Google Helpouts.

NEW -> Contingent Buyer Assistance Program
sgip

sgip

Well-known member
I got an invite to start up a Google Helpout. If you've not seen what a Helpout is, it's essentially a paid forum to get live answers to questions ranging from gardening, how to fix an alternator, to correct pronunciation of a word in a foreign language.

The Helpout service I intended to create was to answer some financing questions and scenarios for X cost. I haven't defined what X is yet. It wouldn't be possible to have a "is my rate a good one?" or "Can you beat this rate?" forum, but more like, "what is the best way to take care of PMI?"

Here's the question: If you had issues about purchase or refinance lending that hadn't yet been addressed to your satisfaction by either the loan officer, an underwriter, or via a lenders website FAQ's, would you see value in paying X to get that answer directly from someone "in the biz" without having to commit to working with any specific lender?

Answer here or by PM. Your brutally honest feedback is encouraged.

SGIP
 
Maybe but I had trouble getting past the Google Helpout part. Never heard of it let alone used it. Like a lot of people, I have a G+ account and never use it. They're having trouble getting it going. Well if anybody is like me and thought, "Huh? What's Google Helpout? Does he mean a Google Hangout? That, I've heard of." Yeah, he means Helpout, not Hangout. Here is a clip to explain:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-VFC9AQM1k
 
I would say it all depends on the specific issue in question. Personally, I would pay for the advice on the issue that puts closing at risk (purchase scenario). For these type of issues the right decision has to be made quite fast. Often there is no time to search for the answers on the Internet and you need a quick solution from a financial guru who you can trust. For the refinance scenario however, I would rather do the research to find answers myself since usually there is much less pressure and you can always just stick to your current loan.

I would spend $100-$200 for half-hour session for this type of service in a "may-not-close" situation depending on the complexity of the issue and on my interest in the house, but I'm known for being cheap.

Also, I would be very hesitant to trust somewhat random person on Google Helpout. Not sure if this service provides any way for the customers to rate their providers. And finally, I've never heard about this service before, so I wonder how many people actually use it..
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top