Your Local Lender
Located in California
Personalized Mortgage Experience
Heather Gennette offers personalized service and loan options you'll love. We shop multiple lenders to find the best rate and product for you, getting you into your dream home faster.
With wholesale interest rates and cutting-edge technology, we make the mortgage process seamless. Trust the experts who focus solely on mortgages. Support your local community and experience elite client service.
Let us help you achieve your homeownership dreams!
The Home Loan Process
Don't take my word for it
Mortgage Programs
Experience the best mortgage experience located in California.
Home Loan Options
Our experienced mortgage advisors will walk you through the best mortgage loan program that will fit your specific scenario.
Conventional Home Loans.
FHA Home Loans.
USDA Home Loans.
VA Home Loans.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I refinance my mortgage?
There is no limit to the number of times you can refinance. However, you must qualify every time you apply and there will be costs associated with closing the loan each time.
Can I buy a home if I do not have money for a down payment?
Yes! There are a number of bond programs that offer low or no down payment financing options.
How do I know which mortgage is right for me?
The key to choosing the right mortgage is to understand the range of options and features available to you, as well as your budget, circumstances, and goals. Our licensed mortgage professionals are here to help you navigate that process. The more you know, the more comfortable and confident you will be choosing the best option for you and your family.
How long will the loan process take?
The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) does not permit a lender to close a loan until at least seven (7) business days have passed from the date your application was received. A typical home loan takes 30 days, as a number of third-party services such as appraisals, title work, and credit are required in conjunction with the mortgage process. Once you familiarize your Loan Officer with the details of your specific loan scenario, they will be able to provide you with a more specific timeline.
Will I qualify for a home loan?
The only way to find out is to speak with a qualified mortgage professional. Our Loan Officers have helped numerous clients who didn’t know if they could qualify to become home owners. We take the time to understand your financial situation and long-term financial goals, and then match you with the loan program that best fits your needs. Your approval for a loan may also largely depend on the price of the home you are financing. Getting pre-qualified prior to beginning your home search can give you an idea of what you may be able to afford.
Why do people refinance their mortgages?
Homeowners typically refinance to save money, either by obtaining a lower interest rate or by reducing the term of their loan. Refinancing is also a way to convert an adjustable loan to a fixed loan or to consolidate debts.
How much money will I have to pay upfront to buy a home?
This question does not have a simple, one-size-fits-all answer. The exact amount will depend on the price of the home you buy as well the type of mortgage financing you choose. Depending on your loan program, your down payment could be as much as 20% of the home’s price or as little as 3%, while some loans require no down payment at all.
Can I get a mortgage after bankruptcy?
You may still qualify for a home loan even if you have experienced a bankruptcy. The best way to find out if you qualify is to talk with a Loan Officer to discuss your options. Be sure to bring all paperwork regarding your bankruptcy so your Loan Officer can find the program that best fits your situation.
Should I lock my interest rate now, or wait until we are closer to our closing?
Interest rates fluctuate all day, every day. If an interest rate is good, it may be in your best interest to lock now. If you wait, you run the risk of an increase in rates later. If you are concerned that rates may go down after you lock, contact your Loan Officer to discuss your options. Some programs allow you to lock for an extended period and choose to lower your rate should a better one become available.
Most Recent Blog Updates
Non QM Loans Explained: A Mortgage Option for Self Employed and Non Traditional Borrowers
Non QM Loans Explained: A Mortgage Option for Self Employed and Non Traditional Borrowers
By Heather Gennette
Many people believe that getting a mortgage requires W2s, tax returns, pay stubs, and near perfect credit. While that is true for traditional loans, it is not the only path to homeownership or refinancing.
There is another option that continues to help self employed buyers, investors, retirees, and homeowners who do not fit the standard lending mold. It is called a Non QM loan.
What Is a Non QM Loan
Non QM stands for non qualified mortgage. These loans are designed for borrowers whose income or financial profile does not meet the strict guidelines of conventional or government backed loans.
Instead of relying solely on tax returns and W2s, Non QM loans focus on real world financial strength. They can use bank statements, 1099 income, rental income, or assets to qualify a borrower.
Why Traditional Income Does Not Always Tell the Full Story
Self employed borrowers are a perfect example.
Many business owners write off expenses to reduce taxable income. On paper, their tax return may show forty thousand dollars in income, while their bank statements reflect one hundred fifty thousand dollars flowing through the business each year.
Traditional lenders focus on taxable income. Non QM lenders can evaluate actual cash flow.
The same applies to retirees who may not have active income but have substantial assets, or investors whose rental income supports the property.
Are Non QM Loans Risky
These are not sketchy loans.
Non QM loans are fully underwritten and follow strict lending standards. The difference is that they sit outside the Qualified Mortgage box used by traditional lenders.
Rates are typically higher than conventional loans, but for many borrowers, the alternative is not a lower rate. The alternative is no approval at all.
Why Experience Matters
Non QM loans must be structured correctly. Not all lenders offer them, and not all loan officers understand how to navigate the guidelines.
Choosing the right structure can mean the difference between approval and denial, or between a sustainable payment and unnecessary risk.
Final Thoughts
Non QM loans open doors for borrowers who are financially strong but do not fit traditional definitions. If your income is complex, asset based, or inconsistent on paper, it is worth exploring all available options.
If you want help reviewing your situation and understanding what programs may fit your goals, reach out anytime for a private mortgage review.
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