Robin L  Conner
Robin L Conner, Keller Williams Preferred RltyPhone: (773) 220-3255
Email: [email protected]

Mortgage broker vs mortgage banker: What's the difference?

by Robin L Conner 11/27/2023

When seeking financing to buy a home, many homeowners work with either a mortgage broker or a mortgage banker. While the terms are often used interchangeably, brokers and bankers play different roles in the mortgage industry. 

Here is a quick guide to mortgage bankers to help you learn more:


Mortgage banker vs mortgage broker

While they have similar names, mortgage brokers and mortgage bankers have very different jobs. A mortgage broker will assist you in finding a good deal on mortgage loans from multiple lenders. A mortgage banker actually originates and funds the loan.

Unlike banks, mortgage brokers are not financing loans themselves — they simply help you choose a loan that best suits you. A lender uses their cash to provide borrowed money, while the broker provides only assistance from the lender to the borrower.


Understanding mortgage bankers: What do they do?

Mortgage bankers usually work for banks in a specific lending department. Their work involves evaluating mortgage applications to determine if a potential borrower meets the financial institution requirements. Some mortgage bankers specialize in a specific type of mortgage, which can be helpful for borrowers with unique circumstances.


Other services & responsibilities

Mortgage bankers may also service or sell loans. As a loan servicer, they handle the payment processing aspect of the loan. This can include managing escrow accounts and providing payoff letters.

Some mortgage bankers sell loans to third-party servicers. This gives them a better opportunity to provide loans to additional borrowers, since it frees up their cash on hand.

How do you choose between a mortgage banker and a mortgage broker? There are advantages and disadvantages to both options, and much of the choice comes down to personal preference. 


However, understanding the way a mortgage banker works in comparison with how a mortgage broker works will help loan applicants make the best decision for their financial future. 


About the Author
Author

Robin L Conner

Robin has been a licensed Illinois Real Estate Broker since 2002 and has a genuine passion for real estate. She Joined the Keller Williams family in 2010, where she has been an active member of the Agent Leadership Council. She was one of the founding members of a Chicago area Keller Williams brokerage. Since opening, Robin has again been a valued member of the Leadership Team as well as assisting other agents reach their goals through training, coaching, and mentorship.