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Duking it Out Between a Rock and a Hard Place. What Homebuyers SHOULD Know VS What They WANT to Know

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Mortgage and Lending with NMLS #216987, IL Lic. 031.0006220, WI Licensed. APMC NMLS #175656 IL Lic 031.0006220/WI

 

Duking it Out Between a Rock and a Hard Place.
What Homebuyers SHOULD Know
VS What They WANT to Know
 
    
     As a mortgage lender, I find that much of the time I am in that proverbial "between a rock and a hard place".
 
     After almost two years now of working with the new Loan Application Disclosure forms (mainly the Good Faith Estimates and the Truth-in-Lending Disclosure), I wish I could say that clients were finding these important documents, and the whole mortgage process, more "understandable".  But I don't think I'm seeing that.  Sorry to say.
 
     I'm duking it out with myself regarding this issue.  I believe I understand, as their experienced mortgage lender and advocate, what's important for them, the client to know and understand. 

     And I'm also required to make that information available and also ... once again ... "understandable".
 
     But on the other hand (and what I'm duking it out with myself over), what I hear and see being expressed by my clients as to what their needs are is quite different.  Most do want to know they are protected as consumers, but do not want to hear the particulars. 

     Basically, I hear from my clients that they want to know these 3 things:

  1.      What's my total payment going to be monthly?
  2.      When will I know when my loan is approved?
  3.      How much money will I need for Closing?

     And therein lies my quandry.  There's so much MORE they need to know and understand.  For their own benefit.  By law they need to hear it.  But ... a lender saying it and the client actually hearing it are two different things.

     I have to admit, I still am sometimes greatly amazed, that as important as financing is .. and just how greatly it impacts the lives of my clients ... that the application process remains such a hated, overwhelming process just to be endured.  I'd think clients would want to be more engaged.  Be going through things with a fine tooth comb.  But from the majority, I am seeing the opposite.  There's little interest in taking active part in it.  Other lenders have expressed to me that they are seeing much the same.

     I've tried to analyze why this is the case.  And yes, I know many will say it's the overwhelming number of financial documents required, personal information demanded, tedious minor (seemingly insane) underwriting requirements needing to be met that wears them out.  And there is truth to that.  But I picking up on this attitude prior to the start of the process, so that can't be the answer entirely.

   I'm personally beginning to think that most home buyers have only "so much" emotional capacity to tap throughout the process of buying a home.  And it's been worn thin by the time they get to arranging their financing. 

     Let's face it.  Home buying ... the actual viewing and consideration of homes themselves within the current market ... is largely unrecognizable in comparison to the home buying process of the past.  Home buying can be hard work, especially when still worrying about the financial aspect of buying while doing it.

     So ... how do we within the real estate industry, both agent and lender, tackle this problem?  Because it DOES affect us both, as well as our mutual client.

     I know when I was growing up, my parents demanded that my chores and homework came first.  Playtime second.  Maybe this is the discipline with which buying a home should be approached also. 
 
     Get the financing education and mortgage process more substantially behind a client first.  Get the loan paperwork and approval secured ... then move on to the more enjoyable part of home buying.  The actual viewing of homes.  I personally think this could prove very helpful.

   Agents would know what properties they can, or cannot, show prospective home buyers more clearly as a result.  There would be less wasted time .. less wasted effort ... less wasted emotion and energy on everyone's part. 

    Perhaps the education of a potential homebuyer should begin with the information, "training", and reinforcement as to the best and most efficient and beneficial order in which to start the entire home buying process??  Maybe this could restore some of the pleasure buyers should be feeling and experiencing when purchasing a new home?

     This is not going to be a remedy for every situation, or client.  There will be those instances where it just will not apply.  But for others, what say you?? 


     *  Want to learn about the Mortgage process?  Have questions regarding mortgage financing or credit?  Work with a mortgage lender that has 35 years of expertise and experience to help you through the process successfully. Contact me today!
         I can be reached at any of the following:
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Gene Mundt

 Mortgage Originator  -  NMLS #216987    

                                 IL Lic. #031.0006220  -  WI License #216987                                                                                                    

NMLS #175656

 

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Comments(44)

Joan Whitebook
BHG The Masiello Group - Nashua, NH
Consumer Focused Real Estate Services

I see too many agents and buyers rushing out to look at homes before, the buyer understands the process.. including the loan process.  Some counseling and preparation at the beginning pays off later on for all concerned.

