Local Mortgage Lender Vs Big Bank: Which One Is Right For You?

Do you want to buy a new home or refinance your current mortgage? It can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure whether to use a local mortgage lender or a big bank. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making your decision.

In this article, we will explore the differences between local mortgage lenders and big banks, so that you can make an informed choice about which option is right for you.

Local Mortgage Lenders

Definition and Characteristics

Local mortgage lenders are financial institutions (commercial banks, credit unions, or mortgage companies) located within a certain geographic area.

They specialize in providing mortgages to people living in the area and their services usually include loan origination, processing, and closing.

Characteristics of a local lender include:

• They typically have lower interest rates than large national lenders due to lower overhead costs.
• They understand the needs of their local customers better and can provide tailored solutions based on the customer’s circumstances.
• They have a more direct and personal relationship with their customers as they are familiar with the local community and real estate market conditions as well as housing prices.
• A loan officer will offer faster approvals for their loan process as their decisions are made locally.
• In some cases, they can offer more flexible repayment plans than big banks or online lenders.

Advantages of Using a Local Lender

Here are a few advantages of using a local lender:

Personalized Service

Local banks can provide a more tailored and personalized experience for their customers. They can take the time to get to know you, listen to your needs, and offer advice that is specific to your situation.

Quick Turnaround Time

With a local lender, you can expect quicker approval times as the decisions are made locally. This means that you can get the financing you need much faster.

Flexibility in Mortgage Options

Local banks are more likely to offer a variety of mortgage products, from standard fixed-rate mortgages to adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) and jumbo loans. This allows customers to find the loan that best suits their needs, even for investing in high-end homes.

Better Knowledge of the Local Real Estate Market

Since a local lender is familiar with the area’s real estate market, they can provide better advice on which type of loan is most suitable for your situation and how to negotiate with sellers or agents.

Disadvantages of Using a Local Mortgage Lender

Here are a few disadvantages of using a local lender:

Limited Resources

A local bank typically has fewer resources than a big bank. This means that they may not be able to offer competitive rates or the wide range of products and services available from larger institutions.

Less Brand Recognition

Local lenders typically don’t have the same brand recognition that big banks do, which can make it more difficult to get approved for financing.

Potentially Higher Fees

As local lenders do not have the same access to capital as large banks, their lender fees may be higher than those offered by a big bank.

Big Banks

Definition and Characteristics

Big banks (or national banks) are large financial institutions that operate nationwide or even globally. A national lender typically offers a wide range of products and services, from checking accounts to mortgages.

Characteristics of large banking institutions include:

• They have access to large amounts of capital, which can help them offer competitive rates on mortgage loans.
• They offer a wide range of mortgage products, including adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) and jumbo loans.
• They usually have standard processes for mortgage applications and closing, which makes the process faster and more efficient.

Advantages of Using a Big Bank

Here are a few advantages of using a big bank:

Wide Range of Mortgage Products

Big banks typically offer a broad range of mortgage options, so you can find one that best suits your needs. They also often provide loan specialists who can help you select the right product.

Established Reputation

Big banks typically have an established reputation for providing reliable service, so you can rest assured that your funds are secure.

Consistency in Mortgage Processes

The process of applying for a mortgage and closing on a loan is usually consistent with big banks since they use standardized processes. This helps to make the process faster and more efficient.

Potential for Lower Rates

Big banks usually have access to large amounts of capital, which allows them to offer competitive interest rates on their mortgage products.

Disadvantages of Using a Big Bank

Here are some disadvantages of using a big bank:

Less Personalized Service

Although big banks may offer a wide range of products and services, they do not always provide the same level of personalized service as a local lender.

Potentially Slower Turnaround Time

Big banks typically have standard processes for mortgage applications and closing, which can lead to longer turnaround times than those offered by smaller institutions.

Limited Flexibility in Mortgage Options

Since big banks typically use standardized processes, their flexibility in loan products may be limited compared to local lenders.

Less Knowledge of the Local Real Estate Market

Big banks generally don’t have the same knowledge of local real estate markets as local lenders do, so they may not be able to provide the same level of advice when it comes to finding the right loan product.

How to Decide Between a Local Mortgage Lender and a Big Bank, Consider Your Needs and Preferences

What Type of Mortgage Do You Need?

The type of mortgage you need should be one of the first things to consider when deciding between a local lender and a big bank. Local lenders may have access to more specialized loans, such as renovation or construction loans, whereas big banks may offer more generic products. However, you may be able to get a jumbo loan from either mortgage broker.

How Important Is Personalized Service to You?

If you value personalized service and a more customized approach to your loan application, then a local mortgage lender may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more streamlined, efficient process, then a big bank may be the better choice.

What Is Your Timeline for Securing a Mortgage?

Big banks may be able to offer a faster turnaround time on mortgage applications and closings since they use standardized processes, whereas local lenders may have more flexibility in their timelines.

Do You Prefer To Work With a Local Company or a National Brand?

This is a personal preference and may depend on your comfort level in working with a local or national company. If you prefer to work with someone familiar with the local real estate market, then a local lender may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer to work with an established company with access to competitive rates, then a big bank may be the better choice.

Conduct Research and Compare Options

Research Potential Lenders

Once you have narrowed down your options, it’s important to do some research on potential lenders.

Compare Interest Rates, Fees, and Mortgage Options

It’s also important to compare interest rates, lender fees, and mortgage options offered by multiple lenders.

Read Customer Reviews

Finally, be sure to read customer reviews of each lender you are considering to get a better understanding of their services and overall experience.

Ask for Recommendations and References

Ask Friends, Family, and Real Estate Agents for Recommendations

Your friends, family, and real estate are untapped sources of knowledge and can provide valuable insights into lenders they have worked with in the past.

Contact References Provided by Lenders

It’s also a good idea to contact references provided by lenders so you can get a better understanding of their experiences working with the company.

Make a Decision and Secure Your Mortgage

Choose the Lender That Best Fits Your Needs and Preferences

Once you have done your research, it’s time to make a decision. Choose the lender that best fits your needs and preferences based on their interest rates, fees, customer reviews, and references.

Complete the Mortgage Application Process

Once you have chosen a lender, it’s time to complete the mortgage application process. Be sure to provide all of the necessary documentation and information that the lender requires.

Conclusion

Choosing the right mortgage lender can be a daunting task. It’s important to do your research and compare lenders, interest rates, fees, and customer reviews before making any decisions.

Ultimately, you should choose the lender that best fits your needs and preferences.

If you are looking for personalized service from an experienced real estate agent in North Carolina who understands local markets and has access to competitive loan products, then Nicole Leininger is the perfect choice for you!