Jessie Brumbaugh, Mortgage Consultant

Jessie Brumbaugh, Mortgage Consultant Jessie Brumbaugh is a CA licensee mortgage consultant with Santa Cruz Lending Group. Contact her for

Struggling to get a home loan because of those pesky tax returns? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!In Santa Cruz County, wh...
02/25/2026

Struggling to get a home loan because of those pesky tax returns? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!

In Santa Cruz County, where freelancers, small business owners, and creatives thrive, traditional loan processes can seem like a mountain too big to climb. Many feel boxed out because their reported income on paper doesn’t match their real cash flow. But here’s a secret: you don’t need W-2s or pay stubs to make homeownership a reality!

Bank on Your Bank Statements: Use 12-24 months of personal or business bank statements to show your true earning potential. This works wonders for those with big business deductions.

Flex for Non-Traditional Income: This is ideal for those gig workers or part-time business owners with as little as 20-25% ownership. Show your creative hustle with confidence!

Higher Limits on Loan Amounts: Qualify for up to $3-5 million, which can get you that dream coastal property in Santa Cruz. LTV ratios go up to 90%, ideal for large purchases.

Forget the Tax Returns: You heard it! No need for those frustrating forms like 1099s or Schedule Cs. This is your chance to buy, refinance, or even cash out on your primary or second home.

Prepare Your Papers: You’ll need those bank statements, proof of self-employment history, and a decent credit score. With these in hand, you’re well on your way to securing that perfect home.

Ready to upsize, downsize, or tap into your home’s equity without the regular hurdles? Drop a comment or send me a message to learn how we can make this work for you, it’s easier than you think! 🏡✨

Did you know you can use your Retirement accounts to qualify for a home loan in Santa Cruz County? 🌊 It’s a smart way to...
02/18/2026

Did you know you can use your Retirement accounts to qualify for a home loan in Santa Cruz County? 🌊 It’s a smart way to make your seaside living dreams come true without the hassle and stress of proving traditional income.

Imagine living in a cozy beach house without having to sell your stocks or dip into retirement funds. This is possible with asset depletion loans, a game-changer for those with substantial savings but low reportable income, like retirees and self-employed folks.

Calculate Your Income: These loans convert your assets into monthly income, making them perfect for Santa Cruz locals who want to upsize or downsize. For instance, you can use $1M in assets to qualify for $27,000 in monthly income.

Explore Loan Types: Choose between conventional (Fannie Mae) with lower rates or private/portfolio programs for larger loans up to $3M, perfect for those eyeing a stunning view upgrade or refinancing.

Check Your Eligibility: Even if you're not ready to retire at 62, you might still be eligible. Just keep your credit score above 620, plan for a 20% down payment, and ensure your loan-to-value ratio stays at 80% or less.

Get Professional Guidance: Navigating asset depletion loans might sound complex, but I’m here to guide you every step of the way, making the process as smooth as the Pacific coastline.

Ready to see how your assets can work for you? Comment below, and let's discuss how you can tap into your resources to make your Santa Cruz dream home a reality. 🏖️

Ever feel like home loans are out of reach because of your non-traditional income? Let’s change that!Being self-employed...
02/13/2026

Ever feel like home loans are out of reach because of your non-traditional income? Let’s change that!

Being self-employed in sunny Santa Cruz is amazing, but when it comes to qualifying for a home loan, it can feel like being in a maze. Refinance or purchase loans often seem off-limits if you don’t have regular W-2s. But good news! Bank statement loans are tailored just for you, Santa Cruz’s bustling entrepreneurs and freelancers. 🌟

Imagine living in those beautiful coastal neighborhoods, knowing your business expenses aren’t dragging down your home loan potential. That’s where bank statement loans shine. With these, you can qualify for a refinance or purchase based on your actual deposits, not your lowered income reports. Sounds like magic, right?

Here’s how you benefit:

Know Your Numbers: Pull together 12 to 24 months of personal or business bank statements. Say goodbye to the struggle of tax returns when applying for a loan.

Credit Score Flex: Have a credit score of at least 620? You're in a good spot! Even if it's a bit lower, some programs are flexible and understanding of life's bumps.

Down Payments Made Easy: Think a 20% down payment is the norm? With bank statement loans, you might just need as little as 10%. It opens up Santa Cruz's diverse housing market for you.

Diverse Loan Options: Whether you’re eyeing a primary home, a cozy seaside condo, or even a second house, these flexible loan options are your ticket.

