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NAR Settlement: Key Changes for Buyers and Sellers

Navigating the New NAR Settlement: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Navigating the New Real Estate Landscape: What the NAR Settlement Means for You

Hi, I’m Kevin Retcher, owner of First Meridian Mortgage and KSA Insurance Agency, and a licensed realtor with Jobin Realty in Springfield, Virginia. In today’s blog, I want to walk you through some significant changes in the real estate industry brought about by the recent NAR (National Association of Realtors) settlement, which took effect on August 17th. These changes could dramatically affect how listing and buying agents are compensated, potentially altering your approach whether you’re buying or selling a home.

Understanding the Previous System

Before diving into the new rules, it’s important to understand how things used to work. Traditionally, listing agents negotiated a sale price with sellers, which included a commission split with a buyer’s agent. This commission was then posted in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service). This setup, however, often led to situations where buyers might be shown homes that financially benefited their agents the most, rather than those best suited to their needs.

Buyer’s agents typically included their commission—often 2.5% or 3%—in agreements with buyers, implying that the seller covered it. However, this commission was actually built into the home’s price, meaning buyers often ended up financing this cost.

The Game-Changer: NAR Settlement

The new NAR settlement significantly changes how listing agents interact with sellers and how buyers work with their agents. The key focus now is transparency.

Key Changes for Sellers

  1. Compensation Clarity: Sellers now have several options to discuss with their listing agents, including:
    • Full listing services
    • Unrepresented buyer compensation
    • Buyer’s agent compensation
    • Limited services
    • Variable commission rates

    These choices offer more flexibility based on sellers’ preferences and budgets.

  2. Negotiation Flexibility: Agents must now clearly outline every detail regarding fees and services in their agreements. This eliminates ambiguity and ensures that both parties understand what’s expected, reducing the potential for misunderstandings.
  3. Transparency in MLS Listings: MLS listings must now accurately reflect the negotiated compensation terms. Sellers have a simple yes/no option regarding buyer’s agent compensation, moving away from the old percentage-based listings that could be misleading.

Considerations for Buyers

Buyers also need to navigate these new changes carefully:

  1. Negotiable Buyer’s Agent Compensation: Buyers can now explicitly negotiate their agent’s compensation upfront, defining precise terms, which can impact the overall cost of purchasing a home.
  2. Agency Agreements: It’s recommended that buyers interview multiple agents to find one whose services and fees align with their needs. Understanding the agreement’s term, which could range from a single day to several months, is crucial, especially regarding dual agency scenarios where the agent might represent both buyer and seller.
  3. Limited Services Option: Buyers who are comfortable handling parts of the home-buying process themselves can opt for a limited service agreement, where the agent assists only with specific tasks like writing contracts.

Pro Tips for Navigating the New Paradigm

For Sellers:

  • Scrutinize Listings: Ensure all compensation and service terms are clear before signing.
  • Evaluate Agent Proposals: Consider the value and services each agent offers, not just the commission rate.

For Buyers:

  • Understand the Costs: Know exactly what you’re paying your agent and confirm whether the seller covers these costs.
  • Negotiate Transparently: Have open discussions with your agent to avoid surprises later.

The Implications of the New Rules

These new rules are designed to create more structured and transparent transactions. While they aim to benefit both buyers and sellers, they also require everyone involved to be more proactive and informed.

For Sellers:

  • Have Detailed Discussions: Fully understand the new compensation structures and discuss all scenarios with your listing agent.
  • Review Contracts Thoroughly: Carefully review compensation clauses, termination dates, and potential fees before signing.
  • Leverage Open Houses: With new unrepresented buyer options, consider conducting more open houses but be prepared for additional negotiations.

For Buyers:

  • Interview and Negotiate: Interview several agents and negotiate their commission upfront.
  • Understand Financial Implications: Be clear on how agent fees will be covered, and how this impacts your budget and financing.
  • Keep the Timeframes in Mind: Ensure your agency agreement’s duration is suitable for your home search needs.

Conclusion

The NAR settlement introduces a new level of transparency and negotiability in the real estate market. By understanding these changes and engaging proactively with your agent, whether you’re buying or selling, you can navigate this new landscape effectively. Always take the time to read contracts thoroughly, communicate openly, and negotiate terms that meet your needs.

