We work for you, not the lender.

Straight-forward mortgage advice to help you find the best mortgage product at the lowest rate and costs. 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rated by real people:

What We Can Do For You

Loan programs we can broker for you

As mortgage brokers, we shop the market on your behalf to find the right loan at the lowest rate and costs.

Hover over (or tap) any program for a quick overview.

Residential Financing

  • Buying a home? We can help you compare low down payment options, including programs that may allow eligible buyers to purchase with no down payment. If you already own a home, refinancing may let you change your interest rate or loan term, or borrow against your equity. With certain conventional cash-out refinances, the new loan may be up to 80% of the appraised value of an eligible one-unit primary residence.
  • We’ll walk you through prequalification, explain how much cash you may need at closing, and help you compare conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA options. Depending on your eligibility and where you’re buying, down payment assistance may be available as a grant or a separate loan.
  • Finance the home where you plan to live most of the year. We can help you compare programs for a house, condo, townhome, or a property with up to four units if you plan to live in one of them.
  • Finance a getaway or another home you’ll use personally. If you also plan to rent it out, let us know how you’ll use the property so we can help you identify the right financing options.
  • Buy or refinance a rental property, whether you’re purchasing your first rental or expanding your portfolio. We can help you compare conventional and rental-income-based financing based on the property and your plans for it.
  • Conforming loans meet Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac guidelines, including the loan limit for the property’s location and number of units. Jumbo loans are an option when you need to borrow above the applicable conforming limit.
  • A fixed-rate mortgage keeps the same interest rate and principal-and-interest payment for the life of the loan. An adjustable-rate mortgage typically starts with a fixed rate for a set period. After that, the rate and payment can rise or fall under the terms of the loan.
  • VA loans may offer no-down-payment financing to eligible veterans, service members, and certain surviving spouses. FHA-insured loans offer low down payment options for eligible buyers. USDA loans may offer no-down-payment financing for eligible households buying a primary residence in a qualifying rural area.
  • Residential financing can cover single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes. If you buy a two- to four-unit property and live in one unit, some programs may let you use eligible rental income from the other units to help you qualify.
  • A DSCR loan evaluates how the property’s rental income compares with its monthly housing costs. This can be an option for investors who want to qualify based primarily on the property’s rental income.
  • Specialty lenders may offer financing for foreign nationals buying or refinancing eligible U.S. real estate. Depending on the program, lenders may consider overseas credit references, foreign assets, or rental income from the property.
  • Certain mortgage programs can convert a portion of your eligible assets into a monthly income figure for loan qualification. Depending on the program, this may include eligible retirement or investment accounts and can help if you have substantial assets and limited monthly income.
  • A HELOC is a revolving line of credit secured by your home. You can borrow as needed during the draw period, up to your approved limit. Rates are typically variable, and payments can change when the rate adjusts or the repayment period begins.
  • A home equity loan gives you a lump sum secured by your home, typically at a fixed interest rate. It can be a good fit when you know how much you need for a major expense and want to keep your existing first mortgage in place.
  • A reverse mortgage lets eligible older homeowners borrow against the equity in their primary residence without making monthly principal-and-interest payments on the reverse loan. Interest and fees add to the balance over time. You remain responsible for property taxes, homeowners insurance, and upkeep. The loan is generally repaid when the home is sold or the last eligible borrower no longer lives there, subject to program rules.
  • A reverse second mortgage may let eligible homeowners access equity while keeping an existing first mortgage in place. You continue making the required payments on your first mortgage and remain responsible for property taxes, insurance, and upkeep. Monthly principal-and-interest payments generally aren’t required on the reverse second mortgage while you meet the loan obligations.
  • Finance a custom home or major renovation with funds typically released in stages as work progresses. Some programs combine construction financing and the permanent mortgage in one closing. Others use a separate construction loan that is paid off when permanent financing is in place.
  • Purchase a residential lot or vacant land, whether you plan to build soon or hold the property for later. Financing options can depend on factors such as zoning, road access, utilities, and whether the land is ready to build on.
  • A bridge loan provides short-term financing when you want to buy your next home before selling your current one. Depending on the program and your available equity, it may help cover the down payment or other purchase costs while you wait for your sale to close.
  • If you’re self-employed, some lenders may use eligible deposits shown on personal or business bank statements to estimate your qualifying income. For business deposits, the lender may also account for business expenses when determining how much income you can use.
  • Regular distributions from an IRA, 401(k), or other eligible retirement account may count as qualifying income. The lender may review the amount, frequency, and how long the distributions are expected to continue.
  • Some loan programs allow another person to help you qualify even if they won’t live in the home. A co-signer or non-occupant co-borrower who signs the loan is legally responsible for repayment.

