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Let's start with the
advantages.
Online mortgage
lending is a growing field that is starting
to seriously compete with traditional ëin
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 fees can be much cheaper than traditional
'in person' lenders.
Further, 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, it 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.
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 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 and 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 it is in your best interest not
theirs.
Another possible
negative is the fact that some 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.
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