How To Conquer Debt 101

Debt can be a very scary thing. If you are not careful, before you know it you have mounds of debt laying at your feet. How can you handle it if you end up creating more than you can handle? Here are a few steps to help you get back on your feet.

Make more than the minimum payment. Credit card companies love it when you pay just enough to get by every month. At that rate, you’re mostly paying off interest and barely scratching the surface of your actual debt. You will want to pay more than what they are asking for in order to decrease payments and minimize those monthly accruing interest charges. Pay off debt with the highest interest rate first. It goes almost without saying, but it's something that a lot of people forget. If one credit line is charging you 11% APR (interest over the course of a year) while another credit line is charging you 9% APR, focus all your attention on the debt that falls under 11% interest rate. Pay it off before even touching the other debt. You want to pay off the one with the highest interest rate in order to decrease your interest debt. Sure the other cards will continue to charge interest but it will be at a lower rate, and in return not charge you as much as a higher rate in the long run. Talk to your credit card companies. Explain your financial situation and ask if there is anything they can do to help. Many will lower your interest rate for a period of time and/or waive current late fee balances, to give you a better opportunity to catch up. Especially if you are one that has never had a history of late fees and or credit problems in the past. Never close cards with existing balances. It might seem like an easy way to get a handle on your debt, but it'll do horrors to your credit score, and you'll still be on the hook for the debt. All this will do is send your credit utilization (your available limit v. your current debt) down, further driving down your credit score. Learn more here on how to increase your credit score. Move your debts around. Though transferring money from a credit card with 12% interest to a card with 0% interest may damage your short-term credit, barely chipping away at your debt because your interest is so high will damage your finances in the long term. Shop around for long-term, low- or no-percent interest rate transfer opportunities, or look into transferring some of your debt onto a low-interest card that you already have. Keep the following in mind: How long the low interest rate will last. Depending on your total debt and how quickly you think you can pay it off, 0% interest for six months may not be as good a deal as 2% for 18 months. Liquidate big ticket items to help lower your debt. If you just bought a car, or a memory foam mattress, or a new dirt bike, think seriously about your ability to keep such big-budget items, especially if you're paying for them on installment. Liquidating your big-ticket items now will mean less financial hardship for you later on. This is one not everyone likes to do, but if you are in a bind it’s better to wait and re buy an item later when you are in a more stable financial situation than to have an item and have headaches continuously over debt each month.

Needing more help? Have more questions about credit? At Texas Premier Mortgage, we have licensed loan officers who specialize in helping people to be able to afford their home whether it be right away or in the future. They can help sort through your debt and offer assistance as needed. Why not give them a call today so they can help you decrease your debt so you can afford that dream home you have always wanted. Contact Steve Head, President of Texas Premier Mortgage to begin your steps to decreasing your debt and gaining that perfect home.

How do I Know if I can Apply for a Mortgage?

Many factors come into play once you decide you are ready to take the next step: applying for the mortgage. It sounds really scary to one who has not ever had any experience with owning their own home. With a knowledgeable lender who can lead you each step of the way there really is nothing to worry about at all! A few things that will need to be looked at. The lender will want to see financial stability. A potential lender will look for steady employment, with a single employer for the past two years or at least employment in the same field. Your credit history and if you have any late note payments will also be a factor. Lenders pay particular attention to any rent or mortgage payments that were more than 30 days past due. They will also look into your current bank statements. In order to qualify for a mortgage, most lenders require that you have a debt-to-income ratio of 28/36. This means that no more than 28 percent of your total monthly income (from all sources and before taxes) can go toward housing, and no more than 36 percent of your monthly income can go toward your total monthly debt (this includes your mortgage payment). Lenders will ask you to provide some of the following information as well: Your current credit report. Pay stubs for the past 30 days. W-2 forms for the past two years. Information about debt obligations, including car loans, student loans, tax liabilities, liens (including federal tax liens), bankruptcies, etc. Recent statements from your checking, savings, mutual fund or other accounts. Tax returns for the past two years if you're self-employed. Proof of any supplemental income. Records of any negative credit accounts that have been paid off. Records of child support or alimony if applicable. At Texas Premier Mortgage, we are here to assist you with every step of the process. Contact Steve Head

today at 281-627-4222 to help you begin your journey to purchasing your next home!

What drives you?

What drives you? This is a question many people ask themselves but do not ask others. Life brings obstacles but the question is: how do you handle those obstacles? Do you turn the other way and pretend your problem does not exist? Do you hope that it will end in a happy ending? Life is too short....you have to plan ahead! But what keeps you going? Remember this: God won't bring you through something that he can not help you out of. Whatever he gives you he can bring you through. Things happen. Life may bring you through tough things, but you will come out better and brighter than before if you just have trust and faith. So it is easy to say that. But can we really get out of our problems? Can things really turn around? God will bring you through, you just have to push through your difficulties, keep moving forward, and keep praising God through it all! At Texas Premier Mortgage, we have built our foundation on the premise that if you put God first, and praise him through all things, then everything will fall into place. That is why we continue doing what we do...helping those who need assistance. This year we have reached out to the community, and have been involved with Montgomery County's Women's Council of Realtors Community Outreach program that does just that. The Holidays for Heroes program has helped to benefit Veterans for the past nine years. This year we collected items to fill over 500 stockings to be delivered to 40 deployed veterans, and over 400 homeless veterans in Houston that will be hand delivered on Christmas Eve. We also are pleased to announce this year we added a partnership with Lone Star College to create an endowment for a scholarship for veterans returning to school after returning home. This endowment will be ongoing, and what a difference it could mean to a veteran determined to finish college to help continue an abundant life for them. Giving back, that is what it is about, that is what we are about...helping to increase others and lift them up. At Texas Premier Mortgage, we have seasoned loan officers that can help you through your big or small obstacles. It may take some time

but we know it will work our for good. We can walk you through your life's challenges. No matter where you are, we can help you at any stage of your life. If you need credit assistance we can help. Our highly qualified and seasoned loan officers can assist you through the home loan process. It does not have to be stressful, we can help! Let us know how we can assist you. It is our pleasure. Contact Steve Head today to get started at steve@txpremiermortgage.com, 281-627-4222 or 281-907-6401 ext. 100. We are ready to help!

