Be sure you find a loan that fits your needs with these comprehensive questions.
1.     What are the most popular mortgage loans you make? Why?
2.     Which type of mortgage plan do you think would best for us? Why?
3.     Are your rates, terms, fees, and closing costs negotiable?
4.     Will I have to buy private mortgage insurance? If so how much will it cost and how long will it be required?

NOTE: Private mortgage insurance is usually required if you make less than a 20-percent downpayment, but most lenders will let you discontinue the policy when you’ve acquired a certain amount of equity by paying down the loan.
5.     Who will service the loan? Your bank or another company?
6.     What escrow requirements do you have?
7.     How much turnover occurs in the building?
8.     Is the project in litigation? If the builders or homeowners are involved in a lawsuit, reserves can be depleted quickly.
9.     Is the developer reputable? Find out what other projects the developer has built and visit one if you can. Ask residents about their perceptions. Request an engineer’s report for developments that have been reconverted from other uses to determine what shape the building is in. If the roof, windows, and bricks aren’t in good repair, they become your problem once you buy.
10.     Are multiple associations involved in the property? In very large developments, umbrella associations, as well as the smaller association into which you’re buying, may require separate assessments.

Used with permission, from  Real Estate Checklists & Systems.