Welcome to the exciting world of Atlanta real estate! Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, it’s important to grasp the local mortgage landscape to make informed decisions.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the the ins and outs of the Atlanta mortgage market, from the variety of lenders and loans to navigating current market trends.
Understanding the Atlanta Mortgage Market
There are a multiple amounts of lending options within the mortgage market in Atlanta and many mortgage lenders to choose from. Atlanta boasts a range of mortgage lenders, including traditional banks, credit unions, online lenders and mortgage brokers like Andes Mortgage LLC.
Each offers unique benefits, from personalized service to competitive rates and speed to close. We’ll explore what each type brings to the table.
Getting a mortgage with a traditional bank
Traditional banks offer the stability of an established institution and often have competitive rates.
These traditional banks include popular nationwide institutions like Bank of America and Wells Fargo, as well as local banks specific to the Atlanta market.
Although banks offer very competitive interest rates, they may also have stricter lending requirements and longer processing times compared to other types of lenders. On average, it takes anywhere between 30-45 days for a bank to close on a mortgage. This is not good desirable in a competitive sellers market like the Atlanta market where closing fast is wanted by home sellers.
Credit Unions
Credit unions are nonprofit organizations that offer membership-based financial services to their account holders.
They often offer lower interest rates and fees than traditional banks, making them an attractive option for many homebuyers.
However, credit unions may have more limited loan options and may not be able to service all types of loans or properties. It’s best to research the specific credit union and its offerings before deciding if it’s the right fit for you. Qualifying with a credit union is also much more difficult to do as they normally have overlays and other strict requirements you must meet.
Online Lenders
In today’s digital world, online lenders have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and quick processing times.
They often have lower overhead costs compared to traditional banks, allowing them to offer competitive rates and fees.
However, online lenders may not have a physical presence in Atlanta, making it harder to establish a personal connection or receive in-person assistance if needed. This is also problematic when showing an offer to a buyer in the city as realtors prefer to work with buyers who are approved by a local based mortgage lender.
Mortgage Brokers
Mortgage brokers act as intermediaries between borrowers and lenders, working with multiple lenders to find the best loan options for their clients.
They can provide personalized service and access to a variety of loan programs, including those that may not be available through traditional banks or credit unions. If you have a special situation or issue that needs careful attention, then a mortgage broker is your best bet for getting the loan you want. Some of these are self-employed individuals, or buyers who require a niche type of loan.
Additionally, mortgage brokers work very fast. In fact, we at Andes Mortgage LLC average 12 days from start to close.
Navigating Current Market Trends
The Atlanta mortgage market is constantly changing, affected by various factors such as interest rates, housing inventory and economic conditions.
Currently, the market in Atlanta is experiencing a shortage of housing inventory, resulting in higher home prices and increased competition among buyers. This means that getting pre-approved for a mortgage before starting your home search is crucial to staying competitive in the market.
In 2023, the average price of home in metro Atlanta stands at $429,000, an increase of 1.9% from 2022. The Atlanta housing market is somewhat competitive. According to Realtor.com, homes in Atlanta receive 2 offers on average and sell in around 31 days.
Mortgage Loan Types in Atlanta
In Atlanta, loan options are plentiful. Fixed-rate mortgages offer stability in payments, while adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) can initially provide a lower monthly payment.
The most common loan used by homebuyers in Atlanta is the conventional mortgage. However, government-backed loans like FHA and VA loans are also very common and provide opportunities for those who meet specific criteria. In addition, down payment assistance programs are common for first time homebuyers who need help with down payment or closing costs.
Qualification criteria for mortgage loans in Atlanta
| Conventional | FHA | VA | Jumbo | Non-QM | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum LTV | 80% | 80% | 100% | 75% | 75% |
| Minimum Credit Score | 640 | 580 | 580 | 680 | 640 |
| Maximum DTI Ratio | 45% | 57% | 59.9% | 43% | 50% |
Comparing Mortgage Rates in Atlanta
Mortgage rates fluctuate based on economic factors and individual credit profiles. It’s important to shop around and compare rates from multiple lenders to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Additionally, working with a mortgage broker like Andes Mortgage LLC can save you time and hassle by leveraging their relationships with multiple lenders to find the most competitive rates for your specific situation.
In Conclusion
Navigating the Atlanta mortgage landscape can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and resources, it’s an achievable goal.
Understanding the types of lenders, loan options, and local market trends equips you with the tools needed for a successful mortgage journey.
If you’re Interested in exploring your mortgage options in Atlanta, contact Andes Mortgage LLC for personalized guidance and expert advice tailored to your unique needs.
Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect mortgage solution in Atlanta’s dynamic market. Visit our website or call us today to start your journey!
