Tag Archives: loan programs

PMI vs. MIP – What’s the Difference?

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It’s no secret that purchasing a home, especially for the very first time, can feel overwhelming and intimidating. With all of the mortgage and real estate lingo, and the sometimes-overwhelming processes and procedures, it’s no wonder buyers often find themselves confused and with lots of questions. One of the most common ones we hear is, “What is mortgage insurance, and why do I need it?”

What is Mortgage Insurance

Mortgage insurance is typically required of home buyers when their down payments are less than 20 percent for their home loans. Note that mortgage insurance is designed to help protect lenders and guarantee agencies when borrowers don’t have enough equity in their homes, and is not intended to protect the borrowers. There are two types of mortgage insurance – PMI & MIP.

PMI & MIP

Although the concept of insurance protection is similar, there are distinct differences between private mortgage insurance (PMI) and FHA mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) that should be considered when deciding which loan program best suits your financial needs.

PMI, provided by private companies, is typically available in a variety of premium plans and offers payment options that can usually be tailored to the borrower’s needs. There are a number of private mortgage insurance providers and each structure their offerings a bit differently.

MIP is the government-administered mortgage insurance program for the FHA. Since FHA loans offer reduced down payment options, MIP is required to offset the risk of borrowers defaulting on their loans.

Major Differences Between MIP & PMI

Major differences between these insurance programs include:

  • No upfront mortgage premium required with PMI, while an upfront MIP is required
  • Cancellation
    • PMI can be canceled after a stated LTV (loan-to-value) is achieved and favorable payment history has been established
    • MIP is paid for the life of the loan regardless of LTV. In order to remove MIP, borrowers must refinance their FHA mortgage loans, and meet minimum down payment and credit requirements

Contact an Inlanta Mortgage loan professional to discuss your options and ensure that you select the program that is right for you! Click here to find a licensed mortgage loan professional near you or apply online today.

Benefits of Rate Locking Before Home Shopping

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Benefits of Rate Locking Before Home Shopping

Is a new home on your Christmas list this year? Then consider locking your interest rate before you start shopping and take the time you need to find just the right home for you and your family!

Here’s why:

Eliminates Rates Change Anxiety – With mortgage rates changing almost daily, locking your interest rate at the right time can make all the difference in where your final monthly mortgage payment ends up. If you’re on a tight budget, then even the smallest rate increase could mean a potential problem in keeping your mortgage payment within budget. With the Inlanta’s Lock and Shop program, you can better plan your budget and help keep your finances in check by knowing what your interest rate will be before you find your home.

Have the Upper Hand – Once you’ve found your dream home, there’s a good chance in today’s competitive market that you’ll be competing with other buyers.  To win the deal, you can set yourself apart from other buyers with a rate lock and a fully underwritten pre-approval that shows you’re not only ready to buy, but you’re more likely to close and the home buying process will be expedited.

Gain Peace of Mind – The home buying process can feel overwhelming at times. Give yourself some peace of mind by locking in your rate and getting pre-approved before you even begin your home search. A rate lock eliminates potential delays in closing caused by waiting for lenders to prepare, document, and evaluate your loan application. During that time, the cost of your mortgage could increase and create unexpected complications.­­­

NO Fees! – If you’re worried about how much it will cost you to take advantage of Inlanta’s Lock and Shop program, you’re in luck! Our program offers no fees to lock and hold your rate so you can save your money for more important things – like your down payment or furniture for your new home.

Wondering if you qualify for Inlanta’s Lock and Shop Program?  Features and eligibility requirements include:

  • No property address at time of lock
  • Fixed purchase mortgage only
  • Minimum FICO score of 680
  • 72-day lock period, *extension limits apply
  • One-time only rate renegotiation when property is selected

To learn how the Lock and Shop program could make your holiday dreams of new home ownership come true, speak to one of our expert loan officers in your area or apply today.

*Lock extensions are limited to no more than 30 days past the original 72-day expiration. . Restrictions apply on locked loan amount changing and product locked cannot be changed without voiding price protection. The loan must be conventional, FHA, USDA, or VA and carry a fixed rate. The final loan amount cannot vary by more than 20% of the original lock protected loan amount. The loan program may not be changed without voiding the rate lock protection. If a property is not found within lock period, the lock is cancelled.

