Local mortgage lenders: It’s the personal touch that matters
Should you use a local, national or online mortgage lender when buying a home? Local mortgage lenders offer a personal touch, so you can sit down with them face-to-face to discuss your borrowing needs. National lenders usually offer a broad selection of loans. Online lenders allow you to manage your home loan from wherever you are.
With Guild Mortgage, you don’t have to choose. We offer the best of all three—in-person and online mortgage services with local loan officers backed by a full-service independent award-winning lender. In addition, with over 250 retail branches in 49 states, our loan officers are members of the communities they serve, which can be an advantage in choosing a local mortgage lender.
5 benefits of choosing a local mortgage lending team
While much of the mortgage process can be done remotely, over the phone or online, there are many advantages to doing business with a loan officer and local mortgage lending team who lives and works in your community.
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1. They offer a personal touch
You’re a person, not a number. Because they aren’t servicing thousands of clients at once, Guild Mortgage loan officers offer a more personalized approach. This can be helpful if you have unique needs, are self-employed or have credit considerations.
Through the pre-approval and loan process, your loan officer and local mortgage lending team will treat you as a top priority. Knowing your lending team is just around the corner can be reassuring. If you need to speak with an expert, you can contact your team directly by phone, email, text or face-to-face. Many local loan officers have extended hours on weekends and after hours.
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2. They know the regulations and programs in your area
In addition to being experts in the lending process and eligibility requirements of federal programs, local loan officers are familiar with state and county programs available in your area. For example, they know about down payment assistance programs available at the state or local government level that offer first-time homebuyers relief from the initial cost of purchasing a home.
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3. They value strong partnerships
A successful home purchase can often be traced back to the unified team who came together on your behalf to help you navigate the process. Local loan officers have relationships with real estate professionals, appraisers and title companies in your area and will work with them toward an efficient and timely closing.
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4. They’re your neighbors
Our loan officers are devoted to the communities where they live and work. They give back through direct donations to local charities and company-supported volunteer hours. Also, they have a professional reputation to uphold in your town. When they provide exceptional service, you’ll likely tell your friends and family about it.
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5. They help you find the right loan
Guild Mortgage provides a wide array of mortgage loans suited for any customer’s scenario, allowing local loan officers to customize a loan to be specific to your life. Our local loan officers will find the right loan for you whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, renovating, downsizing, or looking for a path to sustainable homeownership.
Mortgage lenders versus banks
If you’re deciding between a mortgage lender and a bank, consider that mortgage loans are just one aspect of a bank’s business. Because mortgage lenders only service mortgage loans, they may offer a streamlined process. According to the balance, this can mean it takes less time to close on a loan from a mortgage lender. Mortgage lenders may also have a broader range of loan options and offer more flexibility when working with borrowers with credit issues.
The Guild Way: Our local mortgage branches go the extra mile
With branches in neighborhoods and communities from coast to coast, we deliver on the promise of home. Our loan officers are part of your community and have been working with your neighbors since 1960. From Guild Morgage, you can expect the following:
- Exceptional service: You’ll get fast, upfront pre-approvals with a commitment to close your loan on time
- Deep expertise: Work with an experienced partner who can identify the loan to fit your life
- Local support: You’ll connect with your loan officer to secure fast, local processing, underwriting and funding
Set up an in-person or telephone appointment at your local branch, or start the pre-approval process today by filling out an online loan application.
The above information is for educational purposes only. All information, loan programs and interest rates are subject to change without notice. All loans subject to underwriter approval. Terms and conditions apply. Always consult an accountant or tax advisor for full eligibility requirements on tax deduction.