Real Estate Broker and

NYS DOS, Real Estate Professional Page NYS Department of State Division of Licensing Services F requently A sked Q uestions Applicants for Real Estate Broker and Salesperson Licensure Do I need to be licensed? Generally, Article 12-A of the Real Property Law provides that anyone who, on behalf of another and for a fee, 1) negotiates a sale, exchange or rental of real property, 2) collects rent, or 3) negotiates a commercial loan secured by a mortgage must be licensed as a real estate broker. What is the difference between a real estate broker and a real estate salesperson? A real estate broker is responsible for the supervision and conduct of the real estate brokerage business. He or she applies for and holds the license on behalf of the brokerage. This person is known as the "representative broker." A real estate salesperson works for and is supervised by the representative broker. The salesperson acts as the representative broker's agent. All listings, although perhaps negotiated by a salesperson, are accepted by the representative broker. How do I become a real estate salesperson or broker? In order to qualify for licensure as a real estate salesperson, an applicant must have satisfactorily completed a 45 hour salesperson qualifying education course in real estate approved by the Secretary of State, and have passed a qualifying examination administered by the Department. In order to qualify for licensure as a real estate broker, an applicant must have at least one year of experience as a licensed real estate salesperson or at least two years of experience in the general real estate field (e.g., buying and selling your own property, managing property owned by your employer), have satisfactorily completed both the qualifying salesperson course of 45 hours and an additional 45 hour real estate broker course as approved by the Secretary of State, and have passed a qualifying examination administered by the Department. Who licenses mortgage brokers? Anyone who negotiates or attempts to negotiate any mortgage loan other than a mortgage loan on residential property, in the state of New York, is required to be licensed as real estate broker, or as a salesperson associated with a real estate broker. This license is issued by the NYS Department of State. To negotiate a mortgage loan on residential property (one to four family building) registration with the New York State Banking Department is required. If I am a real estate management company, do I need a real estate broker's license? That depends on what services you provide. If you collect rent or place tenants in vacant spaces on behalf of your landlord client, the answer is yes. If, on the other hand, your services are strictly maintenance, the answer is no. you are not acting as a fiduciary (not handling another person's money). Whom do I call if I am not sure whether I completed my 22.5 hours of continuing education during my license term? Contact the school(s) you attended. Schools are required by law to maintain course completion records for three years. You may request duplicate certificates from the school(s) in the event you are audited. In order to renew my salesperson license, I completed the 45-hour broker qualifying course. Can I apply the extra 22.5 hours to my next license term? No. The law clearly states that continuing education must be completed within each license term. I could not complete the continuing education, but I wish to renew my license anyway. Can I apply for an extension? Please refer to §177.6 in the real estate law booklet. Extensions will only be granted in bona fide hardship cases. You must submit the following, preferably prior to your license expiration: a written request for the extension, completed renewal form, fee, and original documentation demonstrating your hardship; i.e. , medical documentation. I think I might be exempt, but I am not sure when I originally became licensed. Can you tell me when I was first licensed? No. The Department of State only maintains seven years of real estate records. You may possibly determine your original date of licensure if you know when you completed the salesperson course and how long it took you after completing the course to apply for your license. What happens if I do not complete my continuing education and don't renew my license? If you do not renew your license, you cannot conduct any real estate activities that require a New York State real estate license in accordance with Article 12-A of the Real Property Law. There are no grace periods that allow you to continue working while not licensed. You have two years from the date your license expires to renew your license. If you fail to renew within that period, you will be required to pass the state written examination. No continuing education will be required to repeat the licensing process again. When you submit your new salesperson application, you must include the following: your new examination results, application fee, and a copy of your expired license/pocket card or ORIGINAL proof of completing the salesperson course. If possible, it is better to submit original proof of your salesperson course. If you do not have an original certificate, then call the school where you took the course to request another certificate. If you are applying for your broker's license, you must submit ORIGINAL proof of your 45-hour salesperson course and 45-hour broker course, or a copy of your expired broker's license. How do I obtain a waiver from the 45-hour salesperson or 90-hour broker course requirement? You must submit a written request stating the waiver you are applying for along with ORIGINAL proof of course completion, a detailed outline listing topics and hours, and a course description. We only review prelicensing courses from other states that were completed in a classroom setting. (No home-study/correspondence courses.) The prelicensing salesperson's course must be at least 45 hours of classroom instruction and the broker's course, 90 hours. In addition, if you have graduated with a Master's