Home Interest Rates are Historically Low

home interest rates

What High Interest Rates?

There seems to be a lot of commotion about home interest rates rising in the USA banking environment these days.  So because we’ve gone from 3.75% to 4.75% in the course of two years people think the sky is falling.  Really?  You’ve got to be kidding.

Back when I bought my first house in the 80’s, the interest rate environment was a completely different scenario than the current one. I purchased my home at an 17.5% interest rate.  Now that was a high interest rate.   Even as not too long ago as the early to mid 2000’s interest rates were hovering around 8% reaching to 6% by 2008 just prior to the financial crisis.

Because the nation was faced with an almost depression-like scenario, our leaders acted quickly to stabilize financial markets.  It is because of this reason that interest rates went as low as they did, in order to avoid an entire financial collapse.

What’s the moral of the story?  Higher interest rates mean an improving economy.  This results in an all-around better economic scenario for everyone, not just a few.  Because things are better in the USA economy today, we can feel safe with a few basis points higher in interest rates.

And regardless, historically speaking, interest rates as this level are still low.  It continues to be a perfect environment to both buy and sell and maximize your money.

Why Work with Mario Quintero

I help people reach their goals. Whether you want to buy for the first time, refinance your existing loan, purchase an investment property, or sell your home, TODAY is your moment. Have a look at your options with the help of Mario Quintero of STC Loans. Mario has been in the Miami real estate and mortgage business since 2002. His experience is tested and true. Mario has helped thousands of clients reach their home ownership goals,

Mario Quintero, principal of Strock and Tanner Mortgage, gets your deal done. Let me be both your trusted Miami realtor and Miami mortgage broker.

Get in Touch with Mario, Your Miami Realtor

I’m Mario Quintero, your mortgage & realtor for life. Let me be your Miami home consultant. Our office specializes in both residential and commercial real estate and financing programs. Let me help you secure a conventional, jumbo, FHA and foreign national mortgage loans. Furthermore, we can help your elderly parents secure a comfortable retirement with a reverse mortgage..

Call me today at 305-598-1600 or contact me here. Let’s find your dream home!

What is a Reverse Mortgage Loan?

Reverse mortgage

What is a Reverse Mortgage?

While you may have heard about a reverse mortgage loan, do you really know what it is? When you hear “loan”, you conclude you owe something. However, when associated with “reverse”, what is its meaning?

Are you over 62 years old?  A reverse mortgage loan, or house equity conversion, is available to seniors 62 years old or older. This tool aids senior homeowners in their retirement years.  Why?  Because when their income is not as it was during their younger, more productive years, this tool allows seniors to transform a part of their home’s equity into a certain amount of money. Instant money is available to the elderly without needing to sell their house.  The also don’t need to make additional regularly monthly mortgage payments.

How a Reverse Mortgage Helps Seniors

Reverse mortgage loans permit senior citizens to access their home’s equity.  There are two ways you may this off. The repayment can be deferred until you pass away.  Or, you may liquidate it when you  vacate the house you currently own. Subsequently, this is a great opportunity for the elderly.   Since they make no payments, it provides liquidity in retirement. A reverse mortgage is an excellent financial tool.  The interest on the loan is added to the loan balance itself every month.

Why Work with Mario Quintero

Is a reverse mortgage right for you?  Are you still confused on the benefits this loan may provide you?  Have a look at your options with the help of Mario Quintero of STC Loans. Mario has been in the reverse mortgage business since 2002. Mario’s experience is tested and true. Mario has helped thousands of clients secure and supplement their retirement through a reverse mortgage.

Mario Quintero, principal of Strock and Tanner Mortgage, gets your deal done. Let Mario be both your trusted Miami realtor and Miami mortgage broker.

Get in Touch with Mario

I’m Mario Quintero, your mortgage & realtor for life. Let me be your Miami home consultant. Our office specializes in both residential and commercial real estate and financing programs. Let me help you secure a conventional, jumbo, FHA and foreign national mortgage loans. Furthermore, we can help your elderly parents secure a comfortable retirement with a reverse mortgage.

Call me today at 305-598-1600 or contact me here.

Miami is Nation’s 4th Top Real Estate Market

Miami Real Estate

courtesy of World Property Journal

Miami Real Estate Market is 4th Largest in the US

Miami ranks 4th in the nation in total home value. According to Zillow, the total value of all homes in the United States in early January 2018 is now $31.8 trillion after gaining $2 trillion in 2017.  The cumulative value of the U.S. housing market grew at its fastest annual pace – 6.5 percent – in four years. Moreover, the value of all U.S. homes rose 8 percent annually in the early stages of the housing recovery in 2013.

