Many people have learned a hard lesson in the last few years. There are predatory lending institutions out there that will set you up to default on a home loan. You have to avoid such lenders. Here are a few of their more disreputable practices.

If a loan officer hands you a stack of blank loan papers requesting your signature, then its time to get up from your chair and go out the door. Find another lender. Chances are the company is planning to change the terms and conditions of the loan without your knowledge or consent.

If the company agent tells you to knowingly enter false information on a loan application, then its time for you to find another lender. False information might be inflating the value of the house you want to buy so the company can make you a bigger loan. Or it might be overstating your income so you can qualify for the loan. If you have to lie about your income then you are setting yourself up to default on your loan.

Always compare loan packages. Always get at least three offers and compare them. Never make a snap decision. It can cost you everything you own.