You’ve been browsing through mortgage rates and you’ve come across a few that seem like a good deal. But what’s the difference between a fixed rate mortgage and a preferred rate mortgage?
Here’s the lowdown on the different types of mortgages available to you, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
What Is a Preferred Rate Mortgage?
A preferred rate mortgage is a loan that offers a lower interest rate than the traditional mortgage products available in the market.
This is usually given to borrowers who have strong credit scores and a healthy debt-to-income ratio. The interest rate is usually fixed for the entire loan term, so you’ll always know what your monthly payments will be.
Preferred rate mortgages are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people are looking for a way to secure a low interest rate and lock in their monthly payments.
Types of Preferred Rate Mortgages
There are two types of preferred rate mortgages: closed and open.
A closed preferred rate mortgage is one that has a set interest rate and term, meaning you’ll know exactly how much your mortgage will cost each month and for how long. An open preferred rate mortgage, on the other hand, allows you to switch to a variable interest rate at any time. This can be a good option if you think that interest rates are going to drop in the future, but it also means that your monthly payments could go up if rates rise.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of a Preferred Rate Mortgage
When you’re looking for a mortgage, it’s important to understand the different options that are available to you. A preferred rate mortgage is one option that can offer some advantages, but it’s important to understand the disadvantages too.
Here are the pros and cons of a preferred rate mortgage:
Advantages:
-You’ll get a low interest rate
-The terms of the mortgage will be fixed, which gives you certainty over your payments
Disadvantages:
-You may have to pay a higher interest rate if you switch to another mortgage product
-If you miss a payment, you may have to pay a higher interest rate or could even lose your home
Understanding Interest Rates on a Preferred Rate Mortgage
When you’re looking for a preferred rate mortgage, you’ll need to understand interest rates. This can be confusing at first, so I’m here to break it down for you.
Interest rates on a preferred rate mortgage are generally fixed, meaning the interest rate won’t change during the life of the loan. That isn’t always the case, however—some lenders offer adjustable rate mortgages, with lower initial interest rates that can go up or down at predetermined intervals.
The interest varies based on several factors, including your credit score, down payment amount and loan term. Your lender will typically quote you an annual percentage rate (APR), which includes all fees associated with the loan. It’s important to consider all of these factors when shopping around for a preferred rate mortgage so you can find the best fit for your budget and needs.
FAQs on Taking Out a Preferred Rate Mortgage
You may still have some questions about preferred rate mortgages, and that’s understandable. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most commonly asked questions about these mortgages.
- How long do preferred rate mortgages last? Most lenders offer preferred rate mortgages for terms between 10 and 30 years.
- Can I pay off my mortgage early? In most cases, yes—but you will likely need to pay a fee in order to do so.
- Are there any fees associated with taking out a preferred rate mortgage? Yes, there will likely be fees associated with the loan, such as application fees and closing costs. Make sure to ask your lender about any applicable fees before signing on the dotted line.
- Are there any restrictions on how I can use the money from my preferred rate mortgage? It depends on your lender, but generally speaking, most lenders will only lend money for specific home improvements or for other real estate purchases (e.g., property investments).
Conclusion
When it comes to mortgages, there are all sorts of things to consider. It’s important to do your research and find the best mortgage for you and your family. Make sure to choose a mortgage that offers you a preferred interest rate. This will help you save money in the long run.