By Tory Vance
How many mortgage lenders should you apply to? The question often arises at some point during the home loan application process, and it’s an important one to ask. If you need to borrow money to buy your dream home, there’s no such thing as too many lenders on your yes list, even if you ultimately choose only one of them in the end.
The application process
Most mortgage lenders have an application process that’s relatively straightforward, but with dozens of different variables, it can be hard to know what to expect. In some cases, you might only need one mortgage lender on your side; in others, you might apply to a dozen or more. Because every home loan application is unique and has unique requirements, here are a few things to consider when deciding how many mortgage lenders you should include in your home loan application process.
Acknowledging your credit score
Did you know that your credit score is among one of, if not, the most important factors in determining whether or not you’ll qualify for a mortgage loan with low interest? When applying to mortgage lenders, take time to consider your credit score and its impact on your home loan application process. This way, you can save yourself time, money, and effort down the road by avoiding unnecessary follow-up processes with lending institutions. You might even see a decrease in interest rates!
How much should you save up?
Before you apply to your first mortgage lender, there are a few factors that need to be considered: how much you’re looking to borrow and whether you’re eligible for a home loan with low interest. The best way to determine which amount is right for you is to work out how much of a monthly payment your budget can handle.
What if I have bad credit scores?
If you have a low credit score, it might be harder to qualify for a mortgage. Therefore, more lenders may be necessary to find one willing to offer you a mortgage loan with lower interest rates. Of course, it depends on your credit scores and income; if your FICO scores are too low or you don’t have enough income for an affordable mortgage, then there won’t be any affordable options for you.
Do mortgage lenders do background checks?
Some mortgage lenders may do a background check before they consider your home loan application. While some will ask you to permit them to perform a credit check, others won’t. Either way, it’s wise to verify if your mortgage lender is doing a background check, so you know in advance how much time and money you’ll have to invest into getting approved for your mortgage and building credit.
Choosing the right lender
After meeting with multiple mortgage lenders and getting pre-approval for a home loan with low interest, it’s time to choose a mortgage lender. This can be tricky since there are various factors to consider when choosing your home loan provider: rates and fees, customer service, branch locations, application process…and more. Do you go with your first choice or go for a lender that offers better value for your money?
Which documentation should you prepare before you apply for a mortgage?
Before you apply for a mortgage, review your credit reports to make sure they are accurate and up-to-date. If you find incorrect information, dispute it with all three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Next, gather all of your financial documents: bank statements, W2s, tax returns, etc. Then find at least 3 mortgage lenders who would be willing to consider your mortgage application. The number of companies you apply to should reflect how competitive your credit history is.
A home loan application process can be tricky, particularly if you’re unsure about how many mortgage lenders to apply to. The answer to that question will depend on a few factors: your credit history, how long you’ve been at your current job, and what type of house you want to buy. It is also important to remember that different lenders have their own credit scoring systems, so while one lender may approve your loan, another might deny it.
