What to Look for in a Mortgage Broker - When working with a mortgage broker to get a new loan for your home, there are certain things you should look for.
Possibly the most important aspect of a good mortgage broker is one who listens to you. You need to know that the person is working in your best interest, and how can they do that if they dont know what your interests are?Interviewing your mortgage broker will help you decide if this is the person you feel comfortable working with on your largest financial transaction. You should be confident that your mortgage broker will provide you with the service and attention you require to insure a smooth transaction.
A good mortgage broker does not charge fees up-front. Prior to closing, the only out of pocket expense for you should be the cost of the appraisal. This fee is usually paid directly to the appraisal company at the time of the appraisal.
Get everything in writing upfront so that there are no questions at a later date.
If everything is in writing you know what to expect from your broker and what your broker expects of you.
Many brokers are more than willing to share surveys of past clients with you, to give you an indication of how they treat their clients.
A Mortgae broker should be accessible to you at reasonable times. They should always return your phone calls within a reasonable period of time.
Mortgage Consultant - What is a mortgage consultant? Is it the same as a loan officer, a financial planner, a mortgage adviser, or a mortgage broker?
A mortgage consultant is a mortgage professional that is licensed, highly trained and educated in the field of home mortgage loans. Some mortgage consultants are called mortgage brokers, loan officers, home loan advisers, and some are even financial planners, amongst many other names. A mortgage consultant usually provides mortgage education, mortgage origination, and fits a consumer with the proper mortgage to fit their needs.
Not all states have the same licensing requirements, and some states don't require any education at all to become a mortgage consultant. While it is possible to receive very good advice from a mortgage professional you should never confuse the information they give you, with the type of advice a licensed financial planner or accountant would give you.
Not all loan officers are consultants. Many loan officers are simply there to help you get any loan which you qualify for. Mortgage consultants provide options and explain them to you, and give advice for what they feel is the best loan for you. If you don't qualify at first, many will help you get into a position where you can qualify.