{"id":96100,"date":"2025-11-10T09:41:53","date_gmt":"2025-11-10T17:41:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=96100"},"modified":"2025-11-10T09:42:08","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T17:42:08","slug":"how-to-choose-a-mortgage-lender","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-a-mortgage-lender\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Choose the Right Mortgage Lender for You"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you\u2019re buying a home, one of the most important choices you\u2019ll make is selecting the right mortgage lender. The lender you choose will influence your loan options, interest rate, and overall experience \u2014 potentially saving you thousands over time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this Redfin article, we\u2019ll walk through how to compare lenders, what to look for, and how to make the smartest choice for your budget. Whether you\u2019re <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/5155\/CO\/Denver\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">buying a home in Denver, CO<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/18142\/FL\/Tampa\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tampa, FL<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, knowing how to choose a mortgage lender can make your homebuying journey smoother and more affordable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-92050\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/item_80.jpg\" alt=\"16311 Black Rock Rd, Darnestown, MD redfin listing\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/item_80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/item_80-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/item_80-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/item_80-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/item_80-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/item_80-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/item_80-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What does a mortgage lender do?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A mortgage lender provides the funds you use to purchase or refinance a home. Common types of lenders include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Banks and credit unions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Offer competitive rates and may have in-house programs for existing customers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mortgage brokers:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Work with multiple lenders to help you find the best loan option based on your financial profile.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Online lenders:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Provide a fast, fully digital application process with instant rate comparisons.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Direct lenders:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Originate and service loans under one roof, streamlining approval and processing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each option has pros and cons. For example, banks may offer relationship discounts, while brokers provide flexibility by shopping rates across multiple lenders.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>&gt;&gt;Read: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/mortgage-broker-vs-direct-lender\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><b>Mortgage Broker vs. Direct Lender<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Steps to choose the right mortgage lender<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Check your credit and financial profile<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before comparing lenders, review your credit score, debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, and savings. These factors influence the rates and loan types you qualify for.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aim for a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/what-credit-score-is-needed-to-buy-a-house\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">credit score<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of at least 620 for conventional loans.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lower scores may still qualify under FHA, VA, or USDA programs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A strong financial profile can help you negotiate better rates and terms.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/mortgage-calculator\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mortgage calculator<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to estimate monthly payments based on your credit and down payment.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Understand your loan options<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Different <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/types-of-mortgage-loans\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">loan types<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> suit different buyers.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Conventional loans:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Great for borrowers with strong credit and larger down payments.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>FHA loans:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Ideal for those with lower credit scores.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>VA loans:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Offer zero-down options for eligible service members and veterans.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>USDA loans:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Help buyers in rural and suburban areas access <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/usda-eligible-homes-for-sale\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">affordable financing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing which loan fits your goals helps you narrow down lenders who specialize in that type.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Compare mortgage rates and fees<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rates can vary between lenders, so it\u2019s worth comparing multiple offers. Ask each lender for a Loan Estimate (LE)\u2014a standardized document showing the interest rate, annual percentage rate (APR), monthly payment, and estimated <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-are-closing-costs\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">closing costs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Key costs to compare:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Interest rate:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The base cost of borrowing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>APR:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Reflects interest plus fees for a more accurate comparison.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Discount points:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Optional fees that lower your rate.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Origination or underwriting fees:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Administrative costs that can vary widely.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Tip:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Even a 0.25% difference in your rate can add up to thousands in savings over time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Evaluate customer service and lender reputation<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your mortgage experience doesn\u2019t end after <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/mortgage-pre-approval\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">preapproval<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Choose a lender known for transparent communication and smooth closings.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Read online reviews<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or check ratings on the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bbb.org\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Better Business Bureau<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Verify the lender\u2019s license<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> through the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NMLS Consumer Access database<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to confirm they\u2019re legitimate and properly registered.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ask your real estate agent<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which lenders are reliable in your local market.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Check responsiveness:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Quick, clear communication is critical during <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/mortgage-underwriting-process\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">underwriting<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Get preapproved early<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-long-does-mortgage-pre-approval-take\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mortgage preapproval<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> shows sellers that you\u2019re a serious buyer and helps you understand what you can afford. During preapproval, the lender verifies your income, assets, and credit.