Are There Lender Options for New Home Construction?

When buying a new home there is a lot to think about. What area do you want to live in? What schools are important to you for your children? Do you have a realtor? All of these questions get answered as you begin your new home search. However, once you find that new home and it is new construction, the question arises: Do I have to purchase through the builder’s lender? Home builders do offer in house lending. You are usually given a list of lenders whom the builder recommends to use. But are these a good deal? One incentive to using their suggested lender is convenience. It is a one stop shop per say. Because the affiliated lender is intimately familiar with the builder, the two companies can share information which can help to speed up the lending process. Some builders offer substantial incentives from reducing the price of the home to upgrading appliances. However, while builders offer these incentives, they are required by federal law to allow homebuyers to obtain their mortgage from any company they choose. They may be able to insist you seek mortgage pre-approval from one of their affiliates as a type of credit check, but they cannot compel you to borrow money from these lenders. So with that being said, yes you are free to shop around and choose your own lender. According to the National Association of Mortgage Brokers (NAMB), affiliated lenders tend to offer interest rates one-eighth to one-quarter percent higher than what consumers could get from an independent lender. Therefore it would be a good idea to check out different companies just to be sure you are getting the best interest rate. You can also experience less options on the type of mortgage that best fits your needs. There is enormous variety in the types of mortgages available today. Not only can homebuyers choose between a fixed-rate or adjustable-rate loan and select their term and payment options, but they can also explore a number of non-traditional mortgages designed for people with specific needs. A builder's shortlist of partner lenders is unlikely to match the array of mortgages you'll find if you search for your loan independently. Just as you make a careful search for the right house, it's worth taking the time to shop around for the best mortgage. Look at what the builder is offering, but compare it with quotes from at least three outside lenders. By considering all of your options, you'll be able to arrange financing that best suits your needs. Contact Texas Premier Mortgage

today to speak to highly qualified lenders who can work hard to get you the lowest interest rate, and guide you each step of the way for the purchase of your new home.

What is PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) and Why is it Important?

Private mortgage insurance (PMI) is a type of insurance policy that protects lenders from the risk of default and foreclosure, allowing buyers who are unable to make a significant down payment to obtain mortgage financing at affordable rates. If you purchase a home and put down less than 20%, your lender will minimize its risk by requiring you to buy insurance from a PMI company prior to signing off on the loan. As the borrower, you end up paying the PMI premiums but your lender is the sole beneficiary. If you have monthly PMI, you continue to make PMI payments every month until your PMI is either terminated (when your loan balance is scheduled to reach 78% of the original value of your home); when it is cancelled at your request because your equity in the home reaches 20% of the purchase price or appraised value (your lender will approve a PMI cancellation only if you have adequate equity and have a good payment history); or when you reach the midpoint of the amortization period (a 30-year loan, for example, would reach the midpoint after 15 years). Borrowers usually have to pay PMI when any single loan accounts for more than 80% of the appraised home value. The key word here is “single.” But what if you used two separate mortgage loans

to pay for the house? This is a common strategy used by home buyers who have less than 20% saved up for a down payment. For example, you could use an 80-10-10 mortgage to buy a house, and you wouldn’t have to pay for a PMI policy. Here’s what those numbers represent: • 80 = The first mortgage would cover 80% of the purchase price. • 10 = The second home loan (also called a “purchase money second”) would cover 10% of the price. • 10 = You, as the borrower, would pay the remaining 10% out of pocket as a down payment. In this “piggyback” financing scenario, no single loan accounts for more than 80% of the price. Therefore, you wouldn’t have to pay for PMI protection, even though you are putting less than 20% down on the home purchase. How can you avoid paying PMI? You can avoid paying PMI by making a down payment that is at least 20% of the purchase price of your home. There are many ways to consider but it is also a good idea to talk to someone in the mortgage industry who has knowledge regarding this type of insurance. Contact Steve Head, President and owner of Texas Premier Mortgage at 281-627-4222. Available 7 days a week, he is highly educated on this and many other mortgage concerns you may have.

Your Mortgage Lender, Your Strongest Link

When you are in the market to buy a new home, several factors come to mind. First and foremost you need to figure out your home buying budget. Next,

find an area in which you would like to live in. Whether it be in the city, suburbs, or country, there is a place for everyone to find their perfect fit. Once you have your area picked out, you begin your search. Websites such as har.com offer you a vast array of choices as well as multiple sites out there. Make a list of your "must haves" that will help you with your search. Narrow it down to your favorite two or three. Find a local realtor on realtor.com, or har.com to help you with your search. Ask friends, neighbors who they have used in the past or if they can refer you to someone. You will also need a mortgage lender. They are your strongest link between your realtor and your financial institution granting you the money for your loan. When shopping for a mortgage lender make sure they have been in business for at least five years, and you will want someone who has experience with the mortgage field. At Texas Premier Mortgage, we provide top notch customer service and treat our clients as if they were our own family. That is why it is important to find a mortgage broker who knows the ends and outs of the mortgage process, and who constantly educates themselves with the latest and greatest up to date mortgage information possible. Our communication goes beyond the normal "9-5" persona you may find with other lenders or when dealing with a bank. A member of the Better Business Bureau since 2010 A+ rating, and the winner of the 2014 BBB Excellence award, we strive to provide the utmost excellence when helping our clients obtain their home buying goal. Steve Head, President of Texas Premier Mortgage since 2006, has vast experience and knowledge to help be your strongest link in the home buying process. He knows all the current up to date mortgage news, has the experience most new loan originators lack, and has lived in The Woodlands, TX area for most of his life. Therefore he knows the area very well, and can help assist you with any questions you may have. Contact Steve Head with Texas Premier Mortgage today at 281-627-4222, or email at steve@txpremiermortgage.com. Let us help you by becoming Your Mortgage Lender, Your Strongest Link.

