Smarter Home Financing. Bigger Wealth Potential.
The best way to buy, refinance, and invest—backed by the #1 mortgage broker in U.S.
- Smarter Financing– Exclusive access to wholesale pricing and lender competition.
- Faster, Easier Approvals– Streamlined process without the red tape.
- Long-Term Wealth Strategy– Not just a loan—a roadmap to wealth through real estate.
Wealth-building is a team sport—by collaborating with financial professionals, realtors, and builders, we help you win.
From buying your first home to scaling your investments, we’re here—guiding your every step.
The Stairway Client™
A Lifetime of Financial Guidance
Wherever you are on your wealth journey, we meet you there—and guide your next steps with clarity and purpose.
From first-time buyers to legacy builders, we help our clients climb 8 specific steps, understanding that some may remain on one step for awhile, while others steadily climb—advancing through every stage as their goals, assets, and opportunities grow.
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homeowners & investors served
The 8 Steps - Download Your Next Step
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Mortgage Pros
Powering Your Advantage
Powering Your Advantage
Learn About Our Partnership
Backed by NEXA Mortgage, the #1 U.S. Broker, with unmatched bargaining power.
Lenders compete for our business, giving you competitive rates, great programs, and wholesale pricing—powered by the largest mortgage network in the country and delivered through a dedicated advisor focused on your goals.
As the #1 Mortgage Broker in U.S.
The Nation’s Top Lenders Compete for Our Business
We partner with 250+ lenders—here’s a glimpse of just 12 of our top partners delivering unbeatable pricing, cutting-edge technology, and lightning-fast closings.
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New brand. Same trusted leadership.
What Clients Say About Working with Jim & His Team
Built on Trust. Backed by Experience.
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New brand. Same trusted leadership.
What Clients Say About Working with Jim & His Team
Built on Trust. Backed by Experience.
Same-Day Approval™
Be Ready to Win.
Get preapproved fast and shop with confidence.
✔ Know exactly what you can afford—no surprises
✔ Strengthen your offers with a same-day preapproval
✔ Streamline the homebuying process for a faster close
Nobody plans to fail—people fail to plan.
steps to success
How Our Certified Stairway Advisors™ Align Mortgages With Your Wealth Goals in 3 Steps
We bridge the gap between smart mortgage solutions, strategic financial guidance, and wealth-building.
Discover More Tools To Guide You
Relocating or Investing Cross Country?
Our nationwide network of trusted financial professionals ensures a seamless experience.
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Relocating or Investing Cross Country?
- Trusted nationwide network
- Top agents & mortgage lenders
- Smooth out-of-state transactions
- Seamless process from start to finish
- Leading brands working for you
Buy Now And Refi Later 36 Month Guarantee
Refinance anytime within 36 months—without excessive closing costs.
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Buy Now And Refi Later 36 Month Guarantee
- Locked-in savings for 3 years
- We cover title & settlement fees
- Appraisal & credit report included
- No surprise refinance expenses
- Secure lower rates hassle-free
Unlock Your Home’s Equity Without Losing Your Low Rate
Access cash without replacing your first mortgage.
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Unlock Your Home’s Equity Without Losing Your Low Rate
- No appraisal needed
- No hard credit pull
- Minimal paperwork required
- Fixed-rate stability
- Use funds for any purpose
Download A Guide To Help You On Your Way
24 Years of Financial Experience
Collaborating with Trusted Experts to Build Your Wealth Plan
A mortgage shouldn’t exist in a vacuum. By partnering with financial advisors, we ensure our clients’ home financing strategies align perfectly with their long-term financial plans—creating more value, more trust, and better results.
Jim Blackburn
Founder of Stairway Mortgage
1. A Unified Wealth-Building Strategy
We work hand-in-hand with your financial advisors, tax professionals, and estate planners to ensure your mortgage complements your broader financial goals—whether it’s wealth preservation, retirement planning, or investment growth.
2. Seamless Coordination with Your Experts
We integrate real estate financing with your existing wealth strategy by collaborating with your chosen professionals—so your mortgage is not just a transaction, but a strategic tool aligned with your future financial success.
3. Ongoing Guidance for Long-Term Success
Markets shift, financial plans evolve, and opportunities arise. We remain a trusted resource, working alongside your advisors to ensure your home financing continues to serve your long-term wealth-building strategy.
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Backed by decades of combined experience
Real Stories from Real Clients
Results That Speak for Themselves
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Backed by decades of combined experience
Real Stories from Real Clients
Results That Speak for Themselves
FAQs
How do I get started?
Simply begin with Step 1 and start your Stairway journey today!
- Step 1: Fill out our simple online pre-approval form.
- Step 2: Securely upload the required documents for review.
- Step 3: Work with a Certified Stairway Advisor™ to map out the best mortgage strategy.
