Rates lower than the big lenders

Nope!  Mortgage brokers consistently beat banks and big online lenders by a quarter to half a percent, and even more on FHA, VA and USDA loans.  That alone can save you thousands of dollars upfront and more over the life of the loan

The bigger the lender, the more of a hassle your loan experience will be.  Banks and big lenders operate an assembly line system, where a half dozen or more people are involved in your loan during the process.  This often leads to miscommunication and situations where you feel you are repeatedly explaining things to a new person.  A mortgage broker like me is you sole and often only point of contact resulting in a smoother, less hassle filled experience

Student loans are factored into your debt-to-income ratio, but they don't automatically disqualify you. Many first-time buyers with student debt get approved.