{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"#AskElla SHOW","title":"What to Ask a Mortgage Lender in 2026 Before You Sign Anything","html":"<iframe width=\"100%\" height=\"180\" frameborder=\"no\" scrolling=\"no\" seamless src=\"https://share.transistor.fm/e/baf7a6bb\"></iframe>","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":301,"description":"The lowest mortgage rate isn't always the best mortgage deal.\nHidden fees, discount points, unrealistic closing promises, and last-minute surprises can cost homebuyers thousands of dollars. The problem is that many buyers don't know which questions to ask until it's too late.\nIn this episode of Ask Ella Show, I share the questions I believe every homebuyer should ask a mortgage lender before choosing who to work with, plus the red-flag answers that should make you think twice.\nAfter more than 30 years in the mortgage industry and helping over 2,000 families become homeowners, I've learned that choosing the right lender isn't just about comparing interest rates. You need to understand the entire loan, the costs behind it, and who you're trusting to get you to closing.\nWhether you're a first-time homebuyer or purchasing your next property, these questions can help you avoid expensive mistakes and make a more informed financial decision.\nThis isn't about finding the lowest advertised rate.\nIt's about understanding exactly what you're agreeing to before you sign.\n💡 In This Episode, I Cover:\nThe first question every buyer should ask a mortgage lender\nWhy you should request a detailed breakdown of lender fees\nHow to identify discount points hidden behind a low interest rate\nWhy the lowest mortgage rate may not be the cheapest option\nWhat can delay your mortgage closing at the last minute\nWhy your credit may be checked again before closing\nWhat happens when an appraisal comes in below the purchase price\nThe difference between a mortgage broker, direct lender, and bank\nThe biggest lender red flags buyers should watch for\nWhy unrealistic promises should make you cautious\nHow to compare mortgage offers beyond the interest rate\nWhat a trustworthy lender should be willing to explain\nThe right mortgage lender won't be uncomfortable when you ask questions.\nThey'll want you to understand the numbers before you make one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.\n🎯 Want a...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/1JQmKKn11mPyRjv3aWoNIn5MGi7k846a3USRG5h__XY/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9lNDdm/ZmY4NjcyYjU2OTdj/MmFjNGEyMjE1NDJm/MTIxMi5qcGc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}