If you are starting to look for a mortgage,it is important that you first understand how mortgage rates are compiled. Before you even take a look at someone’s advertise mortgage rate, you have to make sure that you understand the difference between the advertising and the actual rate.
Banks advertiser rates all over the TV, radio, and Internet. Many times they will advertise what is called a buydown rate versus what the actual rate is. I buydown rate typically includes the borrower to bring in thousands of dollars to buy down the rate.
Banks receive their mortgage interest rate from the same place as every other bank across the nation each and everyday. Although the rates may fluctuate from bank to bank as some banks are more aggressive with their particular rates, it is common to see most banks within an eight to a quarter point of each other. If you’re looking at a buydown rate, you may see the fluctuation and a bigger scale.
The next thing you need to know is what kind of fees is the mortgage broker or bank going to charge you. You typically don’t want to go with them first person you talked to, but rather talk to three or four different lenders to help you decide. Each lender should give you a good faith estimate of the proposal. Keep in mind though, this is only an estimate and it does not mean that they have to include everything that may change during the process.
Should you go with a conventional loan or an FHA loan? This is one question that is answered by your credit score. FHA loans are designed more for people who do not have as much equity in their homes and typically have a slightly lower credit score than desired in conventional financing.
The next thing you need to discover is whether you want a fixed rate, or an adjustable-rate loan. Most people these days are opting for a fixed rate because rates are very favorable, but there are several situations where an adjustable rate makes more sense. It just depends on your situation. Make sure that you’re working with someone who provides you with both options, and shows you the pros and cons of each.
Prepayment penalties are not very common these days, but make sure you ask just in case.
The most important step of getting a new mortgage is to make sure that you’re working with someone who knows what they’re talking about. It goes without saying that in any industry there are the people that are great at the job, and there are people that are clueless. Believe me, I have worked with both
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