If you have any questions about the NAR settlement or need assistance with real estate or mortgage services in Northern Virginia, feel free to reach out to me, Kevin Retcher, at First Meridian Mortgage. With over 27 years of experience in the industry, I’m here to help you understand and maneuver through these changes. Contact me at 703-799-5626, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates and insights.

To all the Marines out there, Semper Fi!

Let’s make your real estate journey as smooth and successful as possible

Learn about the 4 C’s of Mortgage Lending with Kevin Retcher

 

Understanding the 4 C’s of Mortgage Lending with Kevin Retcher

Introduction

Navigating the complex world of mortgage lending involves understanding some key principles, chief among them the four C’s – Capacity, Credit, Capital, and Collateral. In a detailed seminar hosted by Kevin Retcher, President of First Meridian Mortgage, these foundational elements are thoroughly examined. Here’s a deeper look at the insights shared by Kevin on the four C’s of mortgage lending.

Capacity – Your Ability to Repay

The first “C,” Capacity, pertains to your ability to repay the loan. This factor evaluates your job stability, type of income, and debt-to-income ratio. Lenders examine your capacity to ensure that you can comfortably meet your mortgage obligations.

Credit – The Foundation of Trust

Credit is the second “C” and it focuses on your credit history and current credit score. During the seminar, Kevin highlights the importance of sound credit practices, including making payments on time and maintaining a varied credit portfolio. Understanding what affects your credit score is vital for successful mortgage applications.

Capital – Demonstrating Financial Strength

Capital, the third “C,” is about the financial assets you possess, which might include your down payment and any additional reserves or equity. Kevin discusses how these assets affect your loan-to-value ratio and the total amount you are eligible to borrow.

Collateral – The Security of Your Loan

Collateral, the fourth and final “C,” relates to the actual property you wish to purchase. This is what secures the loan. Kevin explains how the lender evaluates the property’s type, location, and condition as part of the lending decision process.

Interplay of the 4 C’s

Kevin Retcher emphasizes the synergy between the four C’s in mortgage lending. Each component—Capacity, Credit, Capital, and Collateral—is crucial in determining your eligibility and the terms of your loan. Understanding how these elements interconnect helps you make better-informed financial choices.

Personalized Insights and Tips

Throughout his seminar, Kevin offers tailored advice and tips to help attendees understand and manage the complexities of mortgage lending. His guidance covers everything from managing gift funds to assessing potential risks associated with collateral.

Closing Thoughts

As the seminar concludes, Kevin reiterates the significance of mastering the four C’s—Capacity, Credit, Capital, and Collateral—when pursuing a mortgage. Being well-versed in these areas helps prospective borrowers present themselves favorably to lenders and increase their chances of loan approval.

Conclusion

Kevin Retcher’s detailed explanation of the four C’s provides invaluable knowledge for anyone looking to buy a home or better understand mortgage lending. Armed with insights on Capacity, Credit, Capital, and Collateral, borrowers can strategically approach the loan application process and optimize their financial standing for future lending opportunities.

How to shop a VA loan in 10 Min, and determine who not to use!

How to shop for a VA loan while Buying a Home or PCSING!

In the below video I will show you how to Shop for a VA Loan with , Navy Federal, Pentagon Federal, USAA, Veterans United and First Meridian Mortgage.

In this video, Kevin Retcher, the owner of First Meridian Mortgage and a former Marine, provides an insightful guide for military families looking to use their VA loan in the Northern Virginia, Maryland, and DC areas. Kevin compares the VA loan rates and costs of the ‘big four’ military banks – Navy Federal, PenFed, USAA, and Veterans United – criticizing their hidden fees and lack of transparency. He then showcases how his company, by offering wholesale rates and a more transparent cost structure, typically offers better deals. Kevin emphasizes the importance of researching and getting pre-approved before PCSing and highlights the added value he brings with his extensive experience, military background, and wide network of agents familiar with the needs of military families. The video is aimed at educating military personnel on making informed decisions when purchasing a home using VA loans.

If you are Pcsing Feel free to reach out to me I have 32 States covered by other broker Owners like me. I would be happy to refer you to someone. If you are Pcsing to any of these bases,

#The Pentagon,# Fort McNair, #War College, #Fort Belvoir, #Fort Meade, #Fort Detrick, #Quantico, #HeadQuaters Marine Corps, #Fort Meyer, #Langley – Eustis, #Joint Base Anacostia Bolling, #Joint Base Andrews, #AP Hill Aberdeen Proving Ground, #Norfolk, #8th and I Marine Barracks, #White House, #Naval Academy, #Coast Guard Yard, #Washington Naval Yard, I have you covered.

