In the ever changing and increasingly scrutinized mortgage industry, Zillow is answering the call of concerned consumers who are weary of hidden costs and mortgage company representatives of questionable integrity. With a new and innovative format, Zillow offers an online alternative to the consumer seeking a mortgage that not only offers the most up to date rate quotes available, but allows the consumer to compare prospective lenders from a broader perspective.

Zillow has parted with conventional industry marketing and enhanced consumer search capabilities by designing a new format that presents the proposed mortgage in an easy to read and compare column format. Not only will consumers have the ability to shop rates and fees, including applicable discount points and closing costs, but they will be able to review the past performance and customer service provided by the lender through their Loan Officer, in a column rating them from 1 to 5.  In such a highly competitive market, it is no secret that service and integrity can make all the difference between a good decision and a bad one.

As with all mortgage quotes, it is important to understand that many things must be considered besides the lowest rate and monthly payment. The current mortgage crisis, Adjustable Rate Mortgages, (or ARMs), and A sub-prime or A non-conforming loan programs, are perfect examples of why Zillow may be an indispensable tool when shopping for a new mortgage or refinancing an old one. Rates may change from three to five times a day given today's market conditions, so evaluating rate locks, Good Faith Estimates, in accordance with Federal Truth in Lending, and prepayment penalties, is strongly recommended and should be considered before making a decision.

While it is hard to replace the value of referrals from people you know, trust, and respect, when choosing a mortgage professional, Zillow strives to offer the most comprehensive information available online to the potential homeowner...the heart of the business.