Doug's Plumbing Company charges $30 up front and $50 per hour while Penny's Plumbing Company charges $192 up front and $176 per hour. Doug has decided to double both of his prices, and Penny has decided to cut both of her prices in half. After how many hours of work would it be cheaper to hire Penny?

explanation:

the loan estimate encourages consumers to shop. since it is the lenders who are required to issue a standardized loan estimate in a specific time frame, this way consumers are provided an opportunity to compare lenders and their products. otherwise consumer wouldn't know the benefits offered by other lenders.  

if a loan originator does not provide a loan estimate within 3 business days of receiving a completed loan application, that lender is in violation. lenders are required to issue a loan estimate within 3 days of applying for a loan or within 7 days prior to closing. having a loan estimate has following information.

not having loan estimate won't give you an idea of money to be borrowed.

you get to know your interest rates.

you also get to know if your interest rate can or may vary.

not having a good faith estimate can keep you unaware of aforementioned points.