Mortgage brokers are the most popular sellers of mortgage loans and other products to prospective homeowners and other lenders. The mortgage broker acts as the intermediary between the buyer and the lender (usually a bank), making the effort to find the best rates possible. Many borrowers prefer this model, since it saves them time that would otherwise be spent finding the best deals possible on loans ranging from 15 year to 40 year mortgage rates.

Of course, mortgage brokers don't do this for free - they receive mortgage broker rates based on the final amount borrowed. While this is understandable, you will want to make sure that you are getting appropriate services for what you pay for. As the recent mess with subprime mortgage rates showed, many people involved in the mortgage industry are more concerned with making a profit than helping you get the best deal possible.

It's important that you trust that your mortgage broker has your best interests at heart. One of the best ways to do this is to ask friends, family and co-workers for recommendations on mortgage brokers. If you hear good things from them, there's a good chance that you'll get good results. Plus, a mortgage broker who relies on word of mouth for new business is going to be particularly concerned about providing excellent service.

Also make sure that you check the mortgage rates constantly, even after you have secured your rate. People are interested in adjustable mortgage rates for a reason: with rates continually changing, it's very possible that rates could fall between the time you "lock in" your loan and it closes. It's a good idea to make sure your agreement covers you and that you will get the lower rate if this happens.

The last item is common sense, but important: make sure you read and understand your loan agreement. What you discussed with the dealer and what is in the contract might not  match up, but it's your responsibility to make sure this is correct before you sign anything.

Richard Manfredi has worked as a professional writer for more than 15 years, including covering sports, education and general news for major newspapers and online news sites.