Key takeaways
- Mortgage brokers act as go-betweens for homebuyers and lenders, matching borrowers with appropriate loans.
- Brokers can find and offer borrowers a variety of options, including unconventional loans and loans from banks that don’t directly work with the public.
- It’s important to interview brokers, understand their specialities and how they’re compensated (usually the lender pays their fee).
Working with a mortgage broker to navigate today’s housing market can be a wise move, especially for a first-time homebuyer. From finding the best interest rate to completing the application to closing the loan on time, mortgage brokers are well-versed in the home-financing experience. Let’s explore what mortgage brokers are, how they work and how they can help you.
What is a mortgage broker?
A mortgage broker is a go-between who matches borrowers and mortgage lenders. If you’re buying a home or refinancing, a broker can help you find the best mortgage for your particular needs and situation.
They work with everyone involved in the lending process — from the real estate agent to the underwriter and closing agent — to make sure a borrower gets the best loan and the loan closes on time. Mortgage loan brokers also pull the buyer’s credit reports, verify their income and expenses and coordinate all of the loan paperwork. Many brokers have access to a powerful loan-cost system, as well, which prices a mortgage loan across many lenders at once, thereby streamlining the process.
“A mortgage broker not only helps you get the most competitive rates and pricing, they also help make sure your loan is a good match with the particular lender,” explains Andrew Weinberg, principal at Silver Fin Capital Group in Great Neck, New York. “They can quickly determine the best lender for each individual borrower.”
Mortgage broker vs. lender vs. loan officer
| Mortgage broker | A mortgage broker originates and closes 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. |
| Mortgage lender | A mortgage lender is the party responsible for providing the funds to the borrower to purchase a home. |
| Loan officer | A loan officer is employed by a bank, credit union or other lender and is limited to providing the loan products their employer offers. Generally, loan officers act as the liaison between the institution and the individual borrowers assessing them, providing guidance with the application, etc.; sometimes the terms refer to someone who either authorizes or recommends approval for loans, though technically that’s the job of the underwriter. |
Both brokers and lenders “offer” loans; the primary difference between a mortgage broker and a lender is that a broker doesn’t actually originate or extend the funds for mortgages. Instead, the broker shows the client an array of options, then works with the chosen lender on the borrower’s behalf to get the loan approved, closed and funded.
The duties of a mortgage broker and a loan officer are similar, in that both steer the borrower through the mortgage application procedure. While brokers are independent entities, able to work with a variety of lenders, loan officers are direct employees of a particular mortgage lender. They are the borrower’s primary point of contact during the lending process if the borrower uses a bank, credit union or traditional lender to get a mortgage.
How do mortgage brokers work?
Mortgage brokers act as a sort of agent for borrowers, working with multiple lenders to find them the best mortgage for their circ*mstances. Some lenders only work “wholesale” — that is, exclusively through other professionals, not directly with the public — so to have access to their mortgages, a borrower must go through a broker.
Brokers help locate lenders and loans, working step-by-step with you to find the right mortgage that fits your financials and needs. But their job doesn’t stop there. When you apply with a broker, they’ll do the legwork of submitting multiple applications to lenders for you. They’ll also be able to guide you away from lenders that may have extra fees or other expenses.
Mortgage brokers have a fiduciary responsibility to the borrower. This means that they’re required to work in the borrower’s best interest, not theirs or a lender’s.
Note that brokers do charge a fee that they’ll collect when the loan closes — either you or the lender will pay it. Also, working with a broker does not guarantee that you’ll get a better deal than if you decide to go without one.
Pros and cons of working with a mortgage broker
Pros of working with a mortgage broker
- A mortgage broker can help you save on fees: When you obtain a mortgage, you’re likely to pay an origination fee, application fee and appraisal fee — just to name a few. A mortgage broker may be able to get the lender to waive some or all of those fees.
- A mortgage broker can save you money on the loan itself: Brokers have access to a broader assortment of loans and lenders (including some you wouldn’t have access to as an individual). So they may be able to find a better deal than you could get for yourself.
- A mortgage broker can save you time: Brokers can do all the research on rates and fees; they negotiate for you, file the paperwork and keep the application process on track.