What helps to determine mortgage rates?

One of the most important aspects to successfully obtaining a mortgage is securing a low interest rate. After all, the lower the rate, the lower the payment each month. Unfortunately, many homeowners tend to just go along with whatever their bank or mortgage broker offers, often without researching mortgage lender rates or inquiring about how it all works. Whether you’re interested in rates or not, it’s wise to get a better understanding of how mortgage rates move and why. To put it in perspective, a change in rate of a mere .125% (eighth percent) or .25% (quarter percent) could mean thousands of dollars in savings or costs annually. And even more over the entire term of the loan. So what can determine the mortgage rates? 1. Treasury Bonds. The 10-year Treasury bond yield is said to be the best indicator to determine whether mortgage rates will rise or fall. Typically, when bond rates (also known as the bond yield) go up, interest rates go up as well. And vice versa. Investors turn to bonds as a safe investment when the economic outlook is poor. When purchases of bonds increase, the associated yield falls, and so do mortgage rates. But when the economy is expected to do well, investors jump into stocks, forcing bond prices lower and pushing the yield (and mortgage rates) higher. 2. Economic activity. As a rule of thumb, bad economic news brings with it lower mortgage rates, and good economic news forces rates higher. Remember, if things aren’t looking too hot, investors will sell stocks and turn to bonds, and that means lower yields and interest rates. If the stock market is rising, mortgage rates probably will be too, seeing that both climb on positive economic news. And don’t forget the Fed. When they release “Fed Minutes” or change the Federal Funds Rate, mortgage rates

can swing up or down depending on what their report indicates about the economy. Generally, a growing economy (inflation) leads to higher mortgage rates and a slowing economy leads to lower mortgage rates. Inflation also greatly impacts mortgage rates. If inflation fears are strong, interest rates will rise to curb the money supply, but in times when there is little risk of inflation, mortgage rates will most likely fall. 3. Freddie Mac’s weekly mortgage rate survey. Freddie Mac’s average mortgage rates are updated weekly every Thursday morning. Since 1971, Freddie Mac has conducted a weekly survey of mortgage rates. These are averages gathered from banks throughout the nation for conventional (non-government) conforming mortgages with an LTV ratio of 80 percent. The numbers are based on quotes offered to “prime” borrowers, meaning best-case pricing for the most part. As you can see, 30-year fixed mortgage rates are the most expensive relative to the 15-year fixed and select adjustable-rate mortgages. This is the case because the 30-year fixed rate never changes, and it’s offered for a full three decades. So you pay a premium for the stability and lack of risk. Rates on the 15-year fixed are significantly cheaper, but you get half the time to pay it off, meaning larger monthly payments. Rates on ARMs are discounted at the outset because you only get a limited fixed period before they become adjustable, at which point they generally rise. For more information and further explanation contact Steve Head, President of Texas Premier Mortgage at 281-907-6401 ext. 100.

What is a home appraisal?

When you're buying a home using a mortgage, refinancing your existing mortgage, or selling your home to anyone other than an all-cash buyer, the home appraisal is a key component of the transaction. Whether you're a buyer, owner or seller, you'll want to understand how the appraisal process works and how an appraiser determines a home's value. An appraisal is an unbiased professional opinion of a home's value. Appraisals are almost always used in purchase and sale transactions and commonly used in refinance transactions. In a purchase and sale transaction, an appraisal is used to determine whether the home's contract price is appropriate given the home's condition, location and features. In a refinance, it assures the lender that it isn't handing the borrower more money than the home is worth. Lenders want to make sure that homeowners are not over borrowing for a property because the home serves as collateral for the mortgage. If the borrower should default on the mortgage and go into foreclosure, the lender will recoup the money it lent by selling the home. The appraisal helps the bank protect itself against lending more than it might be able to recover in this worst-case scenario. When you're buying a home and you're under contract, the appraisal will be one of the first steps in the closing process. If the appraisal comes in at or above the contract price, the transaction proceeds as planned. If the appraisal comes in below the contract price, however, it can delay or derail the transaction. If you're refinancing a conventional mortgage, a low appraisal can prevent you from refinancing your home. The home needs to appraise at or above the amount you want to refinance for your loan to be approved. However, if your existing mortgage is an FHA mortgage, you can refinance without an appraisal through the FHA Streamline program. FHA Streamline is a great option for underwater homeowners. Contact the Texas Premier Mortgage team to find out more, and to help you through the home loan process.

Housing Market on the Rise

Existing-home sales increased in July to their highest annual pace of the year, and the ongoing decline in distressed sales reached an important milestone, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Total existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, rose 2.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.15 million in July from a slight downwardly-revised 5.03 million in June. Sales are at the highest pace of 2014 and have risen four consecutive months, but remain 4.3 percent below the 5.38 million-unit level from last July, which was the peak of 2013. According to Freddie Mac, the average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage fell for the third consecutive month to 4.13 percent in July from 4.16 percent in June, and remains the lowest rate since June 2013 (4.07 percent). The percent share of first-time buyers in July rose slightly for the second straight month to 29 percent (28 percent in June). For more rate information contact Steve Head, President of Texas Premier Mortgage.

