It is important for both new homebuyers and homeowners who want to refinance to understand how to lock in an interest rate when applying for a mortgage loan. Understanding how rate locks work prepares you to evaluate your options.

While you are in the process of applying for your mortgage loan, interest rates will most likely fluctuate from day to day and week to week. If you want assurance that the wonderfully low interest rate on your loan will not increase while you are waiting for loan approval, ask for a rate lock. A conventional rate lock is a guarantee from the lender that your mortgage will carry a particular interest rate, with specific, predetermined points and fees.

The interest rate is "locked in" for a specified period of time, usually thirty days. When you call a lender for a rate quote, ask how long that rate will last for. If you think you might need more than thirty days to complete your home purchase or refinance, tell your lender how many days you will require, and they will give you an adjusted rate quote.

Rate locks are especially useful if interest rates are on the upswing, and you are concerned about ending up with higher monthly payments. If you cannot afford the risk of a further interest rate increase, lock in your loan rate now.

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Bobbi's Omaha Houses Team
Prudential Ambassador Real Estate
13340 California Street
Omaha, Nebraska 68154
Direct: 402-496-7499
Office: 402-493-4663
Toll Free: 800-376-3799
Fax: 402-498-2672
Bobbi@OmahaHouses.com

If you are considering relocating, buying or selling real estate in the Omaha metropolitan area and the surrounding suburban areas of: Bellevue, Blair, Elkhorn, Ft. Calhoun, Gretna, and Papillion, you've come to the right place -- Bobbi and her Real Estate Team.