo is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine, producing 651 horsepower. This allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in just 3.14 seconds and reach a top speed of 218 mph (351 km/h).
-
Transmission: It features a 6-speed automated manual transmission with paddle shifters, providing a rapid and precise gear-shifting experience.
-
Suspension and Brakes: The Enzo is equipped with state-of-the-art suspension and braking systems, including carbon-ceramic brakes, ensuring exceptional handling and stopping power.
-
Interior: The interior is focused on performance, with minimalistic design elements, racing seats, and a digital display providing essential driving information.
-
Legacy: The Ferrari Enzo is considered one of the most iconic supercars of its time, combining cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, and exclusivity.
The Ferrari Enzo remains a symbol of Ferrari’s commitment to excellence in automotive engineering and design. However, if Ferrari says that they only made 400 Ferrari Enzo supercars, is this correct? What is up with the 500 VIN numbers? If this is true, this is huge international fraud. These cars are multi-million dollar super sportscars and the reason for such high value is due to the limited production numbers.
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/8ckCBEMjx6LECTN1/?mibextid=D5vuiz
-
This discussion was modified 10 months ago by
Gustan Cho. Reason: Spelling error
facebook.com
Enzo Model Reportedly Produced Beyond Official Claims
-
-
Only 20 Lamborghini Reventon Ever Made. The Lamborghini Reventón is an iconic and extremely limited-edition supercar produced by the Italian manufacturer Lamborghini. Here are some key details and features about the Lamborghini Reventón:
Production: The Lamborghini Reventón was produced between 2007 and 2009. Only 20 units were made for customers, with an additional car (numbered 0/20) produced for the Lamborghini museum, making it one of the rarest Lamborghini models ever made.
Design: The design of the Reventón was heavily inspired by modern fighter jets, with sharp, angular lines and an aggressive, aerodynamic profile. The car features a carbon-fiber exterior, with a matte finish giving it a distinctive, stealthy appearance.
Engine and Performance: The Reventón is powered by a 6.5-liter V12 engine, producing 650 horsepower. This allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in just 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 211 mph (340 km/h).
Interior: The interior of the Reventón is a blend of luxury and high-tech features, with carbon fiber, leather, and Alcantara materials used throughout. The instrument panel is entirely digital, with two LCD screens displaying vital information in a format reminiscent of a jet cockpit.
Price: When it was released, the Lamborghini Reventón had a price tag of around $1.5 million, making it one of the most expensive cars at the time.
Legacy: The Reventón is often regarded as a precursor to the Lamborghini Aventador, with many design and technological elements influencing the latter model. Its rarity, performance, and design have made it a highly sought-after collector’s item.
The Lamborghini Reventón remains a symbol of Lamborghini’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and performance, embodying the brand’s tradition of creating bold, head-turning supercars.
Here’s a video clip of the Lamborghini Reventon Lamborghini enthusiasts may find interesting.
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/qSgCMtdX1T1mHnEc/?mibextid=D5vuiz
-
This discussion was modified 10 months ago by
Gustan Cho.
facebook.com
Too Good To Be True: Could This Reventón Be Real?!
-
This discussion was modified 10 months ago by
-
Chase helped himself to ice cream 🍦 while I was mowing. He knows how to open the refrigerator door. He better not have the shits.
-
Mowing everyday. Keeps raining here and grass won’t stop growing. Landscapers on furlough until I get caught up on mortgage and thanks to Biden’s Bidenomics, Inflation, and high labor costs. I am ruining my John Deere tractor. Using up tons of Diesel ⛽️. May need to get some goats 🐐 😬 🤔 or some potheads to smoke 🚬 up my grass. Hate mowing. I will probably be mowing all summer ☀️
Budget cuts.
-
I am a pizza! Caio! I came to this country from humble beginnings, not sure exactly where or when. But, I know I am Italian by birth, somewhere in the south, maybe Naples or Rome. I’m a simple dish made from flour, tomatoes, and cheese; yes, I have evolved and morphed into something entirely different.
