If you need a mortgage, you might wonder who to turn to during the home-buying process. A loan officer and mortgage broker are the two options.
Though similar, these roles are different. Both ask questions about your overall financial situation and help you fill out your mortgage application for processing. However, that’s where the similarities end.
The loan officer works for a credit union, bank, or another mortgage lender. West Chester residents can only get the interest rate and programs available from the institution. However, a mortgage broker works for the borrower to find good rates and loan programs from different institutions. Typically, a loan officer gets a commission for processing the application. However, the top mortgage brokers PA has to offer charge the bank and you for the fees and commissions.
Loan Officer as a Mortgage Lender
The loan officer works for a mortgage lender. They explain your options and help you have a straightforward process.
Generally, they understand lending products, rules and regulations, and know how to obtain a loan. Sometimes, they’re referred to as mortgage loan officers.
These professionals are knowledgeable about the entire process of getting a loan and can help you work out the best monthly mortgage payments for your needs. Though they specialize in conventional loans, they can offer other options.
Mortgage lenders or loan officers pass the application to the underwriter to assess your creditworthiness. If your loan gets approved, they prepare the documentation and closing documents.
Usually, mortgage lenders are compensated by a commission, which is prepaid and negotiable.
Mortgage Brokers
West Chester mortgage brokers work with many lending institutions to offer competitive mortgage rates. They’re like a matchmaker, finding the best product for your situation and connecting you to the lenders that provide them.
A local mortgage broker can make the home loan process much easier because they gather paperwork and give it to the lender for approval.
Save Money and Time
Your PA mortgage broker can save you time and effort during the mortgage lending process. Using a mortgage calculator, they will help you choose appropriate loan terms and scour various mortgage companies in West Chester to find your dream home at a price you can afford.
Key Similarities
Both loan officers and mortgage brokers provide excellent service and help you enjoy the home-buying experience in West Chester, PA. They search for appropriate mortgage rates, tell you your monthly payment amount, and all the rest.
Key Differences
Loan officers help you deal with the institution that lends money. However, a mortgage broker in West Chester, PA, is a third party. They don’t loan out the money; instead, they facilitate the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Mortgage Broker a Loan Officer?
No. Loan officers are employed by financial institutions to provide the products it offers. Mortgage brokers work with various institutions to find the right product for you.
Is It Safe to Use Either Option?
A broker and loan officer in West Chester, PA, are both MLOs (mortgage loan originators), so they must meet federal requirements.
Understanding What a Broker and Lender Is
If you want to move to West Chester, PA, you should decide whether to use a mortgage broker or loan officer. Both should offer competitive rates, but the fees and commissions can be different.