The Do's and Dont's During the Home Loan Process

When starting the pre-approval process you should not do anything that will have an adverse effect on your loan from this point through your closing date. It may be tempting to start opening credit cards for furniture and other miscellaneous items, but this is the time to keep your financial future frozen and in a stable position until your loan closes. The slightest mistake can cost you thousands of dollars or the ability to obtain financing. In order for your pre approval to remain valid through the process, follow these easy steps: DO’s: • Stay current on your existing accounts. Any late payments (existing mortgage, cars, credit cards or anything else) on your credit will cost you dearly and can even keep you from getting financing. • Keep using your credit as you normally would. Now is not the time to start changing any patterns to your normal spending. This means if you normally use a certain credit card then you need to keep using it and not divert payments to another card. • Contact your mortgage expert. It’s best to contact someone who is up to date and currently in the mortgage field if you have any questions or concerns before and during the loan approval. Contact Steve Head 281-907-6401 ext. 100 at Texas Premier Mortgage at any time for more information. Don’t’s: • Don’t make any change to your employment. Quitting of changing jobs even within the same company can wreck your entire loan approval. • Don’t pay off collections or charge off accounts. This will usually result in a lower credit score for you. Do not do this unless you are told to do so by a mortgage expert. • Don’t make any adjustments or transfers in your assets. This is a BIG red flag to an underwriter. Any big deposit will be questioned. • Don’t over charge or max out existing credit cards. This is a quick way for your credit scores to drop. You want to keep a balance below 30% of the available limit. • Don’t consolidate your debt to one or two credit cards. Again, this could put you over the 30% threshold which will affect your credit scores. • Don’t close credit card accounts. This can affect your ratio of debt to available credit which has a big impact on your credit scores. It is best to close any accounts after your loan is closed.

The Woodlands & Conroe Texas Johnson Development Announces Plans for Camp Strake

Johnson Development Announces Plans for Camp Strake The master-planned community developer purchased the 2,046-acre site from Sam Houston Area Council Boy Scouts of America for an undisclosed price in November 2013. The Montgomery County Commissioners Court signed off on a tax incentive on March 5 that will repay Johnson $20 million over 10 years as it builds out a large-scale mixed-used development on the 2,046-acre site. It sits on the southwest corner of Interstate 45 North and Loop 336, south of Conroe, with frontage on both I-45 and Loop 336. It also is less than 10 miles north of the new Exxon Mobil Corporate campus currently under construction. The project will include traditional single-family homes, townhomes, apartments for sale and rent, office and retail space, as well as space for hotels and conference centers, said Doug Goff, COO of Johnson Development Corp. Construction will begin on the project’s infrastructure in early 2015. Johnson Development is working out a contract to sell a portion of the property to Houston-based Fidelis Realty Partners, which will build a large-scale retail center in the mixed-use development on the 336 Loop, Goff said. He would not reveal how many acres the sale will include.

The Woodlands, Texas Mortgage Lender

Mortgage Expert: Markets are getting hammered this morning - rates coming off morning highs with a slight pull back...Chicago PMI 52.6 vs est of 63.0 - this shows economic expansion but at a lower level than expected....Next up-to-bat Friday unemployment data = more volatility....

The Woodlands Texas, Steve Head the "Mortgage Expert"

Realtors - Mortgage Expert: I recently hosted a class "What effects the Mortgage Process" - if your interested in educating yourself or staff let me know...topics include - upfront process and saving time - educating the borrower of "do's and don'ts" - team communication - methods on how to handle low appraisals....Texas Premier Mortgage

Mortgage Expert The Woodlands, TX

Mortgage Expert: Rates pull back in early trading! Initial Weekly Jobless Claims: 302K vs est 310K. Housing Starts tank 893K vs est of 1.018M plus the prior period was revised downward from 1.001M to 985K. Building Permits 963K vs est of 1.040M.This is a mixed bag of economic data.

Things to do after you move in your new home!

Now that you're in your new home lets review a few items that might have been overlooked! I have a good handyman if you need help with any of these tasks. • Check the insulation in the attic-buy and install more if needed • Install ceiling fans in most rooms-they are a low energy way to keep the air circulating • Wrap exposed water pipes with insulation • Install a programmable/energy green thermostat • Check all toilets and faucets for leaks or constant running • Replace air filters • Make sure vents in all rooms are clear of dust • Choose energy efficient appliances • Get home owners insurance • Install/Activate home alarm For more information on local home buying and selling contact Rick Raanes/Keller Williams at 281-960-1900 rick@rickraanes.com or for financing questions Steve Head/Texas Premier Mortgage 281-627-4222 steve@txpremiermortgage.com

Harpers Preserve New Property for Sale - 17075 Harpers Way, Conroe, TX 77385

http://search.har.com/engine/17075-Harpers-Way-Conroe-TX-77385_HAR1182439.htm HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER MIDLETON FLOORPLAN ON OVERSIZED LOT NEXT TO GREENBELT, NO REAR NEIGHBORS, OVER $100,000 IN UPGRADES! WROUGHT IRON FENCING, ELECTRIC ACCESS GATE, FORMAL STUDY, GAME ROOM, 2 BEDROOMS DOWN, WOOD FLOORS, PROFESSIONALY DECORATED, STONE & BRICK ELEVATION,CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS, CHEF'S KITCHEN, SALTWATER POOL & SPA W/ WATERFALLS, LED LIGHTING, MEDIA ROOM WITH 99 INCH SCREEN, PROJECTOR, SPEAKERS, COVERED PATIO. HARPER'S PRESERVE IS A GATED COMMUNITY ADJACENT TO THE WOODLANDS!

2014 Red Hot & Blue Festival - Waterway / Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Texas Premier Mortgage is sponsoring the 2014 Red Hot & Blue Festival - Waterway / Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

What should I look for in a mortgage lender?