Many other countries claim I am theirs; that’s because they all have flatbread with some cheese and tomatoes. I’ll tell you what I wasn’t born with: pepperoni, pineapple, and other toppings. No pepperoni in Italy; it’s soppressata, an Italian sausage.
Gennaro Lombardi was the first Italian to introduce me to America. I grew up on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, 23 1/2 Spring Street in Little Italy, a block away from Mulberry Street. I’m still here after 120 years. He took his recipe from Naples, Italy. Although pizza varies from Italian province to Italian province, I’m still basically the same.
Roman makes oval pizza, Naples’s pizza is round, and Sicilian pizza is square. Now we have thin-crust and deep-dish pizza. New York pizza is different from Italy; in New York, you walk down the street with the pizza folded and olive oil dripping down your arm. The only toppings I’m okay with are anchovies, olives, oregano, and red pepper. I don’t need much; fresh basil is nice to make a Margarita pizza. This pizza displays the color of the Italian flag, red, green, and white.
I really think I am the most popular food in the United States. Lots of countries take credit for me. I was called focaccia, just a flatbread, 2000 years ago. I have seen many things in my life. Did I ever tell you the time I first witnessed wine being discovered? I mean, what goes better with pizza than red wine.
So, I’m lying around just cooling off after just coming out of the oven, waiting to be devoured. All of a sudden, these Romans start throwing all these discarded pieces of fruit, mostly grapes, into a huge terra cotta vat in the corner. After a few days, it began to stink! It smelled like rotten eggs, which I learned was H2S, Hydrogen Sulfide. Whatever gave the Roman Centurian the idea to drink it? I thought for sure he would get sick and vomit. Instead, he suddenly turns to address the Roman Senate and says, “It needs more time.” Two weeks later, the rotting fruit turned into my favorite beverage – wine.
The same was true for cheese years ago; you encourage this mold to grow. The mold is yeast and is cultured into cheese. Many kinds of cheese really stink, so my question always was, “How do you know when cheese is bad?” You can just cut the mold off and eat the rest. I prefer “muzzarella,” aka mozzarella, made from Italian buffalo. The fresher, the better. Yes, I know “muzz” is hard to melt; that’s why the oven is over 1000 degrees.
I love when olive oil is drizzled over me; it tickles! The olive oil simmers, the cheese melts, and the tomatoes are cooked. Boy, do I smell good! I don’t even feel the pizza cutter slice through me. I am a pizza! I am round, square, and oval. Any way they make me; I am a pizza! Bon Appetite!
-
-
My dog is thirsty; he has been thirsty for the last three hours. His bowl is empty, and I don’t really care. My son took him on a long walk, and my dog returned very thirsty. His bowl can’t be more than three feet from me, yet I am unable to get up off my couch and replenish his water. Why? I have PTSD.
This is a crippling disorder that is not only mental and physical; it is a biological disorder. I never thought I would encounter something so physically and mentally disabling.
In brief, I was the first responder at a fatal, freaky accident that took the life of an innocent young girl younger than my daughters. An errant double axle tire came loose from a semi-truck and traveled 400 yards before crushing a girl to death, then bounced back at my wife and I. The tire destroyed our car and came within feet of killing us. I couldn’t save the girl. I carry that guilt.
I wrote a book about my experience some years ago, “Espiritus,” which helped set me on a new writing path to help me cope. Writing is my therapy. I always thought PTSD couldn’t affect me because I wasn’t a soldier who witnessed unspeakable things. PTSD is fairly new; in WW1, it was considered shell-shocked; in WW2, it was called battle fatigue. Vietnam introduced PTSD. Apparently, first responders, police, and firefighters can suffer as well. Anyone can suffer from this disorder. There is no cure, just ways of curbing the edge of this depression.
You go about your daily business, and suddenly you are derailed. There are many triggers.
The more you deny you suffer from PTSD, the worse it gets. Learning self-control of situations that suddenly hit you out of nowhere is something else that happens, and you need to find your “safe place” in your mind when this happens. I have a daily box of tools to delve into. My dog is one of my tools; he is extremely helpful. His unconditional love helps. My daily song for my bride releases my heart; planning and cooking dinner is great therapy, as well as long walks to sync my mind and body.
