Blog

Suncoast One Title

Blog

What Is A Mortgage?

The original phrase “mort gage” translates as “death pledge”! But as this video explains, a mortgage is a loan obtained to purchase real estate. The "mortgage" itself is a lien - a legal claim on the home or property that secures the promise to pay the debt. A...

What Types Of Mortgage Loans Are Available?

This video tells you about the most common types: Fixed Rate, ARM, Balloon and 2-Step. First, Fixed Rate Mortgages: Payments remain the same for the life of the loan generally 15 years or 30 years. Interest rates remain the same, so payments are predictable. A second...

Can I Pay Off My Loan Ahead Of Schedule?

Usually, Yes. Like the guy in the video says, by sending in extra money each month or making an extra payment at the end of the year you can accelerate the process of paying off the loan. When you send extra money, be sure to indicate that the excess payment is to be ...

How Large A Down Payment Do I Need?

There are mortgage options now available that only require a down payment of 5% or less of the purchase price. You’ll see some pictures in this video to help you remember later - the larger the down payment, the less you have to borrow and the more equity you'll have...

What Is Included In A Monthly Mortgage Payment?

The monthly mortgage payment mainly pays off principal and interest. But most lenders also include local real estate taxes homeowner's insurance, and mortgage insurance, if applicable. If you are refinancing co...

What Factors Affect Mortgage Payments?

Well, as this story shows, the amount of the down payment the size of the mortgage loan, the interest rate the length of the repayment term and payment schedule will all affect the size of your ...

How Does The Interest Rate Factor In Securing A Mortgage Loan?

As you’ll see in the video, a lower interest rate allows you to borrow more money than a high rate with the some monthly payment. Interest rates can fluctuate as you shop for a loan so ask lenders if they offer a rate "lock-in" which guarantees a specific interest ra...

What About A Home Located In A Flood Plain?

A flood plain is an area of land adjacent to a stream or river that experiences flooding during periods of high discharge. Watch this video and it’ll make sense. If you live in a flood plain lenders will require that you have flood insurance before lending any money...

What Is Earnest Money, And How Much Should I Set Aside?

Like the video shows, “earnest money” is money you put down to demonstrate your seriousness about buying a home. It must be substantial enough to demonstrate good faith and is usually between 1-5% of the purchase price though the amount can vary with local customs...

What Are “Home Warranties”, And Should I Consider Them?

You’ll see some pictures in this video to help you remember later, but essentially, home warranties offer you protection for a specific period of time, such as one year, against potentially costly problems like unexpected repairs on appliances or home systems which ...

Are There Special Mortgages For First-Time Homebuyers?

Yes. Like the video shows, lenders now offer several affordable mortgage options which can help first-time homebuyers overcome obstacles that made purchasing a home difficult in the past. Lenders may now be abl...

Is An Older Home A Better Value Than A New One?

Well, as this story shows, there isn't a definitive answer to this question. You should look at each home for its individual characteristics. Generally, older homes may be in more established neighborhoods offer more ambiance and have lower property tax rates. People...

What Should I Look For When Walking Through A Home?

As we show you in this video, in addition to comparing the home to your minimum requirement and wish lists use the HUD Home Scorecard and consider the following: Is there enough room for both the present and the future? Are there enough bedrooms ...

What Questions Should I Ask When Looking At Homes?

As you’ll see in this video, many of your questions should focus on potential problems and maintenance issues. Does anything need to be replaced? What things require ongoing maintenance like paint, roof, heating and AC, appliances and carpet? Also ask about the

Suncoast One Title

We are members of:

American Land Title Association
The North Port Area Chamber of Commerce
The PG-P-NP Association of Realtors
The Charlotte Desoto Building Industry Association
The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce

Get a Free Estimate

The team at Suncoast One Title will represent you with professionalism and integrity.
Schedule your free estimate with us today.