Degree with a concentration in real estate, you may qualify for a 90-hour waiver of the qualifying courses. Please submit an official transcript with your waiver request. If you are granted a waiver, you will receive the waiver letter, the license application, real estate law booklet, and examination schedules. When you are ready to apply for your license, please submit the ORIGINAL waiver letter with your application, fee, passed examination results, and any other required documents. I have been a real estate licensee for many years. Am I exempt from the continuing education requirements? Article 12A statutorily requires all real estate brokers and salespeople to complete 22½ hours of Department of State approved education within their two-year license period prior to the date of expiration. The law does provide for an exemption from this requirement for a real estate broker who has 15 consecutive years of combined licensure as a salesperson and a broker and who is actively engaged in the real estate business as a real estate broker at the time of renewal, or an admitted NYS attorney. Where do I get more detailed information? You may access pertinent law and regulations, applications and exam schedules from this website. You may also request this or other information by calling a Division of Licensing Services customer service representative at (518) 474-4429 or by writing to: New York State Department of State Division of Licensing Services 84 Holland Avenue Albany, New York 12208-3490 [ NYS Department of State Home Page ] [ Licensing Services Menu ] [ Real Estate Professionals Page ]

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sell house — Homes On Sale Contact us | Cheap mortgage | Cheap credit cards | Used cars | Uk loan Sell Your Home > Services > sell house Categories Back to home page Sell House house sell fast house sell house privately sell house quickly sell house online sell house internet sell house quick sell house sell uk house link list sell add house sell site house own sell add house sell url did house much sell add house link sell house link sell submit house list sell site house list sell url house link list new sell did house much sell that house sell submit url Estate Agents Conveyancing Solicitors Survey Valuations Removals Self Storage Environmental Search Land Registry Relocation Agent Mortgage Remortgage Home Loan Life Assurance Home Security Buy House Rent House New Home For Sale By Owner Letting Agent Home Buying & Selling Homes On Sale brings you these results for sell house : You can buy & sell property on this site! Be sure to click here 1. Find a house to Buy, Sell or Rent at Loot.com Need accommodation? Wish to invest in property? Want a flatmate or lodger? Selling up? Whether youre a landlord or a tenant you can buy, sell, rent or let property online at loot.com. http://www.loot.com/ 2. Sell Your Home Online from 35.00 A professional service to sell your home online. Save thousands in commission. Huge exposure on multiple web sites. http://www.homesgofast.com 3. House Share in the UK Thousands of postings with pictures, comments and flatmates' references. Join our quality and secure network now. Free flat share search by postcode. http://www.flatmateclick.co.uk 4. Sell your House - Houseladder Click here to find out how to sell or let your property faster and save 1000s in agents fees, even if you are with a sole agent. http://www.houseladder.co.uk 5. Which? Online - the Latest House Selling Reports Up-to-date house selling guide. Expert assessment, test results, tips & best buy advice to help you choose the best products and services. The premium internet-only consumer research and advice site. http://trial.which.co.uk 6. Wide Selection of New Properties at SmartNewHomes Search for new homes and properties across the UK at SmartNewHomes, the independent property website. http://www.smartnewhomes.com 7. House Value Reports from Hometrack Get a detailed property report on prices, trends, land registry & much more from just 4.95. at Hometrack. http://www.hometrack.co.uk 8. Buy This Is My House on eBay.co.uk Great range of CDs by NRG Ensemble including This Is My House at fantastic prices. Buy it. Sell it. Love it. eBay.co.uk. http://www.ebay.co.uk 9. New Houses for Sale New Homes is a not-for-profit site providing purchasers with the opportunity to search for new homes by location, number of bedrooms, price or developer. http://www.new-homes.co.uk More pages: Search mortgage | loan | home insurance | credit card Sponsored Links Home | Place Ad | Browse Properties | Terms | Privacy | Top Sites | Sitemap | Links | Contact us © 2004 Homes On Sale

Investment Property

Australian Investment Properties ... Many of Australias Best - Right Here! Click on the photograph of the property you wish to view. Scroll down to view all of the properties. 250E Luxury apartments due to be completed November 2002: Melbourne CBD, Victoria. Singularly the most centrally located CBD residential property in Melbourne is 250e. Absolute CBD. Right in the heart of the city, it is absolute CBD. There is no other property that can touch it for location and potential investment value. new Arcadia Grove Stage 1 Townhouses and Apartments due to be completed July 2003: East Hawthorn, Victoria. Arcadia Grove offers brand new homes with all features Hawthorn lovers love best. Beautiful garden townhouses and apartments of 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms, are set among leafy streets that lead into a central urban oasis of parkland. Boulevard 610 Luxury apartments due to be completed June 2002: Melbourne, Victoria. From the tranquility of Albert Park Lake to the colour and excitement of St Kilda & Chapel Street, the Boulevard's spectacular location is at the centre of everything. new i.d. Luxury apartments due to be completed October 2003: Port Melbourne, Victoria. i.d. sees the redevelopment of the Joshua Brothers Distillery site in Port Melbourne. The apartments are designed around a courtyard space, with pool and recreation areas and a mix of landscaped