Buying a home in this market isn't for the faint of heart. If you're looking to step into your role as a homeowner, getting as much support as possible in the home-buying process is key, and that includes working with a mortgage broker. A mortgage broker is a professional who acts as an intermediary between borrowers seeking a mortgage loan and lenders offering mortgage products. Their primary role is to help borrowers find the best mortgage deal that suits their financial situation and needs. 

The difference between a mortgage broker and a lender is that a broker doesn't lend the funds for mortgages. Rather, brokers originate and close mortgage loans between lenders and borrowers. Brokers partner with a variety of lenders, including commercial banks, credit unions, mortgage companies, and other financial institutions, and can work independently or with a brokerage firm. In contrast, a loan officer is employed by a bank, credit union, or other lender and is limited to providing the loan products their employer offers. Working with the right mortgage broker can help save you time, money, and hassle. Today our mortgage team is sharing 4 ways working with a trusted broker can help you in your home-buying journey:

#1 Who You Work With Matters.

Everything in life is about connections, even when locking down a mortgage. Working with the right broker will put you in contact with the right people and will make your offer irresistible. This is why a local, personable broker is vital. Having a local broker puts your request above everyone else and having someone who is highly rated and reviewed gives the decision makers confidence in choosing you over the next person. 

Mortgage brokers have relationships with various lenders, including banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies. This access allows them to provide you with a wide range of mortgage options, increasing your chances of finding a loan that fits your requirements. The right mortgage broker is also knowledgeable about different mortgage products, interest rates, and loan terms. They can explain complex financial terms and help you understand the implications of each option, ensuring you make an informed decision for you and your family. 

#2 A Personalized Approach

The experience of working with a broker versus a bank, could not be more different. Working with a bank often means you're just another number. Banks often have stricter lending criteria, making it more challenging for some borrowers to qualify, especially those with less-than-perfect credit or unconventional income sources. Banks may have less flexibility in terms of accommodating unique financial situations or providing creative financing solutions.

Working with a broker, especially a local broker, ensures you get a customized experience. A mortgage broker will assess your financial situation, credit history, and future goals to help you determine the most suitable mortgage options. They can tailor their recommendations to align with your specific needs and preferences. 

​​Instead of researching and approaching multiple lenders individually, a mortgage broker does the legwork for you. They gather offers from various lenders, present you with the most suitable choices, and guide you through the application process. At Wilkes Mortgage Group our main goal is getting your family into a home, which means we're working hard to get the best possible deal for your family. We also understand that this process can be time-consuming, it's our job to save you time and money. Numbers aside, we understand your WHY. You want to provide your family with a home they can grow up in and build memories in.  

#3 Rate Comparison and Negotiation

Your mortgage broker is fighting for you. Mortgage brokers can compare interest rates, loan terms, and associated fees from different lenders. This comparison helps you identify the most competitive and cost-effective mortgage deal. As private lenders, we can sometimes offer creative financing options, such as interest-only payments or shorter loan terms, tailored to your specific needs. Experienced mortgage brokers can negotiate with lenders on your behalf to secure favorable terms, including lower interest rates, reduced closing costs, or flexible repayment options. The negotiation options are endless!

#4 A Unique Support System

We want to make the mortgage process more human. We offer our clients support from beginning to end, even after they've already secured a mortgage deal. Because our clients are family, we offer application assistance, guidance in special situations, and are available to answer your call 24/7.. Our brokers will assist you in completing the necessary paperwork and ensure your application is accurate and complete. This can help expedite the approval process and reduce the chances of errors that might delay your loan approval. If you have a unique financial situation, such as a low credit score, self-employment income, or other complexities, our mortgage broker can help you find lenders who specialize in working with borrowers in similar situations. Even after you secure a mortgage, we provide ongoing assistance, answering your questions and helping you navigate any issues that may arise during the life of your loan. This blog is just one example of our commitment to exceptional support. 

Wilkes Mortgage Group Is Here For You

Mortgage shopping can be one of the most exhausting and stressful steps that lead to home buying. We understand that we all just want to live in a home of our own that feels peaceful and comfortable, but financially that can be difficult to find. That's why when opting for a mortgage loan to fulfill your homeowner dreams, working with a trusted mortgage broker is going to be critical. Whether it's your first time opting for a mortgage loan or the fifth, a mortgage broker will guide you every step of the way with professional recommendations and limiting risks.

Our team is equipped to help you navigate the home-buying process with confidence and ease. Wilkes Mortgage Group was founded with honesty, transparency, and efficiency. Spanning the last sixteen years, through booming and challenging times, we have succeeded in leading our industry in customer satisfaction and reliability. Learn more about the ways we can help you save money on your home mortgage at https://wilkesmortgagegroup.com/