With so many mortgage lenders available, different rates, products, and fees to consider, what are the important factors to address first? According to Steve Head, President of Texas Premier Mortgage, “community knowledge and communication are at the top of the list.” Community Knowledge – A local Loan Officer that grew up in the area will have superior knowledge of the surrounding areas, often times giving supporting knowledge about the school districts, traffic burdened areas and drive times, and benefits of established relationships developed over years of doing business with the same companies including appraisers, realtors, and title companies. Communication – This is often underappreciated but, if you miss a closing date it could cost you thousands in delayed moving expenses, days off, extra paperwork, and an even greater headache if the seller won’t extend your contract a 1st or 2nd time. Having the ability to reach your Loan Officer outside of the normal “9 – 5” is critical when you have a busy schedule. Steve referenced he makes himself available 7 days a week through email, phone, and text messages to allow the borrower communication to fit their schedule and needs through closing. Head is available for any questions at 281-627-4222 or steve@txpremiermortgage.com

www.texaspremiermortgage.com

www.texaspremiermortgage.com - Helping sponsor Waterway Nights @ The Woodlands, TX Waterway Square this weekend. Live music, family fun, and fireworks for the family. Come drop by our booth - we would love to see you!

Allegro at Harmony - Spring, Texas

A home builder announced Wednesday that it plans to build a 500-home community to help meet the expected demand from the activities of Exxon Mobil and other energy companies north of Houston "We continue to see steady growth in new home sales and certainly adding a Taylor Morrison neighborhood to the master plan will be a big plus going forward,” Harmony General Manager Bob Douglas said in a statement. “New homes in Allegro at Harmony are expected to address the needs of families moving to the area for the nearby ExxonMobil corporate campus, Anadarko’s second tower and for other major employers which have expanded or relocated to South Montgomery County.”

What paperwork do I need to start looking for a home? Steve Head "Mortgage Expert" The Woodlands, Texas

You’re ready to buy, now it’s time to gather the necessary paperwork! Just like you picked your Real Estate Professional to help you start looking at homes it’s important you pick a Loan Officer that is seasoned, is an effective communicator, and has the knowledge to help make the process a smooth one. To save time later its important the Loan Officer gather the full documentation upfront to ensure a timely approval and you the borrower deliver on that checklist. An Expert Loan Officer will never ask for anything more than what is needed to qualify – so trust us! If you’re looking to purchase now or in the coming months this guide will help you start the process to getting a pre-approval letter. For any other additional questions contact Steve Head the “Mortgage Expert” President of Texas Premier Mortgage - Steve@txpremiermortgage.com – 281-627-4222 General information for all mortgage applications:  Pay stubs covering the last 30 days  W-2 forms for the last two years  Most Recent 2 months asset statement for the down payment funds  2 Years Tax Returns and any Tax Extension for current year Items to take into consideration when applying for a loan: 1. If you have declared bankruptcy in the last 7 years, provide a copy of the petition/decree, Schedule of Creditors and a copy of the discharge. Also include a letter of explanation on why you filed for bankruptcy, including short sales. 2. If you have been divorced, include a signed filed copy of all divorce decrees and any stipulation or modifications. 3. If child support payments are used as income, provide documentation of timely receipt. 4. If you have a gap of employment for more than 30 days in the past two years, please include a letter of explanation. 5. If you are selling your current home, include a copy of your signed HUD-1 this will be required before closing the new loan. 6. If you have rental property, include copies of your last two years Federal Tax returns. 7. If you are receiving a "gift" as part of your down payment, do not deposit the gift funds until you visit with me. 8. If you are being relocated by your employer, please provide a copy of your company's relocation policy. If you are applying for a VA loan:  VA Certificate of Eligibility  Form DD-214 or, for in-service veterans, Statement of Service.  Most recent Leave and Earnings Statement (in-service veterans only). Self-employed or commissioned borrowers:  Copies of your last two years personal and business federal signed income tax returns and all applicable schedules.  Year To Date Profit and Loss Statement and Balance Sheet (self-employed only).

What’s the difference between a prequalification and pre-approval?

So what’s the difference between a prequalification and pre-approval? When applying for a new home loan, knowing the difference between these two terms will save you time, headaches and help your realtor determine if you’re ready to look at houses. A prequalification is an unofficial estimate of how much house you can afford. A loan officer will make an educated guess about your ability to buy a home based on your verbal or written submissions of income, finances, and credit history. Lenders will not generally pull your credit report during this evaluation. They will calculate your debt-to-income ratio and write you a letter of prequalification stating how much you should be able to borrow. This process is usually free, but it does not give you any real credibility with lenders or making an offer on your new home. The prequalification is based on vague figures and does not take into account all your financial factors. Future home owners fall into this category if they are just wanting to gather information about projected payments, costs, possibility of approval, it holds no weight for the lender to actually issue a real “pre-approval letter”. The main benefit of prequalification is getting a general idea of how much you can afford. Pre-approval on the other hand is what your realtor wants to have in hand before showing you houses and making offers. The approval consists of the lender reviewing documents such as tax returns, bank statements, and business financials for self-employed borrowers. Lenders will analyze these and other information gained by reviewing employment history, and reviewing your credit report. After an evaluation of this information the lender is able to then produce a pre-approval letter that certifies that you have the resources, capital, and income to afford to buy a home for a certain amount. Sellers will 100% require an approval letter from buyers who are pre-approved because they have proof that the buyers have financial backing and are prepared to pay the required amount. In a hot market like The Woodlands, Conroe, and Woodforest, most sellers won’t even consider offers from buyers without pre-approval letters. A pre-approval does not guarantee loan approval or funding. It simply means that the lender has reviewed the information and to the best of their professional knowledge and information provided the likelihood of approval is likely. Any information the borrower fails to communicate or the lender isn’t made aware of can alter the pre-approval during the underwriting process. Call Steve Head “Mortgage Expert” with Texas Premier Mortgage to discuss your questions and application at 281-907-6401 x100, steve@txpremiermortgage.com

The Woodlands Mortgage / Texas Premier Mortgage

The Woodlands, Texas Mortgage Company Getting the best mortgage or home loan rate can save you thousands over the course of your loan. If you are looking to refinance your existing mortgage loan or are looking for a new home mortgage loan, we will provide you a variety of terms and products to review. The rates fluctuate from day to day depending on the market conditions so its important we discuss the checklist of items needed to lock in your rate. Its also important we discuss your time frame on closing the loan to ensure your lock period is sufficient enough for us to process and close your loan. We have an industry exclusive option to also explore a float down on your rate if the market conditions improve. Upon your final approval we will check with our lock desk if any rate float downs can be applied to your loan. This is a courtesy to you and costs you no additional fees. Its our commitment to you as our borrower that we will give you the best service, most competitive rates, and fees available. Call Steve Head the "Mortgage Expert" at 281-907-6401 to get a live quote or you can fill in the quick quote on the right side of this page. We look forward to speaking with you.

