13 May 2019
 Categories: , Blog

When it comes to purchasing a home there are a lot of things to keep in mind. Finding a property that suits your needs, your budget, and is in an area where you want to live can be challenge. When you find the right property, it can be tempting to buy the home as quickly as possible. However, if you are taking out a mortgage loan to pay for your new home, it's important to be prepared with financing before you make an offer. Here's what to know about taking out a mortgage:

Your Credit Matters

If you are taking out a mortgage, one of the first things lenders look at is your past financial history. Your credit score is a great reflection of your previous finances and plays a big role in whether or not you will be able to obtain a mortgage. Your credit score also has a big impact on your mortgage rate. The higher your credit score, the lower your mortgage rate will typically be. For an FHA loan, typically you will need a credit score of at least 580. A credit score of 620 is typically needed for a VA loan while most conventional loans require credit scores of 620 and up.

A Larger Down Payment Helps

While most lenders no longer require large down payments in order to qualify for a mortgage, saving up and bringing a higher down payment to the table can still be very beneficial. A down payment of 20 percent or more will allow you to avoid having to pay private mortgage insurance, or PMI, something which can cost hundreds of dollars each month. A higher down payment may also help you obtain a lower interest rate on your mortgage loan and make you more attractive to lenders.

Shopping Around Helps

Another thing that you should be aware of when taking out a mortgage is that shopping around can be very helpful. Looking at multiple lenders will help you find the right mortgage for your needs. Shopping around will help you find the best mortgage rate possible. There are a variety of ways to shop around; you can look at multiple lenders both in person and online. A mortgage broker can also do the leg work for you and help you find the right lender for your home loan.

If you are taking out a mortgage to buy a new home, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, your credit matters; the better your credit score, the more likely you will be to qualify for a loan. A larger down payment can help you avoid PMI and increase your chances of being approved for a mortgage. Shopping around with various lenders can also be beneficial. For more information about mortgage loans, contact companies like Consumer First Financial.