By Jesse Herman, contributing editor
1. Know the Game
As the adage goes, “don’t hate the player, hate the game.” Right now, the ball is in the borrower’s court. Why? Vacancy rates for homes are escalating to a record high, dropping or slowing growth for prices throughout the country. For consumers with good credit looking to buy, this can be used in favor as long as certain criteria’s are met.
Scan the area. Look for other vacancies in a prospective neighborhood, as this may indicate how desperate a seller may be. If a home seems overpriced, move on. There is no need to sacrifice dollars and cents for impulsivity.
2. Play the Game
So you have an excellent credit score. Congratulations! Now is the time to buy as mortgage brokers are scrambling to find potential borrowers.
Due to fraud and “loose” lending practices, particularly with subprime loans, restrictions for lenders have grown much tighter. Simply put, borrowers who have no business in owning a home have received loans and are now in serious financial debt.
The benefits for those who qualify are they now are viewed as a hot commodity. Always keep options open for opportunities that await.
3. Why Shopping is a Pleasure
Compare mortgage rates. A safe bet would be to consult 3-4 lenders before settling on one. It does not matter how well a broker speaks, if the rates are bad, you’ll be unhappy in the end. Many websites offer mortgage rate checks and free online mortgage calculators. Utilize these resources so wise decisions can be reached.
When looking for a home the same principals apply. These days, realtors need to unload property like an over-stuffed dump truck. Do not be afraid to haggle. Do not be afraid to say no. Do not look back. If you don’t get the deal originally desired, chances are it will be found elsewhere. Next!
4. It is Ok to watch from the Sidelines
If you have been denied of a loan it may be time to worry about something else and not other lenders. A year ago the same lender who rejected your mortgage request may have approved you without worry. Times, as indicated earlier, have changed. Take rejection as an opportunity to build credit. Set a timeline, so in a year or two another attempt can be made. If at that time credit still is not good enough be thankful for being turned away to begin with.
5. Homework
Know the area well before buying a home. Researching local businesses and their plans towards the future can only be beneficial. Ask neighbors what they think of the area, as you do not want to be stuck with unforeseen problems.
Study market trends. The more you comprehend about mortgage and real estate idiosyncrasies, better are the chances of fluently tackling the nuances of home ownership.
Once well-equipped with knowledge on how to manipulate “the game”, a feeling will surmount indicating that the perfect choice has been made.
Good luck!
