SunTrust Mortgage is another player in the competitive mortgage-lending business. It is a relatively large organization, with locations across the US.

Their website states: "SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SunTrust Bank a $128.1 billion financial institution operating in Virginia, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and Florida. Currently, SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. originates loans through 135 locations in SunTrust markets and adjacent states, maintains correspondent and broker relationships in 48 states and services loans in 50 states and the District of Columbia."

Like many other lenders, SunTrust Mortgage has its roots in the banking industry. In most cases, this will also make it a stable lender, with good financial backing. In one form or another SunTrust has been providing mortgage loans for over 135 years.

Stability is not the only thing to consider in a lender though. It's also important to consider what they are offering you. Most importantly, as always, is the interest rate you will pay. Your mortgage may take you as much as 30 years to pay off. A lender has the potential to make a lot of money on your mortgage. They should compete for your business.

Also, if you are going to pay for 30 years on your mortgage it makes sense that you'll pay less in interest charges if you get a lower rate. Even a ¼ or ½ percentage difference can save you thousands over the longer term.

With this in mind, shop around!