Finally, the most important part of my daily therapy is pausing several times each day to thank God for my wonderful life, followed by prayers for the young girl who died.
I support Wounded Warriors, and the proceeds from my book are donated to this worthy cause.
Thank you for reading my stories.
Peter Arcuri
-
I recently posted about the high prices for houses in Florida, especially Tampa. With the diligent help of Gustan Cho, Angie Torres and Donna Davidson, bless her Irish heart, they have come through! There is a place in Florida where the prices are reasonable. A brand new house on a quarter acre. Three bedrooms, two baths for under $270,000 list. Its a bit rural but beautiful. If you are curious about the area contact: Donna Davidson, she ultimately made our dream come true!
-
In our Forums, users or visitors can search or find member according to their profession which they used at time of registration.
For this search: – got o member page https://gcaforums.com/members/ and you can see All Type dropdown list, choose the profile type there like if you choose Doctors, the page show all members which select Doctor as their profession or profile type
See attachment for more clearance
-
Peter Arcuri is a professional writer and author of four books. Peter Arcuri and his wife Doreen live in Florida. Born and raised in New York, Peter Arcuri is a man of many talents and is a consultant to many entrepreneurs and businesses including GCA Group and its subsidiary partners. Peter Arcuri is also a member of GCA FORUMS and a contributer to the news division of Gustan Cho Associates and third party editor for all GCA Group websites and social media platforms. Here’s a Video by Peter Arcuri tge singing Wine Guy
-
Here’s a funny comedy short from the Johnny Carson show
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/xCqEdP6dVFda6MzV/?mibextid=D5vuiz
facebook.com
Part 2 - Tommy Smothers Walks Out As Johnny | Carson Tonight Show
-
This is a frequently asked question from many real estate agents on behalf of their homebuyers. There are more and more homebuyers with bad credit than ever before. Many homebuyers with bad credit think they are the worst of the food chain and should not shop for the best mortgage rates. However, mortgage lenders today are starving for business and will work with bad credit borrowers in getting them the best rates. I just saw this guide on can you shop for the best mortgage rates with bad credit and I wanted to share this with everyone. It does make sense. By shopping for a mortgage with the best rates means getting a mortgage with bad credit with low credit scores with no discount points. Discount points are a total waste of money and you will never recoup discount points even on a refinance later when mortgage rates drop.
-
Biden Administration cronies are big fat liars. JOE BIDEN and his idiot gang of liars are in a state of denial on the economy. Look at this video Neil Caputo drilling one of BIDEN’S big fat lie on how Biden took over an economy with a 9% inflation and inflation is now under control. Total Bull Shit. Biden Administration screwed up the economy and America.
-
What are the benefits of investing in coins? Investing in coins, particularly rare and collectible coins, can offer several benefits. Here are some of the key advantages:
-
Historical Value: Many collectible coins have historical significance, making them valuable to collectors who appreciate their historical and cultural context.
-
Tangible Asset: Unlike stocks or bonds, coins are physical items that you can hold. This tangibility can be reassuring for investors who prefer physical assets.
-
Portfolio Diversification: Investing in coins can diversify your investment portfolio. Tangible assets like coins can help balance a portfolio that includes stocks, bonds, and real estate.
-
Potential for Appreciation: Rare and collectible coins can increase in value over time, especially if they are well-preserved and have a limited supply.
-
Inflation Hedge: Precious metal coins, such as gold and silver, can act as a hedge against inflation. The value of these metals tends to rise when the purchasing power of paper money declines.
-
Tax Advantages: In some jurisdictions, profits from selling collectible coins might be taxed differently from other investments, potentially offering tax benefits.
-
Ease of Storage and Transport: Coins are relatively easy to store and transport compared to other physical assets like real estate or large collectibles.
-
High Liquidity: Rare coins often have a strong market, making them relatively easy to buy and sell. There are numerous coin dealers, auctions, and online platforms dedicated to coin trading.
