What is his/her reputation within the community?
How may loans do they close each year?
Is the company well known in the area?
How long has the company been in business?
Does the lender have access to a wide variety of loan programs?
Can the interest rates be locked in and for how long?

Quoted rates over the phone are rarely locked prices. This one way the lender gets you to come to his office. Rates can be subjected to changes unless they are predetermined for a specific period of time.

Interest rates can change daily. A quote you get today may not be available at the same price tomorrow.

The interest rate you are quoted over the phone may not be a program that will fit your needs or situation. Many lenders will discount their posted rates for well qualified customers.