Hi Katie -

Do you know what the requirements are for the co-op purchase? The first step is to learn what the cooperative association requires. Typically it's a 25% down payment and a 4 to 1 ratio. This means that your total gross income must be 4 times your expenses - all of your expenses including carrying the new co-op you wish to purchase. If you're cleared for that, then investigate a few licensed mortgage banks. You won't be able to get a co-op loan from any savings & loan nor from credit unions. I would suggest that you speak with a few and compare their closing costs as this can vary. You will also need a licensed banker who is very expert at co-op loans as they're different because you're not buying real estate but shares in an association. Here are 2 good bankers to investigate and if they can't do it, they will know where to send you:

Steve Jarahian
Real Estate Mortgage Network
201.390.1561
sjarahian@remn.com

Larry De Nike
Classic Mortgage LLC
201-906-7457
LADClassic@aol.com

I can do a Co-op loan in Bergen County, but I'm a mortgage banker not a bank. I would meet with you at the location of your choosing.