Bradenton, FL -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/04/2010 -- Mortgages are tougher and tougher to come by in Bradenton, Sarasota and surrounding areas. This is mostly due to higher percentages of unemployment and declining values of homes. However, there is some hope. If you are looking for a Bradenton mortgage, read on and learn your options.

Finally, there is good news for Bradenton residents looking for the right mortgage.

Many programs exist but you must know where to look. Your typical brick and mortar bank who sits on the corner usually can’t help unless you are an “A” borrower or want a high cost FHA loan. Their employees are paid regardless of if your loan closes and their overhead is higher which can equate to higher costs on your closing statement.

People generally don’t understand the costs associated with mortgages. Here in Bradenton, mortgage costs can vary. Different lenders charge different fees. When I got my first mortgage 21 years ago I was really “taken to the cleaners”. You must find someone who will take the time and explain what each cost is. Some are negotiable, some are not.

There are literally hundreds of mortgage programs available to the wholesale mortgage broker. With conventional brick and mortar banks, your loan officer is limited to what the banks programs allow. This is called a retail loan and they are done at all major banks. However, getting a good Bradenton mortgage does not have to be difficult or expensive.

Did you know that if you qualify, you could get up to 135% financing? So even if your home has dropped dramatically in value, you can still get a great mortgage here in Bradenton, Sarasota and the surrounding areas. There are still 100% financing options for some residents in Palmetto and more rural areas.

How do you get the right mortgage for you? Find a reputable wholesale mortgage broker with references. The right mortgage broker can access hundreds of programs. The “big” banks are limited to offering only what their bank offers.

Here in Bradenton, Sarasota and surrounding areas there are good, qualified and professional mortgage brokers. I know, I am one of them with 7 years of experience and a strong reference base. We even help consumers with credit issues and can help boost scores if you are less than perfect in this arena.

Remember, Bradenton mortgages, Sarasota refinances, Palmetto purchases have a much higher degree of probability if you have hundreds of programs to look at and the right professional who is willing to take the time to find the right one for you.

Tom Russo Licensed Mortgage Broker (references available) 941-518-9199.