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

Call the real estate professional that you trust because they have plenty of good lenders that they have worked with in the past.

get good faith estimates and deal with someone you know! The internet is not the place to go!