Ensuring Confidence: How to Research Your Mortgage Loan Officer BEFORE You Apply
Navigating the path to homeownership, especially for first-time buyers in Michigan, is an exhilarating journey filled with aspirations and, admittedly, a fair share of complexities. Among the myriad of decisions to make, choosing a mortgage loan officer stands as a pivotal moment. At Iris, we understand the importance of this decision and the need for trust and confidence in the professionals guiding you through this process. Here’s how you can look up the mortgage loan officer you are working with to feel more comfortable and secure in your journey to homeownership.
1. Verify Licensing:
The first step in your research should be to check the licensing of your mortgage loan officer. In the United States, loan officers must be registered with the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System & Registry (NMLS). This registry offers a comprehensive database where you can verify the licensing status of your loan officer, ensuring they are authorized to operate in Michigan. A licensed professional is a sign of credibility and adherence to industry standards, offering you peace of mind.
You can look up our company (2084716), Zach (1418813), Chris (1526088) , and Katherine (2069153) here. We are all licensed in order to work start to finish on your file.
Through NMLSconsumeraccess.org you can look up your company or individual by name or licensing number. You can find self reported employment history and experience, state licensing, and any regulatory actions. This example includes Iris Mortgage's Chris Thomas NMLS #1526088.
2. Explore Professional Background:
Understanding the professional background of your mortgage loan officer can provide insights into their expertise and experience. Platforms like LinkedIn or the company website are excellent resources for this. A seasoned loan officer with a solid history in the mortgage industry is likely to navigate the complexities of the home buying process with greater ease and provide valuable advice tailored to your situation.
3. Read Reviews and Testimonials:
In today’s digital age, reviews and testimonials are goldmines of information. Websites such as Zillow, Yelp, and Google offer platforms where previous clients share their experiences. Positive feedback, while encouraging, should be weighed alongside any negative reviews to get a balanced view of the loan officer's client interactions and service quality. You can read our Google and Zillow reviews and interactions.
4. Request References:
Don’t hesitate to ask your loan officer for references. While direct contact information for past clients might not always be available due to privacy concerns, many loan officers can provide letters of recommendation or quotes from satisfied clients.
5. Investigate the Broker’s Reputation:
The reputation of the mortgage broker or company that the loan officer works for is equally crucial. A reputable broker not only stands as a testament to the professional environment in which the loan officer operates but also indicates the quality and reliability of the services provided. IrisMortgage.com, for example, prides itself on transparency, integrity, and a customer-first approach, ensuring that our loan officers embody these values.
6. Utilize Your Network:
Word-of-mouth remains a powerful tool. Ask friends, family, or colleagues who have recently purchased a home for any recommendations or if they have had any experiences with the loan officer you are considering.
Hint, check out social media for a mutual friend or connection to vet your loan officer.
7. Engage in Direct Dialogue:
Lastly, engage directly with your loan officer. Ask about their approach to the mortgage process, their experience with homebuyers, and how they handle challenges. This conversation can provide a wealth of information and give you a sense of their personality and professionalism.
At Iris, we believe in empowering our clients with information and resources to make informed decisions. Researching your mortgage loan officer is a crucial step in building a relationship based on trust and confidence. As you embark on this exciting journey towards homeownership in Michigan, remember that a knowledgeable, experienced, and empathetic loan officer can make all the difference.
For more information about your mortgage, contact our team:
Zachary Schrode
Iris Mortgage LLC
Mortgage Loan Originator
NMLS #1418813
Cell: 313-590-2807
Email: zach@irismortgage.com
Christopher Thomas
Iris Mortgage LLC
Mortgage Loan Originator
NMLS #1526088
Cell: 313-655-2423
Email: chris@irismortgage.com
Katherine Thomas
Iris Mortgage LLC
Mortgage Loan Originator
NMLS #2069153
Cell: 586-306-6922
Email: kat@irismortgage.com
