It may be better to work with a loan broker rather than approaching specific lenders. Brokers will be able to shop around in the market for you, locating the best deal with a lender and/or loan services provider. You'll have to pay them, but they'll probably end up being a great investment.

Loan services providers (especially banks and credit unions) often have specialists who will help you find the appropriate loan for your needs, so be sure to take advantage of them. They can step you through the copious paperwork required to get the loan, and tell you what you need to do to fulfill your obligations.

It's a good idea to know something about your loan services provider, even if there's nothing wrong with your loan. The easiest way to find out is to fire up the Internet and use a search engine to learn more -- including whether or not they have substantial complaints against them.