Choosing between direct lenders and middlemen for home loans—worth it?

Honestly, I’ve seen both sides—sometimes a direct lender is on the ball, other times it’s the broker who catches stuff before it blows up. It really does come down to who’s actually handling your file. Curious if anyone’s ever had a deal where switching mid-process actually saved the day? I’ve had a couple where jumping ship made all the difference... but it’s always a gamble.

Curious if anyone’s ever had a deal where switching mid-process actually saved the day?

Had one last year—direct lender was dragging their feet, missing docs, just slow all around. Switched to a broker who got creative with a portfolio lender and we closed in two weeks. It’s risky, though. If you jump too late, you lose time and money. I’d say, weigh the personalities and track record more than the label.