Newbie financing question

[Kimberly Dalrymple]

To get a pre-approval mortgage letter, would it be better to go to a bank or a mortgage broker? Would really appreciate any advice on this.

[Alex Shaughnessy]

its always good to shop around. usually, you want to go w/ a bank/credit union, a mortgage broker and a direct lender. each will have different ways of dealing w/ this process. for example, I am currently using a direct lender and, because its a small shop, they are really personable. I can call and ask for a pre approval letter to help get offers submitted at any time of day for any amount (w/in reason and I would obviously qualify for). a mortgage broker is great if you don't know a lot of the lingo or are just starting out but they usually will cost a bit more. big banks are big banks. just a machine but if you are dealing w/ the right person im sure you will be fine. good luck