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once approved, you\u2019ll receive a preapproval letter with your estimated loan amount\u2014often valid for 60\u201390 days, depending on the lender.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Compare more than just the rate<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beyond interest rates, consider the full borrower experience:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Turnaround times:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> How quickly can they close?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Down payment assistance programs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do they offer access to local, state, or national assistance programs?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Servicing:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Will the lender keep your loan or sell it to another company?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Digital experience:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Online portals can simplify document uploads and updates.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>&gt;&gt;Read: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/first-time-home-buyer-programs\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><b>First-time Homebuyer Programs by Location<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. Ask the right questions<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before committing, ask each lender:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What types of mortgages do you offer, and which do you recommend for my situation?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What interest rates are you offering, and how can I qualify for a lower one?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What fees are associated with the loan, and can you provide a full breakdown of closing costs?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are your down payment requirements?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What would my estimated <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/mortgage-calculator\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">monthly payment<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> be, including taxes and insurance?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What documentation do you require for the loan application?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long does the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-long-does-mortgage-pre-approval-take\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">approval process<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> typically take?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you offer <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/can-you-pay-off-your-mortgage-early\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">interest rate locks<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and if so, what are the terms and conditions?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What\u2019s the estimated time to close?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are there <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/can-you-pay-off-your-mortgage-early\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prepayment penalties<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do you communicate with clients throughout the process, and who will be my main point of contact?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What\u2019s your communication process during underwriting?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A transparent lender should clearly explain every step\u2014and put all promises in writing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common mistakes to avoid<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Only comparing one lender:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> You might miss out on better rates or incentives.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Focusing only on the rate:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Closing costs, origination fees, and service quality matter too.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ignoring preapproval timing: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Waiting too long can delay your offer process.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Overextending your budget:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Choose a loan that aligns with long-term affordability, not just what you qualify for.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently asked questions about choosing a mortgage lender<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. How many mortgage lenders should I get quotes from?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s recommended to get quotes from at least three to five mortgage lenders. Comparing multiple Loan Estimates allows you to see differences in interest rates, fees, and closing costs. Even a small rate difference can save you thousands over the life of your loan.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. When should I start looking for a mortgage lender?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start researching lenders before you begin house hunting. Getting preapproved early helps you understand your budget, strengthens your offer when bidding on a home, and gives you time to compare lenders without feeling rushed.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Is it better to go through a bank or a mortgage broker?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That depends on your needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Banks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may offer relationship discounts and in-house servicing but have stricter requirements.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mortgage brokers<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can shop across multiple lenders to find you the best rate or loan type, especially if you have unique financial circumstances.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both can be great options\u2014focus on transparency, service, and competitive rates.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. What\u2019s the difference between prequalification and preapproval?<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><b>prequalification<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a quick estimate of what you might be able to borrow based on self-reported information.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><b>preapproval<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is more official\u2014the lender verifies your credit, income, and assets. Sellers tend to take preapproved buyers more seriously since it shows financial readiness.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>&gt;&gt;Read: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/prequalified-vs-preapproved\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><b>Pre-Qualified vs. Pre-Approved<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Does applying with multiple lenders hurt my credit score?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not significantly, as long as you apply within a short time frame. Credit bureaus treat multiple mortgage inquiries made within 14\u201345 days as a single hard inquiry. This lets you shop around without hurting your score.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. What\u2019s the most important factor when choosing a lender?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While the interest rate matters, look beyond it. Consider APR, customer service, closing speed, communication quality, and trustworthiness. A slightly higher rate with a transparent, responsive lender can be worth it for a smoother experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. Can I change lenders after getting preapproved?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, you can. Preapproval doesn\u2019t lock you in\u2014it simply shows your borrowing potential. If another lender offers better terms before you close, you can switch. Just make sure you allow enough time for underwriting and avoid restarting the process too late in your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-buying-process-timeline\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">homebuying timeline<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8. How do I know if a lender is reputable?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look for licensed lenders listed on the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NMLS Consumer Access database<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, read reviews from past clients, and ask your real estate agent for trusted recommendations. Avoid lenders that pressure you to decide quickly or don\u2019t provide clear written estimates.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Find the best mortgage lender for your needs. Compare rates, fees, and loan types to make your homebuying journey easier and more affordable.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":562,"featured_media":92050,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"default","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[34277],"tags":[34642],"coauthors":[34346],"class_list":["post-96100","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-finance","tag-mortgage"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Choose a Mortgage Lender - Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Find the best mortgage lender for your needs. 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