Yahoo (source) just posted another article talking about how low mortgage rates are. The catch-22 is that it’s not for all homeowners, only those who have equity and good credit scores.
If you are a person with a 700+ credit score, full-doc, w/more then 20% equity then you are eligible for outstanding mortgage rate. Please keep in mind, that paying off debt or cash-out on equity, you will be looking at a higher rate then advertise. Expect to see a .5% - 1% hit to your rate.
If you’re a person with a 640+ fico, full-doc and less then 20% equity there still might be hope for you. Currently FHA programs allow higher LTV’s and the rates are starting around 5 – 5.5%
If you’re a person who is self-employee and obtain a stated mortgage to purchase a house, as of now you’re out of luck. I do think that this product will come back, but as of now your options are limited. If you are having a hard time paying your mortgage, contact your mortgage servicer and find out if you can work out a loan mod.