They are familiar with the local market. While larger banks may offer attractive incentives they may cost you in the long run. A local lender know the El Paso and Fort Bliss real estate market and understands that this market is not like others across the US. Many states are experiencing the impact of the recession in every area of their economies. El Paso and the surrounding area generally run 6 months behind the national economy and in the real estate market only slightly  unaffected by the recession. When buying a home your lender will require, particularly if your loan is an FHA, an appraisal of the property you are buying. If you lender is not familiar with the local market his underwriter may not approve the home loan for its full value.  For more information contact Yvonne Russell at (915) 873-8646 or use the contact page for comments or questions.