Shop Your Mortgage Interest Rate With The Least Amount Of Closing Costs

DDA Mortgage • September 26, 2022

There are two ways to lower your mortgage financing costs: shop your mortgage rate and manage your closing costs.



Shopping Your Mortgage Rate


Your mortgage's interest rate is the most important factor in determining how much you pay on your home loan each month. It's also one of the biggest factors determining how much of a home you can afford.


When shopping for a mortgage, there are many different types of loans available to consumers. The most common type is a fixed-rate, fixed-term loan that allows you to lock in an interest rate for the term of the loan (usually 15 or 30 years). Other options include adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), which allow for a lower initial rate but don't lock in an interest rate for long periods of time (usually five years or less). There are also hybrid loans that combine aspects of both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages like a 2/1 buydown.


Because there are options, you need to talk to a mortgage specialist that can educate you about each option, the pros and cons, and why one option fits your circumstances better than another option.



Managing The Closing Costs Of Your Mortgage


Closing costs are fees associated with purchasing a home, including appraisal fees, insurance premiums, and potential origination points paid at closing by either buyer or seller. Closing costs vary based on where you live and what type of property you're buying. Your terms may also determine higher or lower closing costs depending on your mortgage broker and lender.



How You Can Strategize Your Financing For The Future


As the economy shifts, the Government typically increases or decreases interest rates. Right now, we are in a state of increase. Inevitably, this too will shift, and interest rates will drop. You can find terms favorable to your financing now, knowing that in the future, you will refinance at a lower rate.


If you can get a lower rate, your payment will be lower and you'll save more money over the life of the loan. If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), refinancing can help protect against future increases in interest rates and result in fewer payments in the long run.



Next Steps


If you are shopping for a home, call us now (727) 784-5555. We will show you all your options, not just the traditional ones.


If you have questions about mortgages and home loans, please ask using the form below.



Ask a Question

Use the form below and we will give your our expert answers!

Non QM Ask A Question


Start Your Loan with DDA today
Your local Mortgage Broker

Mortgage Broker Largo
See our Reviews


Looking for more details? Listen to our extended podcast! 

Check out our other helpful videos to learn more about credit and residential mortgages.

By Didier Malagies January 12, 2026
1. HOA / Condo Association Loans (Most Common) These are commercial loans made directly to the association, not individual unit owners. Typical uses Roof replacement Structural repairs Painting, paving, elevators, plumbing Insurance-driven or reserve shortfalls Key features No lien on individual units Repaid through monthly assessments Terms: 5–20 years Fixed or adjustable rates Can be structured as: Fully amortizing loan Interest-only period upfront Line of credit for phased projects Underwriting looks at Number of units Owner-occupancy ratio Delinquency rate Budget, reserves, and assessment history No personal guarantees from owners 2. Special Assessment Financing (Owner-Friendly Option) Instead of asking owners to write large checks upfront: The association levies a special assessment Owners can finance their portion monthly Reduces resistance and default risk Keeps unit owners on predictable payments This is especially helpful in senior-heavy or fixed-income communities. 3. Reserve Replenishment Loans If reserves were drained for an emergency repair: Association borrows to rebuild reserves Keeps the condo compliant with lender and insurance requirements Helps protect unit values and marketability 4. Florida-Specific Reality (Important) Given your frequent focus on Florida condos, this resonates strongly right now: New structural integrity & reserve requirements Insurance-driven roof timelines Older associations facing multi-million-dollar projects Financing often prevents forced unit sales or assessment shock Many boards don’t realize financing is even an option until it’s explained clearly. 5. How to Position the Conversation (What to Say) You can frame it simply: “Rather than a large one-time special assessment, the association can finance the project and spread the cost over time—keeping dues manageable and protecting property values.” That line alone opens the door. 6. What Lenders Will Usually Ask For Current budget and balance sheet Reserve study (if available) Insurance certificates Delinquency report Project scope and contractor estimate Bottom Line Condo associations do not have to self-fund roofs or major repairs anymore. Financing: Preserves cash Reduces owner pushback Helps boards stay compliant Protects resale values Tune in and learn https://www.ddamortgage.com/blog didier malagies nmls#212566 dda mortgage nmls#324329
By Didier Malagies January 9, 2026
Unexpected retirement expenses can strain senior homeowners
By Didier Malagies January 8, 2026
Social Security proposals raise stakes for senior homeowners Social Security’s trust funds are projected to be depleted by 2032
Show More