Mortgage Brokers: Should We Use One? (loan, credit, fees, loan)

[pll]

I know this question has been answered before but I need more recent information. Personally, I don't want to use one because I'm concerned about hidden fees we may be charged that we aren't aware of and I don't think it is necessary. Our last loan was with our credit union and we did okay.

In the past we have purchases 3 homes out of state and have never used one. We are buying a home in a very competitive area (So CA). We are aware that this area has suffered from some bad loan advice in the past don't want to make the same mistake.

Do people use them more today in this market?

What are the pros and cons?

[SmartMoney]

I recommend you check with your Realtor to get the pulse on the market and what sellers will accept. For example, in the DC area where multiple offers are the norm, the contracts that are being selected aren't necessarily the highest offer, but the lender local to the area.