The internet has transformed the way we shop for everything, including mortgages. Online lenders have made it easier for homebuyers to find and compare mortgage rates from the comfort of their homes. However, while shopping for a mortgage online can be convenient, it’s essential to bring the best deal you find on the internet to a local lender. Here’s why.
- Local lenders have a better understanding of the local real estate market. They have a better sense of the housing trends, the local economy, and the nuances of the area that can affect the mortgage process. This knowledge can be valuable when it comes to finding the best mortgage deal that suits your needs. A local lender may have access to more programs, have lower closing costs, and offer more flexible terms than an online lender that doesn’t have an understanding of the local market.
2) Local lenders offer personalized services that online lenders can’t match. When you apply for a mortgage online, in many cases, you’re just a name and a set of numbers on a screen. There’s no real relationship between you and the lender. Local lenders, on the other hand, are more likely to take a personal interest in your financial situation and help you find the best mortgage deal that suits your specific needs. They can offer guidance and advice throughout the mortgage process, answer your questions, and help you navigate any challenges that arise.
3) Local lenders are more accountable than online lenders. When you work with a local lender, you know where to go if you have a question or a concern. You can meet with your lender in person and have a conversation about any issues that arise. With online lenders, it can be challenging to get a hold of someone if you have a question or concern. If you need to escalate an issue, it can be a challenge to find someone who can help you.
4) Working with a local lender can help streamline the mortgage process. When you work with an online lender, you may have to deal with a call center or multiple departments to get your questions answered or issues resolved. With a local lender, you can often deal with one person who can handle all aspects of your mortgage application, from pre-approval to closing. This can help make the mortgage process smoother and less stressful.
Last but not least, local lenders give back to the local economy and support quality-of-life items such as your local school events, community events, and non-profits. So while shopping for a mortgage online can be convenient, it’s essential to bring the best deal you find on the internet to a local lender. Local lenders have a better understanding of the local real estate market, offer personalized service, are more accountable, and can help streamline the mortgage process. By working with a local lender, you can find the best mortgage deal that suits your needs and ensure your mortgage process is as smooth and stress-free as possible all while supporting the local economy and our quality of life.