-
Privacy: Coin investments can be made and held privately, offering a level of confidentiality that is not possible with some other types of investments.
-
Enjoyment and Hobby: For many investors, coin collecting is also a hobby. The enjoyment and educational value of collecting coins can be a significant benefit beyond financial gains.
-
Limited Supply: The rarity of certain coins can make them highly desirable. Limited mintage and historical scarcity can drive up their value over time.
-
Global Market: Coins have a global market, meaning they can be bought and sold internationally. This broad market can provide more opportunities for liquidity and appreciation.
Considerations
While there are many benefits to investing in coins, it’s also important to be aware of potential challenges:
-
Expertise Required: Successfully investing in coins often requires specialized knowledge. Understanding the market, grading standards, and authenticity verification is crucial.
-
Risk of Fraud: The coin market can be susceptible to counterfeits and fraud. Working with reputable dealers and getting coins authenticated can mitigate this risk.
-
Market Volatility: Like any investment, the value of coins can fluctuate. Market demand, economic conditions, and trends in collecting can all impact coin prices.
-
Storage and Insurance: Proper storage is essential to preserve the condition of coins. Additionally, insurance may be necessary to protect against theft or damage.
By considering both the benefits and the potential challenges, investors can make informed decisions about whether investing in coins aligns with their financial goals and interests.
-
-
-
5 Pillars of a Home Loan
Become the qualified Buyer that Lenders are looking for!
Understanding what components make up a home loan will give you the advantage of being able to take the right steps towards homeownership.
I’ve been in the home lending industry since Fall of 2011. In that time, I’ve had to go through the highs and lows of understanding the home lending process. In my experience, I’ve had numerous conversations with clients that simply did not understand the home lending process. As I gained more experience, I coined the “5 Pillars of a Home Loan”. When I started explaining the lending process in this fashion during my initial consultation calls, my clients were able to quickly grasp the concept of the risk assessment of lending. This led to a boost in confidence in my clients which gave them the courage to take action. In writing this post, I’m hoping that I can go from a limited one-on-one conversation and expand my reach to communicate this concept to a larger audience to help more people find their confidence to realize that the process of homeownership doesn’t need to be this mysterious or unattainable process. It’s open to whomever is willing to obtain it.
The 5 Pillars are:
- Credit
- Repayment Ability
- Funds Needed for Closing
- Subject Property
- Loan Program
As a Borrower, before you even get started the first three pillars are the most important actionable categories you will be preparing for BEFORE you try and get pre-approved or go under contract for purchase.
Credit:
Of course this is an obvious point. But the key to understand here is this concept: “Before the lender extends you more credit, they must first determine your creditworthiness by evaluating your current credit profile”. Think about it this way: If you have a friend, and they ask you to borrow $200.00, but that has a history of never paying people back on-time/ever. If you had it to lend, would you do it? If we’re honest with ourselves, we would say no; of course a strong emotional attachment would say otherwise, but even in that statement we must deal with the reality that lenders don’t have a strong emotional attachment to their customers, outside of paying their bills on-time. This isn’t a charity, as they would say. If you want to know how to go about working on your credit, I would suggest going to https://www.myfico.com/credit-education. There you will get a TON of free information on how credit REALLY works. If you are in a position where you need credit repair, then my good friends at Kredit Kleanse have a very good track record of helping people Kleanse their credit.
Repayment Ability:
Think “personal cash-flow”. The technical lending term is debt-to-income ratio “DTI”. This is what mortgage licenses were originally created to address: to ensure lending professionals are taking the appropriate action of making sure the borrower can actually afford the home loan so that we don’t have the 2008 housing crisis all over again. The equation I use is (credit debts + court debts + proposed subject property housing expense) / (Total calculated gross income). The numbers used will vary program to program, but overall this is the basis in which all DTI is calculated. There are two distinct DTIs:
- “Housing DTI” which is ONLY: (proposed subject property housing expense) / (Total calculated gross income). A ratio of 30% is considered “healthy”
- “Total DTI” This is the complete equation: (credit debts + court debts + proposed subject property housing expense) / (Total calculated gross income). A healthy ratio is 45%.
