Potential home buyers should also consider asking friends and family for their opinions about their personal experiences dealing with various banks and mortgage companies. Additionally, consumers should conduct extensive research, both in person and online, select a few businesses, and then request a quote from each prospective lender. In order to receive an accurate quote, a buyer should ensure that as much information is provided to the lender, such as the individual's credit history, the anticipated down payment for a prospective home and the customer's current income and debts. Important criteria to look for with each estimate will include the interest rate being offered, fees that will be included with the financing, possible points that will be figured and any penalties that may be assessed for the home loan funding.