Stephen Hardy Preferred Rate - NMLS #2022636

09/23/2026

Celebrating new beginnings in Grand Rapids! 🎉 We’re proud to celebrate the grand opening of our newest Preferred Rate branch and excited to build lasting relationships with local homebuyers and real estate partners.

Pictured left to right: Mortgage Advisors Mike Milanowski and Jason Jenkins, VP of Marketing Tennille Scuncio, Branch Manager Aaron Schoonover, and EVP of Operations Chris Lekousis.

Here’s to growing together in Grand Rapids! 🏡

09/16/2026

Good news if you're house hunting: loan limits are expected to go up again for 2027, and we're already locking loans at the new number — up to $845,000 in most areas, up to $1,267,500 in higher-cost areas. That's ahead of the official government announcement, which usually lands in November.

What that can mean for you: more buyers who were on the edge of needing a jumbo loan may now qualify for a standard one, often with easier terms.

Curious what this means for your numbers? Let's talk.

09/07/2026

Today we celebrate the strength, resilience, and dedication of the American worker.
💼 Happy Labor Day!
https://myoc.io/PreferredRate

09/04/2026

Whether you're planning for the rest of 2026 or thinking ahead to 2027, the right partnership can make all the difference.

At Preferred Rate, we're committed to helping mortgage professionals build businesses that last.

Learn more at bit.ly/4aEfNif

09/01/2026

Unlike a bridge loan or home equity loan, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) requires payments only on the amount you borrow, making it a flexible financing option if you’re buying your next home if you're planning to keep your home as a rental.

With a HELOC, you can tap into your current home’s equity before it goes on the market—giving you access to funds when timing matters most.

It’s like having a built-in financial cushion that helps you move forward—on your own terms. If you're looking at strategies to BRIDGE the gap TO BUY a home - let's talk!
https://myoc.io/PreferredRate

08/27/2026

Don't count yourself out before we've even looked at the numbers. Perfect credit? Not required. 20% down? Not always necessary. The "right" rate? There's more flexibility than you think.

A lot of people rule themselves out of buying or refinancing based on assumptions that just aren't true anymore. Let's look at your actual situation together — you might be closer than you think.
https://myoc.io/PreferredRate

08/25/2026

The rules of mortgage lending have changed.

We believe home financing should fit your life, not the other way around.

If you’ve been told your credit score isn’t good enough to buy a home, it may be time for a second look. With a broad range of mortgage solutions, including programs designed for first-time homebuyers, borrowers with new or rebuilding credit, and those with unique financial situations, we’ve helped more people find a path to homeownership.
Don’t assume you don’t qualify. Let's Talk.
https://myoc.io/PreferredRate

08/24/2026

Welcome to Preferred Rate, Jason! 🎉

We’re excited to welcome Jason Jenkins to the Preferred Rate family!

With nearly 30 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Jason brings a wealth of knowledge, a client-first approach, and a commitment to finding the right mortgage strategy for each individual client. He understands that no two homebuyers are the same—and believes that clear, consistent communication is key to a successful mortgage experience.

Jason’s dedication to his clients, combined with his experience and passion for helping people achieve their homeownership goals, makes him a great addition to the Preferred Rate team. 🏡

Please join us in giving Jason a warm welcome! We’re excited to have you on board, Jason, and look forward to all that’s ahead! 💙

08/21/2026

Welcome to Preferred Rate, Michael! 🎉

We’re excited to welcome Michael Milanowski to the Preferred Rate family as our newest Mortgage Loan Originator in our Grand Rapids, Michigan branch!

Michael is joining Aaron Schoonover and the growing Grand Rapids team, and we’re thrilled to have him on board. We’re looking forward to the relationships he’ll build, the clients he’ll serve, and all the great things ahead!

If you’re in the Grand Rapids area, be sure to give Michael a warm welcome and say hello! 👋

📞 616-481-6606
📧 [email protected]
https://bit.ly/4xQ2mVl

Welcome to the team, Michael! We’re so glad you’re here! 💙

05/10/2023

Look no further! Here at Preferred Rate, we are the best of the best. Expertise, seamlessness, and satisfaction are what we guarantee. Reach out anytime 🏡

04/26/2023

Even if you don't want to purchase today, you can make a plan your home-buying plan with an expert lender today. We turn your dreams into goals, and your goals into reality. Never hesitate to reach out to a lender. We are here for YOU!

04/26/2023

Whether you're located in our wonderful town of Libertyville or in the vibrant city of Chicago (or anywhere else!) we have you covered. Let's find your dream location; let's get you home.

12/15/2022

When the holiday season comes around, we can't help but think about how thankful we are for our clients, friends, and family. We appreciate all of the support you give us, and we love helping you in return! We're here for you anytime, all the time.

-Your Lenders

12/13/2022

Do you love the magic of winter? Or are you more of a summer person! Let us know ❄️

12/07/2022

I'll be your homeownership guide and expert! Feel free to reach out anytime.

We understand that a mortgage is far more than a mortgage, a mortgage is a home. A home is a place of comfort, laughter, creativity, contentment, love, expression, and opportunity. Here at Preferred Rate, we understand the importance and excitement of homeownership. Allow a Preferred Rate expert to guide you when reaching your homeownership goals. We care, and that's a .

11/30/2022

I'd love to help you reach your homeownership goals! Reach out anytime!

Here at Preferred Rate, we are proud to be a team of meticulous, caring loan experts. We promise to make your loan process seamless, while educating you along the way. We'll make it happen, it's what we do.

11/24/2022

If you're a first-time homebuyer, there's no need to fret. A Preferred Rate expert will educate you throughout the mortgage process while providing transparency, professionalism, and seamlessness. At Preferred Rate, we care, and that's a .

Call us at (847) 625-5555 or find your lender on our website:
https://preferredrate.com/libertyville-illinois/find-an-advisor/

11/21/2022

I'm here for you every step of the way! Reach out anytime.

With Preferred Rate, your homeownership goals are made possible. Through expertise, determination, and genuine care, The Preferred Rate team is here to provide guidance and help you in reaching your homeownership goals. We'll make it happen, it's what we do.