For many people, home ownership is one of life's most important goals. However, some people do not have a financial history that is good enough to obtain a mortgage. These people may use a co-signer to obtain a mortgage. The process of obtaining a mortgage with a co-signer is nearly identical to when you apply for a loan yourself. The only difference is that the lender will also evaluate the co-signer's finances and credit record when deciding to grant the loan.
Step 1
Contact one of the loan officers at your prospective lender to find out what kind of credit history, income history or other financial requirements you must meet to be approved for a loan. if you know you can not qualify on your own, ask the loan officer about the possibility of obtaining the loan with a co-signer and what financial requirements a co-signer will need to meet.
Step 2
Make a list of potential co-signers. These people can be family, friends or anyone you know who will be willing to co-sign the loan with you.
Step 3
Talk to the willing potential co-signers. Tell them what kind of a mortgage you want and what kind of financial requirements the co-signer must meet. Inform them of the financial obligations of a co-signer in case you default on your mortgage payments. If the person does not meet the requirements, find someone else.
Step 4
Ask the lender for the co-signer documentation. The lender will need to investigate the co-signer's finances and will likely require the co-signer complete an application. This will probably require the co-signer to provide a photo ID, income information, Social Security number and contact information.
Step 5
Read the mortgage application carefully and ensure you and the co-signer understand the terms. Once you are ready, sign the paperwork and submit it to the lender together. Retains copies of all the documents.
References
Tips
- Sign all documents in blue ink, so you can easily differentiate between original signed documents and photocopies.
Warnings
- Asking someone to co-sign your mortgage puts them under a significant potential financial obligation. If you default on your mortgage payments, your co-signer is liable for the debt, affecting the co-signer's finances and credit score.
Writer Bio
Roger Thorne is an attorney who began freelance writing in 2003. He has written for publications ranging from "MotorHome" magazine to "Cruising World." Thorne specializes in writing for law firms, Web sites, and professionals. He has a Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas.