4 Mortgage Myths

A house is probably the most expensive investment you’ll ever make, so it’s important that you have the correct information when doing so. From credit score to down payment, here are 4 mortgage myths that can stand in the way of you making the best decision for you and your family.

4 Mortgage Myths

Myth 1: You have to put 20% down no matter what

This is one of the most common myths that catch home buyers, especially first time home buyers. When buying your first home, the thought of putting 20% can be a scary feeling, and can even discourage you to begin the process. With FHA loan, you’re able to put down as low as 3.5% down, which makes hoe ownership possible for more first time home buyers. It’s important to note that if you put 3.5% down with an FHA loan, you’ll be required to pay mortgage insurance very month, that you wouldn’t have to pay if you put 20% down.

Myth 2: You need an excellent credit score to even qualify for a loan

If you’re a first time home buyer, you might not have a great credit score because you’re simply just starting to build your credit. In the olden days, you were required to have a 680 credit score to even be considered in qualifying for a home loan. Now, with FHA loan, you’re able to qualify with as low as 580 and 620 with conventional loans. If you have a lower score and nee help, it’s important to talk with you lender so they can set you on the quickest path of credit repair.

Myth 3: Renting is cheaper than owning a home

A mortgage seems expensive when you look at the MSRP of the home. $500,000 sounds like a lot of money, and it is, but you’re likely not paying it all upfront. Yes, sometimes a monthly rent payment is cheaper by a few hundred dollars but there are a couple things to consider when comparing them side by side. The first thing to consider is that when you pay rent to your landlord, you don’t see that money again. When you put money away to your mortgage, it’s going straight to your investment. Additionally renting payments can and probably do increase every year. When you sign a 30 year mortgage, you’re locking in the monthly payment for the next 30 years.

Myth 4: Mortgage rates are the same everywhere and with every type of loan

This is one of the mortgage myths that can cost you the most amount of money. If you qualify for VA loans, you’re able to omit a down payment, and sign with the loan type that has the lowest mortgage rate of all loan types. Additionally, many credit unions have less fees than big banks so they’re able to offer lower rates. Spending time researching the loan type that’s right for you can make a big difference on your monthly payment.

You may also like: 5 First Time Home Buyer Mistakes.