A recent analysis from Zillow Group Inc. highlights that nearly 70% of home buyers submit only one mortgage application, potentially missing out on significant savings. The report reveals that even small differences in mortgage rates-such as a 50 basis point reduction-can save buyers approximately $1,100 per year on a typical U.S. home loan. Over the life of a loan, this could amount to tens of thousands of dollars. The analysis also notes that wider rate shopping could expand the pool of affordable homes, with a savings of this size making 22,000 more homes attainable for the median-income household. Zillow emphasizes the importance of comparing multiple lenders, as different institutions may offer materially different rates even to the same borrower, depending on credit profile, loan type, and market conditions.