Consumers are turning to mortgage brokers to complete real estate transactions more often in today. Brokers are more flexible in their requirements of consumer especially if they may have less than perfect credit. Banks may have more products and services to offer their clients but they are far more regulated.

Loan officers at any banking institution are merely employees of that institution. While they may have some flexibility in tailoring a loan to fit a specific need, they are confined to the products that particular institution has to offer its consumers. Many consumers prefer to do all their business with a bank, for not only the convenience they offer but for the relationships that they establish. Banks can make simple transactions even simpler with automatic payment options, online banking, investment products and full service financial needs.

For consumers looking to close real estate transactions as quickly as possible, mortgage brokers can generally get the job done in a more timely fashion than banks. Loan officers at banking institutions are employees and can be limited in their flexibility. A loan at a bank generally requires a high credit rating from the consumer and in today’s economy they need a track record that is nearly spotless.

The reasons someone seeking a loan would want to work with a broker are usually because they receive lower interest rates. Because a broker is more flexible than a bank, they create a more enjoyable experience for the consumer who may have a more complicated situation. Although banks can offer consumers more than just loans brokers can find new products because they are scouring many banks and many different programs that other lenders offer.

Brokers are very competitive with each other. They build their business on relationships and try to create loyalty with their clients. The more experienced the mortgage broker, the more they can deliver to the consumer and they build a clientele who returns time and again as new financing and re-financing needs occur.

In the wake of the recent economic downturn, brokers have come under attack for less unscrupulous business practices. They now have to disclose information to the consumer in terms of hidden fees, Truth in Lending documents, Good Faith Estimates and other pertinent information that the consumer must understand before signing their loan.

Mortgage brokers have come under attack in the wake of the recent economic downturn. New legislation has helped to keep the industry free of unlawful practices. This is one reason that mortgage broker courses are so important. They protect both the consumer and the broker.

Laws have been strengthened since 2007. But it is still recommended that consumers shop for a broker like they would a home and to be careful when working with a bank or a mortgage broker when closing on a home.

A career as a Mortgage broker can be very rewarding. If you have a good head for numbers, consider enrolling in Mortgage broker courses.