Nov 08, 2011 12:44 PM
Ellie McIntire
Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate - Ellicott City, MD
Luxury service in Central Maryland

Personally I think it comes down to trust. they trust that you are telling them what is true. Cut the details and get to the point- the 3 things that you pointed out!

Nov 08, 2011 12:54 PM
Ellie McIntire
Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate - Ellicott City, MD
Luxury service in Central Maryland

Oh, 1 more thing to add. The lion is ADORABLE. Love the whiskers.

Nov 08, 2011 12:55 PM
Gene Mundt, IL/WI Mortgage Originator - FHA/VA/Conv/Jumbo/Portfolio/Refi
NMLS #216987, IL Lic. 031.0006220, WI Licensed. APMC NMLS #175656 - New Lenox, IL
708.921.6331 - 40+ yrs experience

JP:  Thanks for the kind comments.  Your comment about mortgage financing being an afterthought is a good one.  It seems almost like a nuisance to many.  I agree that we must do a better job of educating.  But where is the leadership in that coming from?  As lenders we are left to accomplish that primarily on our own, with little assistance from the overall industry or lending organizations.  I think that focus needs to come from the top too.  We probably could pop a top on a few over this topic ...    

Nancy:  Either do I .. and that's frustrating.  I'd like to return to the days when it was a bit more enjoyable for the home buyer.  I'm sure they'd agree.  And yes, we're excited about the upcoming new baby.  The prospect of adding to the family again is great ...

Gayle:  I'll do that!  Hopefully this turns around for us all soon ...

Joe:  I appreciate what you say.  I'd feel great to be able to refer a few your way ... hopefully soon?

Debbie:  It IS a fine balance.  You want to impress upon clients that this is of importance .. but you can't push too hard.  You lose them entirely then.  I appreciate you writing ...

Cathy:  There's alot to know, so it can't be expected that clients will grasp it all in its' entirety.  A good working knowledge would be a happy medium .. and it's what I hope for.  I believe it's in their best interest ...

Joan:  Oh Amen!  Preparation is key ... right along with education.  We continue to try our best, right?

Ellie:  I understand the sentiment, but we cannot ... because of the current rules/regulations and all the documentation we must make available, do that.  We're really leaving ourselves open to problems should we abandon trying to educate entirely.  I have to know that I at least tried to fulfill my obligations and responsibilities.  As much as they may be overlooked, ignored, or disliked.

And I appreciate your kind words regarding our little lion.  She was enjoying her that day, for sure ...   

Nov 08, 2011 02:50 PM
Jane Peters
Home Jane Realty - Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles real estate concierge services

In a perfect world, having every buyer educated would be the ideal.  But it is difficult enough to educate them that they need to get approved before they start, let alone know the intricacies of the process.  It is almost caveman-like.  "Me hungry.  Need food."  Great post again, Gene.

Nov 08, 2011 05:13 PM
Rosalie Evans
Meritus Group Real Estate - Sioux Falls, SD
The Evans Group, Sioux Falls, SD Homes For Sale

I am always relieved when I find out my clients have already talked to the banker prior to me showing them any homes! These are the buyers that are super engaged and want to know all of the details and I love that! They do seem to be a once in the blue moon thing but it is nice when it happens! :)  What a squeezable lion you have there! lol

Nov 08, 2011 05:38 PM
Gita Bantwal
RE/MAX Centre Realtors - Warwick, PA
REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI - Bucks County & Philadel

It would be nice if HUD offers regular home buyer's seminars to consumers explaining the process.

I know agents have these but consumers are afraid to go becuase they think they will have to sign up with the agent.

Nov 08, 2011 10:35 PM
Gabe Sanders
Real Estate of Florida specializing in Martin County Residential Homes, Condos and Land Sales - Stuart, FL
Stuart Florida Real Estate

Absolutely Gene.  This is something we strive to always do.  The reality of individual situations sometimes make it difficult, but it is our goal.

