Finding the right mortgage lender can be tricky, but doing so can also pay off, both literally and figuratively, especially over time. William_Potter/Getty Images

Securing financing for a home is among the most significant financial decisions you'll ever make. After all, the mortgage lender you choose has an impact not only on your monthly payment, but also on the overall cost of homeownership and your experience throughout the application process. In today's shifting market, though, where higher-than-average rates and housing prices are common and continue to challenge affordability , selecting the right mortgage lending partner is even more critical.

Luckily, the current mortgage landscape offers numerous options to consider , from established banking institutions to digi

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