What are some ways to find Commercial lenders in my area?

[Jim Growfer]

I'm looking to purchase a multi family building 16+ units.  I sent over 100+ emails on Loopnet to brokers asking if they work closely with any lenders and only 5 responded .

Where else should i look for them?

Should i go through big bank? small bank? 

[Todd Dexheimer]

Call banks and ask for a commercial real estate lender. Then talk with then about your business plan (unit count you want, property type, leverage desired, etc). Tell them about your experience in Real estate and also about your current job. If they are open to lending to you based on the phone call, then ask about their rates and terms. Last thing would be to give them your Personal Financial statement, 3 year tax returns, current proof of income and schedule of RE. 

Beyond your local banks, I would talk with a few mortgage brokers as well.

Now on to your LoopNet strategy. Stop being so impersonal. Call the brokers and build a relationship. Let then know exactly what you're looking for, get the know them a bit and then ask for referrals. Good referrals are only give to people you trust. I would not refer my valuable resources to some guy that emailed me off of LoopNet and I wouldn't expect a broker to.