Common mortgage mistakes to avoid
John Cronin
According to a 2023 study by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), nearly 30% of borrowers regret their mortgage decisions due to preventable mistakes.
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, understanding these common mortgage mistakes can save you thousands of dollars and prevent unnecessary stress. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the top 5 mortgage mistakes, how to avoid them, and why working with a trusted lender like Austin Capital Mortgage ensures a smooth homebuying journey.
1. Not Shopping Around for a Mortgage
Why It’s a Problem
Many borrowers accept the first mortgage offer they receive, often from their bank or a single lender. However, interest rates and fees can vary significantly between lenders.
- A 2022 Freddie Mac report found that borrowers who compare at least 3 lenders save $1,500+ on average over the life of their loan.
- Some lenders charge higher origination fees or have stricter underwriting requirements.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Get rate quotes from 3-5 lenders (including banks, credit unions, and mortgage brokers).
- Compare APR (Annual Percentage Rate) instead of just interest rates—it includes fees.
- Ask about discount points and lender credits.
2. Skipping Mortgage Pre-Approval
Why It’s a Problem
A pre-approval letter is a lender’s commitment to finance your home up to a certain amount. Without it:
- Sellers may ignore your offer in competitive markets.
- You might fall in love with homes outside your budget.
- Delays in financing can cause missed opportunities.
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Get pre-approved before house hunting.
- Provide complete financial documentation (W-2s, tax returns, bank statements).
- Ensure your pre-approval is underwritten, not just pre-qualified.
3. Choosing the Wrong Type of Mortgage
Why It’s a Problem
Not all mortgages are the same. Picking the wrong loan type can lead to:
- Payment shock (e.g., adjustable-rate mortgages adjusting higher).
- Longer loan terms than necessary (costing more in interest).
- Strict refinancing requirements later.
Common Mortgage Types
| Loan Type | Best For | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed-Rate | Buyers staying 7+ years | Low (stable payments) |
| Adjustable-Rate (ARM) | Short-term buyers (5-7 years) | Moderate (rates can rise) |
| FHA Loans | Lower-credit buyers (580+ FICO) | PMI required |
| VA Loans | Veterans/military | No down payment needed |
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Discuss your long-term plans with a mortgage advisor.
- Compare fixed vs. adjustable rates based on how long you’ll stay in the home.
- Avoid interest-only loans unless you’re an experienced investor.
4. Underestimating Closing Costs
Why It’s a Problem
Many first-time buyers are shocked by closing costs, which average 2-5% of the loan amount ($6,000–$15,000 on a $300,000 home). Common fees include:
- Loan origination fees (0.5–1% of loan)
- Appraisal & inspection fees ($500–$1,000)
- Title insurance & escrow fees ($1,000–$2,500)
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Ask lenders for a Loan Estimate (LE) within 3 days of applying.
- Negotiate seller concessions (some sellers cover part of closing costs).
- Save 3-5% extra beyond your down payment.
5. Taking on New Debt Before Closing
Why It’s a Problem
Lenders recheck your credit before closing. New debt can:
- Lower your credit score (even a 20-point drop can raise your rate).
- Increase your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), risking loan denial.
- Trigger last-minute underwriting delays.
What to Avoid Before Closing
- Opening new credit cards
- Financing a car or furniture
- Making large cash withdrawals (lenders may question funds)
How to Avoid This Mistake
- Keep credit usage below 30%.
- Avoid big purchases until after closing.
- Notify your lender before making financial changes.
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