The CFPB is cracking down on so-called "junk fees" that lenders have been charging home buyers and sellers. These junk fees can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to the cost of a mortgage loan and often provide no real benefit to the consumer.

For years, homeowners have been taken advantage of by lenders who charge excessive and unnecessary fees. But now, the CFPB has announced a new initiative to protect consumers from these predatory practices.

This is excellent news for anyone in the market for a new home or selling their current property. With the CFPB's new regulations, you are less likely to be overcharged for your mortgage.

So what does this mean for you? Keep reading to learn more about how the new regulations will affect you.

WHAT ARE JUNK FEES AND WHY DO THEY EXIST IN THE FIRST PLACE?

Junk fees are charges that a lender tacks on to a loan for no apparent reason. They're called "junk" because they don't serve any purpose and only pad the lender's profits.

Standard junk fees include application fees, processing fees, underwriting fees, document preparation fees, and wire transfer fees. Sometimes lenders will also charge a "points" fee, which is simply a commission that the lender charges for arranging the loan.

The existence of junk fees can be infuriating for borrowers because they're paying more money for no reason. In some cases, the total cost of the junk fees can be more than the interest on the loan itself!

WHAT IMPACT WILL THIS HAVE ON CONSUMERS AND BUSINESSES ALIKE?

The CFPB plans to continue to crack down on real estate junk fees by taking action against companies that charge them. The CFPB intends to educate consumers about these fees to avoid them in the future.

The CFPB's new regulations on home lending junk fees will significantly impact the mortgage industry by eliminating many of the junk fees that lenders have been using to pad their profits. This is good news for consumers, who will now be able to get a mortgage without paying exorbitant fees.

HOW CAN CONSUMERS BEST PROTECT THEMSELVES FROM JUNK FEES?

When you're looking for a home loan, it's essential to read all the fine print to understand exactly what you're getting into. Ask your lender lots of questions to understand all the rates and fees associated with your loan. And be an informed consumer so that you can make the best decision for your needs.

America has been taken advantage of long enough by junk fees. Be part of the solution! You can now send a complaint to the CFPB. They request information about your experience with unnecessary fees imposed by unscrupulous lenders. You can learn more about the initiative and submit your feedback about your experiences with junk fees.

TITLE INSURANCE SHOULDN'T COME WITH SURPRISE FEES

Our mission is to provide a quality title insurance product without charging our customers unnecessary fees. We don't generate fees for real estate agencies. Our attorneys and title agents have many years of combined experience to help you complete your transaction swiftly and smoothly.

If you want to learn more about how we can help you with your next real estate transaction, check out our upfront Fees Checklist. Our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way.