Buying your own home is more than likely one of the most substantial purchases you will make over the course of your lifetime. Perhaps one of the biggest struggles for a potential homeowner is obtaining the right kind of mortgage, and one of the major factors affecting an affordable mortgage is the interest rate. If you are interested in buying a home in Knoxville, Maryville, Lenoir City, Oak Ridge, or Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and want to better understand your mortgage options, the experts at Foundation Mortgage can help. Continue reading to learn more about how mortgage interest works.

Mortgage Interest Basics

In most cases, people must borrow money to buy a home, which requires you to pay back the financial institution that lent you that capital, and subsequently, you must pay back more than the original amount that was borrowed, (which is known as the principal). Additionally, your mortgage lender will charge you interest on the loan, which serves as a fee that covers the initial amount that was borrowed. The home loan interest rate you get can significantly impact the amount that you pay throughout the loan, so most buyers seek the lowest possible interest rate, however, it is important to note that each loan and lender is different. A lender will calculate your interest rate as a portion of your loan, and that amount is based on several factors, including your down payment amount, credit rating, etc. If you continue to make consistent payments, eventually your loan will be paid in full by the end of its term. If you opt for an adjustable rate loan, your loan payment may fluctuate as the loan’s interest rate changes, and conversely, with a fixed rate loan, every payment will be the same amount.

What Factors Determine Mortgage Interest Rates?

There are many factors that impact how mortgage rates are determined, some you can control, and others you cannot. Personal factors that help determine your mortgage interest rate include your income level and debt-to-income ratio, your credit score, any assets you may have, the type of property you are looking to buy, etc. Other determining factors include the economy and current real estate market rates; when the market is good, rates typically increase, however, when the market is expected to take a downturn, rates tend to fall. Currently, the Federal Reserve has continued to periodically increase interest rates in an attempt to slow inflation costs. It is important to note that there may be additional costs you will be responsible for, even if you get a great interest rate, including possible real estate taxes, homeowners insurance, etc.

If you want to buy a home in Knoxville, Maryville, Lenoir City, Oak Ridge, or Gatlinburg, Tennessee, contact Foundation Mortgage to secure the best interest rates for your home loan.