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.
The basic thing to understand is that mortgage interest rates come from the same place for each bank across the nation. Some banks are more aggressive without rate that they get, but advertising is advertising and you really need to make sure that you read the fine print.
What kind of fees are you going to be charged? This is one question that you need ask up front. If the fees are going to outweigh the savings, then it goes to reason that refinancing your mortgage is probably not advantageous at this time. Typically these closing costs should be able to be recouped within 2 to 3 years of refinancing.
The second thing you need to do is make sure that you know your credit scores. This will help you shop with confidence and be able to provide the needed information to each lender. Here’s the best place that we have found that gives a complete and accurate credit report.
Should I go with a fixed rate mortgage or an adjustable rate mortgage? You mean to make sure you ask your mortgage lender this question and have them walk you through what’s good about an adjustable rate mortgage and what’s bad about an adjustable rate mortgage. For some people in adjustable rate is great, but all depends on your current situation.
Is there a prepayment penalty on this loan? Makes you ask this question even though prepayment on these are not very common these days.
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