Commercial Financing

  • Purchase or refinance commercial real estate such as office, retail, or industrial property. Financing may be available for businesses that occupy their own space and for investors who lease space to tenants. Lenders generally review the property, its cash flow, and the borrower’s financials.
  • SBA 7(a) and 504 loans can help eligible small businesses buy, build, or improve real estate they will occupy. A 7(a) loan may also cover other eligible business expenses, such as working capital. The 504 program focuses on long-term financing for major fixed assets such as real estate and equipment.
  • Purchase or refinance an apartment building or other rental property with five or more units. Lenders typically review rents, occupancy, operating expenses, and whether the property generates enough income to cover the proposed loan payments.
  • Finance commercial construction, property expansion, or site development. Lenders typically review the plans, permits, budget, and timeline. Loan funds are generally released in stages as the project progresses.

Private Money

  • Short-term financing for investors buying a property to renovate and resell. A fix-and-flip loan may fund both the purchase and part of the renovation, with terms based on factors such as the project budget and the property’s estimated value after repairs.
  • Use equity in another property you own as additional security for a loan. Pledging more than one property may increase your financing options. Each pledged property secures the debt and may be at risk if the loan goes into default.

This list is not exhaustive and can change depending on the market. Contact us to see how we can help you!

LATEST BLOG

Discover our latest insights and
expert advice

THE PODCAST

Watch our latest Podcast

LATEST EPISODE Oct 15, 2026

Mortgage Rates Are Above 7%—Is Now a Good Time to Buy a Home?

Many buyers are waiting for mortgage rates to come down before purchasing a home. But could waiting mean missing opportunities available today? In this podcast, we explore buying…

MORE EPISODES View all episodes →
THE NEWSLETTER

Catch up on our latest newsletters

COUNSEL MORTGAGE NEWSLETTER

Mortgage updates, straight to your inbox

Market moves, rate changes and home-buying tips in plain English. No spam.

TESTIMONIALS

Home financing experiences that speak for themselves

Our clients trust us to make the mortgage process clear, responsive, and straightforward. See how we’ve helped homebuyers and homeowners move forward with confidence.

Not only are they completely up-to-date on current mortgage regulations, they are as congenial as they come and was instantly responsive to any questions we had. We highly recommend Counsel Mortgage and can't say enough good things about our experience with John!

Mary D.

We cannot say enough good things about John and Counsel Mortgage. I was so anxious about this experience, and he could not have made it easier or more seamless. I urge everyone to consider using Counsel Mortgage-we even closed almost a week early!! So happy!

Mitchell R.

25+ Years Of Experience

Trusted mortgage professionals helping homebuyers navigate financing with confidence.

ABOUT US

Personalized mortgage solutions for every homebuyer

From first-time buyers to seasoned homeowners, we help clients find competitive loan options tailored to their goals.

Personalized Loan Guidance

Clear, one-on-one support to help you compare mortgage options and choose the right financing strategy.

Responsive Local Support

Questions don’t always happen during business hours. Our team is here to keep your loan moving and keep you informed.

What our clients say

Star Star Star Star Star
5-Star Google Reviews
Google
Sean D.
★★★★★

When it came time for us to buy our new home a few months ago, we had a couple options for obtaining a mortgage. Previously, we worked with John at Counsel Mortgage on a re-fi a few years back, and so we decided to go with Counsel Mortgage Group again. A lot has changed in the last few years in terms of getting a new mortgage (read: a lot of required documents!), but thankfully John is the expert in making the process as painless as possible. Not only is he completely up-to-date on current mortgage regulations, he is as congenial as they come and was instantly responsive to any questions we had. His expertise resulted in us getting a great loan product - one we didn't even know was possible. We highly recommend Counsel Mortgage Group and can't say enough good things about our experience with John.

Google
Peter Gladkin
★★★★★

Counsel Mortgage and John Rapasky is an excellent choice if you are looking for real estate finance. I have been a full time practicing real estate broker for over 15 years, licensed in Arizona and California. I have worked with more lenders than I can count. In the last transaction in which I represented the buyer, I had the chance to work with John. John's rates and pricing were better than two other local lenders, which is why my buyer chose to work with him, but finance is so much more than pricing, and John delivered on all accounts. We met all our benchmarks through the escrow process, he kept us well informed as we worked towards closing, was available throughout the process, and we closed on time without any issues. I would not hesitate and intend on sending any buyers I represent to John should they be in need of financing. Even if you have another lender in mind, I highly recommend you give John a call and see what he can do for you. A true professional.

