Don't Let Rates Ruin Your Home Dreams: 7 Sneaky Ways to Beat High Mortgage Numbers!

Don't let those rates ruffle your feathers. Armed with these concessions, you're ready to conquer the world of homeownership—even when rates are playing hardball!
Dec 06, 2023

Eyeing that perfect house but feeling a bit flustered by the talk of high mortgage rates? Don't let those numbers scare you off just yet! Here are some nifty tricks to navigate these high rates. Think of them as your secret weapons to bag that dream home, even when rates are playing hardball.

Let's dive into seven smart moves that could make those seemingly daunting rates work in your favor!

  1. Seller Sweeteners: Ever heard of seller concessions? Picture this: sellers covering a chunk of your closing costs, throwing in a shiny home warranty, or even leaving behind some dreamy appliances. When rates climb, sellers are often more game to negotiate these goodies.

  2. Closing Cost Cushion: Feeling the pinch of those upfront costs? Some programs offer a helping hand with closing costs. It's like a financial cushion, making those initial expenses more manageable.

  3. Rate Buydown Magic: Negotiate a rate buydown with the seller or play the discount points card. These moves could temporarily shrink that daunting interest rate. 

  4. Flexible Flexibilities: Being open to adjusting your closing timeline or showing wiggle room on home repairs might just make sellers take your offer.

  5. Fix-It Credits: Home repairs cropping up during inspections? Negotiate for credits to cover those fixes. It's like getting a helping hand to tackle unexpected expenses.

  6. Down Payment Delight: Look into local or federal down payment assistance programs. These can be a lifesaver, especially when rates are high.

  7. Lock in That Rate: Psst, here's a pro tip! Ask for a rate lock. It's like putting a fence around your rate, guarding you from future increases while your loan's in the works.

Remember, each concession comes with its own magic and might affect your overall deal. That's why it's crucial to partner up with a savvy mortgage professional like us and a real estate professional. We'll help you weave these concessions into a master plan tailored just for you.

✅ Benefits of Contract Loan Processing for VA Loans

  1. Specialized VA Knowledge

    • VA loans have unique requirements (COE, residual income, funding fee calculations, appraisal requirements).

    • A contract processor experienced in VA loans can spot potential issues early and streamline the process.

  2. Cost Savings for Lenders

    • No need to hire full-time staff; processors are paid per file.

    • Helps smaller brokerages or lenders manage fluctuating loan volumes without carrying extra payroll.

  3. Faster Turn Times

    • Contract processors often work remotely and are paid per closed file, so they’re incentivized to move loans quickly.

    • They can push COE requests, follow up on VA appraisals, and ensure VA-specific forms (26-1880, 26-8923) are completed on time.

  4. Compliance & Accuracy

    • VA has strict guidelines (e.g., allowable fees, seller concessions, and veteran protections).

    • A skilled processor reduces risk of compliance errors that could lead to loan buybacks or funding delays.

  5. Scalability

    • During high volume seasons (e.g., rate drops, PCS military moves), lenders can bring on extra processors quickly without long-term HR commitments.

  6. Reduced Loan Officer Burden

    • Lets LOs focus on originating, networking, and serving clients while the processor handles gathering DD-214s, income docs, pest inspection reports (if required), and underwriting conditions.

  7. Improved Borrower Experience

    • Veterans and active-duty borrowers often value clear communication and speed.

    • A processor who knows the VA process can anticipate documentation needs and prevent last-minute surprises.


👉 In short: Contract processors help lenders stay lean, compliant, and efficient, while ensuring veterans have a smoother experience.