Fast FAQs:

• Total U.S. housing market gained $2 trillion in value in 2017.
• The value of all U.S. homes grew 6.5 percent in 2017, the fastest pace in four years.
• Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco are the most valuable housing markets, each worth more than $1 trillion.

For many households, a home is the single largest source of wealth, but the collapse of the housing market and the ensuing Great Recession demonstrated the importance of housing to the U.S. economy as well. The housing market has gained $9 trillion since the lowest levels of the recession.

A Record Year

The value gained in 2017 alone is equivalent to more than the valuation of two companies the size of Apple. Over the past year, the U.S. housing market has gained $1.95 trillion, while Apple recently hit a market value of $900 billion, the first U.S. company to do so.

This was a record year for home values as the national housing stock reached record heights in 2017,” said Zillow® Senior Economist Aaron Terrazas. “Strong demand from buyers and the ongoing inventory shortage keep pushing values higher, especially in some of the nation’s booming coastal markets. Renters spent more than ever on rent this year, but the amount they spent grew at the slowest pace in recent years as more renters transitioned into homeownership and new rental supply slowed rent growth across the country. Despite recent changes to federal tax laws that have historically made homeownership financially attractive, the long-term dynamics pushing up home values and rents are unlikely to change significantly in 2018.”

Home Prices Are Set to Soar in 2018

Heading to Miami’s Art Basel this weekend? Check out this piece…

Art Basel Miami

reprinted from timeout.com

Heading to Miami’s Art Basel this Weekend?

Some 268 of America’s top galleries and art museums will be showing us what they’ve got at annual contemporary art bonanza, Art Basel Miami Beach 2017. Since its launch in 2002, Art Basel has become North America’s premier art fair. Because of this, expect amazing contemporary paintings, films and videos, sculptures, drawings, photography, digital art and installations from more than 4,000 artists. You might even see them if you can tear yourself away from the parties and buzzing rooftop bars. Take a road trip or book your flight and use our guide for all your art, event, party, eating, drinking and hotel needs.

What is Art Basel Miami Beach?

First staged in 2002, Art Basel Miami Beach is an annual art show held at Miami Beach. Art Basel Miami stages three major fairs each year. These are held in Hong Kong, Basel and Miami Beach. Art Basel focuses on modern and contemporary art. It puts more than 250 galleries and 4,000 artists from across the globe in front of the art world’s top curators, museums and collectors. Hence, the weekend of Art Basel has become a major draw for Miami.  as it showcases major events held in conjunction with the show.  As an added bonus, have fun celebrity-spotting.

When is Art Basel Miami?

Art Basel Miami Beach is held December 7, 2017, through December 10, 2017.

Where is Art Basel Miami Beach held?

Art Basel Miami Beach 2017 is at the Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Drive.  Check out a floorplan of the Convention Center to see who’s showing and where. Other works, film screenings and performances take place close by at Collins Park and SoundScape Park.

Why Work with Mario Quintero

Art adds great value to your home.  Mario’s wife, Claudia Quintero, has a keen eye for art and home design.  Moreover, Mario has been in the mortgage business since 2002. Mario’s experience is tested and true. Mario has helped hundreds of families purchase their dream homes and secure competitive financing.

Mario Quintero, principal of Strock and Tanner Mortgage, gets your deal done. Let me be both your trusted Miami realtor and Miami mortgage broker.

Get in Touch with Mario

I’m Mario Quintero, your mortgage & realtor for life. Let me be your Miami home consultant. Our office specializes in both residential and commercial real estate and financing programs. Let me help you secure a VA, conventional, jumbo, FHA and foreign national mortgage loans. Furthermore, we can help your elderly parents secure a comfortable retirement with a reverse mortgage.

Call me today at 305-598-1600 or contact me here.

Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You?

reverse mortgage

Who Qualifies for a Reverse Mortgage?

A  reverse mortgage is a unique financial instrument designed to benefit property owners age 62 and older. Though we help individuals with all types of loans, Miami-based Strock & Tanner Mortgage specializes in a reverse mortgages.  Clients for a reverse mortgage are seniors searching for a way to tap their home’s equity without having to repay the loan while they still live in their home.

How does a Reverse Mortgage work?

