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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Margorie Grime, Broker.
Royal LePage RCR Realty, Brokerage
Independently Owned and Operated
75 First Street, Suite 14
Orangeville, ON L9W 2E6
Phone: 519-941-5151
Toronto Line: 905-450-3355
Fax: 519-941-5432
margorie@thegrimeteam.com
www.royallepage.ca

Margorie has devoted her career to real estate sales since 1975. Margorie Grime is a leading REALTOR in the area, selling a home every 3.3 days. Her activities have consistently earned her top awards. With the changing real estate market and economy, Margorie has formed this diverse team-qualified to cover all the complex details of real estate transactions, allowing Margorie to do what she does best-working with people interested in buying and selling property. Margorie is committed to providing the very best service available.