Let’s take a look at some of the traits that a consumer should seek as well as some of the questions that need to be answered when making this decision.Choosing someone to help you in the process of obtaining a mortgage should involve trust and a certain level of comfort. There should be comfort in the knowledge that this person exhibits expertise in the field, has integrity, and is there to help guide and educate you. This process should be treated like you had run a want ad in the newspaper for a job to be filled, after the candidates have been selected comes the in depth interview for the position.It is easy to ask someone what the costs are, what are the interest rates, what their fees are, and how much points are; this should not be the sole focus of the first discussion. If the prospective candidate only wants to discuss this instead of their background or starts putting pressure on you for a fast decision, run and run fast to the door. As any prospective employee, the candidate should offer their credentials for review including what states they are licensed in as well as any associations they might be part of. This is a good transition into the interview process that allows succinct questions to be asked that can give a good snapshot of their background and expertise.Start with their experience, how long have they been in the financial service industry? How long have they been servicing mortgages? Discussing this should give the impression of someone who knows the industry and can provide the right type of mortgage to specifically fit your needs. This stage in the interview should include what their approval rate is, the good mortgage professional should know at the very start of the process what a good candidate is and the probability of getting approved which further shows the experience level of the individual. A clear understanding of your needs should also be exhibited so that proper guidance can be given in the choice of the loan package that is best for you.This is a service industry so you mortgage professional should be readily available to you through the entire process from application to closing. They should be your counselor and guide through the largest financial transaction most Americans make in their life. If you do not feel this in your gut, then most likely this is the wrong choice.