Nebraska Mortgage Rates

Streamline refinances have increased in several states since the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) this summer reduced some of the fees associated with the popular homeowner loans. One of the many states reporting dramatic increases is Nebraska. According to data provided by FHA, there were 630 FHA streamline refinances in Nebraska for the period of June 2012 through September 30, 2012 while last year’s figure for the same period was 128.

FHA reduced upfront premiums and annual fees in June 2012 for FHA borrowers. The fee cuts were part of an Obama administration effort to spur the economy by helping homeowners take advantage of historically low interest rates. FHA has estimated that the average qualified FHA-insured borrower saves approximately $3,000 a year or $250 per month by refinancing.

The FHA Streamline Refinance program eliminates much of the amount of paperwork that has to be provided to the lender. The program’s requirements are minimal. A borrower does not have to demonstrate employment under an FHA Streamline Refinance. Income verification is not required and the borrower’s credit score is not checked. An appraisal is also not required. However, lender requirements may vary.

But, borrowers must be current on their existing FHA mortgage – no late payments for one year — and the refinance must show a legitimate reason for refinancing, i.e., “net tangible benefit.” One example of a net tangible benefit is refinancing from an adjusting ARM into a fixed rate loan and, of course, there’s always the benefit in lowering monthly mortgage payments by obtaining one of low interest rates available today. The streamline refinance does not allow for cash out.

Borrowers are finding that obtaining a refinance through online resources is convenient. Instead of searching for a single lender to assist with an FHA Streamline Refinance, multiple lenders who are able to help borrowers with this program are available in one place. The online form is available for this purpose. Besides being convenient, it is fast as a response is returned almost immediately and added security is provided because a social security number is not needed.

FreeRateUpdate.com surveys more than two dozen wholesale and direct lenders’ rate sheets to determine the most accurate mortgage rates available to well qualified consumers at about a 1 point origination fee.