You can hardly listen to the radio or watch TV any more without seeing or hearing an ad for a mortgage company that will do this or that. I dare you to go to a search page on the Internet without seeing an ad for a large sum of money at a really low amount for a payment. There are mailers, ads in newspapers and magazines, billboards-they are everywhere.

So where do you start? Unless you know someone in the business that you trust I would start by doing some independent homework. Real estate agents usually have a favorite company that they like to do business with-just be careful. It's like asking a hotel front desk clerk where the best restaurant is. You'll get an answer-only colored with their opinion.

Ask friends and relatives of their experience for a start. Your bank will try to sell you their services. To my way of thinking it is best to talk to someone who is knowledgeable, someone who can explain the ins and outs of the products that might best suit your needs.

A first time buyer will need a different loan than someone buying a $500,000 home.

To find best deals available you must trust your gut feelings and do your own homework. You may find various mortgage companies advertising via mailers, ads in newspapers, magazines and billboards. Pay attention and try contacting these companies. Additionally, to help reach your conclusion there are many websites on the Internet where you can get quotes. This is one of the fastest and easiest ways to compare. There are several sites that will give you three or four quotes.

Just remember there is more to the loan than the rate and the term. There will be fees and costs that you will be expected to pay at closing. Do not forget to compare the mortgage rate and enquire about hidden costs. These closing costs are outlined in the "good faith estimate." that you should get within three days of applying for the loan. It will list costs related to inspections, taxes, title insurance and other charges. You also should receive an information booklet, "Settlement Costs-a HUD Guide."

The crux of the story is to do your homework, research well before deciding on a particular company. Though it seems easy, it isn't. If it seems too easy you probably have made a mistake. Don't Press The Easy Button