surfaces, palms and lush planting. new Pacific International Apartments Melbourne Serviced apartments due to be completed January 2003: Melbourne, Victoria. Overlooking Collins Street and the Yarra, Pacific International Apartments, offers fully furnished and superbly decorated one and two bedroom hotel apartments and hotel suite apartments. Philadelphia Luxury Apartments now completed: Melbourne, Victoria. Located in the residential Golden Mile of Melbourne opposite the beautiful Treasury Gardens. Scala Luxury apartments due to be completed October 2002: Melbourne, Victoria. A sophisticated inner city apartment building, Scala Apartments, Lakeside offer stunning views and an exceptional level of refinement. With 107 apartments, Scala offers you the choice of 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms with some apartments incorporating a study. new Tribeca Luxury apartments due to be completed May 2005: East Melbourne, Victoria. Tribeca East Melbourne will be a development of unsurpassed quality, fusing contemporary architectural design with the existing heritage structures of the Victoria Brewery site. new Westway Apartments Luxury apartments due to be completed October 2003: Maribyrnong, Victoria. Westway offers 67 magnificent luxury style two and three bedroom apartments & townhouses only 5km from the CBD. Close to all amenities such as child care centres, shopping centres, Maribyrnong River, parklands and Universities, Westway is sure to create a lifestyle within its self. new Linc Stage 2 Luxury apartments due to be completed November 2003: Alexandria, New South Wales . Architecturally designed with a choice between live/work apartments, studios, one or two bedroom apartments, Linc is the perfect location for easy living. Ellington Luxury apartments due to be completed August 2002: Tenneriffe, Queensland. Ellington comprises three separate buildings encircling extensive recreation areas and tree lined pedestrian walkways. Set amongst extensive landscaping, incorporating lap pool and barbecue areas, Ellington will provide a green oasis, a tranquil retreat shielding the residents from the hustle and bustle, yet still its just a few minutes from the heart of the action. Last Few Horizons Luxury apartments now completed: New Farm, Queensland. Overlooking the New Farm Park and Brisbane River, Horizons consists of twelve luxury ensuited apartments and two villa, executive residences. The development features a pool and B.B.Q area, north-facing and park views, has lift access to all levels, on-site management and massive entertainment balconies. new Alpha G Luxury apartments due to be completed February 2003: Waterloo, New South Wales. Alpha G is a unique development of 75 space age apartments which will be built on top of a futuristic commercial office space and modern showroom complex. The building features sun shading to the east and west, air conditioning, undercover parking and an entry level cafe. Apex Apartments Luxury apartments due to be completed September 2001: North Sydney, New South Wales. Located centrally in Berry Street North Sydney, Apex offers 77 luxury apartments with security undercover parking, swimming pool and gymnasium. Last Few Balmain Shores Stage 3 Luxury apartments due to be completed December 2002: Iron Cove, New South Wales. Idyllic environment with 340 metres of water frontage in the historic Balmain area, just four kilometres from the Sydney CBD. Balmain Shores Stage 4 Luxury Terraces Apartments due to be completed December 2002: Rozelle, New South Wales. Inspired by the historic architecture of the surrounding area, the final stage of Balmain Shores embraces the convenience and style of terrace living. These boutique buildings are no more than three storeys high and all apartments features balconies. new Garden Square Luxury apartments due to be completed February 2003: Chatswood CBD, New South Wales. Garden Square is a community orientated, environmentally sustainable, new development, occupying a prime position amongst the more traditional red roofed bungalows of Chatswood. An easy walk to Chatswoods many amenities and attractions, Garden Square comes with convenient access to trains, buses, schools and shops. King Street Wharf (Stage 2, North) Luxury Apartments due to be completed June 2002: Darling Harbour, New South Wales. King Street Wharf will be an exciting new waterfront district in Sydney. Formerly wharf 9 and 10 of a former maritime terminal in which Darling Harbour was known as Wharf 8. Stage 2 consists of the construction of twin residential towers (North and South) of Building 3, plus the balance of the waterfrontage retail and strata commercial element, Building 2. King Street Wharf (Stage 2, South) Luxury Apartments due to be completed June 2002: Darling Harbour, New South Wales. King Street Wharf will be an exciting new waterfront district in Sydney. Formerly wharf 9 and 10 of a former maritime terminal in which Darling Harbour was known as Wharf 8. Stage 2 consists of the construction of twin residential towers (North and South) of Building 3, plus the balance of the waterfrontage retail and strata commercial element, Building 2. new Linc - Stage 1 Luxury apartments due to be completed May 2003: Alexandria, New South Wales. Architecturally designed with a choice between live/work apartments, studios, one or two bedroom apartments, Linc is the perfect location for easy living. Last Few Linea Luxury apartments due to be completed December 2002: St Leonards, New South Wales. Brand new, contemporary apartments located amidst the vibrancy of St Leonards dynamic lifestyle attractions. Boasting smart design, captivating views and spacious, open living areas, Linea apartments offer the smooth integration of complete comfort and style. new Medina Classic Serviced apartments now completed: Sydney, New South Wales. Medina Classic Martin Place is ideally located in the heart of Sydneys vibrant CBD and shopping precinct, only one block north of Martin Place. The 49 studio and one bedroom apartments all have fully equipped kitchens and laundries. new