Mortgage Market

The interest rate and terms competing mortgage lenders are offering to potential mortgagees. The mortgage market is competitive on the basis of mortgage interest rates, points, credit history requirements, and closing costs. For example, in order for John to obtain a mortgage to finance a home purchase, he compared the interest rates, points charged, need for a credit check and closing costs. He finally settled on a lender whose rate 1/4% lower than the competition, charged fewer points, did not require a credit check and was extremely competitive on closing costs. The bank also guaranteed an interest rate lock-in clause until the day of the closing.