Looking for mortgage banker/broker and utility cost examples (mortgage broker, credit)

[ombrophile]

Hi all. Having recently moved back to the area, I'm interested in buying a place soon.

Does anyone have a particular mortgage lender they'd recommend? I'm hoping to deal with someone local for better service (I've bought before; I know they're likely to sell the loan).

I'd also like to know what people spend on utilities (heating/cooling/gas/water) for trinities/rowhouses around ~1000 sq. ft. that are in pretty good condition (without serious insulation or window problems) for one person. I know I can ask the seller what they've paid, but I need a ballpark to know what price range I should be looking at in the first place. $100? $500?

[1ondoner]

I've never used a mortgage broker so I don't really know what they offer. However, it's advisable to shop for a mortgage with different banks. Call a few banks and see what the costs are plus who gives you the best deal. When it comes to the approval process, I think all banks adhere to the same underwriting standards, so they will all be annoying.

Read up the reviews of smaller/regional/local bank because they can be problematic when it comes to servicing the loans. Some people swear by credit unions but I have no experience in dealing with credit unions.

[eastwestcoast]

I'd go with a mortgage broker over bank, even if local. We got a much better deal through a broker than any bank or credit union we'd talked to. Yes you will have your loan sold, but a good broker can answer questions even after the loan is sold. And anyway, do you really care that much who you are sending the checks to? I believe brokers get paid commission for the loans, so you can also sometimes negotiate having them pay part of fees, closing costs, etc. out of their pocket. Usually realtors have one or a few brokers they work with, so that can be a starting point (if you like and trust your realtor, that is).

[ombrophile]

eastwestcoast, if you worked with the broker in Philly, can you tell me who it was? I've worked with a broker before too, and it was a good experience, but they don't seem as thick on the ground here as in my previous city.

[vna1524]

Highly recommend A.S. at Univest Bank [EMAIL="simionea@univest.net"]simionea@univest.net[/EMAIL] 215-872-2570- she is local and they do service your loan throughout its loan life depending on the mortgage type. She is responsive and trustworthy - i recommend to everyone, good luck

[ombrophile]

Thanks for the tip, vna1524!