Inlanta’s Partnership with Vets

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Inlanta’s Partnership with Vets

Our veterans have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom. And Inlanta Mortgage believes in paying tribute to these heroes every day by partnering with them in many ways, every day, including:

VA Loans

Inanta is proud to offer our veterans and active military personnel VA mortgage loan options to help our heroes purchase or refinance a home. Designed specifically for service members, veterans and eligible surviving spouses, these mortgage loans offer excellent benefits including:

  • No money down
  • No PMI* (primary mortgage insurance) required
  • More flexible credit guidelines

*PMI is typically required when purchasing a home with a down payment under 20%, and the payment is added to your monthly mortgage payment.

Pets for Vets

It’s our mission to help everyone achieve the dream of homeownership, including our returning service members who may find their transition to civilian life difficult. It’s important to have someone special waiting for them at home to provide friendship and comfort to make that transition easier. That’s why we’ve partnered with Pets for Vets, an organization that adopts shelter dogs, trains them and pairs them with a veteran in need, to donate a portion of every loan closed through the end of 2018. For more information on Pets for Vets, click here: https://www.petsforvets.com/

Homes for Heroes

Homes for Heroes is the largest nationwide network of affiliate real estate, mortgage and local business specialists committed to providing easy ways for heroes to save on a home. The organization was established shortly after 9/11 to give back to firefighters, EMS, law enforcement, military (active, reserves & veterans), healthcare professionals and teachers. Team Inlanta has a network of Homes for Heroes mortgage professionals that are supporting its mission to help our heroes achieve the dream of homeownership. To find an Inlanta Homes for Heroes lender in your area, contact us today.

Inlanta Veterans

We’re honored to have military veterans on our Inlanta team who personally understand the sacrifice and selflessness of our vets and active military personnel. They are thrilled to have the opportunity to help their fellow veterans achieve the dream of homeownership and are prepared to help those who have served and their families obtain a mortgage loan. Contact us today if you’d like to find a veteran lender in your area.

Happy Veterans Day to all those who have served for our country and for our freedom!

Announcing New Doctor Loans Program!

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photo of male doctor with Doctor Loans text

New Doctor Loans Program!

We are excited to announce our new Doctor Loans program! It is no secret that doctors take on a lot of student loan debt to pay for medical school. If you are one of these everyday superheroes, you may be experiencing difficulty achieving your dream of homeownership as a result. Have no fear – Inlanta is here to help! We now have two loan options for qualified borrowers through our Doctor Loans program, designed with your unique needs in mind.

What kinds of doctors are eligible?

You must have one of the following designations in order to be eligible for this program:

  • Medical Resident
  • Medical Doctor (MD)
  • Doctor of Dental Science (DDS)
  • Doctor of Dental Medicine or Surgeon (DMD)
  • Doctor of Ophthalmology (MD)
  • Doctor of Optometry (OD)
  • Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM)
  • Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

What do these options have in common?

Highlights of both Doctor Loan options:

  • Income-based repayment or other limited payment options may be used in qualification ratios
  • Student loan payments deferred greater than 12 months may be excluded from qualification ratios
  • If employment start date is within 60 days of closing, we may be able to use your new employment contract to qualify

Additional eligibility requirements:

  • Available for primary residences only (condos, PUD’s, or single-family residences)
  • Purchase or no cash-out (rate/term) refinances only
  • Minimum credit score varies by loan option, but typically the minimum credit score range is 680 to 720
  •  Mortgage insurance (MI) is required (consult your loan officer for MI options)

What are the differences between the two options?

Doctor Loan Option 1 Highlights

  • Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARM’s) only
  • As low as 3% down payment on loans up to $650,0001
  • As low as 10% down payment on loans up to $850,0002
  • Must have 3 months in cash reserves
  • At least 3% of down payment must come from your own funds, but the rest may come from a gift

Option 1 Conditions: Maximum debt-to-income ratio is 43%. 14.649% APR calculated based on $200,000 loan with 3% down adjustable rate mortgage after 5 years, closing fees $1,185 plus 1/2 point. 24.558% APR calculated based on $200,000 loan with 5% down fixed for 30 years, closing fees $1,185.

