If you are in the process of refinancing your mortgage you want to find a mortgage with low rates and fees. To do this you will need to compare loan offers from a variety of mortgage lenders. How do you base your comparison when shopping for a mortgage? The Annual Percentage Rate is not enough; using the Good Faith Estimate will give you the best picture as to which loan has the most competitive rates and fees. Here are tips to help you avoid overpaying for your new mortgage loan.

The Good Faith Estimate can help you secure the most competitive financing for your mortgage loan. Mortgage lenders are required to provide you the Good Faith Estimate within three days of receiving you application. Submitting an application to a lender does not obligate you to take out a mortgage; you can use the application to secure the Good Faith Estimate when shopping for the most competitive rates.

The Good Faith Estimate provides an itemized list of all the expenses associated with the mortgage offer. Pay close attention to what the charges are and where they are being paid to. You will want to carefully review every aspect of the Good Faith Estimate and use it to compare loan offers from all the lenders you are considering. Dont overlook closing costs; many homeowners make the mistake of not comparing and negotiating closing costs.

Make sure your mortgage lender or broker is providing you an actual Good Faith Estimate and not a list of charges cleverly disguised to look like it. Mortgage brokers may leave charges out that are legally required to be itemized on the Good Faith Estimate. If the fees on your estimate for any one lender seem too high ask the lender or broker for an explanation. Do not be afraid to haggle with your broker or mortgage lender for more competitive rates.

You can learn more about your mortgage options, including common homeowner mistakes to avoid, by registering for a free mortgage guidebook, Five Things You Need Know before Refinancing Your Mortgage using the links below.