A Mortgage Broker doesn’t actually loan money. Rather, he assists clients in finding the right mortgage loans. It is a broker’s responsibility to discover the needs of the client, then shop around for the best loan deal lenders are offering on that type of loan. Brokers typically work with many different lenders so they have the greatest opportunity to match the right lender with the right client. Because brokers can choose from so many different lenders, they are more likely to be able to find loans for special needs borrowers.

Mortgage brokers take application information from borrowers, gather all the necessary documents, including credit reports, employment verification, and appraisal of the property, shop for the best loan for that client, then lock in rates and terms of the loan with the lender. Brokers are also responsible for providing required disclosures to the borrower. Once all of the documents are in the loan file, the broker submits the file to the bank who then handles the loan authorization and disbursement of funds.

Mortgage agents are people who don’t have a broker’s license, but work with mortgage brokers in real estate transactions. A mortgage agent will also assist his client in preparing for his loan and finding the right lender. This can be very helpful to people attempting to buy a new home and who feel like they are out of their element. Mortgage professionals are the go-between for all the lenders, and handle most of the paperwork, taking much of the anxiety out of the process for home buyers.

While there is no formal educational requirement to be a mortgage agent, most have previous work experience with a large institution, and at least have a bachelor’s degree in business or finance. Most agents receive on the job instruction while training to be a mortgage broker.

To become a broker you must complete a mortgage broker course. These courses can be taken either at a school or online. Then the best way to get started is to go down to a large firm and apply for a job. Many of these firms proffer on-the-job training, and some sponsor their novices in taking the licensing exam.

Mortgage brokers typically earn a commission based on the value of the loans they broker. Because this is a commission-based salary, you will need to put forth the effort to build your client list as well as your lender list. Good brokers typically earn a 6-digit salary.

When seeking that first job, make sure to ask the right questions. You should know when you can expect to start seeing some commissions, how much the company will take from your commission, whether or not the company reimburse you for required continuing education, and how you will receive referrals. Also, check to be sure the brokerage company itself is licensed, as well as the people with whom you will be working.

Because your income is commission based and therefore directly reflects the amount of energy you put into the job, don’t expect to become wealthy overnight. With time, however, and determination to build your client base you should be able to support yourself within the first year.

Author Bio: A career as mortgage brokers can be very rewarding. If you have a good head for numbers, consider enrolling in a mortgage broker course.

Category: Career
Keywords: mortgage broker, mortgage, broker, business, career, business, jobs, society, culture, broker course