# Paying off a mortgage

**URL:** <https://boards.straightdope.com/t/paying-off-a-mortgage/467183>\
**Category:** Factual Questions\
**Created:** [October 9, 2008, 4:54pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/paying-off-a-mortgage/467183 "2008-10-09T16:54:15Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 2

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**Author:** ![Kalhoun](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/k/3bc359/32.png) [@Kalhoun](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Kalhoun)\
**Post date:** [October 13, 2008, 8:53pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/paying-off-a-mortgage/467183/21 "2008-10-13T20:53:52Z")

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> [@vetbridge](#):
>
> A few years ago, I asked for advice on [purchasing a house.](http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?t=313860) Back then I was nervous about qualifying for a mortgage, and I was seeking info on the pros/cons of even _having_ a mortgage. Well, I bought the house and have lived there happily.
> 
> Well, the mortgage was taken over by Chase shortly after closing. All went smoothly until [Chase f\*cked up](http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?t=446804). After that issue was resolved, I was nervous and began paying even more extra toward the principal.
> 
> So, I now find myself paying off my mortgage later this year or early next year. I have a few questions:
> 
> 1. Do I need legal help doing this, or do I just mail my last payment?
> 2. After I pay it off, do I get any documentation?
> 3. How do I handle paying taxes without my mortgage escrow?
> 4. I’m thinking about buying another house (for vacation/investment). With my primary residence paid for, will a mortgage be easy to get, with current economic climate?
> 5. Any other advice?
> 
> Thanks!!!

We just paid our house off (early) in August

1. They wouldn’t let us mail it. We had to wire it. No clue why this was required.
2. Yes, but it takes a while. The county recorder and other people have to do their thing and it takes a while. Keep all your documentation.
3. We did that too. We got a check from the escrow account and deposited it in our bank. The tax bill came due and we paid it in a drop box at the county offices. Our bank was supposed to take it but they didn’t like the “printout” format for our bill so they made us go to the county building.
4. can’t help ya.
5. Can’t help ya again.

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