Mortgage Resource Center Blog

For veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses, the dream of homeownership is often supported by the benefits of a VA loan. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), these loans offer favorable terms, such as no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). However, in high-cost housing markets, standard VA loan limits may not suffice to purchase a desired home. This is where VA jumbo loans come into play. A VA jumbo loan allows eligible borrowers to finance homes that exceed the standard VA loan limits, providing flexibility for those looking to buy in expensive…

For veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses, a VA home loan refinance provides a pathway to lower mortgage payments and/or access to your home’s equity. Backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, these loans offer unique benefits like no private mortgage insurance (PMI), the highest LTV options and relaxed credit guidelines. This guide explores the two primary VA refinance programs—VA Cash-Out Refinance and VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL)—and explains why Peoples Bank & Trust Company is the top choice for military homeowners seeking expert guidance and personalized service. Understanding VA Home Loan Refinance Options VA Cash-Out…

For veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses, a VA Streamline Loan, also known as an Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL), offers a hassle-free way to lower your mortgage payments or secure better loan terms. With Peoples Bank & Trust Co., you can take advantage of this powerful VA-backed program to refinance your existing VA loan with minimal paperwork and cost. What is a VA Streamline Loan? A VA Streamline Loan (IRRRL) is a refinancing option designed to help borrowers with an existing VA loan reduce their interest rate, lower monthly payments, or switch from an adjustable-rate to…

At Peoples Bank & Trust Co., we’re dedicated to helping veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses achieve their homeownership dreams through VA loans. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans offer unparalleled benefits like no down payment and competitive rates. Choosing the right lender is crucial to maximizing your benefits, and we pride ourselves on being a top VA loan lender. Discover the advantages of VA loans, what to look for in a lender, and why Peoples Bank & Trust Co. stands out as the preferred choice for military families nationwide. What is a VA…

At Peoples Bank & Trust Co., we’re committed to helping homeowners save money and simplify their mortgage experience. An FHA Streamline Refinance Loan is an ideal solution for those with an existing FHA loan looking to lower their interest rate or monthly payments with minimal hassle. Backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), this refinance program is designed for speed and simplicity. What is an FHA Streamline Refinance Loan? An FHA Streamline Refinance Loan is a simplified refinancing option for homeowners with an existing FHA loan. It allows you to reduce your interest rate, lower monthly payments, or switch from…

For veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses with an existing VA loan, the VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL)—also known as a VA streamline refinance—offers a fast, cost-effective way to lower your mortgage payments or adjust loan terms. With very minimal requirements and competitive rates, the VA IRRRL is a powerful tool for military homeowners. What Is a VA IRRRL? The VA IRRRL stands for Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan, designed for homeowners with an existing VA loan to refinance into a new VA loan with a lower interest rate or better terms. This could also mean…

Are you a veteran or active-duty service member ready to buy or build your dream home? Getting pre-approved for a VA home loan is the first step to securing a mortgage with up to 100% financing, low interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). With housing markets fluctuating, a pre-approval gives you a competitive edge, especially in hot markets. We will explain the VA home loan pre-approval process, its benefits, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions to help you confidently navigate the path to homeownership. Whether you’re buying in a bustling city or a quiet suburb, understanding VA loan pre-approval…

Are you a veteran or active-duty service member looking to save money on your mortgage or tap into your home’s equity? Refinancing your VA home loan could be a game-changer, offering lower interest rates, reduced monthly payments, or access to cash for major expenses. With VA loan refinance rates fluctuating, now is the perfect time to explore your options. Whether you’re considering a VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) or a cash-out refinance, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the benefits, eligibility, process, and top lenders to help you make an informed decision. What Is a VA Home…

Understanding the Current Mortgage Market and Interest Rates: Hey everyone! Just a quick introduction, I’m Michael Parker (Branch Manager) from PBHomeLoan.com, and I’m here to break down the mortgage market as of March 14, 2025. Whether you’re eyeing your first home, thinking about a refinance, or just curious about rates, I’ve got the latest for you. This week, we’re seeing shifts in conventional, VA, and FHA mortgage rates—let’s jump in!Mortgage Rates This Week: What I’m Seeing Rates are keeping us on our toes this week (as of March 13, 2025). Here’s the snapshot:  ·        30-Year Fixed Conventional: Up to 6.65% from…

We know that transitioning from deployment to civilian life can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding a place to call home. But here’s some good news: VA loans are designed to make this process smoother and more accessible for you. Let’s walk through how you can go from deployment to your dream home seamlessly with the help of VA loans. Overview of VA Loans What is a VA Loan? VA loans are a fantastic benefit offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. These loans are specifically for military members, veterans, reservists, and National Guard members to help make…

Embarking on the journey to homeownership can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the best mortgage lender and the right home loan. With a sea of options available, the process can quickly become confusing. Peoples Bank & Trust Company understands this challenge and is dedicated to being your trusted partner in securing the best home loan for your unique needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the intricacies of choosing a mortgage lender, the various types of loans available, and how Peoples Bank & Trust Company can help you achieve your dream of homeownership. The Importance of…

If you're a veteran utilizing a VA home loan, there's an uncomplicated method for refinancing that could result in potential savings. Consider a VA streamline refinance, also known as a VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL). This option might help decrease your interest rate, reduce your mortgage term, or minimize your monthly payment, frequently without the need for an appraisal or credit underwriting. Here’s what you need to know about VA streamline refinances: What is a VA streamline refinance (VA IRRRL)? VA streamline refinance loan benefits Drawbacks of VA streamline refinance loans VA streamline refinance eligibility guidelines VA IRRRL…