 

I can also recommend a good Real Estate Agent to be the boots on the ground for you.

Kevin Retcher, Broker Owner

Loan Officer, Insurance Agent, Realtor

(o)703-799-5626

(C) 703-201-6138

Email Kevin@firstmeridianmortgage.com

Website: https://firstmeridianmortgage.com/

Loan Application: https://www.blink.mortgage/app/signup/p/firstmeridianmortgagecorporationx?campaign=loanapplication/

***************************************************************************

Live Mortgage rates

https://firstmeridianmortgage.com/get-live-rate/#null/

First Meridian Mortgage, 8305 Richmond Hwy 12A, Alexandria VA 22309

KSA Insurance Agency, 8305 Richmond Hwy 12A, Alexandria VA 22309

Jobin Realty, 5592 Backlick Road. Springfield Virginia, 22151 703-642-8500

 

https://www.scotsmanguide.com/news/millennials-reclaim-largest-homebuying-share-from-baby-boomers/

First Meridian Mortgage – Toy Drive 2023

Toys for tots 2023

2023 Toys for Tots Toy Drive – A Heartfelt Thank You from First Meridian Mortgage and Kevin Retcher

We at First Meridian Mortgage, along with myself, Kevin Retcher, are immensely grateful to everyone who contributed to the successful 2023 Toys for Tots campaign. Your generous donations, whether in the form of toys or cash, have made a significant difference.

Special thanks go to:

  • Our dedicated employees, particularly Beth Nelson for her creative T-shirt designs.
  • Our supportive friends and family for their invaluable time and effort.
  • The local businesses that played a pivotal role in our campaign’s success.

Our Esteemed Community Partners:

  • First Meridian Mortgage 8305 Richmond Hwy 12A, Alexandria, Virginia 22309 Business Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Weekend appointments available with 30 min notice)
  • Results Fitness 7770 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22306 Business Hours: 4:30 PM – 11:00 PM
  • Bodnar Chiropractic 6969 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22306 Business Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM-7:00 PM
  • The Green Turtle 7979 Heneska Loop, Alexandria, VA 22315 Business Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Burtons Grill 6452a Old Beulah Street, Alexandria, VA 22315 Business Hours: Sun – Thurs, 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM; Fri – Sat, 11:30 AM-10:30 PM
  • Fair Winds Brewing  7000 Newington Road, Lorton Va

The Green Turtle, our gracious host for the main event, provided the perfect backdrop for a festive gathering. With live music from Q and Friends and DJ Marcus, the event was not just entertaining but also a powerful platform for community contributions. Thanks to these collective efforts, we managed to collect and purchase over 712 toys for the 2023 Toys for Tots.

Once again, thank you for your support and generosity.

Sincerely, Kevin Retcher owner First Meridian Mortgage 703-799-5626

 

First Time Home Buyers Grant

$5000 Grant for First Time Homebuyers

HOMEREADY® SPCP

Help more first-time homebuyers achieve homeownership with the HomeReady Special Purpose Credit Program. You can receive $5000 toward your down payment with this program and there is not a restriction on your income.  There is also not restriction on the down payment from 3% – 20% down. This is a rare opportunity based on these current guidelines.

  • Borrowers receive
    • $5,000 grant
    • Up to $500 toward a 1-year home warranty
    • Up to $500 toward appraisal costs
  • Borrower’s current primary residence must be located in an eligible census tract. Click here to see the list of Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSAs)
    • To search a borrower’s current primary address and check for eligibility, client must be First Time homebuyer.
  • An LO Survey must be completed on each loan

Loan must be run through DU and receive a message ID 3673 for full eligibility. Full loan application will need to determine if client qualifies.

Call me for more details 703-799-5626 or you can txt me your address at  703-201-6138 and i can check availability.

*Lender has the right to suspend SPCP programs at anytime.

First Meridian Mortgage is an Official Drop off for Toys For Tots

First Meridian Mortgage is an Official Drop off for Toys for Tots

First Meridian Mortgage is proud help to be an Official Toys for Tots Drop off and collection site for new, unwrapped toys for the 2023 holiday season. The Toys for Tots program is ran by the Marine Corps Reserve foundation.

