Factors to consider when reviewing mortgage lenders
Before purchasing your home, you may find yourself searching in the market for mortgage loans. Finding a good mortgage lender can help you solidify the funding needed to secure a home and can help to simplify some aspects of the homebuying journey.
How does a mortgage work?
So, what exactly is a mortgage? A mortgage is a loan with terms often ranging from 10 to 30 years in which a borrower is awarded financing to purchase a residential property. Monthly payments of a mortgage loan go towards the principal balance, mortgage insurance, property tax and interest rates.
Tell me the minimum credit score required for a home loan?
On average, many mortgage lenders offering conventional loans require a credit score of at least 620 to demonstrate good credit history. Loan types such as FHA loans do allow borrowers to qualify with lower credit scores; however, this often comes with higher interest rates and a larger down payment requirement.
If you’re in need of a larger mortgage, you may be considering applying for jumbo loans. Due to the higher amount of financing being borrowed, the average credit score needed to qualify for a jumbo loan is around 700.
Review methodology
As you compare and review different mortgage lenders and loan types, there are a few great factors to consider to narrow down your search:
- Do they offer lower interest rates?
- Do they have good costume reviews regarding communication and integrity?
- What fees do they charge in connection with taking out a loan?
- Do they have local servicing?
By reviewing your credit history and doing research on
About the Author
Daniel Martin, Higgins Group Private Brokerage, Licensed in CT, Lic. #RES.6767971
With over two decades of experience in Connecticut real estate, Daniel Martin is a seasoned Realtor at Higgins Group Private Brokerage, renowned for his exceptional market insight and unwavering client dedication. A lifelong Connecticut resident, Daniel's deep roots in the community, coupled with his extensive professional background, provide an invaluable advantage to both buyers and sellers across Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
Daniel's distinguished career is marked by consistent achievement, earning him the prestigious Connecticut Magazine 5 Star Realtor award from 2014 to 2025. He is a perennial Top Producer, recognized as both a Top Listing Agent and Top Selling Agent, a testament to his strategic approach and keen understanding of market dynamics. His expertise spans a broad spectrum of real estate needs, including guiding First Time Home Buyers, navigating transactions for Single and Multi-Family Homes, Land, New Construction, New Residential Developments, Condominiums, Downsizing, and Rentals.
Beyond his impressive track record, Daniel's professional affiliations include memberships with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), Connecticut Association of REALTORS (CAR), Bridgeport Board of Realtors, Smartmls and Greenwich MLS. His foundational education in real estate from Naugatuck Valley Community College, complemented by studies at Connecticut School of Electronics and Housatonic Community College, underpins his comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Daniel's unique blend of customer service acumen and technological proficiency sets him apart. He leverages every available marketing resource to ensure his clients' homes gain maximum exposure and stand out in the competitive market.
When not orchestrating successful real estate ventures, Daniel cherishes time with his family, including his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. A passionate musician and golf enthusiast, he embodies the vibrant spirit of the Connecticut communities he serves. Daniel's network extends globally, allowing him to facilitate referrals anywhere in the world.
