Smart Loan Shop

1. Have your credit checked early in the process. Most people do not know their credit scores or what really determines a good credit score. It is not enough to get a free credit report from a single credit reporting agency. It is important that you have a mortgage planner obtain a tri merge report. This will provide scores from all 3 reporting agencies. Typically the lender will take the middle of the three scores when qualifying an applicant. It’s important to determine if there are credit issues early on. Many times they can be corrected in a matter of weeks and will raise your score. A low credit score can cost you many thousands of dollars in mortgage interest.

2. Be careful not to make any new purchases on credit. As the prospect of buying your new home comes closer you will begin to think of all the new needs you’ll have. Perhaps it’s larger so you’ll need new furniture. Maybe new appliances or even how a new car will look in the driveway. Don’t laugh, if it hadn’t been done by my past clients then I wouldn’t have mentioned it. Do NOT accumulate new debt before you close on your new home. New debt lowers credit scores and throughs off the deb to income ratio that you were qualified with.

3. Know your Mortgage Planners experience and ability. It is vital to have someone with experience handling the largest purchase of your life. Sometimes people will have a friend or relative that’s in the “business”. Often this is an inexperienced person trying to earn part time income. It is important to have an experienced Mortgage Planner on your side to consult, negotiate and oversee the details of your transaction. Find out what credentials they have. Are they licensed? Do they have a certification in the particular loan programs you are interested in. How long have they worked full time in the industry? Your Mortgage Planner will be responsible for your largest purchase - make sure that you have confidence in that.

4. Thinking there are only 1 or 2 Loan Options. Many buyers assume that there are only a couple loan options available to them. Perhaps they are told by a bank that they need 10% - 20% as a down payment and so assume that they must continue renting until that have that money saved. Make sure that you speak to an experienced Mortgage Planner to determine ALL your options. Today, there are dozens of home loans available. Some that require no down payment at all.

5. Not knowing what affects your Credit. Subtle changes in your credit can affect your score dramatically. Be careful not to have your credit “pulled” too many times. Each lender you speak to will want to pull your credit. As each one does your score may drop. Do not close accounts or open new ones prior to obtaining your mortgage. Closing credit card accounts actually drops your score so never do this prior to closing.

6. Don’t Try To Hide Your Past Financial Difficulties. One of the important services that a good Mortgage Planner offers is helping you overcome past financial difficulties that may hinder your ability to have a loan approved. Your mortgage planner should be on your side. Be careful, to explain any possible credit issue prior to moving forward with your purchase. Supply the information that helps them provide you with the best possible rate, terms and minimizes the impact these issues can present.

7. Be sure to get a Mortgage Pre-Approval. A mortgage pre-approval is a fast and simple process that cannot be overlooked. A seller will want to know that you haev preapproved prior to negotiating a price with you. The preapproval shows the seller that you are not wasting their time and are negotiating in good faith. It will also give you a great sense of security as you are shopping for your dream home.

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