What You Need to Know About a Mortgage
A mortgage is a type of loan you take out to buy your home. It’s likely the largest and longest-term loan you’ll ever take, so it’s important to understand how it works. In essence, you agree to pay back the lender some of what you borrowed plus interest over a set period of time. Failure to repay the mortgage may result in foreclosure, a legal process that allows the lender to take possession of your property.
Mortgages are secured loans, which means that the home you’re purchasing serves as collateral against the debt. This protects the lender by allowing them to claim your home if you fail to repay the debt, even if the home’s value has fallen below its original purchase price over the years.
When you apply for a mortgage, the lender will review your financial situation to determine whether you qualify for the loan. They’ll want to see documentation of your income, assets and credit. They’ll also consider whether you have enough cash reserves to cover your down payment and monthly expenses. In addition, some loan programs have additional requirements like requiring a down payment of 20% or higher, a credit score of at least 680, or the need to document the source of your down payment funds.
Before you finalize your mortgage, the lender will provide you with a loan estimate, which includes important details about the terms of the mortgage and the estimated fees involved. The lender is required to give you this document within three business days of receiving your application.
You’ll typically pay a variety of fees, known as closing costs, when you close on your home purchase. These include attorney fees, appraisal costs, title search fees, and credit report fees. Generally, closing costs total about 2% to 6% of the home’s purchase price. You’ll also have to pay property taxes and homeowner’s insurance, which are collected at closing.
If you’re looking for a Mortgage, be sure to choose a lender that can support you in person or online. For example, PNC Bank offers a mobile app that lets you work through the process on your phone, and its branches offer in-person support. A lender that provides multiple options is a good sign that it understands that the Mortgage process can be daunting for many buyers, and that you’ll need a flexible approach.