ING DIRECT USA - Tips and Tools

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Gimme shelter	Mortgage Shopping List	When to refinance

Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for a mortgage.

Printable version of the following Mortgage Shopping List

Mortgage Shopping List	√
Are the interest rates competitive?
Does the mortgage have any prepayment penalties?
Are the closing costs low?
Will you have to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI)?
Do you have to pay points to get a better rate?
Is the application process quick and easy?
Are preapproval costs low?
Is the interest rate guaranteed for up to 60 days? Will it cost you fees? Points?
Are there any application or origination fees?
Are the closing costs guaranteed?

Helpful resources

Bankrate.com
This site is a great resource for information about interest rates and fees on bank accounts, mortgages, credit cards, and more.

ING DIRECT Solutions Finder
Use our Solutions Finder to see how much you can borrow now.

Internal Revenue Service
Learn more about the tax benefits of home ownership on the IRS website. If you’re a first-time homebuyer, check out IRS Publication 530, "Tax Information for First-Time Homeowners." Or, if you’re selling, take a look at Publication 523, "Selling Your Home."

Savvy Savings Tips
Our new and improved free Savvy Savings Tips are here! We're providing you easy to use savings ideas for around your home, on your mortgage and through investment opportunities in just one email. Sign up today.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
The HUD website offers tools and resources for prospective homebuyers. They can also help you locate mortgage sources in your community.