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Mortgage Lenders vs Banks: What's the Difference?



Most homebuyers in the US use mortgages to buy their dream home, and others use alternative financing arrangements like rent to own, banks, etc. When people buy a home, they basically have two options from where they can get a mortgage; Virginia mortgage lenders or companies and a traditional bank. Undoubtedly, depending on the financial situation, one might be better than the other. However, selecting the appropriate option that will save you time and money on your mortgage is crucial. Though the quest of Virginia mortgage lenders vs. banks is never-ending, knowing the difference between them will surely help you make the right decision. If you're confused about which is the appropriate medium to get a home mortgage, this write-up is for you. We will walk you through everything you need to know about Virginia mortgage lenders and banks.


Without further ado, let's start from scratch.


What is a mortgage lender?


In layman's terms, a mortgage lender is a person or company with the authority to approve and fund your mortgage loan. Basically, mortgage lenders handle all the tasks associated with starting a mortgage and getting money to your closing. Further, these lenders have specific guidelines to verify your creditworthiness and check your ability to pay a loan. They set the interest rates, terms, repayment schedule, and other essential aspects of your mortgage.


Let's move a little further and talk about the advantages and disadvantages of Virginia mortgage lenders.


Advantages:

  • They have in-depth lending expertise and knowledge

  • Provide you with better loan guidance and advice

  • Come with faster loan closing

  • Can quickly negotiate terms

  • They give you various loan options


Disadvantages:

  • Doesn't have a physical location

  • The lender has the leverage to sell your loan to another service after closing


What are traditional banks?


A traditional bank sells mortgages and offers other financial products such as saving accounts, checking accounts, and credit cards. Banks are often considered big banks or traditional lenders, and they offer discounts or special offers to their existing customers. So, traditional banks might be ideal for home buyers who prefer to work with a familiar bank and don't mind slower processing times.


Let's now cover the advantages and disadvantages of traditional banks as well:


Advantages:

  • Banks can offer home mortgages at lower interest rates

  • Offer special discounts to existing customers

  • They offer proprietary and niche-specific loan programs

  • They can continue to serve you even after loan closing

Disadvantage

  • Come with strict lending standards

  • They have less mortgage lending expertize

  • Offer less variety of loan products

  • Have longer closing times

  • Sell and promote other banking products as well

  • Charge more fees due to increased compliance requirements


The major difference between Virginia mortgage lenders and banks

Mortgage Lenders

Banks

Give you plenty of loan options

Fewer loan options

Lenient credit requirements

Strict credit requirements

You can sell a mortgage loan to another lender after closing

You need to pay & work with the same bank throughout the life of loan

Fast process

Slow process

Lower rates and no fees

​Standard rates and no fees

Which option is right for you?


Some of you may find banks as the right option, and others may find Virginia mortgage lenders. It is because it is pretty easy to reach local banks to get assistance for the home loan process if you have a relationship with the bank. On the contrary, dedicated mortgage lenders are becoming a more feasible option because of their flexibility and speed in closing loans. Both Virginia mortgage lenders and banks come with their own set of terms, pros, and cons. But one thing is clear: mortgage lenders are far better than banks when it comes to buying home mortgage loans.


Note to remember: The best option that will fit your needs will depend upon your unique home-buying scenario, finances, and goal.


How does a mortgage loan work?


When you get a mortgage, your lender (bet it a bank or Virginia mortgage lenders) gives you a set of money to buy the home. Here you agreed to pay back the loan with interest over a period of several years. The lender's rights to the home will continue until you fully pay off the mortgage. The major difference between a mortgage and other loans is that if you fail to repay the loan, your lender can sell your home to recoup its losses. So, this is how a mortgage home loan works.


Final wording


We hope you have gathered all the relevant information about Virginia mortgage lenders and banks through this write-up. Now, if you want a home mortgage loan at the best interest services, SunnyLending LLC is an ideal option. known as one of the best Virginia Mortgage Lenders, we offer the ideal mortgage at competitive rates in Virginia. Basically, our primary goal is to serve the community of Virginia with honesty, integrity, and competence. So, whether you want a commercial or residential loan, we're here to offer you everything you want. Just get in touch with us.


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