 

About Toys for Tots –

Toys for Tots, a 74-year national charitable program run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, provides happiness, and hope to less fortunate children during each Christmas holiday season. The toys, books, and other gifts collected and distributed by our Marines and volunteers during the Christmas season offer these children recognition, confidence, and a positive memory for a lifetime. Toys for Tots also provides support year-round to less fortunate families experiencing challenges and exceptional circumstances, thus sending a message of hope beyond the holiday season. It is such experiences that help children become responsible citizens and caring members of their community. Last year, the Marine Toys for Tots Program fulfilled the holiday hopes and dreams of  7.4 million less fortunate children in over 800 communities nationwide. Since 1947, over 272 million children have been assisted. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a not-for-profit organization authorized by the U.S. Marine Corps and the Department of Defense to provide fundraising and other necessary support for the annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. For more information, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

 

Drop Off location :

First Meridian Mortgage

c/o Toy for Tots

8305 Richmond Hwy 12A

Alexandria VA 22309

Link to other drop off sites

My personal Connection to Toys for Tots

In 1986, at the age of 18, I found myself stationed at the 8th and I Marine Barracks. On a special assignment, I served as the driver for a 5-ton cargo truck, dressed in my sharp Dress Blues, heading to the Mad Hatter to represent the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. Spending a few hours at the event, I collected around 50-60 toys, which seemed pretty cool to me at the time. It’s important to note that, being just 18, I was still a kid myself.

It wasn’t until the end of the night, when I backed the truck up to the warehouse for unloading, that the true impact of our efforts hit me. With the help of another Marine, we opened the warehouse doors, and to my surprise, I saw a towering mountain of toys, reaching about 40 to 50 feet high. It was then that I realized the significant difference we were making in bringing joy to countless kids on Christmas day.

While I understood that some Toys for Tots runs were mandatory, many, like mine, were volunteered. The experience was profound, and as an 18-year-old, I couldn’t express enough the joy it brought me to be part of such a meaningful program.

Now, as a Marine and a proud veteran running my own business, I am honored to be an official Drop Off location for the Toys for Tots Program. I urge everyone to consider contributing by dropping off or sending a new, unwrapped toy—it’s a small gesture that can make a big difference in a child’s life.

Kevin Retcher

 

Save Thousand by Putting less Money Down!

$4000 Grant to buy a home

How a 3% Down Program Can Be Cheaper than 5% – First Meridian Mortgage

Are you dreaming of homeownership but concerned about the upfront costs? At First Meridian Mortgage, we have an exciting solution that can make owning a home more affordable than you think. Our 3% Down Program offers a unique opportunity to save money and achieve your homeownership goals. In fact, you may be surprised to learn that this program can be even cheaper than a 5% down payment option. Let’s explore how this program can help you unlock affordable homeownership and save thousands of dollars.

Generous 2% Down Payment Grant:

Thanks to our partnership with a national wholesaler, we can provide a 2% down payment grant of up to $4,000. This grant can be used towards your down payment or closing costs, significantly reducing your upfront expenses. Whether you’re a Millennial or a Gen Z buyer who has saved 3-5% for a home, this program is designed to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for you. Plus, the down payment and closing costs can also be gifted by a family member, widening the possibilities even further.

Simple Qualification Process:

✅ To take advantage of this incredible program, you need to meet a few requirements.

  • First, you must qualify under the Freddie Mac Home Possible Guidelines, which offer flexible and accessible financing options.
  • Second, your household income must be below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) based on county limits. For example, in the Metro DMV area, the income limit is $112,400.
  • Third, while you don’t need to be a first-time homebuyer, if you are, you’ll need to complete a homeownership class to enhance your knowledge and confidence.

💰 Making the Numbers Work in Your Favor:

Now, let’s dive into the financial benefits of our 3% Down Program. Imagine a scenario where you’re considering a 5% down conventional loan versus a 3% conventional loan on May 24, 2023:

🏢 Property Details: Purchase price (condo): $430,000

💼 5% Down Payment: Loan amount: $408,500 Interest rate: 6.510% Principal and Interest (PI): $2,584.68 Mortgage Insurance (MI): $64.68 Total PI and MI payment: $2,649.36

🌟 3% Down Payment: Loan amount: $417,100 Utilize the $4,000 grant to buy down the interest rate to 6.090% Principal and Interest (PI): $2,524.91 Mortgage Insurance (MI): $86.90 Total PI and MI payment: $2,611.81

💰 Total Savings: $48,418 over the life of the loan (including the increase in MI)

By participating in our 3% Down Program, you can potentially save approximately $30,118, plus an additional $21,600 in payment savings, offsetting the increase in mortgage insurance costs of $3,300. These significant savings can make a substantial difference in your financial journey and help you build wealth over time. She was able to also keep $8600 in her bank account and pay less money over the life of the loan.