Doctor Loan Option 2 Highlights

  • Fixed rate or ARM options
  • As low as 5% down payment on loans up to $636,1503
  • Minimum credit score of 680 is required (if excluding student loan deferments from qualification ratios, minimum credit score is 720)
  • Does not require specific amount of cash reserves
  • May allow gift funds to fully fund down payment

Option 2 Conditions: No maximum debt-to-income ratio. 3$636,150 loan amounts only available in certain High-Cost Areas of the country. All other areas have a maximum loan amount of $424,100. 4.666% APR calculated based on $200,000 loan with 5% down fixed for 30 years, closing fees $1,185.

Which option is right for you?

Your Inlanta Mortgage loan officer will be able to answer all of your questions. Every person’s financial situation is different and program terms & conditions are always subject to change. Your loan officer will take a look at your unique situation and best advise you on which program is right for you. Locate an Inlanta Mortgage loan officer nearest you.

Jumbo Loans

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jumboloansJumbo Loans

Jumbo loans can be an excellent choice for those who qualify, but many people either do not know this type of financing is an option or they believe some common misconceptions. To help give us a clear picture of what exactly a jumbo loan is, we asked our Fort Myers, Florida Branch Manager, Jim Marcinkowski, some common questions.

 

1.) What makes a Jumbo loan different from other loans?

Jumbo loans are for mortgage amounts over $417,000.This fact is surprising to many since a jumbo loan is commonly mistaken for a loan that is equal to or exceeds a million. The truth is, a loan that is under Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac and is over $417,000 is automatically considered a jumbo loan.

 

2.) What would make someone an ideal candidate for this loan? In other words, what are the requirements to qualify?

a. The minimum credit score is 680, but the higher the better. It is always beneficial to have a higher credit score when dealing with home loans.

b. A jumbo loan has a maximum of $3,000,000. This does not mean the value of the home. The value of the home you are buying can exceed $3 million to receive a jumbo loan, but the difference between the loan maximum and the value must be paid in cash.

c. You must have an 85% loan-to-value (LTV) ratio (or the relationship between the amount of the mortgage and property value, shown as a percentage) for a primary residence, 80% LTV for a second home.

d. Interest rates may be a little higher than conforming rates

e. Cash reserves are required. You must have 6 months of reserves for an LTV under 80% on loan amounts of $1 million and under, and18 months of reserves are required for LTVs over 80%. Depending on the LTV, reserves could go as high as 24 months.

 

3.) What are the downfalls of this type of loan?

Debt-to-income ratios can be lower than conventional, meaning the requirements on this loan are stricter when it comes to the amount of debt a person or couple can have. Those who can meet the guidelines may feel the process can be more tedious than receiving, say, a conventional loan. It makes sense that the process for this loan would involve more than most considering the loan amounts are typically higher and the lender needs enough information to prove that the borrower can successfully pay a jumbo mortgage.

 

4.) What are the benefits of this type of loan?

The interest rates for jumbo loans are at near historical lows. Interest rates are constantly fluctuating. The same is true for jumbo loans, but they still tend to linger on the lower end. Refinancing with a jumbo loan can mean better savings than a traditional loan. A jumbo loan allows refinancing at loan amounts between $417,000 and $650,000. Better savings on a refinance can go towards investments, college tuition, or anything else that may need to be paid off. Jumbo loans can also come with better offers from lenders, which may include reduced fees during the process.

 

5.) What are the different loan options within this program?

Like most other mortgages, jumbo loans come in loan terms of 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30-year fixed or adjustable rates.

 

While jumbo loans may not be the best fit for everyone, they offer many great benefits for those who qualify. If you would like to learn more about our jumbo loan program, click here. Ready to get started? Locate one of our experienced loan officers and get pre-qualified for a loan today!

