Why Pre-Qualification is So Important...

Pre-Qualification and Pre-Approval

Many buyers apply for a loan and obtain approval before they find the home they want to buy. Why?

Pre-qualifying will help you in the following ways:

• Generally, interest rates are locked in for a set period of time. You will know in advance exactly what your payments will be on offers you choose to make.
• You won't waste time considering homes you cannot afford.
• Pre-approval will help you in the following ways:
• A seller may choose to make concessions if they know that your financing is secured. You are like a cash buyer, and this may make your offer more competitive.
• You can select the best loan package without being under pressure.

HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD? There are three key factors to consider:

• The down payment
• Your ability to qualify for a mortgage
• The closing costs associated with your transaction.

DOWN PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS:Most loans today require a down payment of between 3.5% and 5.0% depending on the type and terms of the loan. If you are able to come up with a 20-25% down payment, you may be eligible to take advantage of special fast-track programs and possibly eliminate mortgage insurance.

CLOSING COSTS:You will be required to pay fees for loan processing and other closing costs. These fees must be paid in full at the final settlement, unless you are able to include them in your financing. Typically, total closing costs will range between 2-5% of your mortgage loan.

QUALIFYING FOR THE MORTGAGE:Most lenders require that your monthly payment range between 25-28% of your gross monthly income. Your mortgage payment to the lender includes the following items:

• The principal on the loan (P)
• The interest on the loan (I)
• Property taxes (T),
• The homeowner's insurance (I).

Your total monthly PITI and all debts (from installments to revolving charge accounts) should range between 33-38% of your gross monthly income. These key factors determine your ability to secure a home loan: Credit Report, Assets, Income, and Property Value.

More Articles Available:

• Questions to ask BEFORE you hire an agent
• Reasons why your home didn't sell the first time

For more information on Home-buying or Selling Contact Me for a sit down consultation. Also, feel free to use my website http://www.thelandryteam.com/ as a real estate resource.

As well, you can visit my website and get set up on Free Market Snapshots!! These can be customized for buyers or sellers. This will help you know your market, know whats going on, and know what your competition is looking at too. For sellers, this is a great tool to help price your home, and scope out the competition.

Liz Landry-Keller Williams Realty First Coast

1.877.886.0849