The conventional 30-year fixed loan may not be for you. Consider and compare all the options.

If you don't like debt and risk, you may want to stick with conventional loans with fixed rates and shorter terms, making big down payments and extra principal payments whenever possible. If you go with a 30-year mortgage, you could refinance after 10 years. You could get a lower rate and dramatically reduce your principal balance in a shorter period.

Here are more tips for finding the right home loan:

·                     Use mortgage calculators and other tools that let you see exactly how much you'll have to pay under various scenarios.

·                     Shop for the best rates from both local banks and national lenders. Consider working with one of our mortgage specialists.

·                     Combine different loan features to create a loan that's comfortable for you.

·                     Factor in costs like property taxes, insurance and moving costs.

·                     Ask about alternative loan terms, such as 20 years. They exist though many lenders don't advertise them.

·                     Consider refinancing your current home if you need cash for a second home.

·                     Fill out our Residential Loan Application and we'll forward it on to our mortgage specialists for you.