6 Common Mistakes When Choosing a Mortgage Company

manhattan mortgage company

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments most people will ever make. That’s why choosing the right mortgage company is absolutely critical. Unfortunately, many homebuyers rush into partnerships without fully understanding what they’re getting into. At Premier Credit Plus, we’ve seen firsthand how certain mistakes can lead to higher interest rates, hidden fees, and even denied applications.

To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’re breaking down the six most common mistakes people make when choosing a mortgage company in manhattan — and how you can sidestep them to make your home buying journey smooth and successful.

1. Focusing Only on Interest Rates

Let’s be honest — we all want the lowest rate possible. But making your decision solely based on interest rates is a major mistake. Some lenders may advertise incredibly low rates to get your attention, only for you to find out later that those rates come with hidden conditions, excessive fees, or are only available to borrowers with near-perfect credit.

What You Should Do:

  • Ask about the Annual Percentage Rate (APR), which includes both the interest rate and other loan-related costs.
  • Request a Loan Estimate from multiple lenders so you can compare all the terms side-by-side.
  • Evaluate things like closing costs, points, lender fees, and prepayment penalties, not just the rate.

At Premier Credit Plus, we believe transparency is everything. That’s why we walk you through your full loan profile, so there are no surprises.

2. Not Checking the Company’s Reputation

Would you let someone perform surgery on you without reading their reviews? Of course not — and the same logic applies when choosing a mortgage lender. You’re trusting this company with one of the largest investments of your life.

What You Should Do:

  • Read online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
  • Check how the lender handles complaints and if they’ve had any regulatory issues.
  • Ask friends, family, or your real estate agent for recommendations.

Premier Credit Plus is proud to maintain a stellar reputation in the industry. We’re known for our integrity, professionalism, and commitment to client satisfaction.

3. Failing to Understand Loan Options

Many borrowers walk into a lender’s office without understanding the types of loans available. The truth is, mortgages aren’t one-size-fits-all. A reputable company will take the time to educate you on your options and match you with the right fit — not just push what’s convenient for them.

What You Should Do:

  • Learn the differences between Fixed-rate, Adjustable-rate (ARM), FHA, VA, USDA, and Jumbo loans.
  • Ask how long you plan to stay in the home and what your long-term financial goals are.
  • Be wary of companies that offer limited options or push one product too aggressively.

At Premier Credit Plus, we tailor our mortgage solutions to meet your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.

4. Not Getting Pre-Approved First

Imagine falling in love with your dream home, only to find out you can’t get the financing you need. It happens more often than you’d think — and it’s usually because people skip the critical pre-approval step or use a lender who doesn’t prioritize it.

What You Should Do:

  • Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified. There’s a big difference!
  • A pre-approval includes a full review of your credit, income, assets, and debt.
  • Having a pre-approval in hand makes you a stronger buyer in the eyes of sellers.

Premier Credit Plus makes the pre-approval process fast, simple, and accurate, giving you the confidence to make offers that count.

5. Ignoring Customer Service and Communication

Buying a home is stressful enough — the last thing you need is a lender who ghosts you, doesn’t explain the process, or misses deadlines. Poor communication can cause delays, missed opportunities, and a whole lot of unnecessary stress.

What You Should Do:

  • Pay attention to how responsive and helpful the lender is from the very beginning.
  • Ask how they will keep you updated — email, phone, text, or a client portal?
  • Choose a company that offers personalized service, not one that treats you like a number.

At Premier Credit Plus, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier customer service. Our dedicated loan specialists are with you every step of the way — from application to closing.

6. Not Asking About Fees and Fine Print

Many homebuyers make the mistake of signing loan documents without fully understanding the fees involved. Even if the interest rate is good, sneaky fees can drive up the total cost of your loan significantly.

What You Should Do:

  • Review the Loan Estimate (LE) and the Closing Disclosure carefully.
  • Look out for terms like origination fees, processing fees, underwriting fees, discount points, and prepayment penalties.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or to negotiate certain fees.

With Premier Credit Plus, you’ll never be left in the dark. We break down every charge and explain what it means — because you deserve to know where every dollar is going.

Bonus Tip: Choosing a Lender Who Doesn’t Educate You

At Premier Credit Plus, we strongly believe that an educated client is a confident client. If your mortgage company isn’t taking the time to answer your questions, explain the process, or provide tools to help you make smart decisions — that’s a red flag.

Mortgage lending is more than just numbers — it’s about helping people achieve the dream of homeownership in a way that’s sustainable, affordable, and aligned with their financial goals.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a mortgage company in manhattan isn’t just a financial decision — it’s a life decision. The wrong lender can cost you thousands and turn an exciting experience into a nightmare. But with the right partner by your side, buying a home can be smooth, empowering, and even enjoyable.

At Premier Credit Plus, we’ve built our brand on trust, education, and results. We’re here to guide you with expert advice, personalized loan solutions, and unbeatable customer service.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, we invite you to discover the Premier Credit Plus difference.