San Diego - Agent and Lender relationship

[Andrea M.]

Hi, We are looking to buy a home in San Diego where we currently live.  It is a seller's market (like most parts of the country) and the agents we are vetting have all emphasized how important it is that the agent and lender have a good relationship. The agents have referred us to the lenders they use, however we are still rate shopping and want to minimize closing costs in addition to getting a great rate. These agent-referred lenders are not the least expensive, in fact some of their fees are the highest we've seen.  

Thoughts on lenders who are remote/out of state with better rates vs local brokers with higher fees, and how that may effect the buying process? 

Thanks