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First-time Mortgage Borrowers: What Rookie Mistakes To Avoid

First time mortgage borrowers actually go through a great deal of stress in researching and comparing options. However, learning more about each loan term you encounter is an important part of your mortgage application, so it is still important to put in much effort regardless how tiring it may become. But to make sure you are saved from making the common mistakes first time mortgage applicants make, here is a quick list of what the rookie mistakes are:

Taking For Granted Other Costs

Many first timers in mortgage application put in so much focus on the amount of monthly payment they should opt for. Although it is actually important to determine what mortgage you can afford, it's also worth remembering that the cost of home ownership does not end in your monthly mortgage payment. There are property taxes, insurance, maintenance, repair, homeowner's association fees, etc. These are the expenses that you should consider on top of the mortgage payment in order for you to determine which home is affordable to you.

Not Thinking About Long Term Effects

There are short and long term plans for your mortgage. While each of these two has both positive and negative effects, it is still important to think things carefully before choosing one so as to make sure that you do not end up regretting your decision. Some would opt for a long term and adjustable rate kind of loan to maintain low payments. However, this also means that you have to continue the regular payments until the home is fully paid or the loan is refinanced. Future mortgage rates cannot be assured and there is also no assurance that you can get a good refinance rate, which is why you should ensure that you can afford the payments as long as it is necessary.

Skipping Pre Qualification

Some may find the pre qualification process rather intimidating, especially if you fear denial and rejection. But actually, the pre qualification process is the solid step that you can take so you'd determine how much loan you can afford and how much monthly payment that loan entitles you. The result of this shall be a valuable information for you, making it easier to pick a home to purchase.

As a first time home buyer, there will be a whole lot of stress for you to undergo before reaching the successful end. You're gonna have to choose between communities, neighborhoods, etc. Although these factors are very important as well, it is also crucial to pay attention to the mortgage that you choose to make sure that you get a comfortable loan that you can continuously manage. 


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