But ...Barack Obama until Johnson's mortgage rate breaks were revealed. Sweet deals on home loans have gotten a string of Democrats into hot water lately. Among those humbled was James A. Johnson, who was helping vet potential running mates for Sen. This is also perhaps why mortgage brokers charge high for closing fees. A percentage of the closing fee you pay on a mortgage goes to the mortgage broker's personal funds. This, along with a few more fees, stands as their salary.