Mortgage Blog

According to figures released by the census bureau, most Americans who move don't go very far.

Between the years 2006 and 2007, 38.7 million people in the United States. A surprisingly high 65% stayed in the same county they had previously resided in. Another 19% of movers remained in the same State, 13% moved to another State and approximately 3% moved out of the country.

The main reasons giving for moving were

1. Housing Related Issues 42%– such as desire to own a better home or live in a better neighborhood
2. Family related Issues 30% – such as the desire to live closer to other family members
3. Employment Issues 21% - change of job or relocation

30% of renters moved between 2007 and 2008 compared to only around 7% of Home Owners.

The largest group of movers by age were those between 20 and 24 (27%) and those between 25 and 29 (26%).

Movement from the urban core to the suburbs continued with major cities losing just under 2 million people and the suburbs growing by a similar amount.

1. Not shopping enough. Hard as it is to believe many people only obtain one quote when looking for a mortgage. Sometimes they go to their Bank or Credit Union and sometimes they use the lender recommended by the realtor or builder. This is a big mistake. I recommend you look for 3-4 quotes. Be fair and let everyone know you are shopping. Don’t necessarily go for the lowest bid. Be sure to take reputation into account. Otherwise it could come back to bite you later.
2. Shopping too much. If you shop around too much you greatly increase your likelihood of coming across the bad actors in our industry. Look too hard for the “lowest” rate and you are sure to find someone willing to say anything to get your business. They know you are unlikely to walk away at closing – so it works for them – at least in the short run.
3. Choosing the wrong loan. If you are on a fixed income don’t pick a high risk loan such as the “Option ARM”. This type loan gives you a low teaser rate – often around 1% - but can pile “negative equity” on your mortgage balance. Know your risk level and stick with it. A reputable mortgage professional won’t steer you in the wrong direction - which brings up number four.
4. Not doing your homework. This goes hand in hand with the first two. Research the companies you are considering doing business with. The Better Business Bureau and your States financial regulatory body are good places to start. If you are dealing with a Mortgage Broker – make sure they are a member of the NAMB (National Association of Mortgage Brokers). Ask for references. Look for someone who returns your calls, is pleasant, informative and knowledgeable.
5. Not telling the whole story. Don’t hold relevant information back from your loan officer. For example, if you are self-employed and have difficulty proving your income – tell him/her in advance. It will ensure you get an accurate quote and make the loan process run smoothly.
6. You like to look them in the eye! Don’t select a Lender just because they have an office near you or because you have your checking account there. That local office may add to overhead and mean a higher rate. Once again get 3-4 quotes and check reputations.
7. Not Reading the paperwork. Read the paperwork! Your Lender will send you loan disclosures within 3 days of your application. Pay special attention to the “Good Faith Estimate” (GFE) which will show your closing costs and the “Truth in Lending” (TIL) Form which shows your APR. At closing pay attention to the “HUD1” form which will show your final closing costs. Also important the “Note” (which shows your interest rate) and look for any mention of a “prepayment penalty”. This could cost you thousands if you plan on moving or refinancing in the near future. If you have any questions ask your loan officer right away.

One final note: I have been in the mortgage industry for 8 years. I have a financial industry background going back over 20 years. In my experience most mortgage people are honest and want to help you. Avoiding these seven mistakes should make your next mortgage experience an enjoyable one.