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Consumer Advocate Harj Gill Endorses Pinnacle As Most Ethical U.S. Lender
By James Comtois
Consumer advocate and founder of American Mortgage Educators Harj Gill has named Orlando, Fla.-based mortgage lender Pinnacle Financial Corp. to be the most ethical mortgage lender in the country. Pinnacle Financial is the first U.S. mortgage lender to receive Mr. Gill's "Seal of Approval."
According to American Mortgage Educators, after years of evaluating companies, Mr. Gill narrowed his selection down to three lenders and finally one. Prospective lenders underwent meticulous inspection, including background checks of the principals, assessment of in-house training for loan officers and a review of the lenders' disciplinary action protocols.
One of the most significant components in the selection criteria was the level of education and disclosure borrowers are given about the types of loan products available to them. Since Pinnacle Financial has a reputation for helping borrowers make educated choices by providing lending disclosure information (as well as explaining the risks and benefits inherent in each product) and fighting mortgage fraud and predatory lending practices, the company made the cut.
"This is a tremendous victory for home loan borrowers everywhere," said Mr. Gill.
The last time a lender was endorsed in any official capacity by Mr. Gill was over three-and-a-half years ago when he approved HSBC's mortgage called "Home Smart" for one of its subsidiaries. HSBC is the third largest bank in the world with assets of more than $1 trillion.
"Earning Gill's 'Seal of Approval' is strong validation of our company's 18-year commitment to always doing what is in the best interest of our customers," said Doug Long, CEO of Pinnacle Financial.
"I made a promise to 65 million homeowners that I would eradicate predatory lending in this country," said Mr. Gill. "Until that happens, home loan borrowers have someone they can absolutely feel safe in doing business with."
Mr. Gill also advised that borrowers should never abdicate personal responsibility for their own education and empowerment when it comes to their mortgage. "Millions of people are suffering financially and losing their homes because they made the wrong decision. I urge you not to make the same mistakes."
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