One of the most important financial considerations of buying a new home is
the interest rate paid on the mortgage. Over time, a higher interest rate can
add thousands of dollars to the true cost of buying a home.
When interest
rates are low or steady buyers have greater confidence that they will get a
favorable rate when they go to secure the loan, but in our current
environment of rising interest rates, many lenders are suggesting a rate
lock at the time of pre-approval.
What is a Mortgage Rate Lock?
A rate lock freezes the interest rate on a mortgage for a period of time
before the close of the loan. Typically lasting for 30-60 days, the lender
guarantees the rate will not change during this period for a fee that is paid
when you agree to the loan terms.
A mortgage lock protects the borrower from rising interest rates while the
loan is processed and approved.
When should you lock in a Mortgage Rate?
Lenders will offer to lock in the rate at the time of loan approval. With
escrow periods of 30-60 days, the lock assures the buyer that their rate will
not increase during the time it takes to complete the loan process.
In a period of rising interest rates, as we see today, locking the rate may be
a smart idea. The borrower will pay a higher fee for the lock, as the lender
is also taking a risk, but it could be worth thousands of saved dollars over
the life of the loan. Even a small increase in the interest rate can have a
huge financial impact.
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