Mortgage Broker in OC

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Jeff Markell 714.614.4040 - NMLS 224196 and Lee Korengold 714.336.0930 - NMLS 236625. Empire Home Loans NMLS 1839243

I offer a special program that significantly reduces your mortgage payments for the entire first year. Call me to learn ...
06/08/2026

I offer a special program that significantly reduces your mortgage payments for the entire first year. Call me to learn more! Lee Korengold 714.336.0930 NMLS # 236625, Empire Home Loans NMLS # 1839243

A home equity line of credit allows you to access the cash you've already put into your house. Message me to see how a H...
05/29/2026

A home equity line of credit allows you to access the cash you've already put into your house. Message me to see how a HELOC could help you consolidate debt or free up funds. Lee Korengold 714.336.0930 NMLS # 236625, Empire Home Loans NMLS # 1839243

05/28/2026

Here’s what no one tells you about a VA loan closing costs, and it could cost you thousands. You’ve probably heard VA loans equal no down payment, right? But what about the closing costs? Lender fees, Escrow, Title Insurance, Taxes, all due upfront. These costs can be 2.5% to 4% of your home price. On a $400,000 home, that’s $10,000 to $16,000. And, guess what? Some costs, like lender fees, are capped by the VA. Others you can’t pay at all. So, how do you handle it? Option 1: Ask your seller to cover them. The VA lets them pay all of it. Option 2: Get a lender credit. Higher rate but fewer upfront dollars. Option 3: Raise the purchase price to stack the costs into the deal. Higher rate, but fewer upfront dollars. Option 4: Use a gift, grant, or even a personal loan. Yes, that’s allowed. Bonus tip: Some of these costs, like prepaid taxes or mortgage points, might be tax-deductible. Talk to your tax advisor. DM me “VA Closing,” and I’ll send you the full checklist, so you’re not caught off guard at the table.

05/27/2026

Why Debt-to-Income Means Nothing on a VA Loan
This might be an unpopular opinion, but debt-to-income ratios are totally overrated for VA loans.
Why does this matter for veterans?
Most loans, FHA, conventional, USDA, get capped by your debt-to-income ratio, but not the same with a VA loan.
There’s a different test, and it’s way more important.
It’s called residual income.
That’s the money you have left over after everything, mortgage, consumer debts, taxes, even childcare and commuting costs.
VA wants to know, do you have a cushion every month?
So, does this mean I could have a low debt-to-income ratio and still be denied if I don’t meet the residual test?
Yes.
Or, you could have a 65% debt ratio. That’s kind of high and still get approved because you passed the residual income test.
This is where VA loans stand apart.
And, what’s all this about grossing up income?
The gross-up rule lets lenders boost your non-taxable income for debt-to-income ratio, but not for residual income.
So that $2,000 in VA disability might count as $2,500 for one test, but it’s only $2,000 when VA runs your residual calculations.
When applying for a VA loan, don’t just ask about your debt ratio. Ask how your residual income stacks up.
Tag someone using their VA benefits soon, or follow to learn how to maximize their approval odds.

Found your perfect home with an all-cash deal? Ask me about refinancing options that could put that cash back in your po...
05/27/2026

Found your perfect home with an all-cash deal? Ask me about refinancing options that could put that cash back in your pocket! Lee Korengold 714.336.0930 NMLS # 236625, Empire Home Loans NMLS # 1839243

05/27/2026

Think one VA loan denial means the door is closed? Not so fast. - The surprising truth about VA loans, there are four different ways to get approved and most Veterans don’t know them.
Here’s the deal: Your loan approval doesn’t come down to just one person.
It usually starts with a computer called an automated underwriting system, or AUS.
Think of it as the brain that looks at your credit, income, debts, and more, and then spits out a yes or no.
Approval way #1, Desktop Underwriter, or DU. That’s Fannie Mae’s automated system.
Approval way #2, Loan Product Advisor, or LPA. That’s Freddie Mac’s automated system.
Fun fact, if DU says no, LPA might say yes. Smart lenders run both.
Approval way #3, manual underwriting. That’s when a real human underwriter reviews your file.
They can see things that a computer might miss, like an excusable reason for late payments.
And approval way #4, direct underwriting at the VA.
If all else fails, you can appeal directly to the Department of Veterans Affairs for a second look.
So before you give up on a VA loan, remember, you’ve got four doors to approval.
Don’t stop at the first no!

Today, let's pause and honor the brave servicemen and women who have sacrificed for the freedom we enjoy here in the goo...
05/25/2026

Today, let's pause and honor the brave servicemen and women who have sacrificed for the freedom we enjoy here in the good old USA.

05/25/2026

Did you know you could buy down the interest rate on your mortgage for up to three years? Call me today to learn how I can help you save money at the start of your loan. Lee Korengold 714.336.0930 NMLS # 236625, Empire Home Loans NMLS # 1839243

Today's condos can offer convenience, breathtaking views and modern amenities that make them more appealing than ever be...
05/22/2026

Today's condos can offer convenience, breathtaking views and modern amenities that make them more appealing than ever before. And I can offer a variety of loans to fit your needs, budget and lifestyle. Reach out today! Lee Korengold 714.336.0930 NMLS # 236625, Empire Home Loans NMLS # 1839243

05/21/2026

VA Loan Strategy - A VA loan should not be treated like a basic mortgage checklist. For the right borrower, it can be a powerful homebuying tool. But the strategy matters. You still want to compare payment, cash to close, seller credits, rate options, and how long you expect to keep the home. I have seen Veterans focus only on the zero down benefit, then miss other details that could affect comfort after closing. The goal is not just getting approved. The goal is getting into the right structure. If you are a Veteran, active duty, or eligible surviving spouse, let’s look at your VA loan options before you make your next move.

Address

4401 Hazel Avenue , Ste. 225
Fair Oaks, CA
95628

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 6pm
Tuesday 9am - 6pm
Wednesday 9am - 6pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 6pm
Saturday 9am - 6pm

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+17143360930

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