While purchasing a mortgage online may be less common or more difficult than through traditional means, there are still a number of tips that can make the process easier and more likely to work for you.

The following tips will allow you to get the best deal possible and prevent you from falling prey to a scam or other bad business practices:

• Educate yourself about the mortgage process. There are several ways to accomplish this goal. Many websites offer comprehensive information about the ins and outs of the mortgage process. If you prefer something in hard copy, there are also a variety of good books available on the subject. If you learn better by listening or interacting, you might consider attending a mortgage seminar, class, or workshop.

• When choosing an online mortgage broker, make sure the broker is licensed and regulated by your state. You should be able to accomplish this step by searching your state’s website. Choosing a broker licensed by your state can have the affect of ensuring you will have a legal remedy in case something goes wrong with your transaction.

• Make sure to check out the lender’s credentials, as well. While it is important to be able to trust your broker, the lender is the entity that actually finances and underwrites your loan. You will want to verify your lender’s status with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC) or other federal agencies before choosing that particular lender.

• Take full advantage of online technology in your mortgage shopping process. Shop around with online brokers, brokers who exist both online and at a physical (brick and mortar) location, and traditional brick and mortar brokers and lenders. You’ll be able to find out what the best available rates and terms are before applying.

Offline lenders understand that online brokers can offer very competitive prices, so letting them know what you have found online could spur them to offer you a better deal.