- Key takeaway. Knowing EXACTLY what your DTI is will vary based on (1) the market in terms of what the fed-rates are, (2) which lender you are getting approved through since lenders decide their own margins and loan-pricing-levels which will dictate the final interest rate used for your housing payment, (3) the selected loan program, due to the requirements for things like debt-calculations and housing expenses like PMI, and (4) The subject property housing expenses like property taxes, homeowners insurance premiums, and community dues like HOAs.
Funds:
There’s 4 REALISTIC categories that you must consider when trying to purchase a home with a loan:
- Down-payment: People like to lump this into closing costs, but by true definition that’s simply not the case. Down-payment is a “MIR” minimum investment requirement, meaning that it’s not truly a cost (a cost is something you “spend” to acquire something). In the sense of a down-payment you are converting your liquid-cash into a hard-asset which is home equity. With this clarity, you can expect to get your money back at a later date whether that’s through selling or cash-out refinancing your home. You can put down as little as 3% of the purchase price, and there are loan programs available that don’t require a down-payment like with VA loans, USDA loans, and down-payment assistance loan programs.
- Transactional Costs: This includes appraisal costs, title costs, government fees, inspections, lender costs, etc. Typically this amount ranges from 3-6% of the purchase price and greatly depends on what market your home is in along with the final loan structuring. There are ways to get most of these costs covered. It’s best to consult with a mortgage professional to know what your options are.
- Reserves: This is not always required for a home loan, but if it does come up during your approval process, it’s good to know just what the heck lenders are talking about. In short what this means is: “after all the necessary transactional funds”, how many monthly total housing expense payments do you have remaining in your account(s). Example: If your proposed total housing payment is $3,865/mth, and you have $52,862 left in your account(s), then you have 13-months of reserves remaining in your account.
- After transaction expenses: This last point has no bearing on whether you will get approved for a home loan or not, but it is something that needs to be addressed, as some people are so excited about becoming homeowners that they forget non-transactional costs like: moving expense, deposits for utilities, time away from work for relocating, housewarming parties etc. These costs are completely unknown and not factored into your home buying process, and falls in the category of “living expenses”.
Subject Property:
Of course buying the right home for you and your family is most important to you, but when it comes to finalizing your loan approval to get to the closing table, these are the factors that the lenders care about:
- Loan-to-Value “LTV”. Without losing you with all the LTVs that there really is, in this context is do you have the minimum required equity requirement in the home according to the loan program. In ALL cases even if you have 50% equity in the home, if the loan program requires a MIR down-payment then you would have to bring those eligible funds to the closing table.
- Property Condition: Is the property habitable? Is the property safe in terms of potential obstacles that could cause injury to you or another person. In the appraisal report, there’s a property condition report that outlines these conditions. Different programs have different program requirements, so you may hear Sellers say I only want to sell to a person that has a conventional home loan knowing that conventional loan programs are the most lenient when it comes to property conditions required for final loan approval.
Loan Program:
This last pillar is more along the lines of the first 4 pillars being weighed against. In other words does your credit, DTI, Funds needed for closing, and subject property fit within the guidelines of the loan program. As you change loan programs the whole lending process changes, and even “meaningless” changes can affect your ability to close on the home. Working with the right company and professional will make all the difference in getting that home you want. Some lenders ONLY work VA loans, or don’t do USDA loans, or have “lender overlays”. A “lender overlay” is an additional guideline the lender places on-up of the actual loan program guideline. Having a consultation call with a lending professional to determine what they are capable of can save you a lot of time and stress.
A couple of my deals:
There’s one deal that comes to mind, and for the sake of privacy I will refer to the client as Gina. Gina was looking to purchase a home, but everything she went to a lender, she always got denied, but never received a clear explanation as to why. Eventually she got connected with me and we began to address each loan pillar. In doing so, it was uncovered that the funds that she was using were considered unsecured loan funds which is a no go for ANY loan program. Upon further inspection, I noticed that the funds were deposited into her account in about 45-days, with this knowledge I was able to leverage the proper interpretation of the lending guidelines. In short, we held closing another 2 weeks that way the deposited unsecured funds would be seasoned for 60-days and now would be considered eligible funds for closing. If the previous lending professional knew this they would have gotten the deal done.
