When most people think about choosing a mortgage company,
they think about finding the lowest rate. Period.
Of course, financial considerations are important to
every home buyer, and you certainly should consider the different rates
mortgage companies in your area offer on comparable loans. But you also
want to find a mortgage professional you can trust, and someone you can
work with effectively. So don't let rates be your only criterion.
Here's a a quick three step process:
- Build a list of mortgage companies. Talk
to people you know who have bought or refinanced a home recently.
- Talk to a mortgage professional. Call
or visit the companies on your list. Get a feel for what it will
be like to work with them, and how they approach your needs. If you're
still uncertain, ask for references -- recent home buyers like yourself
-- and talk to them.
- Compare rates for similar loans. Among
the things you'll want to discuss with prospective companies are
the rates they offer on mortgages. But when comparing rates between
companies, be sure the rates are for comparable loans -- and remember
to include fees and other costs so you're really comparing apples
to apples.
