what do you consider to be good rate from a lender?

[Matt Greer]

I'm new to REI and one of the things that bothers me is not knowing if I'm getting a good deal from a lender. Starting out I kind of feel like beggars can't be choosers, but at the same time I'm not here to get taken advantage of. I'm active duty military in Fayetteville, NC and there are plenty of scammers here looking for guys like me. My question is what do you like to pay for money you have borrowed, and what do you consider to be too much? Also what factors do you believe help you to lower what you pay to a lender? Does anyone recommend a lender? Do you prefer to stick with lenders in your area or do you reach out across state lines to people you've never sat down face to face with?