While many consumers may want to jump right into looking at listings when thinking about shopping for a new home, the more financially prudent option is to begin with getting approved for a loan.
By beginning the home purchase experience with getting a loan, a home buyer knows how much they can afford and it gives them more purchase power on the market as sellers view buyers who have been approved for a loan more seriously. This may help put the buyer in a better position in a competitive market if multiple offers are put in on a particular listing.
And by working with a mortgage company first, a home buyer has the ability to lock in an interest rate.
Here are three reasons why locking in a rate with our SecureLock program is important when shopping for homes in the Tacoma, Washington, area.
Won’t Be Impacted by Rates
Interest rates can be unpredictable. If you lock in your rate, you will have that rate when you close on the purchase, not matter what is happening in the market. With our SecureLock program, if interest rates decrease within 21 days of closing, you will be able to get that lower rate as well.
Negotiate with Confidence
If you are pre-approved and have your interest rate locked in, you can come to the negotiation table with confidence if other buyers are trying to get the home you want. That is because you are the closest thing to an all-cash offer as possible. The buyer and their real estate agent will see that you are in a strong spot to close on time with the full backing of a reputable mortgage company, helping to give you an upper hand.
Timeline Flexibility
If your particular transaction is in need of a longer escrow timeline, our program can accommodate that as far as 360 days. This may help put you and the seller at ease if it is a special circumstance.
If you are looking to purchase real estate in the Tacoma area in 2019, don’t hesitate to contact one of our loan professionals about a pre-approval and to lock in your rate!