- Step 4: Be introduced to your Realtor and begin visiting homes.
- Step 5: Be introduced to your Attorney and negotiate your contract.
- Step 6: Be introduced to your Home Inspector who will search for potential risks and future expenditures that can be used as leverage in your negotiations.
- Step 7: Be introduced to your Insurance Broker who will shop for the best insurance rates.
- Step 8: Be introduced to your Financial Planner who will provide a complimentary financial review.
- Step 9: Be introduced to your Accountant who will provide a professional tax savings analysis.
- Step 10: Secure the best loan terms and close with confidence!
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
What will my interest rate be?
✔ Fixed-Rate Loans: The interest rate stays the same for the life of the loan. These are good for families and people with low-risk profiles who want to avoid changing payments.
✔ Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs): Starts with a fixed rate for an initial period (e.g., 5, 7, or 10 years), then adjusts annually based on changes in the SOFR Index. These are good for well-coached clients who understand how to manage risk to save money.
✔ Interest-Only Loans: Pay only interest for the first 5–10 years, then start paying principal + interest. These are good for the most sophisticated clients who understand how to manage risk and invest the monthly savings for returns.
✔ Temporary Buydowns: Start with a significantly lower interest rate than the market for the first 1 to 3 years, providing a more manageable payment early on. These are commonly offered by smart builders and top-producing realtors who want to give their properties a competitive edge.
🎯 Not sure which is right for you?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
How does lender pricing work?
Lender pricing is like gas prices—it changes daily based on the market. We shop over 250+ lenders every hour to get you the best combination of interest rate and discount/credits upfront, translating into the most ideal short-term and long-term savings based on your time horizon, risk tolerance, and financial goals.
How It Works:
1️⃣ Daily Rate Updates – Rates fluctuate based on economic trends and lender competition.
2️⃣ Wholesale vs. Retail Pricing – We access wholesale pricing, meaning lower rates than retail banks because we have the largest network of mortgage brokers that lenders compete for.
3️⃣ Exclusive Pricing Specials – Lenders offer daily and weekly incentives that aren’t available to the public.
💡 Tip: Instead of relying on one lender, we compare multiple lenders to find you the lowest rate and fees.
🎯 Want to see how much you can save?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
What are the closing costs?
Closing costs typically range from 2%–5% of the loan amount, covering fees for your home purchase or refinance.
Here’s what’s included:
✔ Lender Fees: Underwriting, processing, and discount points (if applicable).
✔ Appraisal & Credit Report Fees: To assess property value and verify credit history.
✔ Title Insurance & Search Fees: Ensures a clear title with no ownership disputes.
✔ Escrow Fees: Covers property taxes and homeowner’s insurance for the first year.
✔ Government Recording Fees & State Taxes: Varies by location (e.g., VA, FL, MD, NY have much higher tax rates than other states).
✔ Other Fees: These may include HOA special assessments, move-in fees, realtor commissions, and owner’s title insurance.
💡 Tip: We compare rates from multiple lenders to ensure you pay the lowest closing costs possible.
📌 Before we collect any appraisal fee, you’ll receive a detailed Loan Estimate with a full cost breakdown.
Want to get a customized cost sheet for a specific property?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
How long can I lock a rate for?
Your rate lock term depends on your loan type, timeline, and market conditions.
🔹 Loan Term Options:
You can lock in a rate for 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, or even 40 years, giving you a fixed principal and interest payment for the life of the loan. The longer the lock term, the more stability you have against future rate increases.
🔹 Rate Locks During Loan Processing:
✔ If rates are trending up: Locking early protects you from rising interest rates and higher monthly payments.
✔ If rates are trending down: We may recommend “floating” the rate until it reaches a lower level to secure better pricing.
🔹 Rate Lock Periods:
✔ 15-45 day locks: Typical in most transactions.
✔ 46-120 day extended locks: Available for longer closing dates and market volatility concerns.
✔ 6-12 month construction locks: Available for buyers under contract with a builder. Note: Longer locks carry higher pricing but prevent rate increases while a home is being built.
📌 Pro Tip: When you work with a Certified Stairway Advisor™, we constantly monitor the market and analyze trends to determine the best approach when deciding whether to float or lock a rate during the loan process.
🎯 Want to review the best lock strategies for your situation today?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
Can I float down my rate?
Yes! If rates drop before closing, you may be able to “float down” to a lower rate.
🔹 How It Works:
✔ Some lenders offer free float-downs, while others charge a small fee.
✔ Typically available if rates drop 0.25%–0.50% below your locked rate.
✔ Must be executed before the final closing disclosures are issued.
📢 When you work with a Certified Stairway Advisor™, we monitor the market daily and will notify you if a float-down opportunity arises!
🎯 Want to compare the best rates available for your situation today?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
How long does the mortgage process take?
