I first went through MSI lending in early 2007 to purchase my 3rd house. My credit is exceptional, and I had the full 20% downpayment. This was a standard, conventional, 30 year fixed rate mortgage. \r
I worked with Lee and we reviewed all our options prior to signing and choosing a mortgage. \r
During my visit Jason, the owner, stepped in to meet me and discuss some of the pros and cons of various types of mortgages. \r
First off, he struck me as kind of sleezy with slicked back hair and gaudy jewelry which he flashed in my face. To be honest, this was the only time during my first transaction in which I felt uncomfortable. \r
Although he was well-dressed, and well spoken, I kept having this feeling like he was obviously making a lot of money and where was it coming from? Was I getting scammed some how? Everything appeard very transparent during our dealings....but I couldn't shake the feeling that I was getting swindled by a used car salesman after meeting him.\r
All being said and done, I am still to this day very pleased with the entire dealing that first time around. My interest rate was low, and everything was handled with speed, confidentiality and ran smoothly all the way through the signing.\r
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This second experience with MSI has been just the opposite. I called regarding a 203k loan to purchase a bank owned property. Lee, unfortunately, is no longer with the company and I was directed to Shelby. \r
She was very professional on the phone and made qualifying questions to me to ascertain what we were trying to do and see which direction was best to proceed. \r
My credit is still exceptional, and we had access to a full downpayment if necessary. This house was to be a second home which needed much work and then we were going to place our existing home on the market. \r
Shelby instructed me that she was going to find more information about the 203k loan program, current interest rates, and downpayment and call me back. \r
I explained when a good time was to call, but did decline accepting her cell number as I was not comfortable calling her after normal business hours.\r
The next day passed with no return call from her.\r
I called and got a voicemail. I left a message with Jason, the owner, explaining that I was waiting to hear back from Shelby and to please have her call me and that I have previously done business with MSI lending and was eagerly awaiting more information so I could proceed to place an offer on the property.\r
At the end of the day I called back, and was routed to Shelby's voicemail and left a similar message.\r
On the second day, after no return call, I called again late that afternoon, only to discover that Shelby was again out of the office. The secretary offered to give me her cell number, which I took this time.\r
I called her cell and got her voice mail.\r
I did not leave a message.\r
Since that time nearly a week has passed and I have still heard nothing back from MSI lending. Not from the owner of the company himself, nor from Shelby.\r
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I can only assume at this point that this type of loan must not make them enough (if any) money to justify that they continue any customer service at all.\r
It's unfortunate that this is how MSI Lending is now conducting business transactions. \r
I had in the past given them glowing referrals, but after this very disappointing experience I have not only taken my business elsewhere, but my referrals as well.\r
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Please be hesitant to use this company's services. You will very likely save money by taking up your efforts with your local bank. \r
If the people at MSI treat you like royalty, it's because they're making the bankroll off your loan not because they exhibit stellar customer service in efforts to retain your future business.
Pros: A Human Being answers the phone
Cons: good luck getting them to call you back
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