do I have to have a lender in the same state that I buy a house in?

No, but your lender must be Licensed to do business in the state in which you purchase your new home.

What Ben said is correct the lender must be licensed in the state where the property is located and if you use a broker then the broker must also be licensed in that state. The exception is some Federally chartered banks can lend in all 50 states without having individual state licenses.

I agree as well. If you need any further information feel free to contact me at themortgagegroup1@gmail.com

He doesn't have to be so long as they are licensed in your state, but it's not advisable.. The best advice I can give you is to contact a LOCAL mortgage broker and apply with them. By applying with your LOCAL Broker, you have an advantage because he's familiar with local customs and works with numerous lenders, seeking out the best loan terms for your particular scenario. Because he has lower overhead, he can offer you lower rates and lower fees than most of the larger lenders.. I'm a Broker here in Scottsdale AZ and I only lend in Arizona. If you or someone you know is looking for financing options, feel free to contact me or pass along my information. William J. Acres, Lender411's number ONE lender in Arizona. 480-287-5714 WilliamAcres.com

The professionals above are correct. You just need to go with a lender that is licensed in that state. Good question.-Conor Suttonwww.csloansolutions.com

Your lender and loan officer must be licensed to do business in the state that you plan to purchase. While there are many "internet lenders" out there offering low-ball rates on various websites, it's usually in your best interest to work with a lender who is local to the area you're purchasing in. Most of the times their rates are the same or better and they will have local contacts and a better handle on the market in that area. Some listing agents who receive multiple offers on a home will even advise their sellers to pass on offers with approval letters that come in from banks they aren't familiar with, or ones without a local contact person. Buy local whenever possible. ;)

No, he or she has to be licensed in your state

The lender and loan officer both need to be licensed in the state where you are looking to obtain a mortgage. There are entities, such as federal banks, that can lend in all states. The most important consideration, assuming there are no licensing barriers, is that you interview 3-4 loan officers and find the right fit for you. There's no need to have your credit report run, just provide insight as to your scenario. You will know when you have found the right loan officer for you.