Choosing where to get your mortgage shapes more than just your loan terms—it determines your entire homebuying or refinancing experience. Most borrowers spend weeks researching rates but barely consider who they’re working with. That’s backward.

The “best mortgage company” isn’t the one with the flashiest website or the biggest Super Bowl ad. It’s the one that combines the right lending model, the right technology, the right expertise, and the right commitment to your financial success.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• Why hybrid broker-direct lenders offer advantages neither traditional banks nor brokers can match (according to CFPB mortgage shopping best practices)
• How mission-driven companies prioritize wealth-building over transaction volume (following Fannie Mae sustainable homeownership guidelines)
• The technology and team combination that creates seamless experiences while maintaining personal guidance
• Why strategic partnerships across hundreds of lenders provide options traditional companies can’t offer (per HUD fair lending requirements)
• What questions to ask any mortgage provider before choosing them

Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing to optimize your financial position, or scaling a real estate investment portfolio, understanding what separates truly excellent mortgage companies from the rest empowers you to make the choice that serves your long-term wealth-building goals.

Questions about your situation? Schedule a call to speak with a loan advisor.

What Makes a Mortgage Company “The Best”?

Before we explore what makes Stairway Mortgage different, let’s establish what actually matters when evaluating any mortgage provider. Most borrowers focus on the wrong criteria.

Beyond Just Rates and Fees

Don’t rates and fees matter most? They matter significantly, but they’re not the complete picture. Here’s why focusing only on pricing can backfire:

Access matters as much as price. A lender offering an incredible rate means nothing if they can’t actually close your loan. Maybe your income documentation doesn’t fit their guidelines. Maybe your credit history has a complexity they won’t work with. The “best rate” you can’t actually get isn’t the best rate.

Speed and certainty matter. In competitive markets, closing quickly with high certainty often matters more than saving a few dollars. Sellers accept lower offers from buyers with strong financing and fast closing timelines. Losing your dream home costs more than a slightly better rate would have saved.

Experience quality matters. A frustrating, confusing process filled with last-minute surprises and poor communication creates stress that affects your life beyond the transaction. The “best price” that comes with a terrible experience isn’t actually best.

What Really Creates an Excellent Mortgage Experience?

What should you evaluate instead? Look for these elements working together:

The right lending model – Can they actually access the programs and pricing you need? Do they have flexibility when complications arise?

Technology that works – Can you track your progress, upload documents easily, and get real-time updates without playing phone tag?

Human expertise – When you have questions or concerns, can you reach someone knowledgeable who explains things clearly?

Strategic partnerships – Do they have relationships with multiple lenders, giving you options rather than one take-it-or-leave-it offer?

Mission alignment – Are they focused on your long-term financial success, or just closing the current transaction?

Proven track record – Do they have substantial experience and volume showing they handle complex scenarios successfully?

Why does this combination matter? Because mortgages aren’t simple commodities. Your financial situation, property type, timeline, and goals create unique requirements. The best mortgage company is the one that can actually serve your specific needs excellently, not the one with the lowest advertised rate for a scenario you don’t have.

Ready to explore your options? Use our calculator to see how different loan programs compare for your situation.

Why Traditional “Best Of” Lists Miss the Point

You’ve probably seen them—”Top 10 Mortgage Lenders” or “Best Mortgage Companies of 2025.” These lists oversimplify a complex decision.

The Problem with Online Rankings

How are these lists typically created? Most ranking sites evaluate mortgage companies based on:

• Advertised interest rates (which you might not qualify for)
• Customer satisfaction surveys (often incentivized or cherry-picked)
• Available loan products (without knowing which you actually need)
• Technology features (without considering if you want digital-only service)
• Company size or volume (which doesn’t predict your experience)

What’s wrong with this approach? These criteria might matter, but they don’t tell you which company serves YOUR situation best. A lender perfect for someone with excellent credit and traditional W-2 income might be terrible for a self-employed buyer or real estate investor.

