What's the best way to look for a mortgage lender today?

[Jeff L.]

I'm a brand new investor. Have never bought a house and am completely new to everything including financing.

1) What's the best way to look for a mortgage? I've heard banks, credit unions, mortgage brokers, mortgage banks? Are brokers more expensive?

2) Has anyone used Zillow's mortgage preapproval thing? What was your experience like?

3) Do pre-approvals expire if you take too long to find a property? What's the time limit? I'm scared of not being able to find a property fast enough after getting a pre-approval.