Flexible Financing for Your Dream Home:

The Home Possible program is a 3% Down program that can be combined with Gifts, and grants to achieve home ownership with less cost. It’s important to note that you don’t need to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify, and you can use gift funds and down payment assistance programs for your entire down payment. This flexibility allows you to structure your finances in a way that best suits your needs and maximizes your savings. This specific 2% Grant is only available through a Mortgage Broker. Mortgage Brokers have a large range of product to choose from if you are not eligible for this program. Give us a call.

We also have a large network of Real Estate Agents that we would love to refer you to. Some have special offers for clients of First Meridian Mortgage.

Don’t let high down payment requirements hold you back from owning

Please call Kevin Retcher at 703-799-5626 or schedule an appointment online at calendy

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to stretch your dollars and achieve homeownership on your terms.

 

Program Flyers

Grant Flyer

New Lower FHA Mortgage Insurance

Lower FHA MI

FHA Lowers Mortgage Insurance

On February 22, 2023, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) released Mortgagee Letter 2023-05, announcing several changes to its mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) for new FHA-insured mortgages. These changes are expected to significantly reduce the monthly payment for borrowers and make homeownership more affordable for more Americans.

The most significant change is the reduction in the annual MIP for most FHA-insured mortgages from 0.85% to 0.55% of the loan amount for borrowers who put down at least 3.5% of the purchase price. This means that borrowers will pay a lower amount each year towards their mortgage insurance, resulting in a lower overall monthly payment.

New FHA Loan Limits for 2023

Additionally, the FHA announced an increase in the maximum loan limit for FHA-insured mortgages. The new loan limit is $472,030 for most areas, with higher limits for high-cost areas. The FHA loan limit ceiling for high-cost areas with exceptionally high home values is $1,089,300. These loan limits apply to single-family homes and are subject to change annually based on changes in median home prices. You can find the new loan limits by clicking on the resource section to find the link to fha loan limits.

Using the example of a borrower with an annual income of $100,000, a monthly debt payment of $400, and a DTI ratio of 48%, these changes could have a significant impact on their ability to afford a home. Assuming a 3.5% down payment and a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with an interest rate of 5.625%, this borrower could potentially afford a home priced at $467,500 vs $450,000, or save approximately $108 per month.

In summary, the changes announced in Mortgagee Letter 2023-05 are expected to make homeownership more affordable for more Americans, especially those with lower down payments and higher debt-to-income ratios. Borrowers should consult with their lenders to determine how these changes may impact their specific situation.

See announcement

Call Kevin Retcher for more details. We originate all our FHA Loans at 1% lender paid compensation which is one of the lowest in the DMV. First Meridian Mortgage believes that FHA home ownership should be affordable. Click here for live rates. 

To schedule an appointment please fill out the questions on the Getting started page, this is not an application, but just to get a returned call, or call 703-799-5626.

 

 

Score with our low Mortgage Rates

First Time Homebuyers love Super Bowl Parties

If you are hosting your first Super Bowl Party, congratulations on a win for homeownership. Tell them how First Meridian Mortgage can help you score a great interest rate on your new mortgage and become a First Time Homebuyer. If you are looking for a new home so you can host next years big game give us a call at 703-799-5626.

Kevin Retcher will help you get ready to host the Best Super Bowl Party ever next year. www.homebuyersbundle.com

Opt-Out of Prescreens and the DoNotCall List

opt-out of Prescreens and donotcall

Protect your Privacy – Prescreen Offers and the Do NOT Call List

Opt-Out Prescreen before you Apply

Protect your Privacy! Are you thinking of getting pre-approved? Kevin Retcher, owner of First meridian Mortgage and KSA Insurance Agency says, “Before you call First Meridian Mortgage or any other lender, you should consider opting out of prescreen offers otherwise known as Trigger Leads.” Why you ask? If you apply for a mortgage and are not on the opt-out list, the 3 major credit bureaus—Equifax, Transunion, and Experian—will sell your contact information to anyone that will buy it based on the fact you had a mortgage credit report pulled. While I believe competition is great—privacy is better.

