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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Gary Mascolo
Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
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I am a full time licensed realtor specializing in Northern Bergen County. I have an extensive background in Real Estate Tax accounting, Sales and Advertising Specialties. I am a life-long resident of the Northern/Pascack Valley and an Old Tappan resident for ten years. I faithfully serve my community as a member of the Old Tappan Planning Board, Old Tappan Environmental Commission, Old Tappan PTA, Old Tappan Town Day Committee and The Tenafly Elks Lodge. I am happily married for 20 years to a loving and supportive wife, Michele, with two wonderful children. I have successfully brought buyers and sellers together throughout the Northern and Pascack Valley areas. I am affiliated with the number one real estate company in Bergen County and I am on the cutting edge of internet marketing technology. In my book, YOU are #1 and I welcome the opportunity to be "Your Realtor for Life".

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