Independent Mortgage Broker · Backed by Barrett Financial Group
Home financing, the friendly way.
“Your mortgage BFF.”
Honest guidance, great rates, and genuine care at every step. You're never just another file — I truly care about your goals, your timeline, and making your home-financing experience smooth and stress-free.
See why so many homebuyers trust Stef with their home financing.
Read Google Reviews →In Their Words
What clients are saying
Real reviews from real homebuyers.
Meet Your Broker
A mortgage should feel personal — not transactional.
As an independent mortgage broker, my passion is finding you a competitive rate while delivering honest guidance and genuine care every step of the way.
You're never just another file. I truly care about your goals, your timeline, and making your home-financing experience smooth and stress-free.
I believe getting a mortgage should feel personal — not transactional.
— Stef Simmons, Mortgage Broker
Backed by Barrett Financial Group, LLC — giving you access to a wide range of lenders and loan programs, so we can shop for the fit that's right for you.
More about Stef →What I Can Help With
Loan options for every kind of buyer
Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or tapping equity — as a broker I can shop multiple lenders to find your best fit.
Conventional
Flexible options for buyers with solid credit and steady income.
Learn more → 🔑FHA
Lower down payments and flexible credit — great for first-time buyers.
Learn more → 🎖️VA
Zero-down financing and strong benefits for veterans and service members.
Learn more → 🌾USDA
No-down-payment loans for eligible rural and suburban homes.
Learn more → 💎Jumbo
Financing for higher-value homes above conventional limits.
Learn more → 🔄Refinance
Lower your rate, change your term, or tap into your home's equity.
Learn more →Self-Employed & Investors
Specialty & non-QM loans
Don't fit the traditional box? These programs are built for business owners, investors, and non-traditional borrowers.
Bank Statement
For self-employed borrowers — qualify using 12–24 months of bank statements instead of tax returns.
Learn more → 🪪ITIN
Homeownership for borrowers who file taxes with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number.
Learn more → 🏘️DSCR
For real estate investors — qualify on the property's rental income, not your personal income.
Learn more →Also available: non-QM, asset-based, HELOCs, cash-out refinance, and down-payment assistance programs. See all loan options → · Not sure what fits? Get a quick quote →
How It Works
Simple, clear, and stress-free
Say hi
Book a quick call or send a message. We'll talk through your goals and timeline — no pressure.
Get pre-approved
Complete a quick, secure online application so we know exactly what you qualify for.
Shop your options
As a broker, I compare lenders and programs to find a competitive rate and the right fit.
Close with confidence
I'll guide you through underwriting to the closing table — smooth and stress-free.
Good to Know
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
Pre-qualification is a quick, informal estimate of what you might be able to borrow. Pre-approval is stronger: I verify your income, assets, and credit, so you get a documented amount to shop with — and sellers take your offer more seriously. I always recommend getting pre-approved before you house-hunt.
Can I buy a home with as little as 3% down?
Often, yes. Several conventional programs allow as little as 3% down, FHA goes as low as 3.5%, and VA and USDA loans can offer 0% down for those who qualify — plus there are down-payment assistance programs. The right fit depends on your situation, which is exactly what I help you figure out.
How much income do I need to buy a home?
There's no single number — it depends on the price, your down payment, your other monthly debts, and current rates. Lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio, not income alone. Try my affordability calculator for a ballpark, then we'll dial in a real number together.
What credit score do I need to buy a home?
It varies by loan program — some allow lower scores than people expect, with options across a wide credit range. A higher score usually means better terms, but don't count yourself out. If your credit needs work, I can point you in the right direction before you apply.
How long does it take to close on a mortgage?
Most purchase loans close in about 30 days, though it can be faster or slower depending on the loan type, appraisal, and how quickly documents come together. I keep things moving and communicate every step so there are no surprises.
What are closing costs, and how much should I expect?
Closing costs are the fees to finalize your loan — appraisal, title, lender fees, and more — and typically run around 2–5% of the loan amount. Some can be negotiated, rolled in, or covered by seller credits. I'll walk you through a clear estimate up front.
How do interest rates affect my monthly payment?
Even a small rate change moves your payment, since interest is charged on your whole balance over many years. See exactly how much with my payment calculator. As a broker, I shop multiple lenders to find you a competitive rate.
What types of home loans do you offer?
As an independent broker I offer conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and jumbo loans, plus refinancing and cash-out options — shopping multiple lenders to find a competitive rate and the right fit for you.
Do you offer bank statement, ITIN, or DSCR loans?
Yes. I offer bank statement loans (qualify with bank statements instead of tax returns — ideal for the self-employed), ITIN loans for borrowers without a Social Security number, and DSCR loans for real estate investors that qualify on the property's rental income. These non-QM programs are built for borrowers who don't fit the traditional box.
How is a mortgage broker different from a bank?
Instead of a single bank's products, I work with many lenders and compare their rates and programs on your behalf — so you get options, not just one institution's answer.
Let's Talk
Ready when you are
Have a question or ready to get started? Reach out any way you like.
- Call or Text
- (503) 481-7866
- simmons@barrettfinancial.com
- Office
- 6 N Everett Street
Kennewick, WA 99336