A typical mortgage takes 30 days from application to closing, but with a well-prepared application, it can be faster.
✔ Pre-Qualification: 15 minutes online or over the phone.
✔ Pre-Approval: 24 hours (if documents are uploaded promptly).
✔ Underwriting: 1 week if all conditions are provided.
🎯 Need to close fast?
Here’s how we can accommodate you!
1️⃣ Step 1: Complete your preapproval application now (5-10 minutes)
2️⃣ Step 2: Securely upload the documents requested after application. (5-15 minutes)
3️⃣ Step 3: Speak to a Certified Stairway Advisor™ about your application. (10-15 minutes)
4️⃣ Step 4: Receive your preapproval letter and cost estimate. (1 hour)
Let’s get started—apply now!
🎯 Want to compare the best rates available for your situation today?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
What documents do I need to apply?
📌 Be prepared with:
✔ Identification: Driver’s license & Social Security card.
✔ Income Verification: Paystubs last 30 days, W-2s last 2 years, and tax returns last 3 years.
✔ Asset & Bank Statements: Past 2 months to show reserves.
✔ Liabilities: Mortgage, property taxes, insurance, HOA statements (car loans, student loans, and credit card payments will typically report on your credit report)
🎯 Let’s begin by setting some goals!
Still have questions?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
What is the minimum credit score needed to qualify?
✔ FHA Loans: 580 for most lenders, but we have access to programs with as low as 500 with 10% down and as low as 540 for cash-out up to 80%.
✔ VA Loans: 620 for most lenders, but we have lenders who require no credit score with manual underwriting and compensating factors.
✔ Conventional Loans: 620 for most lenders, but we typically recommend more strategic loan options with lower mortgage insurance when the credit score is below 700 and the down payment is less than 20%.
✔ Jumbo Loans: 700 for most jumbo lenders, but we have access to programs with as low as 660 credit and 10% down payment.
✔ Alternative Income Loans: 700 for most lenders, but we have access to programs with as low as 660 credit and 10% down payment.
🎯 Unsure if your credit is ready now?
We can review your credit report before you complete a pre-approval application to ensure it’s worth your time.
✅ We correct errors, remove outdated judgments and delinquencies, and identify strategic payments that will improve your score the fastest so you can purchase a home as soon as possible.
Simply upload the documents below:
📌 Experian Credit Report
📌 Equifax Credit Report
📌 TransUnion Credit Report
Alternatively, you can get all three credit bureaus in one request [here](#).
After we receive your credit information, a Certified Stairway Advisor™ will determine the best strategy and map out a plan to get you into a home.
After you upload your documents, please schedule your consultation below.
💡 Still have questions?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
How much cash do I need in reserves or gift funds to close?
✔ FHA & VA Loans: Often no reserves required.
✔ Conventional Loans: Typically 2–6 months’ mortgage payments.
✔ Jumbo Loans: 6–24 months’ reserves, depending on the lender.
💡Not sure what you’ll need?
We can calculate your qualifying reserves first BEFORE you take the time to go through a complete preapproval application to make sure that it will be worth your time.
After we receive your documentation, a Certified Stairway Advisor™ will calculate the reserves based on the loan program and investor guidelines that is best for you.
- A) Checking/Savings: last 2 months checking account statements pdf format all pages
- B) 401K/IRA: last quarterly statement pdf format all pages
- C) Gift Letter: letter from family member or employer stating the gift amount
- D) Bill of Sale: indicates the amount you will receive upon sale of an asset
- E) Home Counseling Certificate: certifies you have completed the course are eligible for down payment assistance.
After you upload your documents, please schedule your consultation.
💡 Still have questions?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
What is the minimum income requirement needed to qualify?
Lenders use a Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio instead of a fixed income amount.
General DTI Guidelines:
✔ 37% or lower – Ideal for best jumbo interest-only and super jumbo lenders.
✔ 43% or lower – Standard for jumbo lenders with best rates.
✔ 45% or lower – Standard for conventional lenders with best rates, or up to 50% with 720 or higher credit score.
✔ 50% max DTI – Typical for FHA loans, sometimes up to 55% with strong reserves.
✔ Up to 65% DTI – Possible for VA loans with compensating factors.
💡 Unsure if your income is maximized right now?
We can calculate your qualifying income first BEFORE you take the time to go through a complete preapproval application to make sure that it will be worth your time.
After we receive your documentation, a Certified Stairway Advisor™ will calculate the monthly qualifying income based on the traditional tax method, If the income is too little, we will restructure the file with alternative financing methods to achieve the highest qualifying income and align you with the loan program and investor guidelines that is best for you.
Simply choose your best income qualification method below and upload the documents.
- A) W-2s & Paystubs: Paystubs from the last 30 days; W-2s from the last 2 years.
