The key to getting a great home mortgage is doing the right research first. You need to know the advantages and disadvantages of your different mortgage options to make the right choice. That means you have to take the initiate to learn more. The tips in this article are a great start to getting a great home mortgage plan.
Before getting a mortgage, study your credit history. Good credit is what can help you get a mortgage. Obtain copies of your credit history and scores from the three major credit-reporting bureaus. Study your reports carefully to ensure that no issues or errors must be resolved before you apply. Many lenders need a minimum score of 680, which complies with Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae’s guidelines. Most lenders want to avoid scores that are lower than 620.
Start saving all of your paperwork that may be required by the lender. These documents include pay stubs, bank statements, W-2 forms and your income tax returns. Keep these documents together and ready to send at all times. If you don’t have your paperwork in order, your mortgage may be delayed.
You should have all your information available before you apply for a mortgage. Most lenders require a standard set of documents pertaining to income and employment. You should have your tax returns, W2s and bank statements. If you have the documents in hand, you won’t have to return later with them.
If you decide on a mortgage, be sure you’ve got good credit. Lenders consider how much risk they are taking on you based on your credit report. With bad credit, accomplish whatever it takes to avoid a loan denial.
Refinancing a home mortgage when interest rates are low can save you thousands of dollars on your mortgage. You may even be able to shorten the term of your loan from 30 years to 15 years and still have a monthly payment that is affordable. You can then pay your home off sooner.
If you’ve gotten approved for a mortgage, don’t make any other big purchases until after you’ve closed on your home. Typically your lender will pull your credit once again right before closing. If there are issues that crop up it could lead to problems with your closing. Be smart and curb spending until all is complete.
Understand the difference between a mortgage broker and a mortgage lender. There is an important distinction that you need to be aware of so you can make the best choice for your situation. A mortgage broker is a middle man, who helps you shop for loans from several different lenders. A mortgage lender is the direct source for a loan.
As stated above, you have to do some research before you decide on a plan for something as important as your home mortgage. Reading the advice in this article was a great start to learning more about home mortgages. Research your options a little more to make sure you are getting the best mortgage possible.
