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It is important for both new homebuyers and homeowners who want to refinance to understand how to lock in an interest rate when applying for a mortgage loan. Understanding how rate locks work prepares you to evaluate your options.

While you are in the process of applying for your mortgage loan, interest rates will most likely fluctuate from day to day and week to week. If you want assurance that the wonderfully low interest rate on your loan will not increase while you are waiting for loan approval, ask for a rate lock. A conventional rate lock is a guarantee from the lender that your mortgage will carry a particular interest rate, with specific, predetermined points and fees.

The interest rate is "locked in" for a specified period of time, usually thirty days. When you call a lender for a rate quote, ask how long that rate will last for. If you think you might need more than thirty days to complete your home purchase or refinance, tell your lender how many days you will require, and they will give you an adjusted rate quote.

Rate locks are especially useful if interest rates are on the upswing, and you are concerned about ending up with higher monthly payments. If you cannot afford the risk of a further interest rate increase, lock in your loan rate now.

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Kristin Gwaltney
Kristin Gwaltney Team / Keller Williams Realty
933 Tracy Lane, Suite C
Clarksville, TN 37040
Direct: 931-233-9770
Office: 931-233-9770
Fax: 931-802-8735
KristinGwaltney@NUMBER1EXPERT.com

Kristin Gwaltney was born and raised in Ashland City, Tennessee. Kristin became a Clarksvillian in 1991 when she began college at Austin Peay State University. Upon graduating from Austin Peay State University with a degree in Marketing & Sales, she went into the Nashville Film Industry Producing nationwide commercials as well as working on several public relation pieces and music videos. In 2001 Kristin permanently moved to Clarksville, Tennessee and decided to start her own business in Real Estate and put her marketing & sales skills to work in the local community. In 2004 Kristin & her husband Grayson merged with Crabbe Construction, LLC where their main goal was to build quality homes for the people in their community. “It is my goal to make a difference in every one of my clients home buying and selling experience and give back to the community my family is so proud to be a part of.” Kristin is committed to values of excellence in all areas of her professional and personal life. You and your home will ALWAYS be a priority. Whether buying or selling an existing home, new construction or investment property, her service, professionalism and enthusiasm are second to none!