Home Loans: 9 things to consider
1. Down-Payment
As a general rule of thumb, lenders will be seeking contribution from you of around 3% to 6% of the total loan value. This can be negotiable, and there are many loan packages available.
2. Fixed Versus Adjustable Rate
Fixed versus Adjustable ? The two most common loan products available for home loans are fixed rate versus adjustable rate. Fixed rate means that you agree on an APR (annual percentage rate) that does not change through the life of the loan, whereas, an Adjustable Rate Mortgage, better known as an ARM, means that rates and monthly payments can change, often tied to the South African Government Treasury Bills or some other form of "index", with the frequency of change dependent upon the terms of the loan
Deciding on which way to go involves many variables. We suggest that you start by examining the fixed rate products available on the market. They are by far the most popular, and arguably with the least amount of risk. After evaluating several preliminary loan offers (quotes) for fixed rate home loans, you can then venture into the world of ARM's to see if one of these products may be right for you. But, proceed with caution, and understand all the risks, alongside any potential benefits.
3. APR
Better known as the annual percentage rate, aka: "rate", is arguably the most important consideration you must examine when looking for a loan. The APR includes principle, interest, "points", fees, PMI (Mortgage insurance), and other costs associated with the loan. While all costs and terms are significant and affect the bottom line, we suggest that shopping rate is a very good starting point.
4. Loan Types
There are several standard loan products to look for, including 30 year fixed, 15 year fixed, bi-weekly mortgages, 1 month ARM's, 5 year fixed ARM's, 2nd Fixed, ARM's with a provision to convert after 5 years, lender buydowns, and discounted home loans.
We think the best place to start, is to obtain quotes for a 30 year fixed rate loan, and then go from there. 30 year fixed rate loans generally produce the lowest monthly payments for fixed rate products, and they are relatively safe. Once you know where you stand with a 30 year fixed, after obtaining quotes from several lending institutions, then you can consider the possibility of exploring more exotic loan products. At this juncture, you will want to consult with those you trust, for good, solid advice and feedback on risk versus reward.
5. Home Loan Amount Qualification, Expenses
This is another broad category that varies from one lending institution to the next. However, there are two general factors to look at, and they are Housing Expenses (such as mortgage, property taxes, and insurance), and long-term debt (which can include credit cards, auto loans, etc.).
First, add all your expenses together. As a rule of thumb, you will want your expenses to not exceed 33% to 36% of your gross household income.
Second, examine your housing expenses only. As a rule of thumb, you'll want these expenses to not exceed 25% to 28% of your gross household income.
6. Home Loan Amount Qualification, Income
This can vary widely depending on you, your lender, and many other variables. However, as a rule of thumb, look at 2 to 2 ½ times your current household income, as a baseline to determine how much you can afford to borrow.
7. Employment and Credit History
Lenders generally want to take a look at your employment history so that they can see a pattern of stability and income. Lenders generally also want to take a look at your credit history, so that they can see a pattern of borrowing and repayment in your past. Lenders cannot discriminate and must use this information solely for the purpose of considering your ability to repay a loan. Also, many loan products are available for all kinds of customers, with varied financial backgrounds and histories.
8. Points
Points are one of the primary fees charged on the loan, and they represent the profit earned by the lending institution. One point represents one percent of the total loan amount, and points are usually tax-deductible (along with the interest paid on the home loan).
They are broken down into two basic types:
Origination Points
Origination Points are the fees charged by the lender, and represents their gross profit.
Discount Points
Discount Points are most often charged in association with a lowered interest rate. In other words, the Discount Points represents a dollar amount, as a fee for giving the borrower a lowered APR (lower than what the lender might otherwise charge).
9. Sub-Prime Home Loans
Sub-Prime Loans consist of loan products designed for customers with challenging credit and financial backgrounds, or, customers that are looking to re-establish credit. They can be significantly higher then the prime lending rate, with less favorable terms (Often times, the loans are for the short-term, such as 2 to 3 years). However, they do offer a venue for certain individuals, and they can allow customers to re-establish credit, or buy new homes prior to cleaning up a credit history, etc.
For some of you, this avenue may offer exactly what you're looking for. It's important to know that lenders who specialise in sub-prime loans are out there and want to earn your business. However, we advise that you proceed with caution. Be sure to gather sound advice from trusted friends and professionals, and understand all the risks versus rewards, prior to signing on the dotted line.
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