Gibson Sotheby's International Realty
Dee Higgins, Gibson Sotheby's International RealtyPhone: (508) 221-8599
Email: [email protected]

A basic guide to getting a good mortgage rate: Compare & choose

by Dee Higgins 08/26/2024

If you’re trying to find the best possible mortgage rate, compare and research your options carefully. Similarly to when comparison-shopping for products or services, the more you know about the choices available to you, the better your decision will be.

However, mortgage rates are more complicated than other types of comparison shopping. With multiple factors determining interest rates, here are the most important things to know:

Factors affecting mortgage rates

Your credit score is one major factor in determining your loan rates. The higher your score, the lower your risk is considered by the lender, and the lower your payment rate. Other financial details like debt-to-income ratio are also on the table. 

The type of mortgage you choose also impacts your rates. A fixed-rate mortgage will have a higher interest rate overall, but will never change. An adjustable rate mortgage may begin with a low rate, but increase over the life of the loan.

Down payment amount can also affect mortgage interest rates. Often, a larger down payment might qualify you for a lower rate.

Market factors

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to control every factor in determining mortgage rates. The national and global economies and the Federal Reserve all affect the mortgage market and interest rates. Mortgage lenders take these “big picture” factors into account with your personal financials when offering you a rate.

How to find the best mortgage rate

It can seem overwhelming to check interest rates while searching for a mortgage. Unfortunately, it can require some time to learn the best way to do it. 

Comparing loan rates with lenders directly is the quickest and most important step in the house purchasing process. Even small differences in rates of six figures will accumulate dramatically over a 30-year mortgage. 

Knowing what to expect for a monthly mortgage payment is crucial to budgeting, and understanding the ins-and-outs of how an interest rate is calculated will help. Consult a financial advisor or research online to find the most pertinent information when searching for your perfect mortgage loan.

About the Author
Author

Dee Higgins

As a native of Cape Cod, having grown up on its beaches, attended its schools and lived here all my life, I have an extreme appreciation and enthusiasm for this special part of the world. With my strong local perspective I bring extensive knowledge of the area, its values, schools and architecture. As part of a large family growing up, my well honed negotiating skills developed early! I pride myself on the values of honesty, integrity and hard work and I am committed to providing my clients and customers with extraordinary satisfaction in every transaction. As a Top Producing Cape Cod REALTOR® and Gibson SIR Brewster Office’s # 1 Agent in 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 & 2023, I have successfully assisted Buyers and Sellers since 2006 with 273+ property sales. Take advantage of my local knowledge and experience and let me help you achieve your goals!