About the same as "What is the lender's role in choosing what home to buy?"

Generally the roles of lender and agent are separate from each other and each one should stay in their lanes. However, that doesn't mean they have a general knowledge of each. They can give their opinions but not take the lead. Have the professions do that for you 

selecting the right loan is NOT your job.... but connecting the buyer with the right lender IS.... not all lenders are the same.... there are some we DO NOT US NOW OR EVER IN THE FUTURE.... B of A is on that list.... NOT BUYER FRIENDLY.....

I give my buyers the names of trusted loan officers with reputable companies that have proven track records.

That's the full extent of my role.

It is not really about choosing for them, but letting them know what is available depending on what they want to buy. Working with a good local loan officer helps in that so you can show them how much each loan may save or cost. 

It is about equal to a licensed real estate agent advising a buyer in regards to the right medication for controlling their heart murmur.

Do I really need to go deeper?

I can recommend three lenders but the right loan is not in the qualifications of the real estate agent although we may know about rehab, bridge, balloon, reverse and variable rate.

The buyer would be better served if they help the buyer find the right lender and let the lender help them find the best loan.

We don't choose the loan for them.  They choose their own loan and the lender will give them options.  DO NOT even think about choosing a loan for the buyer, unless if you are a licensed mortgage officer.  Even that, you don't choose for them, you give them options.  The same reason we show them more than one home.   

Outside of referring them to Jason E. Gordon ...NONE!

We do not advise on loans unless we want to lose our license.

Seth,

I cannot improve on perfection and youhave perfect answers.  A

Suggesting a good lender.

Know what loan programs are available so you know what type of property and what location(s). Knowledge is power.

For example there's only one lender in town that will do a rehab loan on a manufactured home. If you don't know that - you're telling the buyer - sorry you can't get a rehab loan on a manufactured home. Or even knowing that there are rehab loans for homes with physical problems that make them not qualify for a conventional loan. Some lenders do rehab, some don't. And even the one's that do, some "like" them and do better at them then others. So if you have a rehab situation it's best to know which loan officers like them and do a lot of them. If you have a good one, they will even have contractors in their book or resources that are willing to take on the job. Not every contractor will mess with how they get paid - rehabs are more work and red tape.

If your buyer has no money and is not a vet - it's good to know that anyone can apply for a zero down USDA loan - but the home has to typically be in a rural setting (outside of city limits). So you better know about the loan and what areas in your service area qualify for the USDA zero down program.

Helping a buyer "choose" a loan is a liability beyond the realm of an agents job.  You can recommend a few possibilities of those you believe can help them select the right loan for their circumstances.

Most agents don't want to be in the mix of this decision. Payment is important, not paying an arm and leg to get the desired payment as most keep the loan 5 years. Don't pay points if you can avoid it is my advice

The best an agent can do is guide the buyer in the direction of a good, informed lending officer, or several, at different banks to find the program that best suits their needs.

Refer them to a trusted local mortgage loan officer.

Best for us professionals to "stay in our lane" with regards to division of duties. I'd recommend the Real Estate Agent diligently pursue a strong relationship with a Trusted Lender, and then let that Lender do his/her job (which includes selecting the loan program, structure, etc.).

I love Bob Betel answer.  What else can be added to that!? Nuttin!

I introduce clients to a handful of local lenders.

Share experience from the past and give ample referrals.

My role is to help my buyer find a quality lender who will provide the right loan.

I'm unqualified to help in that way.