[HereInTheHeartland]

“6. Compete, compete, compete. And be sure to check out the credit unions. Pentagon Federal is advertising a 30 year fixed for 3.375% no points, no origination. “

And make sure you compare apples to apples.
That 3.375% rate is for a purchase loan, not a refi. I just checked their website out of curiosity. Purchase rates are generally 3/8’s better in rate.

Also make sure who will end up servicing your loan. That is a very big deal.

[HereInTheHeartland]

And get your loan officer what is asked for. Don't ask why; just get it!
Many times we loan officers don't always agree with what is asked for; but normally get it anyway unless we know for sure our underwriter is incorrect.

Linked is a great article explaining this. I give it out to my customers.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/moneybuilder/2012/03/09/the-perfect-loan-file-2/

[RKBA Democrat]

“Also make sure who will end up servicing your loan. That is a very big deal.”

It is. You can also get a competitive quote, then go back to the bank/credit union you want to deal with and try to negotiate a better rate.

[spokeshave]

10....Purchase a document scanner and off line data storage device.

11...Scan ALL documents and Communicate solely by e-mail...keep a date stamped version of what you sent......

send an e-mail the next day asking for confirmation that they received yesterdays document.....don't send anything else until you get the confirmation.

12....Repeat 11.