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Buying a home is making a major investment, and it's an investment that can cost a buyer a lot of money unless they do their homework. You can save money on your home loan costs by taking a few steps, regardless of how the economy is doing when you decide to shop for a home loan.
Buying a home is making a major investment, and it's an investment that can cost a buyer a lot of money unless they do their homework. You can save money on your home loan costs by taking a few steps, regardless of how the economy is doing when you decide to shop for a home loan. When you apply for a home loan, make sure you have a high credit score. Higher credit scores mean lower interest rates on home loans, which will save the buyer thousands in interest over the term of the loan. Check your credit report before you apply, and make sure you pull reports from all credit bureaus because your home loan provider uses all credit reports in determining the buyer's creditworthiness and ability to repay the home loan. If your reports have mistakes, get the mistakes corrected. Pay down your credit card balances and make your payments on time. This behavior will improve your credit score and help you maintain a high score so you can get the best home loan rates. Always shop around and collect more than one home loan quote. Lending is a competitive business, so consequentially lenders compete for your money. They are always willing to lower their quote if a competitor is bidding for your service. Use this benefit to your advantage. Another way you can save money on your loan is by requesting the seller cover the closing costs. Closing costs range between 3-7% of the total cost of the property. You cannot hurt your standing by doing this. The worst thing that can happen is a polite 'no' by the seller. If the seller will not cover the closing costs, inform the bank and discuss lowering the closing rate. The bank will likely work with you, so do not be afraid to ask. While buying a home and obtaining a home loan can feel overwhelming at times, there are ways to cut costs and save money on your home loan. Do your homework and earn the best grade possible! DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice. Tom Martens is the content coordinator for South Arica?s leading Homeloans portal which amongst others offers Bond origination services for all major banks. |