Nexus Luxury apartments due to be completed July 2003: St Leonards, New South Wales. Rising through the St Leonards skyline, Nexus is an address where life meets style. Located between the transport hub of St Leonards and the cafe society of Crows Nest, convenience meets necessity in this central location. Pacific International Suites Parramatta Serviced apartments now completed: Parramatta, New South Wales. Fully furnished 4.5 star serviced apartments with a thirty year guaranteed return. new Proximity 1 and 2 Luxury apartments due to be completed June 2004: North Arncliffe, New South Wales. Only minutes from the Sydney CBD as well as beaches, parks and waterways, Proximity defines a new standard for contemporary residential communities. Each apartment offers views, space, parking and privacy, with ample room for individual style. new Proximity 3 Luxury apartments due to be completed June 2004: North Arncliffe, New South Wales. Only minutes from the Sydney CBD as well as beaches, parks and waterways, Proximity defines a new standard for contemporary residential communities. Each apartment offers views, space, parking and privacy, with ample room for individual style. new Quadrant Luxury apartments due to be completed July 2003: Broadway, New South Wales. Located only 1 km from Sydney CBD, Quadrant offers residential apartments featuring a blend of heritage and modern architecture. A vibrant central plaza forms the heart of the development, with restaurants and alfresco cafes in landscaped gardens featuring reflection pools. new State Apartments Luxury apartments due to be completed June 2003: Waitara, New South Wales. Located in the upper north shore suburb of Waitara, the State Apartments comprises 102 stylish and spacious one bedroom + study, two bedroom and three bedroom apartments, all featuring secure undercover parking, split system air conditioning and balconies. new Waitara Grand Apartments Luxury apartments due to be completed June 2003: Waitara, New South Wales. The Waitara Grand Apartments offer 136 luxury apartments over two towers in Sydneys upper northern suburb of Waitara. Waitara Grand features public parklands on two sides of the development and provides a private swimming pool, communal courtyard and secure undercover parking. Back to the Australia Financial Services Directory

REAL ESTATE FORECLOSURES Valuecom

USA REAL ESTATE DIRECTORY - INDEXED BY STATE Real Estate Services Indexed by State FIND NEW HOMES | FIND RENTAL APARTMENTS | REAL ESTATE FORECLOSURES Valuecom Real Estate GOLD providesa nationwide forum of Real Estate Agent Listings indexed by state. If you are looking for a real estate agent in your state or one in a state you wish to inquire about propertiesplease select a state below to browse the listing. If you are an agent and would like to sponsor a particular state please contact us by clicking here . Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming ADD LISTING | | SPONSOR A STATE FIND APARTMENTS IN MAJOR US CITIES This service provided by Valuecom © 1995 - 2005 Roger Bredow Find Moving Companies Atlanta Piano Tuning Search for Alabama Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Alabama homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Alabama. Search for apartment rentals in AL, Alabama townhomes, or Real Estate in AL. Alabama Real Estate areas include Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Mobile, Montgomery, Huntsville, Dothan, Albertville, Anniston, Auburn, Gulf Shores, Alexander City, Decatur, Enterprise, Florence, Fort Payne, Gadsden, Scottsboro, Selma, Troy, Tuskegee, in or about Alabama. Search for Alaska Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Alaska homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Alaska. Search for apartment rentals in AK, Alaska townhomes, or Real Estate in AK. Alaska Real Estate areas include Fairbanks, Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, Kodiak, in or about Alaska. Search for Arizona Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Arizona homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Arizona. Search for apartment rentals in AZ, Arizona townhomes, or Real Estate in AZ. Arizona Real Estate areas include Tucson, Phoenix, Flagstaff, Yuma, Sierra Vista, Prescott, Payson, Lake Havasu City-Kingman, Show Low, in or about Arizona. 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Illinois Real Estate areas include Chicago, Rockford, Peoria, Springfield, Kankakee, Carbondale, Bloomington, Champaign-Urbana, Decatur, Charleston-Mattoon, Danville, Effingham, Macomb, Ottawa-Streator, Quincy, in or about Illinois. Search for Indiana Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , in or about diana homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Indiana. Search for apartment rentals in IN, in or about Indiana townhomes, or Real Estate in IN. Indiana Real Estate areas include Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, Northwest Indiana, Elkhart-Goshen, Lafayette, Terre Haute, Anderson, Muncie, Bloomington, New Castle, Michigan City, Rensselaer, Vincennes, Columbus, Crawfordsville, Kokomo, Wabash, Madison, Marion, Richmond, in or about Indiana. Search for Iowa Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Iowa homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Iowa. Search for apartment rentals in IA, Iowa townhomes, or Real Estate in IA. Iowa Real Estate areas include Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Ames, Dubuque, Iowa City, Waterloo, Sioux City, Davenport, Burlington, Clinton, Mason City, Muscatine, Grinnell, Fort Dodge, Marshalltown, in or about Iowa. Search for Kansas Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Kansas homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Kansas. Search for apartment rentals in KS, Kansas townhomes, or Real Estate in KS. Kansas Real Estate areas include Kansas City, Wichita, Topeka, Lawrence, Manhattan, Atchison, Dodge City, Emporia, Hays, Hutchinson, Pittsburg, Salina, in or about Kansas. Search for Kentucky Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Kentucky homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Kentucky. Search for apartment rentals in KY, Kentucky townhomes, or Real Estate in KY. Kentucky Real Estate areas include Lexington, Louisville, Owensboro, Frankfort, Bowling Green, Elizabethtown, Danville, London, Madisonville, Murray, Paducah, Richmond-Berea, in or about Kentucky. Search for Louisiana Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Louisiana homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Louisiana. Search for apartment rentals in LA, Louisiana townhomes, or Real Estate in LA. Louisiana Real Estate areas include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, Monroe, Natchitoches, Houma, Lake Charles, Alexandria, Leesville, Hammond, New Iberia, Ruston, in or about Louisiana. Search for Maine Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Maine homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Maine. Search for apartment rentals in ME, Maine townhomes, or Real Estate in ME. 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Massachusetts Real Estate areas include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, Framingham, Pittsfield, Taunton, Leominster-Fitchburg, Haverhill, Nantucket, Lawrence, Martha's Vineyard, Amherst, North Shore, Salem, Cape Cod, New Bedford, Brockton, in or about Massachusetts. Search for Michigan Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Michigan homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Michigan. Search for apartment rentals in MI, Michigan townhomes, or Real Estate in MI. Michigan Real Estate areas include Detroit, Grand Rapids, Flint, Lansing, Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Midland, Royal Oak, Saginaw, Benton Harbor, Jackson, Cadillac, Bay City, Muskegon, Kalamazoo, Traverse City, Monroe, Big Rapids, Houghton, Holland, Mount Pleasant, Marquette, Sault Ste. Marie, Gaylord, in or about Michigan. Search for Minnesota Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Minnesota homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Minnesota. Search for apartment rentals in MN, Minnesota townhomes, or Real Estate in MN. Minnesota Real Estate areas include Minneapolis-St. Paul, New Ulm, Worthington, Winona, St. Cloud, Northfield-Faribault, Mankato, Marshall, Red Wing, Bemidji, Brainerd, Rochester, Duluth, Lake of the Woods, Detroit Lakes, Thief River Falls, in or about Minnesota. Search for Mississippi Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Mississippi homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Mississippi. Search for apartment rentals in MS, Mississippi townhomes, or Real Estate in MS. Mississippi Real Estate areas include Jackson, Corinth, Gulfport-Biloxi, Columbus, Greenville, Greenwood, Grenada, Hattiesburg, Laurel, Meridian, Oxford, Pascagoula, Starkville, Tupelo, Vicksburg, in or about Mississippi. Search for Missouri Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Missouri homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Missouri. Search for apartment rentals in MO, Missouri townhomes, or Real Estate in MO. Missouri Real Estate areas include St. Louis, Springfield, Jefferson City, Cape Girardeau, Branson, Joplin, St. Joseph, Columbia, Fort Leonard Wood, Hannibal, Kirksville, Lebanon, Maryville, Poplar Bluff, Rolla, Sedalia, Sikeston, Warrensburg, West Plains, in or about Missouri. Search for Montana Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Montana homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Montana. Search for apartment rentals in MT, Montana townhomes, or Real Estate in MT. Montana Real Estate areas include Helena, Butte, Great Falls, Missoula, Billings, Bozeman, Kalispell, Bitterroot Valley, in or about Montana. Search for Nebraska Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Nebraska homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Nebraska. Search for apartment rentals in NE, Nebraska townhomes, or Real Estate in NE. Nebraska Real Estate areas include Omaha, Lincoln, Fremont, Grand Island, Hastings, Kearney, North Platte, Scottsbluff, Norfolk, Columbus, in or about Nebraska. Search for Nevada Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , Nevada homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in Nevada. Search for apartment rentals in NV, Nevada townhomes, or Real Estate in NV. Nevada Real Estate areas include Las Vegas, Reno, Carson City, Elko, Fallon, in or about Nevada. Search for New Hampshire Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , New Hampshire homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in New Hampshire. Search for apartment rentals in NH, New Hampshire townhomes, or Real Estate in NH. New Hampshire Real Estate areas include Manchester, Concord, Nashua, Rochester-Dover, Portsmouth, Berlin, Keene, Lebanon, Lake Winnipesaukee, in or about New Hampshire. Search for New Jersey Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , New Jersey homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in New Jersey. Search for apartment rentals in NJ, New Jersey townhomes, or Real Estate in NJ. New Jersey Real Estate areas include Atlantic City, Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, New Brunswick, Vineland, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Camden, Trenton, Cape May, in or about New Jersey. Search for New Mexico Real Estate, home rentals, Real Estate , New Mexico homes for rent, houses for rent, rental homes, and apartments in New Mexico. Search for apartment rentals in NM, New Mexico townhomes, or Real Estate in NM. New Mexico Real Estate areas include Albuquerque, Los Alamos, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Alamogordo, Carlsbad-Artesia, Clovis, Deming, Espanola, Farmington, Gallup, Las Vegas, Portales, Roswell, Silver City, Taos, in or about New Mexico. 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Home Mortgage Insurance Home

