I'm looking at property and meeting bankers to work out how I'll finance my first deal.

As a banker, I used to lend in Latin American countries.

I'm a commercial mortgage banker (which also means broker) at the largest privately held mortgage banking company in the country and we have an office in Seattle.

Yes, you are correct mortgage lenders (banks, CU's & mortgage bankers) use a mortgage score model.

Publicly, I would recommend you speak with the Big Box shops as well (C21, Berkshire Hathaway, Coldwell, Remax, even Keller Williams) I have nothing bad to say about any of the big firms, in fact, if you are looking for hand holding stick with Berkshire and Coldwell.  

Someone in finance ( banker, stockbroker, accountant)willing to answer these questions1.

I ask about the market conditions and inventory numbers (Coldwell Banker seems to always have good research analysis info).

@Mitch Turgeon Since you are going to owner occupy it you have many options:* One-time close construction loan* Fannie HomeStyle* FHA 203(k)All of these can be done as purchase loan, or you can buy it with cash and then refi into these.Find a mortgage banker that ideally offers you all the options, that way you can figure out what works best for you.Good luck.

Talk to your banker.

Loans are available from banks, credit unions, mortgage bankers and mortgage brokers.