Woodforest Builders in Montgomery, Texas

Texas Premier Mortgage is here to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you have about the Woodforest Community. Call Steve Head "Mortgage Expert" at 281-907-6401 x100 or email direct at steve@txpremiermortgage.com Woodforest Builders Top National List: Builder magazine has released its annual tally of the nation’s best-performing home builders and — not surprisingly — Woodforest builders make the list again and again. In fact, eight of the community’s production builders are on the Builder 100 list — four of which are ranked in the top 10. Making the list — which the magazine says “belies the work, the cleverness and creativity, the skills, the boldness, and the sheer force of will and resilience among the teams of people behind the titles of the companies in our survey universe” are: • D.R. Horton, ranked No. 1 for 2013 closings • Lennar Corp, No. 2 • The Ryland Group, No. 6 • Taylor Morrison (which also owns Darling Homes), No. 8 • Highland Homes, No. 21 • Perry Homes, No. 22 • McGuyer Homebuilders, Inc., (parent company of Coventry Homes), No. 26 • Newmark Homes, No. 95 http://www.woodforesttx.com/news/1764/woodforest-builders-top-national-list

Steve Head - Mortgage Expert

What Happened Today: Mortgage Rates pull back - U.S. stocks fell sharply on Tuesday, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping to a five-week low to 16,390, after a Federal Reserve official said rate hikes might come sooner than later and other retailers offered disappointing quarterly results with lower guidance.

The Woodlands Texas Real Estate Update

So what happened today? The market is confused! Mortgage Rates continue to pull back on more confusing economic data with data suggesting a slowing of manufacturing to unemployment figures getting better, to Wal-Mart sales weaker than projected. The economy is still moving at a snails pace that's a fact but, with some good news then bad news the day traders ultimately control the market. What does this mean if you're in the market to purchase? There is still time to take advantage of purchasing a new home and taking advantage of the low interest rates in 2014. If you own a home we need to discuss your options with a qualified realtor to determine how much your home is worth and how much you can expect to profit after closing. From that point its the mortgage professionals job to determine your budget with down payment, monthly payment, debt ratio, and loan terms. Remember while your home continues to increase in value so is the home you are wanting to upgrade to! Steve Head "Mortgage Expert" 281-907-6401 x100 - txpremiermortgage.com

Exxon Mobile Relocation The Woodlands TX Real Estate

Exxon Mobile Relocation The Woodlands TX Real Estate Welcome to the Woodlands Area and thank you for visiting our website! Deb Hall Homes of Gary Greene and Texas Premier Mortgage are located just minutes from the new Exxon Mobil campus. Our expertise will help you find an existing home that exceeds your expectations. You can also explore the numerous builders for a unique touch of custom options available. We will provide all the information you need, excellent communication, and local knowledge to make a smooth relocation. Call The Deb Hall Team to start exploring the different Villages of The Woodlands at 281-210-1673, or Steve Head your local “Mortgage Expert” with Texas Premier Mortgage for your financing pre-approval at 281-907-6401 x100 / www.txpremiermortgage.com. Let us help you today to find the home of your dreams for tomorrow!

The Woodlands Waterway Square and Texas Premier Mortgage

If you're looking for something to do this evening Texas Premier Mortgage would like to invite you to The Woodlands Waterway Square "Live at Night 6:00 - 8:00..(behind Crush Wine Bar).The event is free and provides music and family fun....It is truly an awesome event to relax and enjoy the outdoor weather...Many residents bring their own bottle of wine/chair/blanket and enjoy good conversation with family and friends....As a sponsor, The TXPM Team will be passing out our "neon green" balloons and treats for the kids...

The Woodlands Mortgage Company

What happened today?? Mortgage Expert: Non-Farm Payrolls 288K vs est 210K, plus the prior 2 months were revised upward by +36K. The Unemployment Rate hit 6.3% vs est 6.6%....So why was the market down on such "good news"??? Ukraine popped up again as well as the underlying theme the economy is improving but at a very-very slow rate...The 6.3% is also said to be skewed by the participation rate itself ...Rates spiked hard this morning with the 10 year bond reaching 2.66 then retreating to 2.59 early in the afternoon. Texas Premier Mortgage / Steve Head 281-907-6401 x100

The Woodlands, Texas Mortgage Company

Texas Premier Mortgage will be sponsoring the "Live at Night" - Waterway Square Event with a booth and family fun this Saturday come enjoy the evening with us = Explore The Woodlands!

The Woodlands Mortgage - The Woodlands TX Mortgage Broker and Banker -The Woodlands Texas Mortgage Home Loans

The Woodlands Mortgage - The Woodlands TX Mortgage Broker and Banker -The Woodlands Texas Mortgage Home Loans Thank you for visiting our website! Texas Premier Mortgage is your #1 mortgage lender to help you with your mortgage loan in The Woodlands. Txpm is an Accredited BBB Company with an A+ rating, Member of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, and 5 Star Lender. Texas Premier Mortgage is a correspondent lender and originates fha, conventional, jumbo, equity, and va home loans only in Texas. Our success is attributed to our close association with our lenders, Texas product knowledge, excellent staff, and customer loyalty to the community. Call the Mortgage Expert: Steve Head at 281-907-6401 x100 for any questions or to schedule a face-to-face meeting...We are here to help!

