Purchase or Refinance
Find the right mortgage for your goals
Choose a mortgage that fits your needs
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing an existing mortgage, Kestrel Row offers flexible loan options to match your timeline and financial situation. Our loan specialists work with you to find a structure that makes sense for your goals.
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Fixed-Rate Mortgages
Predictable payments and consistent rates throughout your loan term. Fixed-rate mortgages provide stability and peace of mind, ideal for borrowers planning to stay in their home long-term.
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Adjustable-Rate Mortgages
Start with a lower initial rate that adjusts over time based on market conditions. ARMs can be advantageous for borrowers planning to refinance or sell within a specific timeframe.
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Jumbo Mortgages
Financing for high-value properties that exceed conventional loan limits. We structure jumbo loans for borrowers with strong financial profiles seeking flexibility and competitive terms.
Understanding your mortgage options
Buying a home
Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll make. Our team guides you through the entire process, from pre-qualification to closing. We review your financial situation, discuss loan options, and explain what to expect at each stage. Kestrel Row handles the complexity so you can focus on finding the right property. We work with real estate agents, appraisers, and title companies to keep everything moving smoothly toward your closing date.
Refinancing your mortgage
Refinancing allows you to modify your existing loan terms, potentially lowering your payment, changing your rate, or adjusting your loan length. Whether you want to cash out equity, move from an adjustable to a fixed rate, or shorten your payoff timeline, we evaluate your options transparently. Our refinance specialists explain the costs involved and help you determine whether refinancing aligns with your financial goals.
FHA-backed mortgages
FHA loans are designed to expand homeownership for borrowers with lower down payments or credit profiles that might not qualify for conventional mortgages. These government-backed loans offer flexibility and are particularly valuable for first-time homebuyers. Our team is experienced in FHA requirements and works to streamline the qualification process while explaining all associated costs and benefits.
Your mortgage journey from start to finish
We've designed our mortgage process to be transparent and straightforward. You'll understand each step before it happens, and you'll know what documents we need and why. Clear communication keeps everything on track.
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Pre-Qualification & Consultation
1-2 business days
We discuss your financial situation, homeownership goals, and timeline. You'll learn what loan options make sense for you, what to expect for payments, and what documentation we'll need. This conversation helps you move forward confidently.
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Formal Application & Documentation
3-5 business days
Once you've chosen a property or decided to refinance, we'll gather your financial documents. Our team reviews income, assets, debts, and credit to verify the information you've provided and confirm your eligibility for your chosen loan program.
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Processing, Appraisal & Underwriting
7-10 business days
We order the property appraisal and submit your loan to underwriting. Our underwriters review every detail to ensure the loan meets all guidelines. We'll communicate directly with you about any additional information needed before approval.
Common mortgage questions answered
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or refinancing an existing loan, these answers address what many borrowers want to know about the mortgage process.
What's the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
Pre-qualification is an initial estimate based on information you provide. It gives you a ballpark figure for how much you might borrow. Pre-approval is more rigorous. We verify your income, credit, and assets, then formally commit to lending you a specific amount at a specific rate. Pre-approval carries more weight when you make an offer on a property.
How much do I need for a down payment?
Down payment requirements vary by loan type. Conventional mortgages typically require between three and twenty percent down. FHA loans allow down payments as low as three and a half percent. VA and USDA loans may require no down payment. We'll discuss what's realistic for your situation and what that means for your monthly payment and overall loan cost.
What are closing costs, and what should I expect to pay?
Closing costs cover the fees and expenses associated with finalizing your mortgage. These include appraisal fees, title insurance, underwriting fees, attorney fees, and more. Closing costs typically range from two to five percent of your loan amount. We provide a detailed estimate of all costs before you commit so there are no surprises at closing.
How does credit affect my mortgage options?
Your credit history helps us understand your borrowing behavior. Most conventional loans require a credit score within certain ranges, though that range varies by loan type. If your credit is less than perfect, you may still qualify for FHA or other programs. We review your entire financial picture, not just one number.
Can I lock in my rate before my loan closes?
Yes. Rate locks protect you if interest rates rise between the time you apply and the time you close. Most locks last thirty, forty-five, or sixty days. We'll discuss rate lock options and the costs associated with extending a lock if needed. This gives you certainty during your purchase or refinance.
What if I want to pay off my mortgage early?
Most mortgages allow early payoff without penalty. You can make extra payments toward principal whenever you choose to reduce the total interest you pay and shorten your loan term. Some borrowers make biweekly payments or add extra amounts when possible. We're happy to show you the impact of different payoff strategies.