Nov 08, 2011 11:57 PM
John Cannata
214-728-0449 http://TexasLoanGuy.com - Frisco, TX
Texas Home Mortgage - Purchase or Refinance

Right on the money as always Gene. Homebuyers still just want to know the rate and really do not bother with getting educated (at least not about the things they should be educated about). The new GFE was a decent attempt, but not having a signature line was not the brightest idea. If they really want to help the home buying process AND help educate the consumer, cut down on the unnecessary paperwork and lets just stick to the important documents/information. That will keep the buyer more involved and willing to learn more.

Nov 09, 2011 02:43 AM
Gene Mundt, IL/WI Mortgage Originator - FHA/VA/Conv/Jumbo/Portfolio/Refi
NMLS #216987, IL Lic. 031.0006220, WI Licensed. APMC NMLS #175656 - New Lenox, IL
708.921.6331 - 40+ yrs experience

It IS almost primative .. you're right, Jane.  And this may be very elementary in assessment of what it much of the problem, but I think the media adds alot to our misery.  They wax on and on about all the problems surrounding the housing market and obtaining a loan.  Their prophecies come true, as people are braced for the worst when they arrive at my door.  Sometimes you get what you expect .. and in this case, I see it happen all too often.  As usual Jane, you have me chuckling with your offering ... but thank you for the kind words.  You're the best ..

Rosalie:  Thank you!  She gets those squeezes all the time from her grandpa!  I think with a combined effort and strict enforcement, our r.e. industry could turn much of our ills around ourselves.  Demanding that clients first speak to a lender should be easy to accomplish.  We'll keep working on it ... thanks for commenting!

  Gita:  There are opportunities to attend learning and seminar sessions in many places.  When I host something, I try to make it in a "neutral" location.  Something like a library or public place.  That way those in attendance feel there is a buffer to those advances that might be perceived occurring elsewhere.  Making clients feel as safe and secure prior to choosing a lender is very important.  You're so right about that ...

Gabe:  Thank you!  Your comment is reassuring to hear.  Maybe with time ...

Gene

Nov 09, 2011 02:44 AM
Gene Mundt, IL/WI Mortgage Originator - FHA/VA/Conv/Jumbo/Portfolio/Refi
NMLS #216987, IL Lic. 031.0006220, WI Licensed. APMC NMLS #175656 - New Lenox, IL
708.921.6331 - 40+ yrs experience

John:  It's overwhelming for many, that's so true.  But buyers must come to the conclusion that there is no better advocate for their behalf then themselves.  We in the industry can put everything into place, but we cannot force their minds open or make them make the effort.  I'd definitely be for less paperwork!!

Gene

Nov 09, 2011 02:47 AM
Evelyn Kennedy
Alain Pinel Realtors - Alameda, CA
Alameda, Real Estate, Alameda, CA

Gene:

Love to read your posts. They are insightful and thought provoking.  As a Realtor, I counsel my buying customers to talk to a lender before they start looking for a house.  That one simple step eliminates a lot of problems.  But I hadn't thought about what a lenders requires of the buyer.  You have crystallized my thinking on this matter.  I think meeting with my customer and a lender might help me and my customer understand the necessity for everything a lender may require. 

 

Nov 09, 2011 07:52 AM
Gene Mundt, IL/WI Mortgage Originator - FHA/VA/Conv/Jumbo/Portfolio/Refi
NMLS #216987, IL Lic. 031.0006220, WI Licensed. APMC NMLS #175656 - New Lenox, IL
708.921.6331 - 40+ yrs experience

Erica:  Yes, they do.  And we lenders' (and agents too) feet are held to the fire on this.  But we can only lead them to the water.  We can't make them drink ...

Thank you so much, Evelyn.  I appreciate your kind words.  And I so agree with you on making it to some of the preliminary appointments with your client.  I wrote a blog about this very thing just a short while ago.  I have had great results when agents have taken the time to do this.  It truly benefits the client in many ways .. and ultimately the professionals involved.  The successes and smoothness of these transactions have been remarkable.  I hope you give this a try .. and then let me know how it worked out for you and your client ...

