“According to Jay Brinkman, MBA’s VP for research and economics, the prime loan segment was hurt by so-called Alt-A loans, which didn’t require income verification for buyers with good credit.” “California, Florida, Arizona and Nevada ... To ensure that you will be getting the best mortgage rate, find out if the lending company you are dealing with has a broker. This is fundamental if you want to get the best mortgage rates and save your money. Contracting a broker may mean additional fees to subtract from your budget.