Mortgage Inquiry Shops

For those of you who have done this shop, is it true that you don't have to provide any personal info? I find that strange. When we thought about applying for one for our home, we had to provide a bunch of info. I can't imagine sitting down with a mortgage banker and just "inquire" without giving any details... Anyone care to share your experience?

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/18/2016 02:19PM by LindaM.

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Just say that you will wait until you have decided which lender has the best product for you before sharing SSN, credit report, pay stubs, etc. If the broker refuses to discuss options with you on that basis, the client needs to know that they are acting like that!

Based in MD, near DC
Shopping from the Carolinas to New York
Have video cam; will travel

Poor customer service? Don't get mad; get video.
I have never given an address beyond general area ("I'm over in Sweetwater," "I'm in the Ridge neighborhood."winking smiley) and if the instructions don't tell me what to indicate, I generally mention a loan amount that is about 75% of the current property value if it is a refi and either 78% or 82% if it is a new purchase. If it is a refi I usually mention that current rate is a couple of points above current rates being offered. There is a little homework you need to do if you are comfortably and confidently make these shops work. If I have not been instructed otherwise, I just indicate that my credit rating is Excellent and that if I decide to go with them, I of course would let them verify that.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/18/2016 04:26PM by Flash.
Has anyone ever seen shops which require real information (and pay accordingly)? I am actually interested in refinancing and I wouldn't mind being paid to shop around.
You really do not want a bunch of hard "hits" on your credit report if you are actually planning to refinance any time soon!

Based in MD, near DC
Shopping from the Carolinas to New York
Have video cam; will travel

Poor customer service? Don't get mad; get video.
Linda, the guidelines say that you are just doing an inquiry. When I followed the guidelines, it was impossible to meet with an MLO in person. They wanted to provide the inquiry information over the phone, and have me email my documents. After they received my documents, then we would meet.

Needless to say, there was no meeting. I do not use my SS# for shops.

"I told myself to quit you; but I don't listen to drunks." -Chris Stapleton
Even if a loan officer or call center associate asks for an address, you can easily find one by using websites such as Zillow.com, Realtor.com, or Trulia.com for current homes that are for sale.
I have never given out personal info., saying I'm shopping for the lowest interest, and will make a decision after speaking to my husband. They don't ask, just about income, investments, etc. I recently did one, and there are ways to get around it.

Live consciously....
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