Mortgage brokers: What they do and how they help homebuyers What is a mortgage broker? A mortgage broker acts as a go-between, matching borrowers with mortgage lenders. If you are purchasing a home or refinancing an existing one, a broker can help you find the best mortgage option for your needs. Brokers work with everyone in the lending process, including real estate agents, closing agents, and underwriters. Mortgage broker vs. lender vs. loan officer A mortgage broker matches borrowers with potential lenders and loans. A mortgage lender, on the other hand, is the party responsible for providing the funds to the borrower to buy a home. Finally, a loan officer is employed by a bank, credit union, or other lender, and is limited to providing only loan products their employer offers. How do mortgage brokers work? A mortgage broker in San Diego acts as an agent for a borrower, working with many lenders to find the best mortgage for their situation. Some lenders only work “wholesale.” It means they work exclusively through other professionals and not directly with the public. Therefore, to have access to their mortgages, a borrower must go through a broker. How much does a mortgage broker cost? The commission of a mortgage broker in San Diego can vary, but it usually ranges from 0.50 percent to 2.75 percent of the loan principal. Federal law caps broker fees at 3 percent and requires that they not be linked to the interest rate of a loan. Why use a mortgage broker? There is no reason not to work with a mortgage broker. Borrowers who use the services of broker get the benefit of a more personal experience and having a licensed professional do the legwork on their behalf. Thank You Visit: www.altfn.com