need advice fast!! direct lender, mortgage broker, or shop around local banks?

Ive been workign with a direct lender for the past few months. he did our preapproval and has been excellent so far.

our offer on a house has been accepted!!

i would like to continue using him and remain loyal however,in the end i want to save the most money i can!

do i use my direct lender? if so, what questions do i ask him about fees? points? etc?

can i apply for a mortgage with my direct lender as well as apply with with my local bank, credit union at my job?
or do i get quotes from each and chose the best? in order to get a quote do i have do a fill out an application with each?

tia!!

Re: need advice fast!! direct lender, mortgage broker, or shop around local banks?

I called up banks and gave them my information for a rate quote. I didn't have to fill out an application with each.

I shopped around for the best interest rate with the least amount of points.

Re: need advice fast!! direct lender, mortgage broker, or shop around local banks?

It was recommended to me to check out bethpage FCU because they have competive rates and low closing costs. I recommend checking out credit unions.

Re: need advice fast!! direct lender, mortgage broker, or shop around local banks?

Can anyone go to a credit union or do they have to be a member of one?