Thank you for commenting ...

Gene

Nov 09, 2011 12:55 PM
Don Sabinske
Don Sabinske, Sabinske & Associates Inc. - Zimmerman, MN
Sabinske & Associates Inc.

Gener, Congratulations on the feature.  It was very-well deserved.  Good points.

Nov 09, 2011 01:27 PM
Gene Mundt, IL/WI Mortgage Originator - FHA/VA/Conv/Jumbo/Portfolio/Refi
NMLS #216987, IL Lic. 031.0006220, WI Licensed. APMC NMLS #175656 - New Lenox, IL
708.921.6331 - 40+ yrs experience

Thanks Don!  I always appreciate your generous and kind support.  Hope you have a great and prosperous weekend ..

Nov 10, 2011 02:54 AM
Steven Cook
No Longer Processing Mortgages. - Tacoma, WA

Gene -- You have hit it on the head!  Donne makes some great points as well, though the people in banks dealing with mortgages and clients are all supposed to be registered by now.  Having said that, I have a client who is dealing with his bank about a modification -- and the person he is supposed to talk to isn't registered.  Are we going to have to report them all to get the other side of the aisle cleaned up?

In the meantime, we can at least do a preliminary review and determine if the client qualifies, and if so for how much, before they are all tired out looking at houses that it turns out they can't afford.  Maybe the realtors could get a good loan officer to review any bank lending statements to make sure they clients do qualify.

Nov 10, 2011 09:43 AM
Rodney Mason, VP of Mtg Lending
Guaranteed Rate NMLS# 2611 - Atlanta, GA
AL,AR,AZ,CA,CO,FL,GA,IN,MI,MS,NC,NV,SC,TN,TX,VA,WA

Way too many loan officers are still issuing Pre-Qualifications/Pre-Approvals without reviewing any documentation first.  While it may be quick and painless that way, it very often leads to disaster in the end.  I see the supposed "Pre-Qualified" buyers all of the time.

Nov 10, 2011 12:37 PM
Gene Mundt, IL/WI Mortgage Originator - FHA/VA/Conv/Jumbo/Portfolio/Refi
NMLS #216987, IL Lic. 031.0006220, WI Licensed. APMC NMLS #175656 - New Lenox, IL
708.921.6331 - 40+ yrs experience

Steven:  Donne is great ... I'm a huge fan.  I think you are right when you state that the realtors may hold the key to this issue.  I'm not saying I want to second-check or guess anyone else's work, but their taking a strong stance on the lenders they suggest their clients work with is needed and warranted.  Hope business is good for you out in Tacoma ...

Rodney:  I believe like you .. and until the industry demands more and then takes measures to enforce it more strictly, we'll see that continue.  The market has to winnow out the poor lenders now ... and the clients suffer until that's accomplished.

Gene 

Nov 10, 2011 01:41 PM
JP Marzano
Movement Mortgage - Chicago, IL
312-608-1555-Specializing in VA, Condos, and more!

Gene,

Yes, education is the key. It'd be nice if the Agencies provided resources and marketed the necessity to educate potential homeowners (and even current ones). That way, when LO's go through the trouble of working on grassroots efforts to conduct seminars or workshops in their local areas, more people would intuitively know about them from the efforts of Fannie and Freddie. FHA does a decent job of it already. But ironically, FHA is not a program I suggest to many people anymore. Until the top starts creating the "common knowledge" with consumers, we'll still be on our own.

Nov 15, 2011 05:30 AM
Gene Mundt, IL/WI Mortgage Originator - FHA/VA/Conv/Jumbo/Portfolio/Refi
NMLS #216987, IL Lic. 031.0006220, WI Licensed. APMC NMLS #175656 - New Lenox, IL
708.921.6331 - 40+ yrs experience

JP:  True.  Plus, if it does get said .. they don't provide much, if any, assistance to help the individual LO making the effort much support.  We're truly each an island unto ourselves ...

Gene

Nov 15, 2011 09:10 AM