 

ABOUT INLANTA MORTGAGE

Headquartered in Pewaukee, Wis., Inlanta Mortgage was established in 1993. The company has grown to 35 branches in 16 states and over 240 employees. Inlanta Mortgage offers Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac agency products, as well as jumbo and portfolio programs. The company is an agency approved lender for Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, FHA/VA, FHA 203K and USDA. Inlanta Mortgage also offers numerous state bond agency programs.

In 2016, Inlanta Mortgage was recently named a Top Workplace for a third consecutive year. Inlanta has been recognized as a Top Mortgage Employer by National Mortgage Professional and a Top 100 Mortgage Banking Company and 100 Best Mortgage Companies to Work For by Mortgage Executive Magazine. Inlanta has also received the Platinum Million Dollar USDA Lender Award.

PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Inlanta Mortgage continues to expand its branch network and encourages ethical lending professionals to learn more about our support platform and discover how an Inlanta branch partnership with Inlanta Mortgage is essential to long-term success.

Locate an Inlanta Mortgage loan officer at www.inlanta.com/locations. For current employment opportunities, visit www.inlanta.com/join-our-team/employment-opportunities. Learn more about Inlanta Mortgage branch partnership opportunities at www.inlantapartners.com, call 262-439-4260, or email partners@inlanta.com.

Inlanta Mortgage, Inc. NMLS #1016.

Home Loans 101

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Home Loans 101

Are you ready to become a home owner? There are three major types of loans to consider. Watch a quick video on on adjustable rate mortgages, 15-year fixed rate mortgages, 30-year fixed rate mortgages to learn more!

Inlanta Loan Programs

In addition to the fixed or adjustable rate mortgage options, a licensed Inlanta Mortgage loan officer can help you determine which specific loan program is best for your situation. Inlanta offers a number of loan programs including no down payment USDA financing, VA financing, conventional loans, and FHA loans. In addition, Inlanta offers renovation/rehabilitation loan options and the new low down payment options available from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae (Home Possible® & MyCommunityMortgage®). Use our branch locator to find an Inlanta Mortgage loan officer near you, or simply apply online and we will find one for you.

Our Mission Statement

Our mission is to be the home financing partner that you trust to serve your family, friends and community. Through our family of dedicated mortgage professionals, our commitment is to deliver an exceptional experience. Our unwavering dedication to integrity, honesty and ethics is the foundation of all of our relationships.

About Inlanta Mortgage

Headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin, Inlanta Mortgage is a growing mortgage banking firm committed to quality mortgage lending, ethical operations and strong customer service.

Inlanta Mortgage offers Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac agency products, as well as a full suite of jumbo and portfolio programs. The company is an agency approved lender for Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, FHA/VA, FHA 203K and USDA. Inlanta Mortgage also offers numerous state bond agency programs. Review Inlanta’s mortgage loan programs.

Inlanta Mortgage was named a Top Mortgage Lender in 2013 as well as 2012 by Scotsman Guide and a Top Workplace by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel in 2014 as well as in 2012. Inlanta has also been named one of the “Top 100 Mortgage Companies in America” in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and one of the 50 Best Companies to Work For according to Mortgage Executive Magazine.

Inlanta Mortgage, Inc. NMLS #1016, MyCommunityMortgage® is a registered trademark of Fannie Mae, HomePossible® is a registered trademark of Freddie Mac.

Happy Mortgage Customers at Inlanta Mortgage

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What-Makes-Inlanta-Customers-HappyEvery month we survey our loan customers to get feedback on their home buying or refinancing experience. So what makes our customers happy? After reviewing all the surveys received from customers in 2013, we noticed that happy clients consistently referred to the following key behaviors that Inlanta loan officers showcase:

