Choosing a mortgage lender is one of the most important things that you will have to do when refinancing your home. It can be a difficult task to find a lender that is right for you, so when choosing a mortgage lender you should have patience, and maintain your high standards. You should always comparison shop when it comes to such a major decision. Remember to think about more than just your finances - you are entering into a long term relationship, after all.

1. The first tip for choosing a mortgage lender is to ask your family and friends for recommendations. People you know who have recently refinanced can be especially useful as they have up to date information. You can get some valuable candid opinions from those you know personally, which can really help you out with getting the lender that you are looking for.

Just bear in mind that everyone's situation is different, so you must make your own decisions when choosing a mortgage lender, and not just take someone else's word for it.

2. Comparison shopping is one of the best things that you can do when choosing a mortgage lender. You should look for the best interest rates and terms you can find. Request quotes from each mortgage lender. Written quotes will help you determine how much money you can save with the lender and refinancing plan that you are going to get.

3. The third tip for choosing a mortgage lender is to think about more than just your finances. You should be confident that the lender who is going to work with you is especially concerned about your individual finances. A lender that doesn't return your calls when you represent potential new business obviously is not going to be a very reliable one a couple of years down the track when you are just a customer service issue.

4. Remember to consider your instincts when choosing a mortgage lender. As Suze Orman says, "When it comes to every financial decision you will make for the rest of your life, you will choose correctly if you go with the answer that reflects your instinctual response." Your subconscious is often a better guide than your logical mind.

5. Make sure you choose someone reputable. The intelligence of your contact person at the lender can be very valuable, so you should look into what your account manager knows when choosing a mortgage lender.

You must exercise caution when choosing a mortgage lender. Ask people you know for information on what lenders worked best for them and look at rates that various lenders are offering. Ask for quotes and compare the offers. Consider the general quality and knowledge level of the lender. Value your instincts when choosing a mortgage lender, and you will be on the path to financial freedom.