10/23/2026
Take a look at this Closing Disclosure.
$7,139 in discount points. Plus a $1,500 origination fee. On a loan of roughly $93,000.
That’s about $8,600 just to originate the loan. Over 9% of the loan amount, before title, appraisal, or anything else.
I’ve been in this business 20+ years and I had to read it twice.
Here’s what most buyers don’t know. Zillow runs an agent program called Flex, now called Zillow Preferred. Agents in it get their buyer leads from Zillow. In return, they’re expected to send those buyers to Zillow Home Loans. I’ve seen it firsthand. If the agents don’t hit their numbers, their leads dry up.
So if your agent tells you to talk to Zillow Home Loans, that’s why. It’s not about what’s best for you. It’s about keeping their lead source happy.
Get their Loan Estimate.
Then send it to me for a second look. A preapproval is not a commitment. You can choose any lender you want, right up until you sign.
When you compare, look at three things:
Section A, Origination Charges. This is what the lender is charging you to do the loan.
Points. How many are you paying, and how much does your rate actually drop for them?
The same sections side by side. Same loan amount, same day, same loan type.
Your agent helps you find the house. You decide who finances it.
Education first. Always.
