Buying a new home costs a lot of money, however some of that outrageous expense can be reduced if you research and do your homework.

Buying a new home costs a lot of money, however some of that outrageous expense can be reduced if you research and do your homework.

When you apply for a home loan, make sure you have a high credit score. Higher credit scores mean lower interest rates on home loans, which will save the buyer thousands in interest over the term of the loan.

Check your credit report before you apply, and make sure you pull reports from all credit bureaus because your home loan provider uses all credit reports in determining the buyer\’s creditworthiness and ability to repay the home loan. If your reports have mistakes, get the mistakes corrected.

Pay down your credit card balances and make your payments on time. Those two factors influence your credit report more than anything.

Shop around and get more than one home loan quote. Lending is a competitive business. Let home loan providers know you are talking to the competition. Ask them what they can do to help you. See if they are advertising any home loan rate specials. If they aren\’t and a competitor is, see if they will match the competitor\’s offer. It never hurts to ask. The internet makes doing research and comparison shopping for the best home loan rates easy. Just a few clicks and you have the information you need right in front of you.

It\’s always advisable to ask the seller to pay your closing costs. Selling costs are expenses paid when you obtain the home loan. The selling costs can range between 3-7% of the total home\’s value, including points, taxes, title insurance, financing, and other settlement costs.

If you ask the seller to cover your home loan closing costs and they refuse, then ask the lender to negotiate a lower rate on the closing costs with you. This is also something you should inquire about when shopping for the best home loan rates because closing costs can add a lot of money to your mortgage costs.

While buying a home and obtaining a home loan can feel overwhelming at times, there are ways to cut costs and save money on your home loan. Do your homework and earn the best grade possible!

Tom Martens is the content coordinator for South Arica?s leading Homeloans portal which amongst others offers Bond origination services for all major banks.