800-555-2098
Bankers and Lenders and Brokers, Oh My!
Mortgage Bankers
When many prospective homebuyers think about getting pre-approved for a mortgage, they picture their local bank. They stop by the nearest branch, are greeted by a friendly teller, and ask to speak to a loan officer. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this concept, but it certainly isn’t the only way to obtain a mortgage.
Mortgage Lenders
Mortgage Lenders exist with the sole purpose of originating home mortgages. They do not have checking accounts or ATMs. Generally, they originate the mortgage, but once it closes and funds, they sell it to a mortgage servicer, and use the money to originate new mortgages. Mortgage lenders are also referred to as Direct Lenders or Retail Lenders.
Mortgage Brokers
Mortgage Brokers are basically a financial matchmaker, matching homebuyers to mortgage lenders. They develop relationships with multiple Wholesale Lenders to originate mortgages through the loan programs those lenders offer. Mortgage Brokers take a loan application, then send it to the lender who offers the best rate and terms for that borrower’s financial situation.
Which option is best for you?
Riverbank Finance is a Mortgage Broker, so I’m more than a little biased, but let me explain! Mortgage Brokers are a great option for most borrowers because we have access to more programs and encourage competition amongst our lenders—both of which drive pricing down. We also charge zero origination fees on the majority of our loan programs.
Working with a Mortgage Broker saves borrowers more than just money— it also saves hours of time! We shop our lenders’ rates and fees everyday, and know the program guidelines inside and out. Unlike banks and lenders, we do not add any additional overlays to our lenders program guidelines—their minimums are our minimums, allowing us to serve borrowers that others can’t.
Get More Information
To apply for a Mortgage, call Riverbank Finance today at 1-800-555-2098.