The  loan-to-value (LTV) ratio expresses the amount of a first mortgage lien as a percentage of the total appraised value of real property. For instance, if a borrower wants $130,000 to purchase a house worth $150,000, the LTV ratio is $130,000/$150,000 or 87%. Loan to value is one of the key risk factors that lenders assess when qualifying borrowers for a mortgage. The risk of default is always at the forefront of lending decisions, and [...]

If you have the money, now is a good time to make your plays in real estate. Rates are low and expected to go lower, and real estate is historically cheap right now. When putting together your real estate investment package, you are wise to know what type of loan you can qualify for. When doing your research you may find that the banks offer hugely different rates for conforming vs. non-conforming loans(Jumbo). Depending in [...]