Why do these lists exist? Many are advertising-driven. Companies pay to be featured, or sites earn referral fees from clicks. The “best” designation might just mean “pays us the most.”

What Actually Determines Your Best Choice?

What questions matter more than rankings?

Does their lending model fit your needs? If you’re self-employed, a bank with rigid income documentation requirements isn’t your “best” choice regardless of their ranking. If you need fast closing, a lender with slow underwriting processes isn’t ideal.

Can they actually help your specific situation? A company might be excellent at FHA loans but weak on jumbo loans. They might excel with first-time buyers but struggle with complex investment scenarios.

Do they have multiple options to offer you? Banks and credit unions offer only their own products. If those don’t fit perfectly, you’re declined or offered suboptimal terms. Brokers with extensive lender networks can shop your scenario across hundreds of options.

What’s their real expertise? A massive national bank might close thousands of loans monthly, but does your loan officer have real expertise, or are they reading from a script? Smaller, specialized companies often provide deeper knowledge.

The real insight? The “best mortgage company” for you depends entirely on your financial profile, property type, timeline, and goals. Generic rankings can’t account for this.

Have questions about the process? Schedule a consultation to get personalized guidance.

The Stairway Mortgage Difference: Our Mission and Philosophy

Now that you understand what actually matters in choosing a mortgage company, let’s explore what makes Stairway Mortgage different from both traditional banks and typical brokers.

Why We Exist: Building Wealth Through Real Estate

What drives Stairway Mortgage? Our mission isn’t just closing loans—it’s helping people build generational wealth through strategic real estate decisions.

Why does this matter? Most mortgage companies view each transaction independently. They help you buy a house or refinance, collect their fee, and move to the next deal. Your long-term financial trajectory isn’t their concern.

How is our approach different? We see every mortgage decision as one step on a larger wealth-building journey. Whether you’re:

• A young adult making your first credit-building moves
• A first-time buyer choosing a home that positions you for future growth
• A homeowner deciding whether to refinance or tap equity strategically
• An investor scaling a rental property portfolio
• A senior homeowner accessing home equity for retirement security

What does this mean practically? We educate first, transact second. We’ll tell you when waiting makes more sense than acting now. We’ll explain how today’s decision affects tomorrow’s opportunities. We’ll show you strategies beyond your immediate transaction.

The Wealth-Building Stairway Philosophy

What is “The Stairway” concept? Think of wealth-building through real estate as climbing stairs, not making one giant leap. Each step builds on the previous one:

Step 1: Build credit foundation – Start young, understand how credit works, position yourself for favorable loan terms later.

Step 2: First home purchase – Buy strategically, considering not just lifestyle but equity-building potential and future flexibility.

Step 3: Optimize your position – Refinance when advantageous, tap equity strategically for wealth-building moves rather than consumption.

Step 4: Leverage into investments – Use home equity or strong financial position to acquire rental properties that generate cash flow and appreciate.

Step 5: Scale and diversify – Grow your portfolio intelligently, managing leverage wisely while building substantial net worth.

Step 6: Create passive income – Transition from active management to passive wealth generation through real estate.

Step 7: Transfer generational wealth – Position your real estate holdings to benefit your children and grandchildren.

Why this philosophy matters: It changes how we advise you. We’re not asking “Can you qualify for this loan?” We’re asking “Does this loan move you forward on your wealth-building stairway?”

Education Over Sales

How does our approach differ from typical mortgage companies?

We teach, not pitch. Our content, our consultations, our advice—all focused on helping you understand how mortgages work, what your options really are, and how to make decisions that serve your long-term interests.

We share strategies most lenders won’t mention. Like how authorized user credit building can position teenagers for homeownership by their mid-twenties. Or how house hacking—buying a multi-unit property, living in one unit, renting the others—can make real estate investment accessible with FHA loans requiring minimal down payment.

We’ll tell you when to wait. If rates are likely to improve soon, or your financial position could strengthen significantly in a few months, we’ll say so—even though it delays our commission.

