Quick Access Resources:

• HARP Qualification Tool
• Florida HARP Application

Yes. You can always shop for the best Home Affordable Refinance Program or HARP and see if the rates can work for you. It doesn’t necessarily have to be with your current lender. You just have to make sure that these lenders provide HARP loan. Otherwise, you have to settle with your current lender who can do a HARP loan.

HARP is a special program that allows homeowners, who are “underwater” with their mortgages, get a refinance without too much hassle. This sounds good. However, homeowners should keep in mind that to be able to take advantage of the program, you must only deal with official HARP lenders. The best way to solve the growing dilemma of wrapping up mortgage loans is to check out your options – whether it is through HARP or any other refinancing program.

The HARP listed several guidelines that will help homeowners assess if they are eligible for the program or not. One of the top requirements is that the loan must be owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae also known as Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA), or the Freddie Mac, otherwise known as Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC). These are two of the most prominent mortgage companies in the United States. However, even if they own your loan, they do not provide the services. Hence, you need to make sure that you can find the best mortgage lender to ensure you have the best mortgage rates. This way, you can be sure that you have the best deal on your house and money.

Here are some important tips to help you find the best HARP lender:

1. Do your homework first

Before making your shopping list, it is best that you check your credentials and requirements first. Make sure that you are qualified to avail the HARP loan. The program has a set of guidelines to check whether a homeowner is eligible for the program. There are two elements that are important – a) loans must be owned and guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac; and b) you must be updated with your payments.

2. Make your list and check it twice

You can find the best HARP loan rates online. However, since there are many mortgage lenders out there, it is best that you make a list of your top 10 and then narrow your list to three.

3. Ask for help

You can get free services from different government agencies related to housing program or mortgage loans. You can get some advice from the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Once you have found your best HRP mortgage lender, prepare the requirements and start the application. Your effort will surely reap better results in the end.