Lock It in, Lock It in!

It is important to lock in your mortgage rates as quickly as possible if you have found your best possible option. A mortgage rate is the rate of interest charged on mortgage payments. This rate is determined by the lender and can either be fixed or variable. Mortgage rate locks typically last from around 30 to 60 days. If you are working with your mortgage broker, chances are you are in good hands. Liberty Lending Consultants will work with you to provide the best possible rates that will supply your needs. If you are not working with a mortgage broker, then you will need some tips when dealing with locking in a rate for a house.

Mortgage rates fluctuate daily, making it hard to pinpoint the most accurate moment to lock in your rate. To simplify the mortgage rate lock decision, it is important to keep two things in mind when dealing with rates; determining the best timing to lock in and how to compare rates to each other. Here are some additional tips to know when you are preparing to lock in a rate:

• Know the difference between a rate lock and a rate quote
• Typically, you can lock in a rate once you’ve located a property, and up to five days before closing
• Make sure the rate lock is in writing
• Research whether or not rates are predicted to rise or fall before deciding to lock in a rate
• Ensure your rate lock expiration date is realistic
• Be aware of rate caps
• Consider a “float down” option in your commitment letter, in the event that rates drop
• Settle your home loan before the rate lock expires. Rate locking is one step in the process that will help alleviate some of the first time home buyer stress around financing.

At Liberty Lending Consultants, our unrelenting commitment is to help as many mortgage customers as possible achieve their financial dreams while helping them save money on their closing costs. Liberty Lending Consultants has helped thousands of consumers in the Saint Louis area over the years. They will help you receive the mortgage rates that you deserve while getting the best possible option for your needs. At Liberty Lending, they can offer you a USDA home loan, conventional home loans, FHA home loans, or VA home loans that will meet your specific needs and goals. If you want more information about home loans or you need help locking in a rate, contact us.