With home appreciation in Arizona rising at nearly 4 times the national average, it comes as no surprise that more and more residents of the state are either refinancing their current mortgage to get a lower rate (or maybe to pay off some high interest credit cards). Current Arizona renters are also leaping into the realm of first-time home buying, filled with thoughts and concerns of down payments and credit scores. Of course, if the renters don't move quickly, they will find themselves priced completely out of the Arizona housing market.

But the lending process can be so difficult and nerve-racking; how do you know who to trust? Are the rate and terms given to you by one lender truly the best available to you in your situation? In order to assist you in making the best possible decision for one of the most important purchases in your life, we've compiled a list of 4 tips to help you find a better Arizona lender:

The first tip: Do your homework. Research and educate yourself on the home loan and lender process, taking into account all laws governing the mortgage industry in Arizona. Lender fees, closing costs, points, escrow, adjustable rates and pre-payment penalties are just a few costs associated with a home loan.

The second tip: Get several quotes from multiple Arizona lenders. Leaving the entire mortgage process to just one lender is leaving yourself wide open to be charged astronomical fees and interest rates, and you won't know any better because you have nothing to compare these costs to. Some mortgage brokers receive their payment from you (the borrower), lenders (financial institutions) or both. Some mortgage brokers will receive 'kick-backs' to 'sell' you one particular program over another. Multiple quotes are your best protection against being taken advantage of.

The third tip: Ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask as many that you feel are necessary, as this is your home, your loan and your money. Ask about lender fees, points, as well as anything else that a lender might 'accidentally' forget to inform you about. Ask them about the 'Good Faith Estimate' and when you should expect to receive it.

The final tip: Don't get personal. Mortgage professionals are working to make money, as are we all. Although some lenders will have a conscience, it's relatively difficult to trust someone (who works on a commission basis) to truly have your best interest at heart. If you work with multiple Arizona lenders, be sure to inform each of them that they aren't the only mortgage provider in your book. Competition is key throughout this industry, and you may just be setting yourself up for some great benefits, like free appraisals, lower fees, and a fabulous new mortgage to tell your friends about.