Some mortgage lenders specialize in lending money to people with rocky credit
histories. They are called “sub-prime” lenders because they lend money to people who traditional banks
consider too risky. If you have
had credit problems in the past, a sub-prime mortgage lender could be the easiest way for you to buy a home.
Sub-prime lenders are not charities. Their loans do tend to be more expensive than those from traditional
lenders. Sub-prime mortgages usually have higher interest rates than traditional “prime” mortgages. The
reason for the higher price is risk. Since sub-prime
mortgages are more likely to default, the higher interest rates help the lenders protect themselves.
If you get a sub-prime mortgage, remember that you always can refinance at a later date when your credit has
improved. You may only
have your sub-prime mortgage for a few years, after which you can get a better mortgage for a lower rate.
A sub-prime mortgage can be a great way to get started. If you have a difficult credit history, traditional
lenders may be unwilling to offer you
a mortgage. The sub-prime lenders will put you into a home and help you establish a stronger credit history.