how do I validate the costs I am told ? Anyway I can be sure the costs are real and not made up? how come different lenders have different costs?

In order to comply Federal regulations lenders are not supposed to add junk or false fees to your loan ,but beware lender fees can vary from lender to lender.As always it is best to shop around and compare fees as well as rates.If you would like a competitive quote I would be more than happy to help you out.BNC National Bank is a national lender with competative rates and fees.Visit my website at www.bncnationalbank.com/minneapolis/pbodine

Don't have tunnel vision when you look for a mortgage, shop around and ask questions. Make sure to compare interest rate along with closing cost. Some lenders can raise the closing cost to lower the rate, or lower the closing cost and raise the rate. Also, get fees and estimated rate in writing............