What's Next? Ready to dig into the local housing and loan opportunities? Drop a comment or send a message. Let’s navigate your home buying or refinancing journey together, and turn Santa Cruz into your perfect fit. 🏠

Thinking about buying a home in Santa Cruz County but worried about the down payment? Let's talk about the California Dr...
02/12/2026

Thinking about buying a home in Santa Cruz County but worried about the down payment? Let's talk about the California Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan Program!

Here's a truth you might not know: as a first-time homebuyer, you might qualify for up to 20% assistance for your home purchase! In a county where home prices can feel sky-high, this program can make your homeownership dreams a reality without breaking the bank.

Requirement: you must be a first-generation homeowners.

Understand Your Assistance: The program offers up to $150,000 for your down payment or closing costs. Remember, this is not free money, it's an investment in your future.

Take the Education Course: Enroll in the required homebuyer education course. It’s a fantastic way to learn the ins and outs of the process and makes sure you’re fully prepared.

Prepare Your Documents: Have your paperwork ready! This includes government IDs, and documents proving you're a first-generation homebuyer if applicable.

Santa Cruz homes are within reach; all you need is the right plan. Ready to learn more about how this program can work for you? Comment below or drop me a message, and let’s chat! 🏡🏖️ Let's make your Santa Cruz dream a reality with smart planning and the right assistance.

Imagine this: you find your dream home in California, and it’s everything you’ve ever wanted. But there’s a catch—your c...
01/24/2026

Imagine this: you find your dream home in California, and it’s everything you’ve ever wanted. But there’s a catch—your current home’s not sold yet, and you’re worried about missing out. Enter the bridge loan, your secret weapon for getting the keys to that perfect place without the unnecessary rush.

Here’s the deal. Bridge loans are all about flexibility and speed—two things that matter in our fast-paced, competitive market. Imagine making an offer on your new home without having to sell your current one first. It’s a game-changer because it makes your offer stand out to sellers.

Act Fast: Bridge loans close much quicker than traditional loans, often within days. This speed means you can swoop in on a hot property and secure it before someone else does.

Access Your Equity: These loans let you tap into your home’s equity to fund a new down payment. It smooths out the financial bumps between selling and buying.

Fewer Moves: With a bridge loan, you’re typically looking at terms of 6 to 12 months. This short-term nature means you avoid packing up and moving twice—talk about less stress!

Strong Offers: By removing sale contingencies, your offer becomes stronger and more appealing to sellers—a huge advantage in a seller’s market.

Cash Flow Savvy: Many bridge loans offer interest-only payments, which lowers initial monthly costs and keeps your cash flow happy.

Considering a move or just curious? Let’s chat about how a bridge loan could be the right move for you. Drop a comment or send a message, and we’ll help you figure out the best plan for getting that amazing home. 🏡🔑🏠

Think you need to sell your old home before buying a new one? Think again!In the hustle and bustle of California's real ...
01/10/2026

Think you need to sell your old home before buying a new one? Think again!

In the hustle and bustle of California's real estate market, the idea of juggling the sale of your current home with buying a new one feels like a tightrope walk, right? But here's a truth not everyone knows: selling first isn't always your only option. Enter bridge loans—to the rescue!

These neat financial tools offer flexibility by letting you make offers on a new home without having the sale of your current one hanging over your head. In a fast-paced market, that’s a game-changer. Imagine being able to secure that perfect place you’ve had your eye on without delay.

Speed Matters – With bridge loans, you can access funding much faster than traditional mortgages, sometimes in just days or weeks, helping you act quickly when the competition is fierce.

Tap Your Equity – Utilize the value in your current home to fund your down payment on the new one. You get the edge of grabbing your next dream space without waiting.

Short and Sweet – Typically, these loans last 6 to 12 months. It simplifies your moving timeline, meaning you won’t be caught in limbo between homes.

And let's not forget about Improved Offers—eliminate contingencies about selling your home and make stronger offers, which sellers love! This can truly set you apart in a seller's market.

Bridge loans are about giving you the power to transition smoothly without rushing into a sale. Curious if this could be the solution for you? Comment below or message me to explore this option and more for your home buying journey! 🏠🚀

Are steep home prices holding you back in Santa Cruz County? Let’s talk about how new loan limits open doors for buying ...
01/09/2026

Are steep home prices holding you back in Santa Cruz County? Let’s talk about how new loan limits open doors for buying or refinancing.

