FICO� scores are the most widely used credit score in U.S. mortgage loan underwriting. This 3-digit number, ranging from 300 to 850, is calculated by a mathematical equation that evaluates many types of information that are on your credit report. Higher FICO� scores represent lower credit risks, which typically equate to better loan terms. Click here for more information on Understanding Credit and the Credit Report.

A mortgage with an interest rate that changes during the life of the loan according to movements in an index rate. Sometimes called AMLs (adjustable mortgage loans) or VRMs (variable-rate mortgages).

The gradual repayment of a mortgage loan, both principal and interest, by installments. The Amortization Term is the length of time required to amortize the mortgage loan expressed as a number of months. For example, 360 months is the amortization term for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage.

The cost of credit, expressed as a yearly rate including interest, mortgage insurance, and loan origination fees. This allows the buyer to compare loans; however APR should not be confused with the actual note rate.

A written analysis prepared by a qualified appraiser and estimating the value of a property. The Appraised Value is an opinion of a property's fair market value, based on an appraiser's knowledge, experience, and analysis of the property.

A written analysis prepared by a qualified appraiser and estimating the value of a property. The Appraised Value is an opinion of a property's fair market value, based on an appraiser's knowledge, experience, and analysis of the property.

A report detailing an individual's credit history that is prepared by a credit bureau and used by a lender to determine a loan applicant's creditworthiness.

Part of the purchase price of a property that is paid in cash and not financed with a mortgage.

A mortgage interest that are fixed throughout the entire term of the loan.

The relationship between the principal balance of the mortgage and the appraised value (or sales price if it is lower) of the property. For example, a $100,000 home with an $80,000 mortgage has an LTV of 80 percent.

A contract that insures the lender against loss caused by a mortgagor's default on a government mortgage or conventional mortgage. Mortgage insurance can be issued by a private company or by a government agency.

The amount paid by a mortgagor for mortgage insurance.

A legal document that obligates a borrower to repay a mortgage loan at a stated interest rate during a specified period of time.

A fee paid to a lender for processing a loan application. The origination fee is stated in the form of points. One point is 1 percent of the mortgage amount.

The process of determining how much money you will be eligible to borrow before you apply for a loan.

The four components of a monthly mortgage payment. Principal refers to the part of the monthly payment that reduces the remaining balance of the mortgage. Interest is the fee charged for borrowing money. Taxes and insurance refer to the monthly cost of property taxes and homeowners insurance, whether these amounts that are paid into an escrow account each month or not.

Mortgage insurance provided by a private mortgage insurance company to protect lenders against loss if a borrower defaults. Most lenders generally require MI for a loan with a loan-to-value (LTV) percentage in excess of 80 percent.

A commitment issued by a lender to a borrower or other mortgage originator guaranteeing a specified interest rate and lender costs for a specified period of time.

The noting in the registrar's office of the details of a properly executed legal document, such as a deed, a mortgage note, a satisfaction of mortgage, or an extension of mortgage, thereby making it a part of the public record.

Paying off one loan with the proceeds from a new loan using the same property as security.

The process of evaluating a loan application to determine the risk involved for the lender. Underwriting involves an analysis of the borrower's creditworthiness and the quality of the property itself.

The first step of getting pre-qualified is to schedule an appointment with one of our Loan Officers. Once you are in the appointment it could be as quick as an hour to get you out there shopping. To expedite this process you can also apply online here.

Rates vary depending on an individuals situation, your credit score and the overall climate of the economy. For a better idea of what your rate looks like, find a Loan Officer near you.

The length of your transaction is determined by an individual's situation. With that said, Summit generally closes our loans within 30 days and our promise to you is that we will close on time and smoothly.

Once you are pre-qualified with one of our Loan Officers, you can put offers on home as soon as you find the right one.

Our general office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm. Some of our Loan Officers accept evening and weekend appointments upon request. Click here to find a Loan Officer near you.