At first, it might seem tricky to differentiate a mortgage broker vs lender. After all, both provide mortgage loans. While both brokers and individual lenders can help you with the same service, there are some important differences homeowners should be aware of.
Here is a basic guide to the difference between direct lenders and mortgage brokers:
A mortgage broker connects borrowers and lenders, while the mortgage lender - a bank or financial institution - deals directly with the borrower. Brokers can help you with comparison shopping for different rates and facilitate the application process.
Working with mortgage lenders directly means you are in full control of every step of the journey - and any associated hassle.
Brokers are usually paid on a fee-based schedule, while lenders make their money through a variety of different fees and charges. Origination fees and interest are major examples of how lenders are compensated.
Choosing between a mortgage broker or a direct lender depends on a number of factors and personal preferences. A broker can be the more convenient choice for many borrowers, as they handle the process of contacting different lenders to find a good fit. However, for those who want full control of the homebuying process, going straight to the bank might be a better choice.
One thing to keep in mind is some lenders work exclusively with mortgage brokers, and some brokers are exclusive with certain lenders. This could mean working with a broker may limit your choices of lender and vice versa.
However, if you place a high value on convenience, a mortgage broker can save you significant time and effort in the mortgage process. If you prefer contacting each direct lender to crunch the numbers yourself, skip the broker and work directly with a bank or institution of choice.
The BAP Team wants to thank you for visiting our Site. I have over 40 years experience with Real Estate. As a young man my first purchase was a 3 unit building which set the tone for many experiences including the Foreclosure Process, Buying at Auctions & Bank Owned REO's. We represent Buyers and Sellers as well as seasoned investors in building wealth with multi-family homes. Teamed with my daughter Cara as a Closing Coordinator, Our Mission is to provide you with the service you need in order to make the process of Buying and Selling educational and rewarding. It is our goal to treat your real estate as if it were ours. You can be assured your 'Best Interest' will always be our top priority.
