Near record low mortgage rates are causing many families to consider if now a good time to buy a home in Charleston, SC. Financial experts may advise waiting until you have enough money saved for a down payment, but that could be hard to accomplish for first time buyers. With today’s interest rates being so low and tempting, many people want to buy before the rates change.
2019 mortgage rates in Charleston, SC have are hovering around 4.5%, but may crawl up a bit. Any hike in interest rates could change the housing market. The decision for many consumers is whether to buy now while mortgage rates are still low or risk an increase. Nobody knows for sure when the Federal Reserve will raise rates again, but if you are well-prepared, now may be the perfect time to buy a house in Charleston, SC.
GETTING THE BEST MORTGAGE RATES
To get the best mortgage rate, make sure you know your credit history. Your credit report is essential when dealing with lenders, and you can obtain it free from all three credit bureaus. Before shopping for a mortgage, make sure all of your bills are paid on time and your debt to income ratio is on the lower end. It is best to pay off your monthly credit card bills or at least go above the minimum payment. You should also know your FICO score, which you can order online. Some credit card companies even post it on your account for free.
DOWN PAYMENTS
Having a solid down payment when applying for a mortgage has its benefits. Lenders will want to know what you can put down to help them figure out what they can lend out to you. Most lenders require at least 3% and FHA loans require 3.5%. Of course 20% down is always the best choice if you can afford it, as it allows you avoid PMI (private mortgage insurance) payments.
BUDGETING FOR YOUR NEW HOME
Most lenders will base your monthly payment on 28% of your take home pay. They refer to this as the housing ratio. Financial experts recommend to budget about the same percentage of your salary to be able to afford your new home. Your monthly payment will include the principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI) costs. Most people will qualify for a loan amount of 3 times their annual income. For help in calculating mortgage payments, use this handy online tool.
GETTING PREAPPROVED
Before you shop, it’s best to get preapproved for a loan. You won’t know what you can afford unless you know what banks are willing to loan you. You will have a more successful home search if you have a clear budget in place and know what your price range is. With the right data available for review, many lenders can preapprove you for a mortgage quickly. To be prepared to apply, first gather the following information that most lenders will require:
- Name and Address(es) for the last 2 years
- Estimated household income
- Estimated household expenses
- Employment and income history
- Paycheck stubs from the last 30 days
- W-2 or I-9 tax forms from the last 2 years
- Personal assets such as CDs, IRAs, property, savings and checking accounts
- Personal debt
WHICH LENDERS?
There are many lenders to choose from in today’s mortgage business. Your Disher, Hamrick & Myers real estate agent will present referrals for stable, reputable lenders. You may also find a good mortgage through your local bank or private credit union. Either way, you should shop around to see who offers the best and most appropriate loan for your situation.
FINDING THE RIGHT HOME TO BUY
The important thing when shopping for a mortgage and a home is to explore your options and get the right payment and home for you. At Disher, Hamrick & Myers, our experienced team of Charleston REALTORS® will guide you through the process of selecting the right home and discuss any concerns about proper financing. To get the help you need, call 843.577.4115 today.