For a free Flyer on how to opt out click www.firstmeridianmortgage.con/optout.pdf

 

Lack of Privacy if you have not Opted Out

The bureaus will sell your name, email, credit scores, every phone number, and addresses on file. They do not just sell these to one person. They will sell that information to as many clients as they can. First, you will start to begin to receive phone calls, then texts and notifications all hours of the day for about a week. In a particular case, one client of mine had received a combination of 94 texts, emails, and unwanted calls after two credit pulls. Keep in mind if you get pre-approved with more than one lender on different days, you are now on multiple lists and the process starts all over again.

A key note is that many of the text or emails misrepresent their sender, or try tricking you into thinking they are the lender you applied with. They often use verbiage that try to solicit or make you responding/reapply. 

The only argument to accepting this torture is that if one of the multiple calls or numerous emails would result in a deal better than the one provided. However, I would argue that the trusted referral, repeat service, and research done on line will be a better choice than the random company with high pressure sales tactics.

What are Trigger Leads

Trigger leads are the bureaus making money by selling your information. It begins when you have someone pull your credit for a variety of reasons. They then sell that information to as many clients that will buy it. This practice has gotten worse as the business has slowed. The average cost of a credit check for a pre-approval has tripled in recent months to an average of $125 for married couple and $65 for a single client with three credit bureaus. It is cheaper for a client to buy trigger leads than to actually do the work. Money for them, unwanted calls after a credit pulling for you.

Stop Trigger leads, Stop Selling my information 

The FCRA provides you the right to “Opt-Out”, which prevents Consumer Credit Reporting Companies from providing your credit file information. You can Opt-Out and protect yourself here. The consumer has three options:

  • Opt-IN (which I cannot suggest)
  • Opt-OUT for 5 years (phone and email)
  • Permanent Opt-Out of Mail

You will need your name, address, SSN and DOB to Opt-Out. The biggest reason to submit to the list is the fact that senders are using your personal data as a product without your permission.  They do not monitor the ways the info is used, nor know the legitimacy or reputability of the offers. They are only in it for the money! They are searching for the highest bidders, opening you up to lost time, potential scams, and potentially more costly deals.

DO-Not-Call List or National Do not Call Registry

The National Do Not Call Registry is a list of phone numbers from consumers who have indicated their preference to limit the telemarketing calls they receive. The registry is managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency. It is enforced by the FTC, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and state officials.

For FAQ on the Do-NOT-Call List, click here.

Registering will not keep bonified business relationships from being able to contact you (they are allowed to continue for up to 18 months), but it will keep a number of solicitations to a minimum.

Will the Registry stop ALL unwanted calls?

No. The Do Not Call Registry stops sales calls from companies that do not have a previous established relationship with you. The Registry provides a list to telemarketers detailing what numbers they are not supposed to call. The FTC does not and cannot block calls—that is not what they do. Furthermore, the Registry cannot stop calls from scammers who ignore the Registry.

One reason people get a lot of unwanted calls is because it’s easy and cheap for scammers to call people anywhere in the world. Skilled in masking their calls with local numbers, scammers can make it difficult for the consumer to identify them. To get fewer unwanted calls, read the Federal Trade Commission’s article. Between cell phones, landlines, and home phones with access to internet (VoIP), there are different call-blocking and call-labeling options to implement.

You can find a list of some call-blocking and call-labeling apps for cell phones at ctia.org, a website for the U.S. wireless communications industry. For company-specific information about blocking calls on landlines and phones that use the internet, go to the FCC’s Call Blocking Resources.

Register on the National Do Not Call Registry

It is simple and easy to Register 

All you have to do is to go to DoNotCall.gov

Protect your Privacy

Kevin Retcher, the owner First Meridian Mortgage and KSA Insurance Agency takes privacy seriously. If time allows to Opt-Out and access the Do-Not-Call list, then you should do it. If the perfect house is on the market and you do not have 7-10 days for the lists to update, then it is ok to move forward, but just be aware that you will be potentially receiving a lot of unwanted, and unsolicited notifications from strangers. The higher the score, the more calls you are going to get. If you would like more information or want to get preapproved call 703-799-5626.