Several years ago the U.S. Congress tried to protect consumers from a few unscrupulous lenders by requiring all lenders to calculate and disclose the annual percentage rate (APR) you pay on your mortgage loan. But most homebuyers will learn more by directing their attention to the Good Faith Estimate of Settlement Costs (GFE). Although Congress meant well, in practice the APR is not helpful and may be confusing.

If you are looking for a good way to understand your costs of borrowing and/or to compare one lender's costs to another, the GFE is your best bet. Get your lender(s) to provide a written GFE before you commit your mortgage business. When reviewing a GFE, keep in mind that the lender actually controls only a certain portion of the disclosed costs. Other parties typically control costs of appraisal, settlement, title insurance, recording fees and taxes, survey, and the "prepaid" expenses of homeowner's insurance, mortgage insurance, real estate taxes, etc. Review these origination fees, discount points, etc. and you will have the ability to understand the full costs of your proposed mortgage loan.

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Mike Hornby
ReMax Real Estate Central
206 2411 4th St. NW
Calgary, Alberta, T2M 2Z8
Cell: 403-870-8009
Fax: 403-284-4923
mikehornby@NUMBER1EXPERT.com

Mike has been selling in Calgary, Bearspaw, Springbank, MD of Rocky View, Elbow Valley Estates, Heritage Pointe, MD of Foothills areas for over a decade. He has helped hundreds of clients purchase and sell their homes, through his efforts Mike has recieved many Re/max awards, including induction into the Re/max Hall of Fame and Platinum Club status. Contact Mike today! 403-870-8009