FAQ – Mortgage Advantage Lending
Mortgage Advantage Lending

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our process, loan programs, and what to expect.

We operate as a wholesale mortgage broker, giving you access to a vast network of top-tier wholesale lenders rather than a single bank's limited portfolio.

  • Customization: We shop multiple funding sources simultaneously to secure specialized, non-prime, or niche loan terms tailored to your unique financial situation.
  • Streamlined Processing: As an independent broker, we heavily advocate for your file — fast-tracking the administrative hurdles that typically slow down larger corporate banks.

Highly competitive — because we pit multiple wholesale lenders against each other to win your business.

  • Wholesale Pricing: By accessing wholesale investor networks, we secure lower interest rates and cleaner fee structures than traditional retail banks.
  • Rate Matching: Because we work with an array of investors, we can pivot your application to a cheaper backing institution if market rates drop or a competitor offers a better rate.

We offer a comprehensive suite of both residential purchase and refinance options:

  • Conventional Loans: Standard fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
  • Government-Backed Loans: Low-down-payment FHA loans, zero-down VA loans for military veterans, and rural USDA housing loans.
  • Jumbo & Non-Prime Programs: High-balance mortgages exceeding conventional limits, alongside specialized non-QM products for unique borrowing scenarios.

Eligibility is determined by four core financial pillars:

PillarStandard Requirement
Income & EmploymentVerifiable, stable employment history (1–2 years preferred)
Debt-to-Income (DTI)Total monthly debts should ideally stay below 43–45% of gross income
Down PaymentRanges from 0% (VA/USDA) to 3–5% (Conventional)
Property IntentHome must pass safety guidelines and serve as a primary residence, second home, or approved investment property

Yes. While the initial application and document upload can be completed entirely online, federal lending regulations require a licensed professional to review your files, pull official credit records, and issue your legally binding Loan Estimate.

Conversations typically take place via phone or secure video consultation — usually brief and straightforward once your documents are in order.

  • Income Verification: Two most recent W-2 forms, 30 days of consecutive pay stubs, and two years of federal tax returns (if self-employed).
  • Asset Statements: Two months of consecutive bank statements for all checking, savings, and investment accounts to prove asset liquidity.
  • Identity Verification: Valid government-issued photo ID and Social Security number validation.
  • Refinance Specifics: Also provide your current mortgage statement, a home insurance declaration page, and proof of sufficient equity.

Requirements vary by loan program:

  • FHA As low as 580 for 3.5% down; down to 500 with 10% down.
  • Conventional Baseline of 620 for both purchase and refinance.
  • VA / USDA No official statutory minimum, but most wholesale investors require at least 580–620.

Total closing costs generally average 2%–5% of your loan amount. On a $400,000 mortgage, expect between $8,000 and $20,000 in total closing fees.

These line items split into vendor charges (title search, recording fees) and prepaid items (initial escrow deposits for property taxes and homeowners insurance).

There is no fee to submit an application or check your initial rates. However, you will encounter two types of transaction costs during processing:

  • Upfront Out-of-Pocket: Independent credit report pull ($30–$75) and home appraisal fee ($500–$800).
  • Lender Fees: Standard administrative charges (processing & underwriting), typically around 1% of the loan amount. These are wrapped into your final closing costs — no out-of-pocket payment required upfront.

No. By federal law, no mortgage broker or lender is permitted to conduct their own physical property appraisals. We order your property valuation through an independent, neutral Appraisal Management Company.

This ensures a licensed, third-party local appraiser evaluates the home to establish a completely unbiased fair market value.

Still have questions? We're here to help. Reach out anytime.

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