A reverse mortgage pays you by returning you the equity in your home. You do not have to repay the proceeds until death. So, you may live in the home comfortably without making mortgage payments. You are still responsible for insurance and taxes. Many Florida seniors are you using a Florida reverse mortgage today in order to offset their retirement. This tool allows for the optimum quantity of flexibility to resolve your specific financial requirements and needs.

Say, for instance, you need to pay healthcare expenses or any other regular payments to help subsidize your monthly income and earnings. Unlike standard and traditional home equity loans, you do not have to repay a reverse mortgage until you die.  You must continue living in this house, however.

Why Work with Mario Quintero

Is a reverse mortgage right for you?  Have a look at your options with the help of Mario Quintero of STC Loans. Mario has been in the reverse mortgage business since 2002. Mario’s experience is tested and true. Mario has helped thousands of clients secure and supplement their retirement through a reverse mortgage.

Mario Quintero, principal of Strock and Tanner Mortgage, gets your deal done. Let me be both your trusted Miami realtor and Miami mortgage broker.

Get in Touch with Mario

I’m Mario Quintero, your mortgage & realtor for life. Let me be your Miami home consultant. Our office specializes in both residential and commercial real estate and financing programs. Let me help you secure a conventional, jumbo, FHA and foreign national mortgage loans. Furthermore, we can help your elderly parents secure a comfortable retirement with a reverse mortgage.

Call me today at 305-598-1600 or contact me here.

To Buy or to Rent in Miami?

Buy or rent in Miami?

To Buy or To Rent in Miami?   That is the Question…

Real estate is tricky especially if you happen to be a picky person. This is proven to be true because picky people have all these ideas in their minds of what they want and hope they can match to their taste. Buying versus renting can be a strategy, depending upon your objectives.  So, the question remains, do you buy or rent in Miami?

As a homeowner, you need to think about how long you are anticipating on staying in the house.  Also, how much maintenance will the property require?. Renting a house is always a popular option because you are not stuck permanently. However,  the downside here is that you have monthly or recurring payments to follow with no vested ownership. On the other hand, buying a house is great, too, because if you have a family and are looking to settle down this is probably the better option for you.

Why Work with Mario Quintero

Are you in the market for a property? Are you having trouble finding an affordable property? I help people reach their goals. Whether you want to sell or buy for the first time, refinance your existing loan, purchase an investment property, TODAY is your moment. Have a look at your options with the help of Mario Quintero of STC Loans. Mario has been in the Miami real estate and mortgage business since 2002. His experience is tested and true. Mario has helped thousands of clients reach their home ownership goals,

Because of this, let me be both your trusted Miami realtor and Miami mortgage broker.

Get in Touch with Mario, Your Miami Realtor

I’m Mario Quintero, your mortgage & realtor for life. Let me be your Miami home consultant. Our office specializes in both residential and commercial real estate and financing programs. Let me help you secure a conventional, jumbo, FHA and foreign national mortgage loans. Furthermore, we can help your elderly parents secure a comfortable retirement with a reverse mortgage..

Call me today at 305-598-1600 or contact me here. Let’s find your dream home!

No Summer Slowdown Here…

Real Estate slump

What Summer Slump?

Real estate in South Florida fluctuates depending on the season. While summer is considered to be slow due to the weather here in Miami, there’s no summer slump here.  We’re as busy as ever in the ReMaxx/Quintero Team.  There’s no real estate slump in our office.

There are key factors to consider whether you are looking to buy or rent a house. The first and most important one is location.  As the saying goes, “location, location, location”.  We cannot stress enough how important it is to find a location convenient for you, where real estate will continue to appreciate.  Whether the purchasing process takes one day or one year, it makes a difference knowing that you will be comfortable in the house of your dreams.

Why Work with Mario Quintero

Are you in the market for a property? Are you having trouble finding an affordable property? I help people reach their goals. Whether you want to sell or buy for the first time, refinance your existing loan, purchase an investment property, TODAY is your moment. Have a look at your options with the help of Mario Quintero of STC Loans. Mario has been in the Miami real estate and mortgage business since 2002. His experience is tested and true. Mario has helped thousands of clients reach their home ownership goals,

Because of this, let me be both your trusted Miami realtor and Miami mortgage broker.

Get in Touch with Mario, Your Miami Realtor

I’m Mario Quintero, your mortgage & realtor for life. Let me be your Miami home consultant. Our office specializes in both residential and commercial real estate and financing programs. Let me help you secure a conventional, jumbo, FHA and foreign national mortgage loans. Furthermore, we can help your elderly parents secure a comfortable retirement with a reverse mortgage..