  1. Communication – Timely and Constant:
    Whether you are buying or refinancing, our customers appreciate being kept up-to-date on their loan status. From the moment an application is received to the final clear to close approval, our loan officers consistently communicate with our borrowers. Here is one testimonial: “Our loan officer treated us like we were her only client. She responded to multiple phone calls and emails very quickly. She even got back to us on the weekend!”
  2. Speed – Quick Closings:
    No one likes to wait! At Inlanta we have streamlined our loan process to ensure we close your loan on the requested date. In many cases, our homebuyers are closing in 30 days or less. Here is a testimonial on the speed in which our loan officers and staff strive to close your loan: “The loan officer was phenomenal to work with. She exceeded our expectations and made the process painless. We closed 30 days after making the offer to the seller. I do not think any other lending service could have made that happen for us.”
  3. Flexible Hours & Scheduling:
    In today’s fast paced world, we realize our borrowers don’t always have time for a traditional meeting in our offices. It is often much more convenient for our loan officers to meet their borrowers where they live, work, etc. Here is a testimonial from one borrower who appreciated that flexibility: “Fast, professional and willing to work around my schedule, not theirs. This made my home buying experience a breeze. I will use them for all financing needs.”
  4. Access to Technological Tools:
    Today, many more borrowers prefer to handle business online. While our loan officers can still take the traditional route and walk borrowers through a full mortgage application, many borrowers want to fill out their application online and save time. Inlanta offers online applications, secure document transfers and instant chat options that enable a borrower to complete almost everything from the comfort of their home.
  5. Knowledge of the Mortgage Industry & Process:
    A loan officer’s knowledge of the mortgage industry, available loan programs and the loan process is essential to a smooth home buying experience. Here is a testimonial one of our loan officers received in regards to her knowledge: “The loan officer’s knowledge of all the assorted details that needed to be dealt with throughout the entire process made getting a loan easy and painless.”
  6. Referrals to Industry Partners:
    Since Inlanta Mortgage has been in the mortgage lending business for more than 20 years, our staff has developed relationships with true professionals in the real estate and mortgage industry. Whether its a contractor referral or a Realtor, Inlanta loan officers seek to align themselves with and recommend the very best.
  7. Access to Loan Products:
    The variety of loan programs a lender offers makes a difference. Inlanta is proud to offer a number of loan programs that many of our competitors do not, including VA loans, USDA loans, renovation loans (both FHA 203k and HomeStyle), Jumbo and more. Inlanta has strong relationships with many investors which translates to more options for borrowers! Here is a testimonial on the importance of having options: “I went to two other mortgage companies prior to going to Inlanta. Both of them denied me for a loan. Inlanta, however, was able to make it happen!”

Our Mission Statement

Our mission is to be the home financing partner that you trust to serve your family, friends and community. Through our family of dedicated mortgage professionals, our commitment is to deliver an exceptional experience. Our unwavering dedication to integrity, honesty and ethics is the foundation of all of our relationships.

About Inlanta Mortgage

Last year, Inlanta Mortgage celebrated its 20th Anniversary. Inlanta Mortgage is a growing mortgage banking firm committed to quality mortgage lending, ethical operations and strong customer service.

Inlanta Mortgage offers Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac agency products, as well as a full suite of jumbo and portfolio programs. The company is an agency approved lender for Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, FHA/VA, FHA 203K and USDA. Inlanta Mortgage also offers numerous state bond agency programs. Review Inlanta’s mortgage loan programs here.

Inlanta Mortgage is a multi-state mortgage banker based out of Brookfield, Wisconsin NMLS #1016. Inlanta Mortgage was named a Top Mortgage Lender in 2012 by Scotsman Guide and has been listed on Mortgage Technology’s Top 25 Tech Savvy Lenders List for the last four years.

Mortgage Questions – Home Loan FAQ’s

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Mortgage FAQs

Mortgage Questions – Home Loan FAQ’s

1. Why buy, instead of rent?  Answer – A home is an investment. When you rent, you write your monthly check and that money is gone forever. But when you own your home, you can deduct the cost of your mortgage loan interest from your federal income taxes, and usually from your state taxes. You can also deduct the property taxes you pay as a homeowner. In addition, the value of your home may go up over the years. Finally, you’ll enjoy having something that’s all yours – a home where your own personal style will tell the world who you are.

