How to be an ‘Ideal Borrower’ for a Mortgage Lender

Homebuyers can position themselves for getting the best interest rates on their new mortgage by taking steps that demonstrate their financial responsibility.

The ideal borrower for a mortgage lender is proactive about doing the right things to secure their loan. These steps will help anyone stand out when they are ready to apply for a home loan.

Start Working On Your Finances Early

Strong credit reports take time to build. One of the first things that people can do to become an ideal borrower is to check their current credit report.

Starting early allows time for doing things such as challenging any discrepancies. Analyzing the report can also show areas where buyers can improve such as by reducing their debt.

Seek Pre-Approval

Buyers who seek pre-approval for their loan before they start looking at houses find that the rest of the process is much easier. Lenders appreciate already knowing where a potential buyer stands financially so that they can offer them the best loan options.

Buyers also benefit from knowing how much they will be approved for so that they can look for houses that fit that price range.

Keep Your Paperwork Organized

Lenders request documentation of important information such as your income. Depending upon how you earn a living, this can get complicated.

Business owners may need to furnish bank statements and profit and loss statements to prove their income. Commission-based workers may need to use tax returns and other forms to show their long-term earnings if they fluctuate from one month to another.

Sending documents in a timely manner helps to speed up the application process and get approval.

Increase Your Understanding of Different Types of Loans

Mortgage lenders may use terms that most people don’t hear every day. A lender may talk about different types of interest rates. Knowing the difference between a fixed-rate loan and an adjustable-rate mortgage improves communication from the very beginning.

Homebuyers may also want to explore the various benefits of FHA, USDA and VA loans. If you find that you don’t understand something during your consultation, then feel free to let us know. It is important to make sure that you fully understand the options so that you pick the best one for your goals.

Begin Saving Money for a Down Payment

Down payment amounts vary significantly from one loan to another. A larger down payment has benefits such as keeping mortgage payments lower. Some borrowers may also need a down payment to help lower their risk factors for lenders.

Although zero down payment loans are available, it is better to plan to put down some type of initial payment just to avoid being surprised. Buyers who end up not being required to make a down payment can use this money toward closing costs and moving expenses.

Avoid Opening New Lines of Credit

Your creditworthiness is assessed towards the beginning of the home buying process, and it may be checked again at the end. Avoid applying for new credit cards or different types of loans until the home purchase is finalized. This prevents a sudden drop in the credit rating that could affect whether the loan goes through as expected.

Ideal borrowers are informed, organized and responsible. In addition to building up your financial standing, take the time to speak with a specialist who can guide you through the loan application process.