There are number of questions you need to ask your potential mortgage lender before signing at closing. Asking the right questions can make the most seasoned mortgage bankers flinch. The industry today is the most highly competitive market in the history of mortgages. For over a decade now, mortgage lenders have enjoyed their most prosperous business ever. These lenders want to keep the party going, and as a homeowner you stand to gain from their desperation to do so.
With thousands of companies competing for your mortgage dollar, how do you know which one is best for you? Asking the right questions when screening lenders will help save you thousands of dollars on your mortgage. Remember, these lenders need your business more than you need them, so don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions.
Be upfront and ask why you should select this lender for your mortgage. Ask what they are going to do for you to get your business. Most mortgage bankers will give you the same line: best rates, best service, and proven track records. All lenders claim this, and it doesn’t help you choose one. The question you need answered is “What can I get from this lender that no other will give me.” You are looking for a mortgage lender willing to go the extra mile for you as far as terms and conditions, not just interest rates and points. Some mortgage lenders go the extra mile by offering home buyer assistance programs, real estate agent locators, free credit counseling, and homebuyer pre-approval programs.
Another important question you will need answered is the bottom line on fees the lender will be charging. This is done by comparing the APR for each loan. The lender is required by law to disclose this APR for you prior to closing; this is different from the mortgage interest rate because it will factor in all lender fees, and will allow you to equally compare loans.
Compare the lock period on each loan you are considering. This lock guarantees your interest rate as long as you close prior the expiration of the lock period. Barring some unforeseen circumstance that prevents your from closing, you could save yourself a lot of time and frustration by negotiating for a longer lock period. To learn more about negotiating for the best mortgage deal, sign up for our free mortgage guidebook.
Louie Latour has twenty years of experience in the mortgage industry as a mortgage broker. He is the owner of Mortgage Refinance Advisor, a mortgage resource site devoted to mortgage help with a free guidebook “Five Things You Need to Know Before Refinancing a Mortgage.” http://www.refiadvisor.com