Google
Christian Beal
★★★★★

I had a great experience working with John and Betty. They were fast, efficient and super knowledgeable about all the steps I had to take to secure funds for my property purchase. I have utilized Counsel Mortgage Group on numerous occasions and I can’t speak high enough about the quality of their work. Amazing!!! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Google
Heath Harris
★★★★★

John was amazing! He was with me every step of the way as I bought my first home. He was prompt and friendly and took time to explain everything in a way that I could understand. Very knowledgeable and professional, I would recommend the Counsel Mortgage Group to anyone. Thank you John!

Google
Manieka Green
★★★★★

John Rapasky has helped me with multiple mortgages and is truly a professional and expert in his complicated field. I believe his background as both a lawyer and CPA has made a difference for me and does for everyone. He got me a VA loan when no one else could! Thank you John Rapasky and Counsel Mortgage team!

Google
Robert Brown
★★★★★

Mr. John Rapasky is at the top of his field. As both a lawyer and a CPA Mr. Rapasky is well equipped to anticipate and avoid the speedbumps before they happen! I know Mr. Rapasky takes pride in guiding his clients toward being approved with the best rates possible; he will always be my mortgage broker. Thank you Counsel Mortgage Group!

Star Star Star Star Star
5-Star Google Reviews
Google
Sean D.
★★★★★

When it came time for us to buy our new home a few months ago, we had a couple options for obtaining a mortgage. Previously, we worked with John at Counsel Mortgage on a re-fi a few years back, and so we decided to go with Counsel Mortgage Group again. A lot has changed in the last few years in terms of getting a new mortgage (read: a lot of required documents!), but thankfully John is the expert in making the process as painless as possible. Not only is he completely up-to-date on current mortgage regulations, he is as congenial as they come and was instantly responsive to any questions we had. His expertise resulted in us getting a great loan product - one we didn't even know was possible. We highly recommend Counsel Mortgage Group and can't say enough good things about our experience with John.

Google
Peter Gladkin
★★★★★

Counsel Mortgage and John Rapasky is an excellent choice if you are looking for real estate finance. I have been a full time practicing real estate broker for over 15 years, licensed in Arizona and California. I have worked with more lenders than I can count. In the last transaction in which I represented the buyer, I had the chance to work with John. John's rates and pricing were better than two other local lenders, which is why my buyer chose to work with him, but finance is so much more than pricing, and John delivered on all accounts. We met all our benchmarks through the escrow process, he kept us well informed as we worked towards closing, was available throughout the process, and we closed on time without any issues. I would not hesitate and intend on sending any buyers I represent to John should they be in need of financing. Even if you have another lender in mind, I highly recommend you give John a call and see what he can do for you. A true professional.

OUR GOALS

Our goal is to make financing clear, simple, and personal

Our goal is to help you feel confident at every step of the mortgage process. We focus on clear communication, personalized loan options, and dependable guidance designed around your financial goals.

Personalized Guidance

We take the time to understand your needs and recommend financing options that fit your goals.

Client-First Service

We build lasting relationships by providing responsive support, honest answers, and a smoother experience.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

Common questions about our mortgage services

Buying or refinancing a home comes with a lot of questions. At Counsel Mortgage Group, we make the process easier to understand with clear guidance, and support from application through closing.

Counsel Mortgage Group offers a variety of financing options, including conventional, FHA, VA, jumbo, and refinance loans. We’ll help you explore the programs that best fit your goals and financial situation.

We take the time to understand your income, down payment, credit profile, budget, and long-term plans. From there, we help you compare available options so you can choose a mortgage that makes sense for you.

The amount required depends on the loan program and your qualifications. Some programs may allow for a lower down payment, while others may require more. We’ll walk you through the options and help you understand what to expect.

Timelines can vary depending on the loan type, property, and borrower documentation. Our team works to keep the process moving efficiently while keeping you informed from application through closing.

Yes. We can review your current mortgage and help you determine whether refinancing may make sense for your goals, whether you’re looking to change your loan terms, access equity, or explore a different financing structure.

Our Affiliations