Living in Santa Cruz, you’ve probably heard about the soaring home prices. But here’s some good news: the 2026 conforming loan limits have increased, meaning more buying power without diving into the jumble of jumbo loans.

Let’s break it down. The limit for a 1-unit property in Santa Cruz is now $1,249,125, up from last year. This means if you're looking at a place under this amount, you’re in the sweet spot for conforming loans, which generally offer lower rates and require smaller down payments.

Why is this important? Well, with a low-balance loan under $832,750, you could snag a competitive interest rate and enjoy as low as a 3% down payment that’s fully giftable, ideal if you’re buying your first home. And for those aiming above $832,751 but under $1,249,125? A high-balance loan means slightly higher rates but still within conforming limits, with only 5% down, no extra reserves needed.

Consider this: if your income is below $159,360, you could waive extra fees on your first loan, reducing upfront costs, making homeownership more reachable. It's all about finding the right fit for your financial picture.

Santa Cruz is an incredible place to live, and these loan limits can ease the path to owning your slice of it. Thinking about buying or refinancing? Drop a comment or send a message, let’s find the best option for you.

Exciting news for families in Santa Cruz County! The 2026 loan limits have been updated, and this could be the perfect t...
01/08/2026

Exciting news for families in Santa Cruz County! The 2026 loan limits have been updated, and this could be the perfect time for you to consider moving to a bigger, more comfortable home. Here’s what this means for you:

1️⃣ Bigger Loan Limits = More Options
With increased loan limits, families looking to upsize have more flexibility. This means you can now qualify for a loan that covers a larger portion of your dream home. No more settling for less!

Why It Matters: A higher limit opens doors to homes that better fit your growing needs, whether you want more bedrooms, a spacious backyard, or a home office.

2️⃣ Easier Qualification Process
New limits mean the qualification process is often smoother, allowing for easier access to competitive interest rates and loan products. It’s time to explore options that fit your budget and lifestyle.

How it Works: Our expert team can guide you through the application, ensuring you understand the best loan options available to you under the new limits.

3️⃣ Secure Competitive Rates
Upsizing doesn’t have to mean higher monthly costs. With the new loan limits, you might find that competitive rates and tailored loan products make it possible to manage your budget efficiently.

Benefit: Locked-in low rates help stabilize your monthly payments, giving you peace of mind and financial predictability.

4️⃣ Tap into Equity with Refi Options
If your current home has equity built up, refinancing at these new limits can provide the capital you need for a larger property, while potentially lowering your monthly payments.

Pro Tip: A cash-out refinance can give you funds for moving expenses or renovations in your new home.

5️⃣ Plan with Confidence
Understanding these 2026 changes lets you plan your move with greater confidence and clarity. We’re here to assist with personalized advice, ensuring you seize the opportunity that best suits your family’s goals.

Ready to learn more about how the new loan limits can work for you and your family? Start the journey to that bigger home today! Comment below or message us for more details and personalized guidance. Let's make your dream home a reality in Santa Cruz County!

Buying your first home in California? 🌴 Understanding the importance of a down payment is the first step! Here’s why it ...
01/05/2026

Buying your first home in California? 🌴 Understanding the importance of a down payment is the first step! Here’s why it matters and how to get started:

1️⃣ Why a Down Payment Matters
A larger down payment shows lenders you’re financially responsible and lowers your loan amount, reducing monthly payments. It helps avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), which can save you thousands over the life of your loan.

Practical Perk: Less loan = smaller monthly mortgage payments, giving you more budget freedom for other life goals!

2️⃣ How Much Should You Save?
Aim for 20% of the home’s price to avoid PMI, but many first-time buyers start with less. Programs sometimes allow as little as 3-5% down, making homeownership more accessible. Calculate how much house you want, then set a savings target that aligns with your budget.

Example: For a $500,000 home, a 20% down payment is $100,000, whereas 5% is just $25,000!

3️⃣ Building Your Down Payment Fund
Break it down into manageable steps and stay consistent:
- Set a Monthly Savings Goal: Determine what you can save each month and stick to it.
- Evaluate Expenses: Cut non-essentials and redirect that money into savings.
- Explore Assistance Programs: Many offer down payment aid for first-time buyers.

Emotional Benefit: Building this fund empowers you with confidence and control, turning dreams of homeownership into reality.

