A mortgage — whether it's a home purchase, refinancing, or a home equity loan — is a product, just like a car, so the price and terms may be negotiable.

When buying a home or refinancing an existing one, remember to shop around, to compare costs, and to negotiate for the best deal. Doing so may save you thousands of dollars.

The Internet is a good place to start searching for a loan because it's easy to find information on interest rates and to get free, no obligation quotes from several reputable lenders.

Here are some recommended starting points:

Ameriquest
Ameriquest is America's leading direct sub-prime lender and a frequent advertiser both in print and on television. Fill out Ameriquest's fast
one-page prequal application for a free, no obligation mortgage or
refi quote.

Low Cost Lending
Fill out LowCostLending's easy one-page form and let up to four
lenders compete for your business. Over 10 million borrowers
since 1996. Free rate quotes — no obligation, no credit check.

Full Spectrum Lending
This member of the Countrywide family helps homeowners consolidate bills, lower monthly payments and get cash fast for their home's equity. Free, no obligation quote and quick one-page form.

The bottom line: Be sure to get a quote from several different lenders. Once you know what each lender has to offer, negotiate the best deal you can. On any given day, lenders and brokers may offer different prices for the same loan terms to different consumers, even
if those consumers have the same loan qualifications.

Don't be afraid to make lenders and brokers compete with each
other for your business by letting them know that you are shopping for the best deal!