The Woodlands Mortgage - The Woodlands TX Mortgage Broker and Banker -The Woodlands Texas Mortgage Home Loans

Thank you for visiting our website! Texas Premier Mortgage is your #1 mortgage lender to help you with your mortgage loan in The Woodlands, Texas. Txpm is an Accredited BBB Company with an A+ rating, Member of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, and 5 Star Lender. Call the Mortgage Expert direct at 281-627-4222 or fill out the quick quote at www.txpremiermortgage.com

New Homes at Woodforest - Montgomery County

Woodforest in Magnolia, Texas Texas Premier Mortgage is located minutes from the Woodforest Community in Montgomery County. We will help you find a local realtor or builder and guide you through the home loan process here in Texas. We provide the contacts, communication, and knowledge you need to make process a smooth transistion for you and your family. Call Steve Head direct at 281-627-4222 or fill out a "quick quote" on the main page. We have BBB Accredited Award Winning Service and an A+ business rating. Txpm is also a member of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce.

ExxonMobil relocation resulting in new residential development The Woodlands Texas Woodlands Area News on Woodlands

Texas Premier Mortgage is located less than a mile from the new Exxon Campus located in The Woodlands Area. If you are moving to The Woodlands or surrounding area, Congratulations! This is one of the most prominent areas in Texas. As an established local lender Texas Premier Mortgage is familiar with the various subdivisions to choose, school districts, and family activities that will impact your move. We are here to assist you in your financing needs, the loan process and pre-approval needed to build or put in an offer on your new home. As part of the upfront approval process we will send you a customized checklist of documents to start gathering and review your credit to ensure we give you an accurate estimate of what to expect at closing. We have lower fees, lower rates and our service is BBB Award Winning year in and year out. Contact Steve Head/Branch Manager toll free at 866-440-4323 x100 or locally 281-907-6401 x100 for more information about local rates, payments, and other moving questions you might have. We also have a variety of local realtors you can trust that will help you navigate the properties and options available. Company Address: 25325 Borough Park Dr. Ste 210 The Woodlands, TX 77380

Exxon Mobile Relocation | The Woodlands TX Real Estate

Welcome to the Woodlands Area and Thank you for visiting our website. Texas Premier Mortgage is located a few minutes from the new Exxon Mobil campus. We will help you find a local realtor or builder and guide you through the home loan process here in Texas. We provide the contacts, communication, and knowledge you need to make process a smooth transistion for you and your family. You can call us direct at 281-627-4222 or fill out a "quick quote" on the main page. We have BBB Accredited Award Winning Service and an A+ business rating. Txpm is also a member of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce.

About about the President Steve Head II

About about the President Steve Head II steve@txpremiermortgage.com / 281-907-6401 x100 I've been in the mortgage business since 2004 and the President of Texas Premier Mortgage since 2006 here in The Woodlands. I read, watch, educate myself and live home loans everyday. I'm an expert in this field and my communication is the best in the business. I enjoy my family, outdoors, church, disney world, golf and weekend barbeques. I also graduated from Sam Houston State University and enjoy motivational movies. I want to be "Your Lender for Life"!

The Woodlands - Mortgage Expert

Mortgage Expert: So far I have saved my borrowers roughly 13k in closing costs by this aggressive move! Over the last week rates have made a huge push downward allowing lenders to float the rates down or give additional credits to help reduce the fees all together - Keep your lender Honest!

Woodforest Homes - Montgomery, Tx

10YR Auction:$21B 2.72% yield. The price before auction was 2.71% and the offer was 2.705

The Woodlands Texas Real Estate - Woodlands, TX Homes for Sale

The Woodlands Texas Real Estate - Woodlands, TX Homes for Sale The Woodlands is comprised of 9 Residential Villages with various amenities and a variety of new and existing home sales to choose from. The villages include Grogans Mill, Panther Creek, Cochran’s Crossing, Indian Springs, Alden Bridge, Sterling Ridge, College Park, Creekside Park, and Carlton Woods. For more information contact Steve Head with Texas Premier Mortgage 281-907-6401 x100.

Exxon Mobil The Woodlands Campus

Exxon Mobil The Woodlands Campus www.txpremiermortgage.com Texas Premier Mortgage is located less than a mile from the new Exxon Campus located in The Woodlands Area. If you are moving to The Woodlands or surrounding area, Congratulations! This is one of the most prominent areas in Texas. As an established local lender Texas Premier Mortgage is familiar with the various subdivisions to choose, school districts, and family activities that will impact your move. We are here to assist you in your financing needs, the loan process and pre-approval needed to build or put in an offer on your new home. As part of the upfront approval process we will send you a customized checklist of documents to start gathering and review your credit to ensure we give you an accurate estimate of what to expect at closing. We have lower fees, lower rates and our service is BBB Award Winning year in and year out. Contact Steve Head/Branch Manager toll free at 866-440-4323 x100 or locally 281-907-6401 x100 for more information about local rates, payments, and other moving questions you might have. We also have a variety of local realtors you can trust that will help you navigate the properties and options available. Company Address: 25325 Borough Park Dr. Ste 210 The Woodlands, TX 77380.

The Woodlands Mortgage - The Woodlands TX Mortgage Broker and Banker -The Woodlands Texas Mortgage Home Loans

The Woodlands Mortgage - The Woodlands TX Mortgage Broker and Banker -The Woodlands Texas Mortgage Home Loans Thank you for visiting our website! Texas Premier Mortgage is your #1 mortgage lender to help you with your mortgage loan in The Woodlands. Txpm is an Accredited BBB Company with an A+ rating, Member of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, and 5 Star Lender. Texas Premier Mortgage is a correspondent lender and originates fha, conventional, jumbo, equity, and va home loans only in Texas. Our success is attributed to our close association with our lenders, Texas product knowledge, excellent staff, and customer loyalty to the community. Our goal is to provide all clients, the best service in the industry. Our team can only achieve this goal by possessing and constantly demonstrating positive attitudes, possessing superior product knowledge, knowing policies and procedures of our company as well as the guidelines of our investors and being effective communicators!