4️⃣ The Role of Your Real Estate Expert
Working with a knowledgeable loan officer can introduce you to options you might not know about—like special loan programs, grants, or financing strategies that make saving easier.

Example: Our team can help you explore options like bank statement loans or bridge loans, tailored to your unique situation.

Why It Matters
A strategic approach to your down payment can make all the difference in securing your first home. It's not just about saving money—it's about laying a solid foundation for your financial future and achieving the dream of homeownership in beautiful California.

Ready to take the first step towards your new home? Let’s chat about how we can support your journey with tailored loan options. Drop a comment or message me to get started! 🏡💬

Thinking of upsizing or downsizing your home in California? FHA loans could be your smart move! Whether you’re a first-t...
01/03/2026

Thinking of upsizing or downsizing your home in California? FHA loans could be your smart move! Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to adjust your living space, here’s why FHA loans are your best bet:

1️⃣ Lower Down Payment = Easier Start
FHA loans let you step into homeownership with as little as 3.5% down, making it easier to get started when upsizing or downsizing. This means you can keep more savings to tackle moving costs, furnish your new space, or invest in other areas of your life.

Why It Matters: By reducing upfront costs, FHA loans offer financial flexibility right from the get-go, easing the transition to a bigger or cozier home.

2️⃣ Flexible Credit Requirements
Got less-than-perfect credit? No worries! FHA loans accommodate a range of credit scores, offering opportunities even if your credit history isn’t spotless.

Why It Matters: This flexibility means you can make your move despite past financial mistakes, empowering you to secure your dream home today.

3️⃣ Competitive Interest Rates
FHA loans typically come with competitive interest rates, making monthly payments more affordable. With rates that are often lower than conventional loans, you’ll enjoy reduced mortgage costs over time.

Example: Over a 30-year term, a slightly better interest rate could save you thousands, freeing up funds for vacations, savings, or home improvements.

4️⃣ Mortgage Insurance Premium Protection
One unique aspect of FHA loans is their mortgage insurance premium (MIP), which protects lenders and provides you with access to these favorable loan terms. This feature makes owning a home possible for more people by mitigating lender risk and expanding your options.

Pro Tip: Tackle MIP costs with a plan. After building enough equity, explore refinancing options to eliminate MIP and reduce monthly payments.

5️⃣ Streamlined Refinancing Options
Already settled in your FHA-financed home? Take advantage of the FHA Streamline Refinance, simplifying the process if you ever want to switch to better terms or rates without a full re-appraisal.

Why It Matters: Easy refinancing means you can adapt your loan to better suit your needs if circumstances change, providing peace of mind and financial agility.

The Bottom Line
FHA loans offer a path to homeownership with manageable financial entry points, flexible terms, and ongoing opportunities for savings and refinancing. They’re perfect for first-time buyers or those seeking to adapt their living situation without financial strain.

Ready to explore an FHA loan for your next move? Let’s make it happen! Drop a comment or message me to discuss your needs and options today.

Did you know that borrowing limits change based on the type of home loan you choose? 🏡 Let's break it down.If you're sho...
12/31/2025

Did you know that borrowing limits change based on the type of home loan you choose? 🏡 Let's break it down.

If you're shopping for a home loan in California, understanding your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio can make all the difference. This ratio is crucial—it’s all about how much of your income goes toward monthly debt. Here's where it gets interesting: different loans have different rules!

FHA Loans: These are super flexible. You can go beyond the usual 43% DTI if you've got a great credit score or some savings to back you up. It's perfect if you have a bit more debt.

Conventional Loans: Normally keep your DTI around 43%, but if you have strong credit and reserves, you might push it up to 50%.

VA Loans: For veterans, there’s no strict DTI cap. You could go over 50% as these loans consider your residual income too.

USDA Loans: They’re a bit stricter, hanging around 41%, but there’s wiggle room if you have compensating factors.

Jumbo loan: these have a max DTI of 43% to 45% depending on the investor and reserve requirements.

Understanding these differences is key, especially in California's competitive market where every edge counts. And in today’s high-interest world, knowing your DTI means you can better navigate your borrowing power.

Thinking about upsizing, downsizing, or refinancing? Knowing which loan suits your situation can make a big impact. Drop a comment or message me to chat about your options. With the right guidance, we can find the best loan path for you! 📈💬

Address

Soquel, CA
95073

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Jessie Brumbaugh, Mortgage Consultant posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Jessie Brumbaugh, Mortgage Consultant:

Share