When you’re looking to take out a mortgage loan, it can be tempting to immediately sign on to the first attractive deal. Fair enough, especially if you’re looking to buy in an area that’s got a fast-moving market like Los Angeles. However, a key tip for mortgage borrowers is actually to shop around for the best deal you can get from a mortgage broker.
Shop Your Rate
A lot of people end up not shopping around for their ideal mortgage rate. There are marked differences in the rates when they go through a retail lender than when they go through a broker. Borrowers can get a better rate that ranges from an eighth to around three-eighths of a point simply by making use of a broker.
Lenders end up having to compete so that they can possibly win the business of a broker. That forces the hand of a mortgage lender in Los Angeles to be as competitive as possible. In order to get the best possible rate, your best bet is to take on the services of a reputable mortgage broker.
Brokers can connect with several lenders at a time, ensuring that you end up with the best possible combination of service, product, rate, and price.
Future Rates
Whether you look into the Mortgage Bankers Association, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac, you’ll see the same expectation: rates going up from the low they’re at now. Inflation will start kicking in eventually, given the recent trillions poured into the economy. Inflation will keep on accelerating down the line, eventually triggering the Federal Reserve to have their buying program tapered. At that point, rates will eventually come up. This is despite and in spite of pressing issues when it comes to affordability.
Quick tips for navigating the current market as a buyer include:
- Deciding what you can afford – It’s important to be realistic from the very start of the process. That way, you won’t end up wasting time or resources going after a home you can’t afford after all.
- Having patience – Since you’re looking for houses to buy, chances are, you want it now. However, waiting for even just a bit can make all the difference.
- Setting your budget and sticking to it – It can be tempting not to go over budget, especially with prices rising. However, it’s equally important to smartly spend hard-earned funds saved over a long period.
While it may seem like a bubble, it seems more likely to be a supply versus demand issue. Should there be a price drop down the line, it probably won’t be all too significant or make much of a difference.
A good rule of thumb is this: If there’s already the capability to purchase a home, do so already.
Conclusion
Purchasing a home is an important, life-changing step for many people. A lot of consumers, especially first-time buyers, have a tendency to sign the dotted line on the first “good” deal they see. The best course of action is actually to compare several mortgage offers. The difference in savings by shopping around for the best deal can add up to thousands of dollars down the line.
Apply For a Mortgage in Los Angeles at Shannon Christenot
Looking to work with mortgage lenders in Los Angeles, CA? My name is Shannon Christenot, and I am a licensed mortgage broker. Get in touch with me at (818) 601-2231 to get started!
