When the time comes to find yourself the right home loan, there's an incredible range of choices. Not only are there dozens of different loan types, there are then hundreds of lenders offering each type. It can be overwhelming! That's where a good mortgage broker can be invaluable. The broker can take you through the options one step at a time, and can lead you through the woods with minimum fuss to your destination, instead of banging into lots of tress on the way.

Mortgage Brokers are no different to any other type of professional - there are good ones and bad ones. It's really important to take the time to find yourself a good mortgage broker; otherwise it can cost you thousands if you're locked into the wrong home mortgage. The lending market is incredibly complex nowadays, and you need someone who can work through that with confidence, to give you the best result.

It's not enough to check out a few ads from lenders and see what they've got. A good broker will have access to more detailed information, such as penalty fees and early repayment conditions.

The lending market is sophisticated and constantly changing. Lenders keep on bringing out new packages and programs, and often offer multiple possibilities within each style of loan. Your mortgage broker will have access to the latest information and options, and save you the hassle of trying to work it all out for yourself.

A good mortgage broker can also save you a lot of expenses, by making you aware of fees and charges that are not always obvious upfront when choosing a loan. The broker can also constantly monitor the marketplace, and may in the future be able to offer you refinancing options to improve the interest rate you're paying or reduce your payments.

But a good mortgage broker offers more than just a loan finding service. They can often negotiate a better deal for their clients, because they and their company have the advantage of pooling all their loans and getting discount for bulk business with a lender. They can also negotiate special provisions, or quickly secure stopgap finance if there are any hold-ups with the main loan. Keeping the loan application process on track and on time is another valuable service provided by a good mortgage broker, and will save you lots of headaches by making sure the loan is ready in time to close on your home purchase.

Getting referrals from friends and family is often one of the best ways to find a good mortgage broker, but here are some things you can check if you need to find one without feedback from others:

- Is the broker licensed?

- Is the broker associated with a reputable company? Check the details at the Better Business Bureau or the Chamber of Commerce.

- Does the broker listen to what you say and ask lots of relevant questions, so that he can determine the best loan for your circumstances?

- The broker should have ready access to special deals and offers.

- The broker should be able to answer all your questions about mortgages with confidence.

- Can you see a breakdown of how the broker will be paid - is it commission or fee based.

- It's always helpful if the broker is reasonably close by, in case of problems.

- Can you have details of references - preferably past clients that you can speak to in person?

If you take the time to choose a good mortgage broker, by asking questions and doing your research, then you can feel comfortable that you're in safe hands.

Read more helpful articles about choosing the best home loan at Home Loan Zone Central