Essential Questions to Ask Every Potential Lender

Treat the lender interview like a job interview. Here are the five questions you must ask:

  1. What is the interest rate vs. the APR? (APR includes fees, making it a more accurate comparison).

  2. What are the “origination fees” and are they negotiable?

  3. How long does your average closing take?

  4. Are there any prepayment penalties? (Avoid these).

  5. Will you be servicing my loan, or will it be sold?