|
Online
mortgage lending appears to be the way of the future.
However,
there are some important things to consider when dealing with
online mortgage lenders.
Let’s
start with the advantages of
online mortgage lending.
Online
mortgage lending is a growing field that is starting to
seriously compete with traditional ‘in person’ lenders. The
process is relatively easy.
The
important thing to remember is to make sure your know the ins and
outs of any and all online home mortgage loans prior to submitting
your personal information.
In
some cases, you’ll find online mortgage lending fees can
be much cheaper than traditional ‘in person’ lenders.
Further,
when it comes to online mortgage lending you may discover a
greater range of mortgage loan programs available.
Among
the highlights of these programs may be lower rates of interest
and flexible repayment terms.
Also,
borrowers with a bad credit history may find online mortgage
lending to be the answer to their prayers. In most cases,
web-based lenders offer more alternatives to those with less than
desirable credit ratings.
Finally,
online mortgage lending can shave a ton of time off of the
traditional ‘in person’ route and having to wait (what might
be several days) to be approved.
The
bonus here is if you don’t get approved the first time, you can
apply to another lender right away and like the first time, you’ll
get your answer quick.
Now
let’s explore the disadvantages of
online mortgage lending.
It’s
important to realize that not all online mortgage lenders have
representation in each of the 50 states.
Before
taking the time to apply online, it’s in your best interest to
make sure that the lender in question is represented in the state
in which you reside.
A
big negative with online mortgage lending is unfortunately
accountability. It’s your job as the potential borrower to do
your homework and keep on top of your application.
It’s
wise to check out the company to make sure they’re legit and
will be able to fulfill any promises they make regarding terms and
interest rates.
Unfortunately
with both traditional & online mortgage lending, the
mortgage loan programs offered may be more in lender’s best
interest than in yours.
Again,
it’s so very important that you do some research and comparison
shopping. Just like with traditional ‘in person’ lenders you
want to make sure that any online mortgage lending is in
your best interest not theirs.
Another
possible negative is the fact that some online mortgage lenders
will charge you a fee prior to you learning whether or not your
application has been successful.
Please
note that some traditional lenders also ask for a fee upfront.
Borrowers beware - there are many legitimate traditional and
online lenders than don’t insist on such a fee.
Unlike
any negative dealings you may have with traditional mortgage
lenders, online mortgage lending isn’t regulated by a governing
organization in which you can complain to.
The
bottom line is that while online mortgage lending may be
the way of the future, it’s also important to research the
lender and ask the right questions.
And,
while applying for a mortgage loan online may seem like a great
idea, don’t discount the value of getting a comparison quote
from a traditional ‘in person’ lender. |