Another deal I did, and again for the sake of privacy I will refer to the client as Ben. Ben had found a home that he wanted to buy, however when the appraisal report came back, there were some property conditions that neither the Seller or Buying was willing to fix, because it totaled over $40,000.00. Instead of denying the loan, we changed the loan from FHA to FHA 203k which is a renovation purchase loan, and was able to finance the cost of the repairs into the loan. A lot of lenders don’t even offer this special loan program let alone know how to actually do it late in the lending process.
What I always tell people:
Most people are just too afraid to buy a home, because it seems like such a lot of steps to get into a home. And to those people I would say you’re ABSOLUTELY correct (not what you wanted to hear huh?). The truth of the matter is that the home buying process is difficult, but the great thing about it is that you don’t need to know everything, you just have to know the right person that does know.
Another misconception is that you have to have perfect credit to buy a home, and that’s not true! I’ve gotten a lot of people with sub-600 credit scores into a home.
Lastly, getting with an experienced and knowledgeable professional early could make a huge difference. For instance there was a wonderful lady I helped become a homeowner, but it was a whole 2 years before she was ready! The key was that she had her free consultation call early, when she didn’t know which way was up. I was able to give her an action = plan that actually works, and she took my advice and implemented everything I told her. During those two years, she had challenges and unexpected financial situations that came up that ended up delaying her progress. However, she preserved and never gave into the setbacks, and now she’s a proud homeowner. You could be next!
My take on it:
Through my 12+ years of experience, I’ve seen a lot of different financial situations, and the overarching commonality is that there’s always a creative way to get anyone into a home. It could be on your part in the form of financial changes, discipline, knowledge, etc.; or the experience, knowledge, creativity, etc. of the loading professional. Is this a difficult process, yes! But it doesn’t have to be hard! ANYONE can own a home, and if you have made it this far, then that means you have the ability to become a homeowner.
When looking to use ANY financial loan instrument, the first 3 pillars are what you should be constantly working on. Focus on becoming a well qualified borrower and lenders will love lending you money because your behaviors display financial & credit worthiness. Ask yourself: “What if I am considered financial & credit worthy to lenders?” & “How do I go about becoming this person?”. Swallowing the red pill and putting in the work, will open doors that you could never have had imagined.
There was a client of mine a couple years ago that implemented the strategies I gave her. I’ll refer to her as Susie, and this is her story: Susie reached out to me about buying her first home. She had good intentions: more space for her kids, tired of paying her landlord, building towards generational wealth, and a lot of other great points. She imagined “what if” I could make this work. When she reached out to me in the Fall of 2021 and had her free home loan consultation we were able to come to the conclusion that she was not financially ready to purchase a home. Instead of allowing the reality of her situation to destroy her dreams, she asked “how do I get ready”. At this point I had to get her to willingly swallow the red pill, so I asked if she was ready for me to be brutally honest? She said, “Yes, please! I really want to do this!”. Then I said to her, “This is REALLY what the banks are saying behind closed doors, you simply don’t make enough money for the home you want. You got to make more money!”. She replied, “OK, then that’s what I’m going to do”. Now, in my experience, normally people don’t actually do what it takes to live the dreams they have. A few months went by, and she reached out to me the following Spring. When we reconnected over the phone, she said in a very confident tone, “OK , I’m ready now!”. We restarted her pre-approval process and she provided her bank statements. When I reviewed them I thought she was going to jail for criminal activities! Susie had saved over $200k, mind you her previous qualifying income was $50,000.00/year. So, how on earth did you get that much money in roughly 6-months? Come to find out, she became a tax preparer and made more money in 6-months than she’s made in the last 4+ years! I still had to do some creative loan structuring due to the loan guidelines on employment history, but she’s a homeowner now!
