Originally Posted by 6779br
Has anyone really used any of the real estate and mortgage cos. like Lending Tree and Cendant to buy or sell a house? I understand that one should not be a slave to earning miles but it's hard not to believe that you couldn't get a better deal for financing a house purchase through a banker who is NOT affiliated with Lending Tree/Cendant et al. There's always a hidden cost built-in, right? Am I too cynical about this? I really want to earn more miles this way but am very suspicious...
One of the worst mistake one can do is to give personal info to Lending Tree!! Heard that they make more money in "selling" your info than in commissions in arranging loans!!
In general, in this internet-age, choose a mortgage broker who is internet/electronics savy (to keep his own cost down) but who is LOCAL to you. (Never get a mortgage on-line unless from a reputable company that you know) Mortgage broker who does not advertise and who does not participate in miles or any other gimmick will without a dobt will get you the best deal. SInce volume does not get you much in this industry, person with minimal cost can afford to give you best deal.