You hear it over and over — Get the best deal by shopping for your loan! Compare and save! Find your best rate! And it’s true, you can increase your chance of a good lending experience by checking with more than one source before committing to a deal. However, even when shopping online for a mortgage, ignoring the human element could cost you money. Loans are not identical commodities, and loan professionals vary widely in their commitment and expertise. For example, Robert Kiyosaki, the author of the Rich Dad, Poor Dad financial publications, recommends that you assemble a team you trust for your real estate transactions and treat your team with respect. The cheapest loan or property could cost you in the long run if it’s not the right loan or the best investment, and an adversarial relationship with a loan officer raises everyone’s stress level.

So how do you establish a great relationship with a lender?

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