Problem: Article: By shopping around at several mortgage lenders, you can determine which ones offer the best interest rates. Finding the lowest rate can save you significant amounts of money over the term of the mortgage. You may be able to get a general sense of mortgage rates in your area by using online tools offered by real estate websites, banks, or other lenders. However, to get a specific quote, you will need to contact or visit lenders. A rate quote is simply an estimate of what your rate will be.  If interest rates change, your rate will change. A rate lock, however, is a legally binding promise (qualified by any special terms) that you will get a specified rate from a lender. A very common way for lenders to charge borrowers for locking in a mortgage rate uses something called the point system. This means that a varying number of “points” are charged depending on the conditions of the rate lock. These points translate into different fees. For instance:  In many cases, it is free to lock in a rate for up to 30 days (in some cases, up to 45 days). Typically, rate locks are  guaranteed thereafter in 30-day increments, with higher fees for longer terms. A 90-day rate lock, for example, will cost more than a 60-day rate lock; a 120-day rate lock will cost more than a 90-day one. One point equals one percent of the loan amount. While locking in a mortgage rate can protect you against interest rate hikes, it can also prevent you from benefiting if interest rates fall. Some lenders, however, offer a mortgage rate lock float down, which allows you to make a one-time decision to exchange your locked-in rate for a lower one. Thus, it can be in your best interest to find a lender which offers this possibility. Some lenders require a clause in mortgage rate lock agreements that allows the quoted rate to rise by a certain limited amount if interest rates rise before you close on a house. This is known as a rate cap.  Even with a rate cap, a mortgage rate lock agreement offers you some protection from rising interest rates. However, by shopping around for interest rates you will determine the best agreement terms, and find out if any lenders do not require a rate cap. Since mortgage rates can rise, it is a good idea to see a rate lock. There can be considerable pressure to do this as soon as possible. However, this isn’t always the best idea.  In some cases, mortgage rates might fall. Talk to your realtor or another knowledgeable individual about current trends and expectations for rate activity. Some lenders charge a rate lock deposit, which you may or may not want to or be able to pay. Some lenders will lock in your mortgage rate at a slightly higher rate than the current rate. This allows you to continue to shop for a home while avoiding a rise in interest rates. However, if it turns out you did not need to lock in your rate, you will end up being charged more than was necessary. If you decide that you do not want to seek a mortgage rate lock from a lender, then the rate will “float.” This means that your rate will be set at whatever the prevailing rate is shortly before your scheduled closing date.
Summary: Visit several lenders to request interest rate quotes. Understand the difference between a rate lock and a rate quote. Understand the point system. Find out which lenders offer a mortgage rate lock float down. Know which lenders include a rate cap with mortgage rate locks. Know when it is time to lock. Let your interest float if you do not want to lock it in.

Problem: Article: When naming your dog, you want to select a name your dog can easily recognize. Given the microphone-like nature of dog's ears, certain sounds are easier for dogs to recognize.  A name starting with crisp, consonant sound is best. Something like a hard "K" or "C" sound can help your dog distinguish his name from background noise.  A blended sound, like a "ch" or "sh", can also help your dog better recognize his name.  More sibilant sounds, like soft "s" noises, may be harder for your dog to recognize. Certain names sound similar to commands you might give your dog. This can get confusing in training as your dog may be unable to differentiate his name from an order. For example, the name "Kit" may sound like "sit." The name "Beau" may sound like "No." Something like "Rover" could sound like "roll over." Try to avoid names that can be mistaken for common dog commands. Some dog trainers theorize that dogs have an easier time recognizing names that end in a vowel sound. Names that end in o's, a's, or a long "ee" sound may be easier for your dog to recognize. Think of names like Lobo, Simba, Dolly, or Sweetie. If you find a name you like that ends in a vowel, it might be a good idea to use it to help your dog recognize his name. Review a list of the most popular recent dog names. If a name you like appears on the list, you may want to reconsider it. If you take your dog to a dog park or other public place, he can get confused if he hears other owners calling out his name. Pick a more unique name if you want your dog to come when called. Many popular dog names, such as Charlie or Molly, are also names given to people. Vets and dog trainers recommend against human names for a dog as you'll end up anthropomorphizing your pet. While dogs are intelligent, they are not the same as people and do not respond to the same verbal and non-verbal cues. It might be better to choose a less human sounding name for your dog to avoid thinking of him as a person.
Summary:
Pick a name your dog can easily recognize. Avoid names that sound like commands. Consider names that end in a vowel sound. Reconsider popular names. Learn the drawbacks of a human name.