- A mortgage broker can save you from making a big mistake: Brokers can help you avoid pitfalls with particular loans: They’ve read all the fine print. They know the differences among lenders and the twists and turns in mortgages.
- A mortgage broker can find the right lender for tricky situations: If your credit history or financials aren’t great or the property you’re buying is unusual, a broker can find a lender who offers more lenient criteria or who specializes in certain types of properties.
Cons of working with a mortgage broker
- Not all lenders work with mortgage brokers: Brokers may not have access to all loan programs at certain financial institutions.
- You might have to pay the broker: Usually, the lender pays the broker fee, but sometimes the borrower assumes the cost.
- There is potential for conflict of interest: If a lender pays a mortgage broker a commission, the broker could favor that lender and you might not get the best deal available.
- A broker’s loan estimate may not represent the final terms of the deal: Based on the information in your application, the lender may charge a higher rate or fees, and the cost of your loan may be higher than what you expected.
How much does a mortgage broker cost?
The broker’s commission (which is usually paid by the lender) varies, but it typically 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 on a loan.
“Most brokers do not charge the borrower anything at all in most scenarios,” says Weinberg. “The compensation paid to the broker by the lender does not add a penny to the borrower’s closing costs, just like the compensation paid by the big banks to their…loan originators doesn’t add to your closing costs.”
“Prior to the [2008] economic downturn, consumers didn’t see how much a broker got paid, but in today’s mortgage climate, the cost of the loan is charged to the borrower and the lender purchasing the loan provides a credit equal to that cost, resulting in no cost to the borrower,” says Masnyk.
In the few instances a broker does charge the borrower for their services, borrowers can expect to pay a fee between 1 percent to 2 percent of the loan principal. Before you commit to working with a broker, ask about fee structure and what you might be responsible for paying, if anything.
Should I use a mortgage broker?
A mortgage loan broker helps all kinds of borrowers get the best deal, and this commitment can be especially useful for borrowers with unique circ*mstances, such as bad credit or a desire to purchase a certain type of property. In addition, a mortgage broker can help you find the best mortgage rate in a rising rate environment.
There’s no reason not to work with a mortgage broker, says Rick Masnyk, a branch manager at Network Funding in North Smithfield, Rhode Island. Borrowers who use a mortgage broker get the benefit of a more personal experience and having a licensed professional do the legwork for them.
“Working with someone you can see face to face and/or someone your Realtor has used in the past and trusts is always a great source,” Masnyk says.
How to find a mortgage broker
Finding a mortgage broker requires a bit of homework. Here are some steps you can take to make your choice:
- Research: Ask your real estate agent, friends and family for referrals. Read online reviews and check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints.
- Narrow it down to a few brokers: Consider a broker’s communication style, level of expertise and how they manage their clients’ needs.
- Interview the brokers: Ask plenty of questions and get a feel for how they work and whether they are knowledgable about the sort of mortgage you’d qualify for.
- Speak with a former client: Ask them for a reference from a few former clients and make sure you speak with them directly.
Ultimately, the burden is on you to find the best mortgage provider, whether through a broker or loan officer, and to shop around for the best rate and lowest costs.
Questions to ask a mortgage broker
Before you get too far into the process with a mortgage broker, ask these key questions:
How much do you charge and who pays your fee?
The lender usually pays the mortgage broker. Broker fees can show up on the loan estimate or closing disclosure in several ways, so get clear on this ahead of time to avoid surprises at closing.
Which lenders do you work with?
Most mortgage brokers have a stable of lenders they work with, and not all brokers work with the same lenders. If you’re eyeing a VA loan and the broker never works with VA lenders, for instance, that broker is likely not the best fit for you.
How much experience do you have?
As a rule of thumb, choose a mortgage broker who has been in the industry for at least three years. If you’re interested in a specific type of mortgage, ask how much experience the broker has with that loan.
Are you licensed to do business in my state?
You can check to see if a mortgage broker is licensed through the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System and Registry. If your broker has a website, their NMLS registration number should be displayed there. It is also often included in brokers’ email signatures.
Do you have references?
Ideally, you have found your mortgage broker through a recommendation from a friend, relative or co-worker, but if not, it’s smart to check references. Ask for names and contact information of several recent clients, then ask them about their experience with the broker. Would they do business with that broker again? Did the loan estimate have accurate information? Were there any issues closing the loan?
How do you handle rate locks?
A rate lock guarantees you the interest rate you’re quoted for a certain amount of time, even if rates move up or down. A typical rate lock lasts 30 days or 60 days. If the lender permits, you can add a “float down,” which guarantees you a lower rate if rates fall during your lock period. Ask your broker for a loan commitment or preapproval letter from the lender. It should specify the interest rate and points, the date the rate was locked and when the lock expires.
Frequently asked questions on mortgage brokers
Yes, you can get a mortgage directly from a lender without a mortgage broker.
Some would say the potential for conflicts of interest exists with mortgage brokers. Brokers have a fiduciary responsibility to their clients: They are legally obligated to act in the borrower’s best interest. However, their fee is often paid by the lender, so (one might wonder): Who are they really working for? Always ask for transparency with a broker — that they divulge how they’re compensated and what their commission is from any lender whose loan they’re recommending.
I'm an experienced financial consultant with a deep understanding of mortgage brokerage and the intricacies of the lending industry. Over the years, I've worked closely with numerous clients, helping them navigate the complexities of securing the right mortgage for their needs. My expertise extends from traditional home loans to unconventional financing options, allowing me to offer comprehensive guidance tailored to each client's unique circ*mstances.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about mortgage brokers:
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Mortgage Brokers: These professionals serve as intermediaries between homebuyers and lenders, facilitating the mortgage application and approval process. They possess in-depth knowledge of various loan options and work to match borrowers with suitable lenders.
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Role and Responsibilities of Mortgage Brokers:
- Matching Borrowers and Lenders: Brokers assess borrowers' financial situations and connect them with lenders offering appropriate mortgage products.
- Navigating the Lending Process: They guide borrowers through the entire lending process, from application to closing, ensuring timely completion.
- Credit Assessment and Documentation: Brokers gather necessary financial documents, such as credit reports and income verification, to support loan applications.
- Access to Multiple Lenders: Brokers often have access to a wide range of lenders and loan programs, enabling them to find competitive deals for clients.
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Distinction Between Mortgage Brokers, Lenders, and Loan Officers:
- Mortgage Broker: Acts as an intermediary between borrowers and lenders, offering access to multiple loan options.
- Mortgage Lender: Provides funds directly to borrowers for home purchases.
- Loan Officer: Represents a specific lender and assists borrowers with loan applications and approvals.
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Working Mechanism of Mortgage Brokers:
- Agent for Borrowers: Brokers work on behalf of borrowers, collaborating with multiple lenders to secure the best mortgage terms.
- Access to Wholesale Lenders: Some lenders exclusively work with brokers, necessitating their involvement for borrowers to access certain loan programs.
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Pros and Cons of Working with Mortgage Brokers:
- Pros: Potential savings on fees and loan costs, time-saving benefits, expertise in navigating complex loan structures.
- Cons: Limited access to certain lenders, potential conflicts of interest if broker fees are tied to specific lenders.
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Cost of Mortgage Broker Services:
- Commission Structure: Broker fees, typically paid by lenders, range from 0.50% to 2.75% of the loan principal, subject to federal regulations.
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Considerations When Choosing a Mortgage Broker:
- Research and Referrals: Seek recommendations from real estate agents, friends, and family, and conduct thorough background checks.
- Interview Process: Assess brokers based on experience, communication style, and expertise in relevant loan types.
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Questions to Ask a Mortgage Broker:
- Fee Structure: Clarify who pays the broker fee and how it's reflected in loan documents.
- Lender Partnerships: Inquire about the range of lenders the broker works with to ensure access to suitable loan options.
- Experience and References: Verify the broker's experience and request references from past clients.
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FAQs on Mortgage Brokers:
- Direct Lending: Yes, borrowers can obtain mortgages directly from lenders without involving a broker.
- Conflicts of Interest: While potential conflicts exist, brokers are legally bound to act in borrowers' best interests and should disclose their compensation arrangements transparently.
Understanding these concepts is essential for anyone considering the services of a mortgage broker in navigating the home financing process effectively. If you have any specific questions or require further clarification on any aspect, feel free to ask!