Consumer Sentiment - The final reading for March is revised to 80.0 vs market expectations of 80.5. Not a major miss...certainly not enough to cause a major swing in rates.

The day wouldn't be complete without Mortgage News: Don't forget about your locally owned and operated Mortgage Company right here in The Woodlands operated by Steve Head and Team Txpm! Texas Premier Mortgage is dedicated to serving our local customers, providing exceptional "red carpet" service, helping our partnerships grow their business in 2014, and providing a direct impact to local charitable organizations. If you have a passion for a local charity you wish to share please send me an email or direct message.

On the last Agent Mastermind class, we had a special guest on with us to share how you can go from relationships to referrals and have a lot of fun while you do it. The response was amazing and we are bringing him back to help you take it to the next level! Remember that referrals are the key to our business and in order to get business, we must give it away as well. As was mentioned on the first class, the more you give, the more you’ll get, and having this mindset is imperative to our success. Michael J. Maher, author of the book “The Seven Levels of Communication: Go From Relationships to Referrals,” will be joining us again this Tuesday to talk about how you can take your referral mastery to the next level! http://agentmastermind.com/stevehead/ On this special class, Michael is going to share: • The Legacy Referral Strategy • How to get a referral today with this strategy • How to know the exact value in dollars of your database This class is the second class of a two part series and it’s imperative that you watch both sessions to get the full benefit. If you are looking for a simple way to increase your effectiveness and your referrals, then these classes are a must for you. I look forward to seeing you there on Tuesday, March 25th at 11:00. PS…Last week’s class is the lead in to this week, so if you missed it, you need to watch it first. Let me know if you need a copy.

Rates are slightly down this afternoon with the 10 year bond trading at 2.73.

Exxon Mobil Relocation | The Woodlands TX Real Estate Texas Premier Mortgage is located a few minutes from the new Exxon Mobil campus. We will help you find a local realtor or builder and guide you through the home loan process here in Texas. We provide the contacts, communication, and knowledge you need to make process a smooth transistion for you and your family. You can call us direct at 281-907-6401 or fill out a "quick quote" on the main page. We have BBB Accredited Award Winning Service and an A+ business rating. Txpm is also a member of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce.

Mortgage Expert: Rates are holding from Friday's close with no major up/down adjustments despite the Ukraine/Russia vote and market roaring upwards of 175 points in afternoon trading.

Per the Texas Supreme Court's recent decision on the 3% fee cap on Texas 50(a)(6) transactions, Citi has clarified that escrow impounds, interim interest, and bona fide discount points are not to be included in the fee limitation test.

A weaker open in the stock market is improving the bond and mortgage markets this morning. The DJIA opened down 60, NASDAQ -20 and the S&P -8. The bellwether 10 yr note found support at 2.80% but still driven by the stock market. At 9:30 the 10 +10/32 at 2.73% -4 bps and 30 yr MBS price +15 bps from yesterday’s close. Most all global stock markets were lower setting up the weak US open.

Texas Premier Mortgage took another loan away from a local builders "preferred lender" - closed and done - Final Rate 3.22%, 15 year fixed - with $1500 in lower fees. Lower Rates + Lower Fees = Happy Borrowers!

Steve Head Mortgage Expert: The Market is down roughly 40 points in late trading - the 10 year bond is hanging in the 2.69 - 2.70% slightly lower from this mornings range of 2.71Take two seemingly similar people and give them both the exact same opportunity. One takes it and has remarkable success, the other doesn’t. One wins, the other does not.

Market Update from Steve Head = Expert in the mortgage world!: The market is on a tear this morning up over 225 points after a brisk sell off yesterday. The bond is also on the move at 2.699 - rates higher 3/4/2014.

Texas Premier Mortgage - Rate Alert: All in all not bad for the week while the 10 year has been trending upward. Rates still holding in the 4's for a 30 and 3's for a 15 (purchase/excellent credit)! Looking to purchase? Call me to discuss options and get your pre-approval 281-907-6401 x100!

Yesterday interest rate markets improved, the 10 fell 4 bps to 2.70% and 30 yr MBS prices gained 35 bps in price. This morning no follow-through early; the rate markets remain range bound within an extremely narrow range, no direction but the outlook is a little better. The 10 opened at 2.71%, at 10:15 2.69% -1 bp

Consumer Confidence 78.1 vs est 80.0 - this is positive for rates and pricing this morning.

Last week Fannie Mae reported record earnings in 2013 and also paid back all of the bailout money owed to the Treasury. Fannie continues to make monster profits even with the refinance slow down.

Headline PPI was 0.2 vs est 0.1, this is generally a slight negative for pricing but there is a new methodology that has to be reconciled. Core PPI was also 0.2%. Housing Permits were 937K vs est 980K Housing Starts 880K vs est 950K but the prior period was revised upward significantly. Overall, this is a mixed bag for pricing

Texas Premier Mortgage - Mortgage Blog - The Woodlands, Texas: 2/18/2014

Texas Premier Mortgage - Mortgage Blog - The Woodlands, Texas: 2/18/2014: The Home Builders Sentiment Index was much weaker than expected. The market was looking for a reading around 56 but it came in at 46. A rea...

2/18/2014

The Home Builders Sentiment Index was much weaker than expected. The market was looking for a reading around 56 but it came in at 46. A reading of 50 is considered par, so this is a very weak reading.

President's Day

Due to President’s Day, the lock desk will be closed.  Most other departments are open, however will be short staffed.  See below for operation contact info.  As always, Thank you for your business!