How to Get a Mortgage
A mortgage is a legal agreement between a homebuyer and a lender that gives the homebuyer a loan to buy a home. Generally, the loan is paid off over time by making regular payments of both principal and interest. In addition, many mortgages require a down payment from the borrower and include escrow payments for property taxes and homeowners insurance. A mortgage also includes a lien on the home, giving the lender a legal claim to repossess or take over the property if the borrower fails to make payments.
Borrowers may apply for a mortgage from financial institutions such as banks, credit unions or online lenders like Rocket Mortgage(r). The lender will review the borrower’s finances and credit history – including their credit score, income, debt and assets – to confirm they can afford their monthly loan payments and meet lender requirements. A mortgage can be obtained as a single-borrower loan or with a co-borrower, who is obligated to repay the debt if the primary borrower fails to pay. Adding co-borrowers to a mortgage may increase the amount that can be borrowed.
The first step in the mortgage process is to apply for preapproval. This will give you an idea of whether you qualify for a specific amount and allow you to begin shopping with confidence. It’s also a good idea to check your credit before starting the mortgage application, so you can be sure your reports are accurate and that you have the highest possible scores.
Once you’ve found the right home and negotiated with the seller, it’s time to close on your mortgage. At the closing, you’ll hand over a down payment, pay your closing costs and sign your mortgage agreement. Typically, your lender will handle these tasks on your behalf, but you can ask to be present at the closing.
Choosing a mortgage lender
Many people who are thinking about buying a home don’t have the funds to pay for it in full and upfront. To make home ownership a realistic option for these individuals, lenders offer mortgages, which are loans used to purchase homes and repay the debt over a set period of time, usually 30 years.
When selecting a lender for a mortgage, you should consider their reputation and what types of mortgages they offer. PNC Bank, for example, offers a variety of mortgage options and provides customers with local branches where they can speak to a mortgage consultant in person. Additionally, the bank’s website and mobile app make it easy for customers to start their mortgage journey from wherever they are, even on the go.
Once you choose a lender, they will send you the loan documents to review and sign. It’s important to read these carefully and make sure all information is correct before signing. If you’re not comfortable signing electronically, most lenders will accommodate you by providing a printed copy of the loan documents that can be signed in person at a branch location. Additionally, many lenders provide customers with online portals where they can complete their mortgage application from any computer or smartphone.