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Gather Your Information
Before you begin searching for mortgage quotes, gather all your financial information ahead of time. A copy of your IRS tax form from last year will list most of the financial information you will need to enter.
If you are buying a home, know the home's price and how much you plan on putting down. Most mortgage lenders require at least 10% for people with poor credit, but 20% down will help you avoid private mortgage insurance, saving you hundreds a year.
Know Your Lender
Sub prime lenders specialize in high risk loans, particularly loans to people with bad credit. In order to cover this risk, sub prime lenders charge a couple of interest points higher than a traditional lender.
Most sub prime lenders will also require a down payment to ensure that they get at least something if they have to foreclose on the loan. However, legitimate sub prime lenders will not charge excessively high rates or fees, so read the details before you sign for a mortgage loan.
Compare Rates
Online mortgage rates can vary as much as 5% between lenders, which can add up to thousands over several years. Even half a percentage point will save you money, so compare several lenders before deciding on one.
Mortgage loan websites allow you to gather quotes from several lenders by having you enter your information once. This is a convenient way to compare rates since the quotes are all for the same loan amount with the same personal information.
Look For Fees
Mortgage rates are only part of the cost of a mortgage loan. You also need to add in the cost of points and fees to determine the total cost of the mortgage loan. Fees and points can be paid at the beginning of your loan or over the entire period of the loan.
Follow Through
Remember that a mortgage loan quote does not guarantee a loan rate a week later. Mortgage rates can vary daily, so once you find a good rate you need to lock it in by completing the loan process.
Raising Your Credit Score
Home loans build up your credit score when you make regular payments. Unlike credit cards or short-term loans, a home loan shows your long-term responsibility. With a higher credit score, you can then refinance your mortgage for a lower interest rate.
However, if your financial situation is currently shaky, it is better to wait to apply for a home loan. You don't want to risk a lower credit score with missed payments. A better idea is to pay off short-term debt and save for a down payment on a house.
Building Equity
With your own home, your monthly payments are investments in your home. Through mortgage payments, rising real estate prices, and sweat equity, you can watch the value of your home rise. If you are paying rent, you are building equity for the landlord, not yourself. The better financial choice is to buy your own home or condo rather than pay rent.
If you are planning to move out of the area soon, then it is best to wait to purchase a home. Closing costs and realtor fees can run into the thousands. If you are not in your home for more than two years, then it is unlikely you will recoup these costs when you sell.
Planning Future Goals
Owning a home is as much a lifestyle choice as a financial choice. So deciding when to purchase a home should be based on your future goals. Are you ready settle down and put the time into maintaining a house? Or do you not want to worry about it and let the landlord handle those major maintenance projects? Just remember that you are trading money for convenience.
When considering buying a home, think about your current financial situation and your future lifestyle goals.