Which term describes lenders who primarily make loans through intermediaries?

The term that describes lenders who primarily make loans through intermediaries is "Wholesale lenders." Wholesale lenders do not deal directly with consumers; instead, they work with third-party intermediaries, such as mortgage brokers, who facilitate the lending process by offering products from the wholesale lender to the consumer. This arrangement allows wholesale lenders to reach a larger market without the costs associated with direct marketing and operating retail outlets, ultimately benefiting both the brokers and the consumers they serve.

In contrast, correspondent lenders typically have a closer relationship with the consumers, as they fund loans in their own name but rely on wholesale lenders to process and underwrite those loans. Direct lenders engage directly with borrowers, bypassing intermediaries entirely, while retail lenders operate directly in the market to lend to consumers without employing intermediaries. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for navigating the mortgage industry and recognizing the roles different types of lenders play in the lending process.