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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Joyce Barnwell
Intracoastal Realty
1206 N. Lake Park Blvd.
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Tel: 910-617-7654
Fax: 910-458-7759
Email: joycebarnwell@NUMBER1EXPERT.com

Residing in the peaceful coastal community of Carolina Beach, I’m a licensed North Carolina Realtor with over 30 years real estate experience and 20 years owning my own real estate company, faithfully serving the unique real estate needs of buyers, sellers and investors. I specialize in the listing and selling of residential pre-existing homes, newly constructed homes, waterfront property, golf course property, investment property, condos and duplexes as well as lots for sale in and around North Carolina’s New Hanover County coastal communities of Wilmington, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight. Thanks again for visiting my site and don’t hesitate to call me direct at 877-617-7654.