The state of Florida has the second highest foreclosure percentages in the United States. It is not impossible to get a mortgage that you can afford that will keep you from being one of the statistics. There are determining factors that all lenders are taking into account these days especially in Florida. The unemployment rate is skyrocketing and lenders are skittish about making loans. If you do your homework you can get a decent interest on a mortgage or refinance loan. Here are a few steps that will help you prepare to negotiate that mortgage.

1. Know what type of loan you wish to apply for.

There are various types of loans and some would work better for your financial situation than others. It is a matter of knowing what loans are available in your area and what the interest rates are on these different types of loans and what are the qualifiers. There are government loans, adjustable rate loans, and hybrid loans to name a few.

2. Length of expected occupancy

If you are planning to move say this is not the home of your wildest dreams but a temporary stop then you would not want to get stuck in a traditional 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. It would be better to go with a hybrid mortgage that is fixed for up to 10years. There is some risk involved but as long as you move before the fixed rate period is up it can save you money.

3. What type of occupancy will the property be

Lenders give better rates to people financing their primary dwelling rather than a property for income or commercial use.

4. Comparison shop

Mortgages differ from lender to lender and so do the interest rates that you would be charged on them. Get some quotes either online or from a local realtor. These quotes are usually free.

5. Be organized