Federal Trade Commission -- Search: Facts for Consumers PDF Version Looking for the Best Mortgage Shopping around for a home loan or mortgage will help you to get the best financing deal. A mortgage—whether it's a home purchase, a refinancing, or a home equity loan—is a product, just like a car, so the price and terms may be negotiable. You'll want to compare all the costs involved in obtaining a mortgage. Shopping, comparing, and negotiating may save you thousands of dollars. Obtain Information from Several Lenders Home loans are available from several types of lenders— thrift institutions , commercial banks, mortgage companies, and credit unions. Different lenders may quote you different prices, so you should contact several lenders to make sure you're getting the best price. You can also get a home loan through a mortgage broker. Brokers arrange transactions rather than lending money directly; in other words, they find a lender for you. A broker's access to several lenders can mean a wider selection of loan products and terms from which you can choose. Brokers will generally contact several lenders regarding your application, but they are not obligated to find the best deal for you unless they have contracted with you to act as your agent. Consequently, you should consider contacting more than one broker, just as you should with banks or thrift institutions. Whether you are dealing with a lender or a broker may not always be clear. Some financial institutions operate as both lenders and brokers. And most brokers' advertisements do not use the word "broker." Therefore, be sure to ask whether a broker is involved. This information is important because brokers are usually paid a fee for their services that may be separate from and in addition to the lender's origination or other fees. A broker's compensation may be in the form of "points" paid at closing or as an add-on to your interest rate , or both. You should ask each broker you work with how he or she will be compensated so that you can compare the different fees. Be prepared to negotiate with the brokers as well as the lenders. Obtain All Important Cost Information Be sure to get information about mortgages from several lenders or brokers. Know how much of a down payment you can afford, and find out all the costs involved in the loan. Knowing just the amount of the monthly payment or the interest rate is not enough. Ask for information about the same loan amount, loan term, and type of loan so that you can compare the information. The following information is important to get from each lender and broker: Rates Ask each lender and broker for a list of its current mortgage interest rates and whether the rates being quoted are the lowest for that day or week. Ask whether the rate is fixed or adjustable . Keep in mind that when interest rates for adjustable-rate loans go up, generally so does the monthly payment. If the rate quoted is for an adjustable-rate loan, ask how your rate and loan payment will vary, including whether your loan payment will be reduced when rates go down. Ask about the loan's annual percentage rate (APR). The APR takes into account not only the interest rate but also points, broker fees, and certain other credit charges that you may be required to pay, expressed as a yearly rate. Points Points are fees paid to the lender or broker for the loan and are often linked to the interest rate; usually the more points you pay, the lower the rate. Check your local newspaper for information about rates and points currently being offered. Ask for points to be quoted to you as a dollar amount—rather than just as the number of points—so that you will actually know how much you will have to pay. Fees A home loan often involves many fees, such as loan origination or underwriting fees , broker fees, and transaction , settlement, and closing costs . Every lender or broker should be able to give you an estimate of its fees. Many of these fees are negotiable. Some fees are paid when you apply for a loan (such as application and appraisal fees), and others are paid at closing. In some cases, you can borrow the money needed to pay these fees, but doing so will increase your loan amount and total costs. "No cost" loans are sometimes available, but they usually involve higher rates. Ask what each fee includes. Several items may be lumped into one fee. Ask for an explanation of any fee you do not understand. Some common fees associated with a home loan closing are listed on the Mortgage Shopping Worksheet in this brochure. Down Payments and Private Mortgage Insurance Some lenders require 20 percent of the home's purchase price as a down payment. However, many lenders now offer loans that require less than 20 percent down—sometimes as little as 5 percent on conventional loans . If a 20 percent down payment is not made, lenders usually require the home buyer to purchase private mortgage insurance (PMI) to protect the lender in case the home buyer fails to pay. When government-assisted programs such as FHA (Federal Housing Administration), VA (Veterans Administration), or Rural Development Services are available, the down payment requirements may be substantially smaller. Ask about the lender's requirements for a down payment, including what you need to do to verify that funds for your down payment are available. Ask your lender about special programs it may offer. If PMI is required for your loan, Ask what the total cost of the insurance will be. Ask how much your monthly payment will be when including the PMI premium. Ask how long you will be required to carry PMI. Obtain the Best Deal That You Can Once you know what each lender has to offer, negotiate for the best deal that you can. On any given day, lenders and brokers may offer different prices for the same loan terms to different consumers, even if those consumers have the same loan qualifications. The most likely reason for this difference in price is that loan officers and brokers are often allowed to keep some or all of this difference as extra compensation. Generally, the difference between the lowest available price for a loan product and any higher price that the borrower agrees to pay is an overage . When overages occur, they are built into the prices quoted to