2. How much money do I need to come up with to buy a house? Answer – This amount varies. It depends on the cost of the house you want to buy and the type of mortgage you get. Generally, there are three types of money that you will want to make sure you have available to purchase a home:

  • Earnest Money – This is the money you deposit on the home when you submit your offer to purchase. This money indicates to the seller that you are serious about buying the home.
  • Down Payment – This amount will vary depending on the loan program you are using. Conventional and FHA loans require as low as a 3% down payment, while VA and USDA loans have no down payment options.
  • Closing Costs – Closing costs cover lender fees and processing expenses. Your closing costs will depend on the the loan program and house you plan to buy. Your lender will provide an estimate of closing costs on your Good Faith Estimate (GFE). Along with estimated costs, your GFE will also specify the terms of the loan for which you applied.

3. What do I need to apply for a mortgage? To apply for a mortgage with Inlanta Mortgage, we recommend you first complete an online application. You can use our branch locator to find a loan officer near you and apply online. After your application is received, your loan officer will require the following information to verify employment, identity, debt, and assets. This list is not exhaustive and more information may be required.

  • Copies of Bank Statements
  • 401(k), Stocks, Bond, Mutual Fund Account Statements
  • 2 Months Recent Pay Stubs
  • W2’s and Income Tax Statements for 2 Years
  • Records of Outstanding Loans/Revolving Credit Card Accounts
  • Copies of Driver Licenses/Identification Cards (verified)
  • 12 Month Rental History (if new home buyer)

4. What type of mortgage loan can I get? This will depend on many factors. Most first-time home buyers opt for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage. Review our mortgage loan programs to see which program would be most appropriate for your unique financing needs or contact a licensed Inlanta Mortgage lending professional for more information.

Visit our blog regularily for more answers to your mortgage questions!

Inlanta Mortgage is proudly celebrating twenty years in business. Learn more about Inlanta’s twenty year history here.

Inlanta Mortgage offers Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac agency products, as well as a full suite of jumbo and portfolio programs. The company is fully delegated HUD-FHA including FHA 203K, VA, and USDA approved. Inlanta Mortgage also offers numerous state bond agency programs. Review Inlanta’s mortgage loan programs here.

Inlanta Mortgage is a multi-state mortgage banker based out of Brookfield, Wisconsin. NMLS# 1016. Inlanta Mortgage is proud to be a recent recipient of a 2012 Top Workplace Award.

Use our branch locator to find a loan officer near you.

 

 

The Home Buying Process – Series Intro

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Buying a House Should Feel Like This

With rock bottom home prices and the lowest mortgage rates in history, how do you really know if it’s the right time for you to buy a house? It seems no matter where you go these days, you can’t escape the phrase “Now’s the time to buy!”

Buying a house is the biggest financial decision most people will undertake in their lifetimes. Many people wonder “Where should I begin?” To address this question, we are beginning a series of blog posts that will explain the home buying process.

Some of the issues we will address in this blog series include:

1. Selecting a Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator
2. Get Pre-Approved! Why Do You Need a Pre-Approval Anyway?
3. What Documentation Will Your Lender Require?
4. Selecting a Mortgage Loan Program – The Basics
5. Selecting a Mortgage Loan Program – VA, USDA, FHA
6. Finding a Real Estate Agent
7. What Not To Do When Trying to Purchase A Home
8. Making An Offer They Can’t Refuse
9. Processing – What Happens Now?
10. Underwriting and the Clear to Close

Check back often for new posts on this valuable and informative blog series. New posts should be available by Wednesday of each week.

Also keep a look out for future posts in our Understanding Your Credit series with guest blogger Sam Parker from Heartland Credit Restoration. And remember – if you find our blog helpful – share it with your friends!

If you would rather get answers now – Inlanta Mortgage’s team of qualified loan professionals can answer questions about the home buying process anytime you want. Click here to find a licensed mortgage loan officer near you.

Perhaps you are already familiar with the home buying process. Submit a secure mortgage loan application online here.

Click here if you would prefer to hear from some satisfied Inlanta Mortgage customers.

Inlanta Mortgage is based in Brookfield, Wisconsin and is licensed in fourteen states.  Inlanta NMLS # 1016