What’s our belief? Educated borrowers make better decisions, have better experiences, build more wealth, and refer more people. We win by helping you win, not by pushing transactions.

See yourself in these scenarios? Get pre-approved to start your journey.

How We Built the Ultimate Mortgage Platform

Understanding our mission is important, but mission alone doesn’t close loans excellently. Let’s explore how we built the infrastructure, technology, and team that delivers on that mission.

The Journey to $8 Billion and Beyond

Where did Stairway Mortgage start? We began as a mortgage broker with a simple premise: borrowers deserve access to more options than any single bank could offer.

What changed as we grew? As we helped more borrowers and originated more loans, we reached a significant milestone—over eight billion dollars in annual loan volume. That scale fundamentally transformed what we could offer.

Why does volume matter? At substantial scale, we could invest in:

• Our own direct lending operation
• Advanced technology platforms that rival major banks
• Large teams of specialized processors and underwriters
• Strategic partnerships across hundreds of wholesale lenders
• Educational resources and tools for borrowers

What did this enable? We became what didn’t exist before—a hybrid broker-direct lender combining the best of both models. This is the “game-changing surprise” we explored in our broker versus lender comparison.

The Hybrid Model: Best of Both Worlds

How does our hybrid model work in practice?

When speed and simplicity are priorities, we process your loan through our direct lending operation:

• Fast pre-approvals (often same-day)
• Streamlined underwriting
• Quick closing timelines
• Single point of contact
• No third-party delays

When specialized options or optimal pricing matter most, we leverage our network of 300+ wholesale lenders:

• Access to programs major banks don’t offer
• Competitive wholesale pricing
• Lender specialization matching your scenario
• Multiple options to compare
• Strategic placement with the right lender

What makes this powerful? You’re never choosing between speed and selection, or between simplicity and options. We evaluate your situation and recommend the path that serves you best.

Technology That Makes Your Experience Seamless

What technology do we provide?

Digital Application and Document Management:

• Complete your application online in minutes
• Upload documents securely from your phone or computer
• E-sign disclosures and forms digitally
• No printing, scanning, or faxing required

Real-Time Status Updates:

• Track your loan progress through clear milestones
• Receive notifications when actions are needed
• See exactly where you are in the process
• No wondering or guessing about status

Secure Communication Hub:

• Message your loan team directly through the platform
• Receive responses quickly without phone tag
• Keep all communication documented and organized
• Access from any device

Intelligent Document Recognition:

• Upload pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns
• System automatically categorizes and processes documents
• Identifies missing information immediately
• Reduces back-and-forth and delays

Rate and Program Comparison Tools:

• Compare different loan scenarios side-by-side
• See how rate, term, and down payment changes affect payments
• Explore multiple program options simultaneously
• Make informed decisions with complete information

Why this technology matters: It eliminates the frustrations borrowers traditionally experience—lost documents, unclear status, poor communication, repetitive questions. You have transparency and control throughout the process.

The Human Element: Our Team Culture

Technology doesn’t replace expertise—it enhances it. Behind our platform are experienced professionals who make everything work smoothly.

Who handles your loan?

Experienced Loan Advisors who:

• Average 10+ years in the mortgage industry
• Specialize in different borrower types (first-time buyers, self-employed, investors, seniors)
• Stay current on program changes and market conditions
• Communicate clearly without jargon
• Advocate for you throughout the process

Dedicated Processors who:

• Manage document collection and verification
• Coordinate with underwriters and lenders
• Anticipate issues before they become problems
• Keep your timeline on track
• Handle the details so you don’t have to

Skilled Underwriters who:

• Review your financial profile thoroughly
• Identify the strongest approval path
• Work creatively with complex situations
• Provide clear explanations of decisions
• Move efficiently while maintaining quality

What’s our team culture? We hire for expertise and character. Technical knowledge matters, but so do communication skills, problem-solving ability, and genuine care for client success. We invest heavily in ongoing education—market changes constantly, and our team stays current.

