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Considerations When Choosing a Mortgage

by Dianne Drinkwater 04/07/2019

People focus mostly on the interest rate when looking for the best mortgage. Other than the interest rate, there are some other variables to consider when looking for a mortgage that is ideal for you. One of the variables that you should consider is the length of the mortgage agreement. There are various options available, so you need to have a conversation with your financial planner to know the reasons why you might like to choose a short-term or long-term mortgage. Here are some considerations to bear in mind: 

Do you need to make a long-term commitment?

Most financial institutions offer a 30-year fixed term. This term comes with a fixed rate most times. You should note that this rate is sometimes 1 to 2% higher than a fifteen-year term. When you choose a more extended period, the rate will not change for decades which helps with long-term planning.

Paying for stability.

 When you go through the rates of any bank, you will discover that the shorter terms usually have lower rates. Therefore, if you can accommodate rate fluctuations and renegotiation more frequently, you could realize considerable long-term savings through a lower monthly premium. If you merely want to have a rate and stick to it, then choose a long-term, fixed-rate mortgage.

Breaking up is difficult.

Some people have been advised to break their current mortgage and start up a new one at a reduced rate. However, you should know that refinancing a mortgage is not free; it comes at a cost. Your current lender may charge you a fee, and you will pay fees, points, and closing costs for the new loan.

The interest rate differential, also known as IRD, is the difference between your real rate and currently available rate of the same mortgage. Different lenders calculate this penalty differently so ask your preferred lender for their early liquidation or mortgage transfer conditions.

Is it worth moving to a lower mortgage rate?

You should be aware that your lender will charge you based on the higher figure between the two calculations. What you need to do is to compare the amount of interest you will pay over the remainder of your present mortgage and what you would pay at a lower rate when you switch. When making your comparison, you should consider the penalty figure. You should base your decision on the outcome of your comparison. 

You should consider switching to a lower mortgage rate if the interest savings is more than the penalty charges. However, you must be sure that there is no other fee attached that may wipe out your potential savings.

Talk to your financial planner today to know what mortgage is best for you.

About the Author
Author

Dianne Drinkwater

Dianne is a full time, full service, state licensed Realtor®, member of Northeast Florida Regional Association of Realtors® (NEFAR), St. Augustine/ St.Johns County Board of Realtors, National Association of Realtors® (NAR), Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR), and Northeast Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service And St. Augustine/St. Johns (MLS), Shearwater Certified, and Military on the Move Designation.

She provides a unique blend of leadership, sales acumen, project management, technology, and world class customer relation skills to enhance Watson Realty Corporation's values in the real estate sales and mortgage marketplace. She is a decisive take action solution-oriented professional with 25+ years of progressive business experience who efficiently utilizes technology to improve results. She has lived in the St. Augustine/Jacksonville area since 2005 and has seen the area continue to flourish and stays well informed of future growth plans within Northeast Florida. 

Let's take a look at the lighter side of Dianne. She loves life is artistic loves music, the arts, yoga and genealogy! She loves to explore and hates to be bored. She loves the outdoors, especially plant life and wildlife. She has been a Master Gardener in Florida and Maine; as a photography enthusiast she has the eye to spot the perfect shot, which spills over to the photos she makes of the properties she markets AND frequently hires the best specialized real estate photographers/drone and videographers who make the difference in the sale. And, she loves to share her knowledge of the local real estate market and all aspects of the process to guide you through each step as a coach rather than a salesperson. 

So, let's sum it up. Buying or selling your home is an important life decision. Reasons can vary greatly from change of lifestyle, to relocation or life challenges. You need someone you can trust, count on, respect and help shoulder the stress, anxiety and time commitment involved. Doesn't this sound like someone you want working for you? 

So, what's the next step? Contacting Dianne of course. It is all about YOUR needs, goals, timeline and DREAMS! She's here to help you achieve them and she looks forward to hearing from you. 

What are you looking for in a Realtor? - Someone who will really listen to your wants and needs? Someone who will expertly market your home until the SOLD sign adorns your front lawn or if you are a buyer tirelessly researches your wish list to find that perfect home? - How about someone who will always be honest, holds ethics in high regard as a realtor, who works aggressively to get you the best price for your home and someone who knows the market? 

Selling or buying a home is a partnership with your trusted advisor- Dianne Drinkwater