I recommend working with a mortgage broker, as opposed to a bank or other lending service, Good Brokers not only know policies and histories of local lending agencies, but they know individuals within the different institution, and their knowledge and connections they will be able to get you the best deal possible. Find one whose commission is paid by the bank, it's one bill you should not have to foot.

Best Regards,
Alessandra Marx
alessandra@elikaassociates.com
http://www.elikaassociates.com

Halley,

You need to be comfortable with who you are working with, and that comes with experience. Your financial partner should understand that you're not just looking for a home, and that you're making the largest investment of your life.

Rates fluctuate daily, often several times during the day. Whether you're interested int purchasing a home, refinancing to lower your monthly payment or tap into the equity of your home, mortgage loans are as unique as your situation.

Check out our web site and give us a call. A licensed mortgage professional can answer all of your financing questions.

Best of luck!

Regards,
Total Mortgage Services

We recommend contacting several different lending institutions and request "good faith estimates" from each. This is simply a written account to rates and programs the agent quotes to you.

Be sure you understand their terminology....don't allow them to talk over your head using terms only they would understand.

The best deals are the ones that close - not the best promises
There are a lot of "great deals" out there that fit only a small fraction of the borrowers out there but the mass populace either pays a much higher rate or has a lot of fees tacked on the back.
The banks do not have to disclose fees until closing so what looks great may change at the last minute. What gets the best deal is finding a good BROKER who will look at your finances and act as a fiduciary agent for you, not for the shareholders of the bank...
the best deal is the one that fits your needs, your finances and your future - not just the one that is advertised at the lowest rate

Your credit will have a big impact on what great deals you can get. Banks can offer great deals to buyers with excellent credit. If your credit is not perfect, then it might be better to go with a mortgage broker that will be able to find a great deal. However, you are free to shop around and compare.

The best deals are offered by reputable lenders who understand your needs and have access to a large variety of loan programs. Make sure you understand the loan's terms and conditions. Rates vary daily so it's difficult to compare them... the right loan program does not necessarily carry the best rate.