consumers. They can occur in both fixed and variable-rate loans and can be in the form of points, fees, or the interest rate. Whether quoted to you by a loan officer or a broker, the price of any loan may contain overages. Have the lender or broker write down all the costs associated with the loan. Then ask if the lender or broker will waive or reduce one or more of its fees or agree to a lower rate or fewer points. You'll want to make sure that the lender or broker is not agreeing to lower one fee while raising another or to lower the rate while raising points. There's no harm in asking lenders or brokers if they can give better terms than the original ones they quoted or than those you have found elsewhere. Once you are satisfied with the terms you have negotiated, you may want to obtain a written lock-in from the lender or broker. The lock-in should include the rate that you have agreed upon, the period the lock-in lasts, and the number of points to be paid. A fee may be charged for locking in the loan rate. This fee may be refundable at closing. Lock-ins can protect you from rate increases while your loan is being processed; if rates fall, however, you could end up with a less favorable rate. Should that happen, try to negotiate a compromise with the lender or broker. Remember: Shop, Compare, Negotiate When buying a home, remember to shop around, to compare costs and terms, and to negotiate for the best deal. Your local newspaper and the Internet are good places to start shopping for a loan. You can usually find information both on interest rates and on points for several lenders. Since rates and points can change daily, you'll want to check your newspaper often when shopping for a home loan. But the newspaper does not list the fees, so be sure to ask the lenders about them. The Mortgage Shopping Worksheet that follows may also help you. Take it with you when you speak to each lender or broker and write down the information you obtain. Don't be afraid to make lenders and brokers compete with each other for your business by letting them know that you are shopping for the best deal. Fair Lending Is Required by Law The Equal Credit Opportunity Act prohibits lenders from discriminating against credit applicants in any aspect of a credit transaction on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, whether all or part of the applicant's income comes from a public assistance program, or whether the applicant has in good faith exercised a right under the Consumer Credit Protection Act. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in residential real estate transactions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. Under these laws, a consumer cannot be refused a loan based on these characteristics nor be charged more for a loan or offered less favorable terms based on such characteristics. Credit Problems? Still Shop, Compare, and Negotiate Don't assume that minor credit problems or difficulties stemming from unique circumstances, such as illness or temporary loss of income, will limit your loan choices to only high-cost lenders. If your credit report contains negative information that is accurate, but there are good reasons for trusting you to repay a loan, be sure to explain your situation to the lender or broker. If your credit problems cannot be explained, you will probably have to pay more than borrowers who have good credit histories. But don't assume that the only way to get credit is to pay a high price. Ask how your past credit history affects the price of your loan and what you would need to do to get a better price. Take the time to shop around and negotiate the best deal that you can. Whether you have credit problems or not, it's a good idea to review your credit report for accuracy and completeness before you apply for a loan. To order a copy of your credit report, contact: Equifax: (800) 685-1111 TransUnion: (800) 916-8800 Experian: (888) EXPERIAN (397-3742) Glossary Adjustable-rate loans , also known as variable-rate loans, usually offer a lower initial interest rate than fixed-rate loans. The interest rate fluctuates over the life of the loan based on market conditions, but the loan agreement generally sets maximum and minimum rates. When interest rates rise, generally so do your loan payments; and when interest rates fall, your monthly payments may be lowered Annual percentage rate (APR) is the cost of credit expressed as a yearly rate. The APR includes the interest rate, points, broker fees, and certain other credit charges that the borrower is required to pay. Conventional loans are mortgage loans other than those insured or guaranteed by a government agency such as the FHA (Federal Housing Administration), the VA (Veterans Administration), or the Rural Development Services (formerly know as Farmers Home Administration, or FmHA). Escrow is the holding of money or documents by a neutral third party prior to closing. It can also be an account held by the lender (or servicer) into which a homeowner pays money for taxes and insurance. Fixed-rate loans generally have repayment terms of 15, 20, or 30 years. Both the interest rate and the monthly payments (for principal and interest) stay the same during the life of the loan. The interest rate is the cost of borrowing money expressed as a percentage rate. Interest rates can change because of market conditions. Loan origination fees are fees charged by the lender for processing the loan and are often expressed as a percentage of the loan amount. Lock-in refers to a written agreement guaranteeing a home buyer a specific interest rate on a home loan provided that the loan is closed within a certain period of time, such as 60 or 90 days. Often the agreement also specifies the number of points to be paid at closing. A mortgage is a document signed by a borrower when a home loan is made that gives the lender a right to take possession of the property if the borrower fails to pay off on the loan. Overages are the difference between the lowest available price and any higher price that the home buyer agrees to pay for