Buying your first home is easier than ever for renters.
Over the past year, the government has increased the number of low- and no-down payment mortgages it offers. Congress is now considering two bills to provide grants and federal tax credits to first-time home buyers.
Purchasing a first home doesn’t have to be intimidating. Six million people purchase real estate every year, and renters who wish to become owners have an easy path to take.
Understanding equity, interest, and principal can help you better comprehend home loans.
What Is a Mortgage?
A mortgage is a loan used to buy a new home. 87% of home buyers use a mortgage, which typically pays off over 30 years. Key terms include lender, borrower, down payment, loan amount, loan term, interest rate, and government organizations like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
However, down payments can be made in dollar terms or percentages of the home’s sale price.
A mortgage, also known as a home loan, is a particular type of loan used to buy a home.
How Does a Mortgage Work?
Individuals and businesses use mortgages to buy real estate without upfront payment. Borrowers repay the loan plus interest over a specified number of years until they own the property free and clear.
However, these mortgages are also known as liens against property or claims on property. If the borrower stops paying, they can be foreclosed on.
In a foreclosure, the lender may evict residents and sell the property.
The Mortgage Process
Mortgage lenders require evidence of a borrower’s ability to repay the loan—for example, bank statements, tax returns, and employment proof. A credit check is usually conducted. If approved, the lender offers a loan of up to a certain amount and interest rate.
However, approval allows buyers to apply for a mortgage before choosing a property. Closing occurs when the borrower makes a down payment, the seller transfers ownership, and the buyer signs the mortgage documents.
Types of Mortgages
Fixed-Rate Mortgages
The most common mortgage is fixed-rate. When a borrower has a fixed-rate mortgage, the interest rate and monthly mortgage payments remain constant during the loan’s duration.
Another name for a fixed-rate mortgage is a typical mortgage.
Interest-Only Loans
Less common mortgages like interest-only and payment-option ARMs are best for sophisticated borrowers due to their complex repayment schedules. These loans may include a hefty balloon payment at the conclusion.
However, many homeowners experienced financial difficulties due to these mortgages, leading some to search for solutions like debt consolidation.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)
There is a fixed interest rate for the first term. For the 2nd time, it fluctuates regularly by market rates. The mortgage may be more inexpensive in the short run if the initial interest rate is below market.
However, it may become less affordable in the long run if the rate increases significantly.
Furthermore, Arms generally feature ceilings on the maximum amount that the interest rate can increase overall during the loan term.
Average Mortgage Rates (2024)
Mortgage costs depend on the type, term, discount points, and interest rates. So, Mortgage rates reached historic lows in 2020 and 2021, their lowest levels in almost 50 years.
However, rates skyrocketed in 2022 and 2023, reaching a 23-year peak of 7.79%. As of February 2024, the 30-year mortgage rate has fallen by over a percentage point.
