Shop for the quality Chinese and avoid the cheap ones.

I periodically shop around and found that Spirit Bank, TTCU, and Arvest typically have the lower origination fees and are more willing to build a relationship than that mortgage companies.  

We have talked to one lender in CA that will work with us but need direction on how best to shop and compare rates for a small loan before we lock.  

But if I haven't shopped the deal yet and don't have a buyer isn't it too soon to open escrow?

Now, years ago, the brokers uncle owned the place, he would have said "$350/month more is too much, I'll shop around".

If you borrowed from your plan in this fashion, you could use that to finance a personal deal. 

His car was in the shop again. 😂 His mechanic loves RE.

I have shopped around and find that they all come pretty close to one another, even the companies that advertise much lower rates initially.

Second, I'd recommend while in your "first phase", you can take your time and shop around for a solid deal.

Nobody is selling anything, just talking shop and sharing experiences.