FDIC-Insured - Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government

Education Center

Finding the Right Loan Officer and Realtor

/
10.31.2023
/
Bella Varga

Buying a home is one of the most complex and expensive transactions you can make. It’s important to surround yourself with people who support your vision and plan.

What Is a Mortgage Loan Officer?

A mortgage loan officer is a financial professional who can help determine if you qualify for a home loan. They often work for mortgage companies and banks, providing guidance regarding home loans, including the types of loans available and interest rates.

What Does a Mortgage Loan Officer Do?

  • Collects borrower’s financial information, including taxes and debt, for the loan.
  • Presents clients with loan options that are the best fit for their needs.
  • Maintains detailed and factually correct mortgage transaction documents.
  • Coordinates with other real estate professionals, including underwriters, attorneys, and title agents.
  • Provides a detailed fee breakdown after your initial application, tracks deadlines, and helps close the loan.

Strategies To Find the Right Loan Officer for You

  1. Ask for referrals from friends, family, coworkers, and your real estate agent.
  2. Check with your primary banking institution.
  3. Research local lenders and mortgage companies you’d like to use. Get in touch with a loan officer that works for that company.
  4. Have questions ready for them. Look for answers beyond low rates, competitive costs, and great services—such as fewer than 30-day closings, rate locks, or special down payment assistance programs.
  5. Talk to a title company. Closers at these companies know which lenders and loan officers close their transactions on time and which are easiest to work with.

What Does a Realtor Do?

  • Helps find homes in your price range.
  • Provides a realistic perspective on each property and interprets listings.
  • Works as the point of contact throughout the negotiation.
  • Handles escrow paperwork.
  • Helps you stage, photograph, and prepare a home for sale.
  • Walks you through the closing process.

How To Find the Right Realtor for You

  • Get referrals from friends, family, coworkers, and your previous realtor if you’re relocating. Be sure to ask them, “Would you use this realtor again?”
  • Evaluate what a “good” realtor means to you. Everyone’s interpretation of “good” can be different, so it’s important to create a list of the qualities you’re looking for. Your priorities may revolve around excellent communication, their sales volume or experience, or their understanding of the market.
  • Attend open houses to see if you connect with a realtor. This provides an opportunity to ask questions, discuss a selling strategy, and find out the number of showings they have.
  • Seek common objectives between you and your realtor. Finding common goals and establishing a good rapport will simplify the home-buying or selling process for both of you. “What’s most important in this process? What do you need from me and what do I need from you?”

 

NMLS# 446047

Written by Bella Varga

Bella Varga is the Marketing Coordinator at Union Savings Bank. When she's not at work she loves playing volleyball, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family.

All home lending products are subject to credit and property approval. Rates, program terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions and limitations apply.
These articles are for educational purposes only and provide general mortgage information. Products, services, processes and lending criteria described in these articles may differe from those available through Union Savings Bank. For more information on available products and services, and to discuss your options, please contact a Union Savings Bank loan officer.