the loan. Loan officers and brokers are often allowed to keep some or all of this difference as extra compensation. Points are fees paid to the lender for the loan. One point equals 1 percent of the loan amount. Points are usually paid in cash at closing. In some cases, the money needed to pay points can be borrowed, but doing so will increase the loan amount and the total costs. Private mortgage insurance (PMI) protects the lender against a loss if a borrower defaults on the loan. It is usually required for loans in which the down payment is less than 20 percent of the sales price or, in a refinancing, when the amount financed is greater than 80 percent of the appraised value. Thrift institution is a general term for savings banks and savings and loan associations. Transaction, settlement, or closing costs may include application fees; title examination, abstract of title, title insurance, and property survey fees; fees for preparing deeds, mortgages, and settlement documents; attorneys' fees; recording fees; and notary, appraisal, and credit report fees. Under the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the borrower receives a good faith estimate of closing costs at the time of application or within three days of application. The good faith estimate lists each expected cost either as an amount or a range. This brochure was prepared by the following agencies: Department of Housing and Urban Development Department of Justice Department of the Treasury Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Federal Housing Finance Board Federal Reserve Board Federal Trade Commission National Credit Union Administration Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight Office of the Comptroller of the Currency Office of Thrift Supervision These agencies (except the Department of the Treasury) enforce compliance with laws that prohibit discrimination in lending. If you feel that you have been discriminated against in the home financing process, you may want to contact one of the agencies listed above about your rights under these laws. For more information on home lending issues , visit www.consumer.gov , write to the Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81009 or visit the Center's Web site . The following brochures are available from the center: A Consumer's Guide to Mortgage Lock-lns A Consumer's Guide to Mortgage Refinancing Buying Your Home: Settlement Costs and Helpful Information Consumer Handbook on Adjustable Rate Mortgages Guide to Single Family Home Mortgage Insurance Home Buyer's Vocabulary Home Mortgages: Understanding the Process and Your Rights to Fair Lending How to Buy a Home with a Low Down Payment How to Dispute Credit Report Errors The HUD Home Buying Guide When Your Home Is on the Line Mortgage Shopping Worksheet Lender 1 Lender 2 Name of Lender Name of Contact Date of Contact Mortgage Amount Basic Information on the Loans Mortgage 1 Mortgage 2 Mortgage 1 Mortgage 2 Type of Mortgage: Fixed rate, adjustable rate, conventional, FHA, other? If adjustable, see below. Minimum down payment required Loan term (length of loan) Contract interest rate Annual percentage rate (APR) Points (may be called loan discount points) Monthly Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) premiums How long must you keep PMI? Estimated monthly escrow for taxes and hazard insurance Estimated monthly payment (Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance, PMI) Fees Different institutions may have different names for some fees and may charge different fees. We have listed some typical fees you may see on loan documents. Application fee or Loan processing fee Origination fee or Underwriting fee Lender fee or Funding fee Appraisal fee Attorney fees Document preparation and recording fees Broker fees (may be quoted as points, origination fees, or interest rate add-on) Credit report fee Other fees Other Costs at Closing/Settlement Title search/Title Insurance For lender For you Estimate prepaid amounts for interest, taxes, hazard insurance, payments to escrow State and local taxes, stamp taxes, transfer taxes Flood determination Prepaid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) Surveys and home inspections Total Fees and Other Closing/Settlement Cost Estimates Mortgage Shopping Worksheet - continued Lender 1 Lender 2 Name of Lender Other Questions and Considerations about the Loan Mortgage 1 Mortgage 2 Mortgage 1 Mortgage 2 Are any of the fees or costs waivable? Prepayment penalties Is there a prepayment penalty? If so, how much is it? How long does the penalty period last? (for example, 3 years? 5 years?) Are extra principal payments allowed? Lock-ins Is the lock-in agreement in writing? Is there a fee to lock-in? When does the lock-in occur -0 at application, approval or another time? How long will the lock-in last? If the rate drops before closing, can you lock-in at a lower rate? If the loan is an adjustable rate mortgage: What is the initial rate? What is the maximum the rate could be next year? What are the rate and payment caps each year and over the life of the loan? What is the frequency of rate change and of any changes to the monthly payment? What is the index that the lender will use? What margin will the lender add to the index? Credit life insurance Does the monthly amount quoted to you include a charge for credit life insurance? If so, does the lender required credit life insurance as a condition of the loan? How much does the credit life insurance cost? How much lower would your monthly payment be without the credit life insurance? If the lender does not require credit life insurance, and you still want to buy it, what rates can you get from other insurance providers? The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues , visit www.ftc.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The FTC enters Internet, telemarketing, identity theft, and other fraud-related complaints into Consumer Sentinel , a secure, online database available to hundreds of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad. January 1999