Call me today at 305-598-1600 or contact me here. Let’s find your dream home!

Strategic Mortgage Financing for the Self-Employed

Mortgage strategies for the self-employed

Mortgage Strategies for the Self-Employed

Do you remember the “no-doc” real estate financing loans pre-financial crisis? Are you among the ranks of self-employed, successful entrepreneurs in Miami wanting to either purchase another home? Or, do you wish to invest in additional real estate because you’d like to diversify your assets?   Unfortunately, however, you can’t because you have issues with the current financial environment vis a vis securing a reasonable interest rate with a reputable lender.   Because of this, what you need are mortgage strategies for the self-employed.

Does this sound about right to you?

Does this sound like your situation?

Well, the team at STC Loans can help you.

Why Work with Mario Quintero

Are you a successful entrepreneur searching for financial strategies to help you secure additional property?  Are you in the market for a property?  I help people reach their goals. I’m in the business of helping people achieve their dreams.  In today’s challenging financing environment, the team at STC Loans employs diverse financial strategies to help you achieve your goals of acquiring additional real estate.

Whether you want to sell or buy for the first time, refinance your existing loan, purchase an investment property, TODAY is your moment. Have a look at your options with the help of Mario Quintero of STC Loans. Mario has been in the Miami real estate and mortgage business since 2002. His experience is tested and true. Mario has helped thousands of clients reach their home ownership goals,

Because of this, let me be both your trusted Miami realtor and Miami mortgage broker.

Get in Touch with Mario, Your Miami Realtor

I’m Mario Quintero, your mortgage & realtor for life. Let me be your Miami home consultant. Our office specializes in both residential and commercial real estate and financing programs. Let me help you secure a conventional, jumbo, FHA and foreign national mortgage loans. Furthermore, we can help your elderly parents secure a comfortable retirement with a reverse mortgage..

Call me today at 305-598-1600 or contact me here. Let’s find your dream home!

Home Mortgage Applications Are Up

Miami home loan applications

courtesy of CNBC

Home Loan Applications Are On the Rise

Homebuyers and homeowners saw a rip in the ever-rising interest rate continuum last week and jumped right in.  Miami home loan applications are on the rise.

Interest rates fell last week to the lowest level since November, and the seasonally adjusted mortgage volume jumped accordingly, up 7.1 percent, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Still, volume was 16 percent lower than the same week a year ago, when rates were lower.

The average contract interest rate for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with conforming loan balances of $424,100 or less decreased to 4.14 percent, from 4.17 percent, with points increasing to 0.34 from 0.32, including the origination fee, for 80 percent loan-to-value ratio loans. As a reference point, mortgage rates jumped from 3.77 percent to 4.16 percent in the two weeks following the election of Donald Trump last November.

Loan applications to purchase a home jumped 10 percent from the previous week, seasonally adjusted, and now stand 5.5 percent higher than one year ago. Purchase volume has been decidedly weak this spring, as home prices overheat due to the tight supply of homes for sale.

The refinance market got a little boost from low rates as well last week, increasing 3 percent. Refinances are extremely rate-sensitive, and rates were below 4 percent last year. Refinance volume remains 34 percent lower than one year ago.

Miami Home Loan Mortgage Applications

Miami is no different. We’re seeing unprecedented sales in the Miami housing market.  Despite the increase in housing prices, the Miami housing market remains one of the hottest in the country.

Why Work with Mario Quintero

Have you locked in your home loan application yet?  What are you waiting for?   I help people reach their goals. Have a look at your options with the help of Mario Quintero of STC Loans. Mario has been in the Miami real estate and mortgage business since 2002. His experience is tested and true. Mario has helped thousands of clients reach their home ownership goals,

Mario Quintero, principal of Strock and Tanner Mortgage, gets your deal done. Let me be both your trusted Miami realtor and Miami mortgage broker.

Get in Touch with Mario, Your Miami Realtor

I’m Mario Quintero, your mortgage & realtor for life. Let me be your Miami home consultant. Our office specializes in both residential and commercial real estate and financing programs. Let me help you secure a conventional, jumbo, FHA and foreign national mortgage loans. Furthermore, we can help your elderly parents secure a comfortable retirement with a reverse mortgage..

Call me today at 305-598-1600 or contact me here. Let’s find your dream home!