Mortgage brokers: What they do and how they help homebuyers What is a mortgage broker? A mortgage broker is a go-between who matches borrowers with mortgage lenders. If you are buying a home or refinancing, a broker can help you find the best mortgage for your needs. They work with everyone involved in the lending process, including real estate agents, underwriters, and closing agents. How do mortgage brokers work? Mortgage brokers act as agents for borrowers, working with many lenders to find them the best mortgage for their situation. Some lenders only work “wholesale.” It means they operate exclusively through other professionals and not directly with the public. So, to gain access to their mortgages, a borrower has to go through a broker. How much does a mortgage broker cost? The mortgage broker cost, or mortgage broker commission, tends to vary. Nonetheless, it typically ranges from 0.50% to 2.75% of the loan principal. Federal law caps broker fees at 3% and requires that they not be linked to the interest rate of a loan. In any case, before you commit to working with a broker, ask about fee structure and what you might be responsible for paying. Why use a mortgage broker? You must not let the mortgage broker cost stop you from bring a broker on board. If you use a broker, you will enjoy the benefit of a more personal experience. You will also have a licensed professional to do all the legwork for you. Then again, there are a couple of drawbacks you need to consider before you decide to hire one. How to find a mortgage broker Finding a reliable mortgage broker requires some homework. Here are a few steps you can take to make your choice. • Ask your real estate agent, family, and friends for referrals. • Consider communication style, level of expertise, and how they manage their clients’ needs. • Interview the brokers. Ask as many questions as you can. Thank You Visit: www.altfn.com