How do you know that a financing lender is legit?

[Michael Ramzy]

The company is called "Universal mortgage and finance inc." The branch manager is sending to fill an application with all my information. I came across it trying to contact the seller on zillow! 

How do I know it's legit? Is there a database or something?

[Upen Patel]

@Michael Ramzy All lenders and mortgage banker/brokers are supposed to have NMLS#. If they don't disclose it then run away.

You can check if the NMLS# is valid by going to www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

Most mortgage bankers are licensed for a specific state(s). So you want to make sure the banker is licensed for the state they are trying to sell you. A few mortgage banker are federally licensed = national lender.

Upen Patel, Mortgage Banker

Federal NMLS# 1374243