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Mortgage Basics

What Is a Rate Lock?

How locks protect you from rate movement during processing.

3 min readBy NexGen Capital Corp · NMLS 1766649Updated 2026Mortgage Basics

Short answer

How locks protect you from rate movement during processing.

A lock guarantees your rate for a set period (commonly 30/45/60 days) while your loan is processed.

What locking does

A lock guarantees your rate for a set period (commonly 30/45/60 days) while your loan is processed.

Extensions and float-downs

Locks can usually be extended for a fee. Some lenders offer float-down options if rates drop meaningfully after locking.

Key takeaways

  • Locks are a hedge, not a bet.

Frequently asked questions

Related mortgage option

Ready to apply this to a real loan? Review how Conventional Loans work in Florida, or estimate your monthly payment before you talk to an advisor.

Sources

Program rules change and individual lender overlays apply. Verify specifics with the agency or with a licensed NexGen Capital advisor before relying on them.

Reviewed by NexGen Capital Corp

Written and reviewed by the licensed mortgage team at NexGen Capital Corp, a Florida mortgage brokerage (NMLS #1766649). Verify our license on NMLS Consumer Access.

Last reviewed: 2026

This article is educational and is not a commitment to lend or an offer of credit. Speak with a licensed NexGen advisor about your own situation.

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