Whether you're buying a brand new home or trying to get a new mortgage before your existing one resets to a higher interest rate, know your rights before talking to a lender.

• Know that some closing costs are negotiable either with the seller or the lender.
• Shop, shop and then shop some more to be sure you have the lowest rates available based on your credit profile.
• Try to lower the cost of the Title Insurance, which you must buy to protect the lender over ownership disputes on the property. If the seller only owned the home for a couples of years, ask the seller's company for a reissue rate. The premium should be lower. If you're refinancing your own mortgage, you may also qualify for a reissue rate.
• Before you go to the closing, ask for a copy of the HUD-1, which lists your actual closing costs and charges.

Know your rights before you sign!

That covers the basics. But if you’re interested in learning more about homes and mortgages, you can do so by clicking here now.