You are working with a realtor that you trust and have found the prefect home. It is in the perfect town and it’s even the right price. You have prepared for this day and now all you need is to find the perfect loan officer. You want someone that you can trust with this important process and will work hard at making your best interests their priority. Your first instinct is to find the lender who offers the lowest rates. Being rate conscious is important, but BEWARE. There are many factors that make up the rate and while one may be lower then another, you may be paying for that lower rate in the lender’s fees. Maneuvering through the mortgage maze is tricky so here are a few tips to assist you in this process.

Ask Your Realtor:

• You have established a relationship with them and they would not want that compromised
• They have been to many closings and they know which loan officers have lived up to their customer’s expectations

Conduct an Interview:

• Meet with the loan officer
• Make sure that you feel comfortable talking to them
• Make sure they are well versed in their business.
• Ask for references: i.e., your attorney, a neighbor, closing agency, written testimonials, etc

Expect your loan officer to be available according to your schedule, including evenings and weekends. Remember, they are working for you and if they are not living up to your expectations THEN FIRE THEM!!! It is never too late to look for a new loan officer. And as a reminder: If it sounds too good to be true, then it usually is.