Why does this matter? The difference between a frustrating mortgage experience and a smooth one often comes down to the people handling your file. Competent, communicative, caring professionals make everything easier.

Balancing Efficiency with Personalization

How do we combine technology and human expertise?

Technology handles the routine:

• Application submission
• Document upload and categorization
• Status updates and notifications
• Basic information gathering
• Milestone tracking

People handle the complex:

• Answering your questions
• Explaining your options
• Strategizing for unique situations
• Troubleshooting problems
• Making judgment calls
• Providing guidance and education

What does this mean for you? You get efficient processing without feeling like you’re just a number in an automated system. When you need to speak with someone, you can. When you prefer digital interaction, that works too. We adapt to your communication preferences.

Ready to experience the hybrid advantage? Schedule a call to discuss your specific situation.

Our Strategic Partnerships That Benefit You

Technology and team matter immensely, but what truly sets Stairway Mortgage apart is our strategic access to options most borrowers never see.

The Power of 300+ Lender Relationships

What does our lender network include?

We maintain active relationships with over 300 wholesale lenders across every loan category:

• Major national banks offering competitive conventional programs
• Regional lenders with specialized expertise
• Credit unions with relationship-focused lending
• Government loan specialists (FHA, VA, USDA)
• Jumbo loan specialists for higher-priced properties
• Investment property lenders (DSCR, portfolio loans)
• Alternative documentation lenders for self-employed borrowers
• Niche lenders for unique property types or situations

Why does this breadth matter? Different lenders have different strengths, different underwriting guidelines, and different pricing strategies. What one lender declines, another might approve enthusiastically. Where one offers standard terms, another might excel.

How do we leverage this network? We know which lenders specialize in your specific scenario. Self-employed with strong cash flow but high write-offs? We know three lenders who excel with bank statement loans. Investment property with complex ownership structure? We know which lenders understand those deals. Past credit challenges now resolved? We know who looks at your complete story, not just your score.

What’s the practical benefit? You submit one application. We shop it strategically across lenders most likely to offer you excellent terms. You see multiple options instead of one take-it-or-leave-it offer. You choose the combination of rate, terms, and lender that serves you best.

Strategic Real Estate Professional Partnerships

Who do we work with beyond lenders?

Top-tier real estate agents who:

• Appreciate well-qualified buyers with strong financing
• Understand the advantage of quick pre-approvals and reliable closings
• Know we communicate effectively and meet timelines
• Trust us to make their transactions smooth

Why does this matter to you? When you work with us, you’re working with a mortgage company that real estate professionals respect and trust. That credibility strengthens your offers. Agents know our pre-approvals are solid, our closings happen on time, and our communication keeps transactions moving.

Investment property specialists who:

• Help investors find cash-flowing properties
• Understand deal analysis and market dynamics
• Connect serious investors with opportunities
• Appreciate our investor-focused loan programs

How does this help? If you’re investing in real estate, these partnerships provide deal flow and strategic connections beyond just financing. We’re part of a larger ecosystem supporting your wealth-building goals.

Industry Connections and Educational Resources

What other resources do we provide?

Educational content and tools:

• Comprehensive blog covering every aspect of mortgages and real estate
• Calculators for analyzing different scenarios
• Case studies showing real borrower success stories
• Guides tailored to different journey stages

Market insights and guidance:

• Understanding current rate environments
• Timing considerations for refinancing
• Market trends affecting homebuyers and investors
• Strategic planning for long-term wealth building

Professional referrals:

• Tax advisors who understand real estate taxation
• Estate planning attorneys for wealth transfer strategies
• Property managers for rental property investors
• Home inspectors and other transaction professionals

Why do we provide all this? Because our mission is your long-term wealth building, not just the immediate transaction. These resources and connections support your entire real estate journey, not just the mortgage part.

Ready to strengthen your buying position? Get pre-approved to shop with confidence.