- B) Tax Returns: Last 3 years of 1040s, including all pages and schedules.
- C) Bank Deposits: Last 12 months of checking account statements in PDF format (all pages).
- D) 1099s Only: Last 3 years of 1099 forms.
- E) Retirement: Most recent pension statement and/or Social Security award letter.
- F) Rental Property: Most recent lease agreement and appraisal.
- G) Assets Only: Last 3 months of asset statements in PDF format (all pages).
- H) Profit and Loss Statement: Prepared by a CPA to authenticate the statement.
After you upload your documents, please schedule your consultation.
💡 Still have questions?
📅 Schedule a consultation with one of our Certified Stairway Advisors™ so we can map out your game plan.
📞 Call (954) 993-1625 so we can help you resolve your challenges and start climbing towards your goals!
🚀 Skip ahead and complete the pre-approval application to get your pre-approval letter as quickly as possible.
💰 Already Have a Loan Estimate? Upload it here for a side-by-side comparison and see how much you will save!
Why Trusted Partners Matter
Expert support to elevate your real estate journey
Connecting with proven professionals for lasting success
Financial Planners
Strategic guidance to help you grow, protect, and optimize your wealth at every stage.
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Financial Planners
- Wealth Strategy Planning
- Retirement Forecasting
- Tax Optimization
- Investment Portfolio Reviews
- Risk Management
Insurance Brokers
Customized coverage solutions to safeguard your property, assets, and financial future.
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Insurance Brokers
- Homeowners Insurance
- Investment Property Coverage
- Liability Protection
- Umbrella Policies
- Risk Assessments
Realtors
Expert guidance to help your clients buy, sell, and maximize real estate opportunities.
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Realtors
- Property Valuations
- Comparative Market Analysis
- Buyer & Seller Representation
- Investment Strategies
- Financing Solutions
Wholesalers
Reliable construction solutions to bring your renovation, build, or expansion to life.
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Wholesalers
- Off-Market Deal Structuring
- Transaction Coordination
- Investor Buyer Networks
- Portfolio Growth Strategies
- Quality Control
Builders & Contractors
Reliable construction solutions to bring your renovation, build, or expansion to life.
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Builders & Contractors
- New Construction
- Remodels & Upgrades
- Project Management
- Investment Property Renovations
- Quality Control
Architects & Designers
Creative design expertise to help you maximize space, value, and long-term appeal.
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Architects & Designers
- Custom Home Designs
- Investment Property Layouts
- Permitting Guidance
- Renovation Concepts
- Interior/Exterior Planning
Accountants & Underwriters
Financial clarity to ensure accurate reporting, smart planning, and successful transactions.
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Accountants & Underwriters
- Tax Strategy
- Income Verification
- Real Estate Accounting
- Cash Flow Analysis
- Loan Qualification Support
Builders & Contractors
Reliable construction solutions to bring your renovation, build, or expansion to life.
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Builders & Contractors
- New Construction
- Remodels & Upgrades
- Project Management
- Investment Property Renovations
- Quality Control
Attorneys & Title Teams
Legal expertise to protect your deals, documents, and long-term property rights.
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Attorneys & Title Teams
- Contract Reviews
- Title Searches
- Closing Coordination
- Entity Structuring
- Dispute Resolution
Clients
Professionals We Serve
- Dental & Wellness Professionals: Dentists, Chiropractors, Therapists, Psychologists
- Finance Professionals: Investment Bankers, CPAs, Financial Planners, Wealth Managers
- Legal & Business Entrepreneurs: Attorneys, Realtors, Wholesalers, Business Owners, Insurance
- Medical Professionals: Doctors, Nurses, Surgeons, Anesthesiologists
- Pharma & Medical Sales Professionals: Pharmaceutical Reps, Medical Device Sales
- Public Sector Leaders: Politicians, Educators, Teachers, First Responders (Police, Fire, EMT)
- Technical & Academic Professionals: Engineers, Scientists, Professors, Biomedical, IT Developers
- Veterans & Active Duty: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard
Download A Professional Guide
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Featured News and Insights
Read and update the latest news from us. Donec eu magna quis felis tristique pretium in in odio.
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Homeownership is personal
Heartfelt Client Experiences
Dreams Made Possible
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Homeownership is personal
Heartfelt Client Experiences
Dreams Made Possible
We Listen
We take the time to understand your full financial picture—ensuring your mortgage strategy supports both your immediate needs and long-term goals.
Strategic Loan Planning
We craft custom mortgage solutions that align with your financial vision, leveraging smart strategies to build lasting wealth.
Financial Integration
We collaborate with your financial team—planners, accountants, and advisors—to create a seamless plan that maximizes your assets and protects your future.
Confidence at Every Step
From pre-approval to closing, we guide you through the process with clarity, precision, and proactive communication—so you always know what’s next.
