How to Shop for a Mortgage

A home is one of the most significant purchases most people will ever make. The process is filled with decisions-selecting the right neighborhood, finding the right floor plan, and choosing the right financing. Just as a professional real estate agent can help you narrow down your home choices, a skilled mortgage loan officer can help find the right loan for your personal needs. 

 Make sure your loan officer has your best interests in mind. 

• Do they ask about your goals, in terms of time frames, acceptance of risk, etc?
• Are you being listened to, or is the loan officer presenting his or her preferred products? 
• Are you being given choices in interest interest rates and fees rather than a "one-size-fits-all" option?
• Does the loan officer take the time to help you understand the entire process, including the steps of the loan, the definition of each fee, taxes and insurance, etc?

Be sure your loan officer takes the time to get to know you, presents alternatives and explains them well. Your lending experience should be a positive one.  

Provided by Ryan DeSchryver, HomeStreet Bank