The sheer number of options you have when shopping around for a mortgage can be overwhelming. There are mortgage banks, mortgage brokers, online mortgage sources, and many insurance companies and investment brokers are now offering mortgages. The number of options might be daunting at first. However, if you do some research, getting a mortgage through your local Credit Union could be the best option for you!

Better Rates

There is a good chance you will see a reduction in closing costs and fees with the origin of your mortgage. Banks, brokers, and online mortgage lenders commonly sell mortgages to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which means they have less control over loan rates. These rates are predetermined by pricing established by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Credit Unions normally have lower rates because they hold your loan "in-house," giving you a lower rate than what is offered by the larger national mortgage agencies. In addition, Credit Unions typically offer lower rates on all types of loans to their members. This is because Credit Unions are for people, not profit. So as a member of a Credit Union, you are also a principal shareholder.

Exceptional Service

A significant advantage of getting a mortgage from a Credit Union is that you can go in-person to a branch if there are any problems throughout the application process. If you have looked into getting a mortgage, you undoubtedly know that the mortgage process is incredibly complex. Though some lenders might elect to resolve these issues by phone or email, the best solution is usually face-to-face with your lender. The purpose of a Credit Union is to serve their community and provide members with excellent customer service. Online lenders lack any physical location to go to if the need arises. A face-to-face meeting is often the best solution if there is a question or complicated process to review when securing a mortgage.

For All Your Financial Needs

Most of us have a different vendor for each one of our needs. Consolidating your finances by having many of your financial products from a single provider will significantly streamline the management of your money. A Credit Union can do that in a way that no other mortgage provider can. For example, you can maintain your checking and savings accounts with the same Credit Union that holds your mortgage. You can invest long-term in certificates or IRAs. And if you need a credit card or car loan, a Credit Union also has you covered. Consolidating your finances into a Credit Union such as ALLIANCE makes even more sense when you get better rates and better service.

When looking for a mortgage, don't go with the first rate you see from third-party sources. Check with your local Credit Union and see how their rates stack up in comparison. Getting your mortgage from the same place you bank at carries many benefits. If you are shopping around for a mortgage, consider stopping by our ALLIANCE Home Loan Center at 8401 Quaker Avenue or visit us online to learn more!