Should I lock in my interest rate

Didier Malagies • March 20, 2023


Deciding whether to lock in your mortgage rate when getting a mortgage is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your finances.


A mortgage rate lock is a guarantee from a lender that the interest rate on your mortgage loan will not change for a specified period of time, typically 30 to 60 days. Locking in your mortgage rate can protect you from potential rate increases while you're going through the loan approval process, which can take several weeks.


Locking your mortgage rate can be a good idea if you believe that interest rates are likely to rise in the near future. This can help you avoid paying a higher interest rate later on. Additionally, if you have a limited budget and need to know precisely what your mortgage payment will be each month, a rate lock can provide you with the certainty you need to plan your finances.


On the other hand, if you believe that interest rates are likely to fall, you may want to wait before locking in your rate. Additionally, if you're not in a hurry to close on your mortgage and you're willing to take the risk of interest rates increasing, you may want to wait before locking in your rate to see if rates will improve.


Ultimately, the decision to lock in your mortgage rate when getting a mortgage depends on your individual financial situation and your tolerance for risk. It's important to speak with your lender or a financial advisor to determine what is best for you.

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