Category guide
Mortgages
A mortgage finances a home purchase, renewal or refinance. A broker shops multiple lenders for you; a lender funds directly — and A, B and private tiers serve different credit profiles.
What mortgages cover
A mortgage is a loan secured by real estate, repaid over a long amortization (often 25 years) at a fixed or variable rate. The category spans purchases, renewals at the end of a term, refinances to access equity or lower the rate, home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), and reverse mortgages for older homeowners.
Brokers, and the A / B / private tiers
A mortgage broker shops multiple lenders to find your best rate, while a bank lends its own products directly. A-lenders (banks) offer the best rates to strong applicants; B-lenders serve borrowers with lower credit or self-employment income at higher rates; private lenders fund harder cases short-term at the highest cost. The right tier depends on your credit, income and down payment.
How to compare and borrow smart
Compare the rate, the term, the amortization and the total cost — and watch prepayment penalties and rate-hold conditions. Getting pre-approved tells you your budget and locks a rate while you shop. Use the directory to find mortgage brokers and lenders near you and compare by rating.