One of the first steps when you start thinking about buying a home is getting your financing in order. Meeting with a trusted banker or mortgage broker will help you answer some important questions. 

1) Do you have a down payment? If so, how much and what loan programs are available with that amount?

2) How is your credit? How will your credit score affect the interest rate on your loan?

3) Discuss the different mortgage programs such as fixed rate or adjustable rate mortgages.

4) Estimate property taxes and home owner's insurance into your monthly payment.

5) Always get a "Good Faith Estimate". The Good Faith Estimate will outline your estimated closing costs, including the mortgage broker fee, prorated property taxes, title and escrow fees, etc. Typically your closing costs will be apr 3% of your loan amount.

6) Discuss what you feel comfortable paying each month.

7) Get a pre-approval letter from your lender to provide with your offer.

After many years in this business, I have learned the value of an ethical, reputable lender. I have seen the good, the bad and the ugly in the mortgage field. This is why I stress the importance of “shopping your loan”. Below are the names and contact information for some loan officers I have worked with and trust will provide ethical and honest advice to my clients.

Robert Skoro 
Senior Mortgage Banker
NMLS-281562
4550 SW Kruse Way, Suite 275
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Phone:  503.636.6000  Ext.142
Fax:   971.404.3177      
Cell:  503.816.2809
E-mail:  Robert.Skoro@directorsmortgage.net
Website:  www.directorsmortgage.net

Todd Hing / Mortgage Planner
MORTGAGE EXPRESS
Direct: 503.517.9330
Cell: 503.351.4977
Fax: 503.520.0620
OR ML#1952 / WA #510-MB-34222
Apply Online: www.TODDHING.com 

Jim Hungerford
AVP Residential Lending
Umpqua Bank Mortgage
6610 SW Cardinal Ln.
Tigard, OR  97224
Phone: 503-598-5675
Fax: 971-544-1187
Toll Free: 866-470-2852 x5675