About Sarah Chen
Independent mortgage broker · NMLS #123456 · Serving Anytown for 12 years
Why I Became an Independent Broker
I started my career at a major national bank. The rates were fine. The service was fine. But I kept running into the same problem: I could only offer my clients one lender's products. If another lender had a better rate or a program that fit my client's situation better, I couldn't offer it.
That felt wrong. So in 2014, I went independent. Now I shop 30+ lenders on every loan, including wholesale lenders, credit unions, portfolio lenders, and government programs. My clients get the best rate available to them, not the best rate my employer happens to offer.
I've closed over 800 loans in 12 years. First-time buyers, VA loans, jumbo purchases, investment properties, and refinances. Every transaction is different, and I treat it that way.
Independent Broker vs. Bank vs. Online Lender
Independent Broker (Sarah)
- Shops 30+ lenders for best rate
- Access to wholesale rates not available to consumers
- Personalized service from application to close
- Can match specialized programs to your situation
Bank / Credit Union
- Limited to their own products and rates
- May offer relationship discounts
- Large institution where you're one of thousands
- Rate shopping requires multiple applications
Online Lender
- Convenient digital application
- Limited program flexibility
- Minimal human guidance
- Customer service can be impersonal at critical moments
Ready to Find Your Best Rate?
Start with a free pre-approval. Sarah will shop the market and deliver personalized options within 24 hours.
Get Pre-Approved