Final Thoughts:
By understanding the 5 Pillars of the home loan, you can come up with a good plan to work towards homeownership. If you are trying to get prepared to buy a home, then focus on the first three pillars to become a well qualified borrower. They are:
- Credit
- Repayment Ability
- Funds needed for closing
- Subject Property
- Loan Program
The time between when you have a good idea and the moment you act on that idea is the #1. #2 is executing a plan consistently over time in spite of the hardships that may arise. The first step is getting the right information from an experienced & knowledgeable professional. If you made it this far then you can become a homeowner.
-
This discussion was modified 6 months, 3 weeks ago by
Sapna Sharma.
-
This discussion was modified 6 months, 3 weeks ago by
Sapna Sharma.
-
This discussion was modified 3 weeks, 1 day ago by
Sapna Sharma.
-
This discussion was modified 3 weeks, 1 day ago by
Sapna Sharma.
-
FHA 203k Loans are great acquistion and renovation mortgage loan programs all in one loan closings. An FHA 203(k) loan is a type of mortgage loan offered by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) for properties that need renovations. It allows the borrower to include both the cost of the home and the cost of necessary repairs or improvements in a single loan. Here are the key features and benefits of FHA 203(k) loans:
Key Features:
-
Loan Types:
- Standard 203(k) Loan: Suitable for extensive repairs and improvements, including structural changes. Minimum repair cost is $5,000.
- Limited 203(k) Loan: Also known as a Streamline 203(k), it is for minor repairs and improvements, with a maximum repair cost of $35,000.
-
Eligibility:
- The property must be at least one year old.
- Eligible properties include single-family homes, multi-family properties (up to 4 units), condos, and mixed-use properties.
- The borrower must meet FHA credit requirements, which generally means a credit score of at least 580, though some lenders may require higher scores.
-
Loan Amount:
- The total loan amount is based on the lesser of the property’s value after repairs or 110% of the appraised value before repairs, plus repair costs.
- The loan covers the purchase price of the property plus the cost of repairs.
-
Interest Rates:
- FHA 203(k) loans typically have slightly higher interest rates compared to standard FHA loans due to the additional risk associated with the renovation process.
Benefits:
-
Single Loan for Purchase and Renovation:
- Simplifies the financing process by combining the purchase and renovation costs into one loan, avoiding the need for separate home improvement loans.
-
Low Down Payment:
- Like other FHA loans, FHA 203(k) loans require a low down payment, usually 3.5% of the total loan amount.
-
Flexible Credit Requirements:
- More lenient credit requirements compared to conventional loans, making it accessible to more borrowers.
-
Potential for Increased Property Value:
- Renovations and improvements can significantly increase the property’s value, potentially offering a good return on investment.
Steps to Obtain an FHA 203(k) Loan:
-
Find an FHA-Approved Lender:
- Work with a lender experienced in FHA 203(k) loans to understand the specific requirements and process.
-
Get Pre-Approved:
- Obtain pre-approval to determine your borrowing capacity and budget for purchasing and renovating the property.
-
Find a Property:
- Identify a property that qualifies for an FHA 203(k) loan and requires repairs or improvements.
-
Work with a Consultant:
- For Standard 203(k) loans, you may need to work with a HUD-approved 203(k) consultant to evaluate the property and estimate repair costs.
-
Submit Your Loan Application:
- Include detailed renovation plans and cost estimates. The lender will appraise the property based on its after-repair value.
-
Close the Loan:
- Once approved, close the loan, and the funds for repairs will be held in escrow and disbursed as work is completed.
Considerations:
- Contractor Selection:
- Borrowers must choose licensed and insured contractors for the renovation work. The lender may need to approve the contractors.
- Timeline and Budget Management:
- Ensure realistic timelines and budgets for the renovation work to avoid complications during the project.
If you have specific questions or need more details about FHA 203(k) loans, feel free to ask!
Here is a blog written by Peter Arcuri
https://gustancho.com/fha-203k-contractor/
gustancho.com
FHA 203k Contractor Role For Homebuyers of Fixer-Uppers
Hiring the right FHA 203k Contractor is so important. Good communication skills and a FHA 203k Contractor you can get along with is a must.
-
Social Media Links