We have two nationally known title and escrow companies in the Lake County area.

They are:

Fidelity National Title  

377 Lakeport Boulevard, Lakeport, CA 95453-5412

Ph: 707-263-0127

Fax: 707-263-0901

First American Title

805 11th Street #B, Lakeport, CA 95453

707.263.5686 | Fax: 707.263.7470

14280 Lakeshore Drive, Clearlake, CA 95422

707.994.6431 | Fax: 707.995.0155

It’s important to find a reliable mortgage broker or lender.  Lending is a competitive business and there is plenty of opportunity for you to save time and money if you search for the best loan. It’s like with any business if the loan officer or mortgage broker does not return phone calls then you need to decide if you really want to work with them?

Mortgage term. Mortgages are generally available at 15-, 20-, or 30-year terms. The longer the term, the lower the monthly payment if the same amount is borrowed. However, you pay more interest overall if you borrow for a longer term.

Fixed or adjustable interest rates. A fixed rate allows you to lock in a low rate for as long as you hold the mortgage and is usually a good choice if interest rates are low. An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is designed so that interest rates will rise as interest rates increase; however they usually offer a lower rate in the first years of the mortgage. ARMs also usually have a limit as to how much the interest rate can be increased and how frequently they can be raised. ARMs are a good choice when interest rates are high or when you expect your income to grow significantly in the coming years.

Balloon mortgages. Balloon mortgages offer very low interest rates for a short period of time—often three to seven years. Payments usually cover only the interest, so the principal owed is not reduced. However, this type of loan may be a good choice if you think you will sell your home in a few years.

       Government-backed loans.

      There are many Government-backed loans, sponsored by agencies such as:

      Federal Housing Administration (www.fha.gov)

      U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (www.va.gov)

      California Veterans Affairs (www.cdva.ca.gov)

      U.S. Department of Agriculture Loans (www.usda.gov)

      These agencies offer special terms, including lower down payments or reduced interest rates to qualified buyers.

Property tax in Lake County is ~ 1.25% of the transfer value.  This figure may vary slightly based on the area you are purchasing in so if you want a better estimate contact the Lake County Assessors office at 707-263-2302

There will be a transfer tax that is typically paid by the seller and that rate is based on $1 per $1000 of purchase price.

Sales Tax in Lake County on general merchandise is 8.25%