What Makes Our Approach Different for Each Journey Stage

Stairway Mortgage serves borrowers across all real estate journey stages. Here’s how our advantages translate specifically to each stage.

Smart Stewards: Parents and Young Adults (Ages 12-25)

What makes us different for this stage?

Dual-audience education – We speak to both parents teaching financial literacy and young adults learning themselves. Our resources address both perspectives simultaneously.

Credit-building strategies – We teach authorized user strategies, student loan management, and early credit foundation-building that positions young people for homeownership by their mid-twenties.

Long-term planning – We help families think 10-15 years ahead, setting up children for financial success rather than just handling an immediate transaction.

First-home preparation – When these young adults are ready to buy, we’ve built the relationship and foundation. They’re not starting from scratch with a stranger.

First-Time Home Buyers: Ages 22-35

How do we serve first-time buyers differently?

Education without condescension – We explain the process thoroughly without making you feel inexperienced. Everyone starts somewhere.

Access to first-time buyer programs – Through our lender network, we access the full range of programs designed for buyers with limited down payment or shorter credit history (FHA, conventional 3% down, state bond programs, etc.).

Fast pre-approvals – In competitive markets, our 24-hour pre-approval capability helps first-time buyers compete against experienced buyers with cash.

House hacking guidance – We teach strategies like buying multi-unit properties, living in one unit, renting the others—building wealth from day one rather than just acquiring housing.

Beyond the transaction – We help you think strategically about your first purchase, considering not just “Can I afford this?” but “Does this position me well for my second purchase in 5-7 years?”

Homeowners: Optimizing Your Current Position

What advantages do we offer homeowners?

Refinance analysis – We’ll evaluate whether refinancing makes sense for your situation, looking at break-even timelines and long-term benefit, not just whether we can do a loan.

Equity access strategies – When tapping home equity makes sense (investment opportunities, debt consolidation with lower rates, home improvements that increase value), we show you the best options. When it doesn’t make sense, we tell you that too.

Market timing guidance – We help you understand when to act and when to wait, based on rate trends and your specific situation.

Portfolio lending access – If you own multiple properties, our lender network includes portfolio specialists who can help you optimize across your entire real estate holdings.

Senior Homeowners (55+): Retirement and Equity Access

How do we serve senior homeowners differently?

Retirement-focused strategies – We understand how accessing home equity fits into retirement income planning, long-term care considerations, and estate planning.

Reverse mortgage expertise – Through our lender network, we access reverse mortgage specialists who can explain HECM programs clearly and help you determine if they fit your situation.

No-pressure approach – We never pressure seniors into financial decisions. We educate, answer questions thoroughly, and support whatever choice you make.

Family-inclusive process – When appropriate, we welcome adult children into the conversation so families can make informed decisions together.

Real Estate Investors: First Property Through Portfolio Scaling

What makes us the right choice for investors?

Investor-specific programs – Our network includes lenders specializing in investment properties: DSCR loans requiring no personal income verification, portfolio loans for investors with multiple properties, bank statement loans for self-employed investors.

Deal analysis support – We help you analyze whether a property makes financial sense before you’re emotionally committed, looking at cash flow, appreciation potential, and financing structure.

Scaling strategies – As you grow from one property to multiple, we guide you through increasingly sophisticated financing strategies.

Speed when it matters – Investment deals often require quick closing. Our hybrid model enables fast processing when you need to move quickly on an opportunity.

Cross-collateralization and portfolio lending – As your holdings grow, we connect you with lenders who can help you leverage your portfolio strategically.

Tax strategy connections – We work with tax advisors who understand real estate taxation, 1031 exchanges, depreciation strategies, and wealth preservation.

Passive Investors: Hands-Off Wealth Building

How do we support passive real estate investors?

Syndication and REIT guidance – While we don’t directly finance syndications, we educate about these vehicles and how they fit into overall wealth strategies.

Portfolio refinancing – We help passive investors optimize their existing holdings through strategic refinancing when market conditions are favorable.

Transition strategies – If you’re transitioning from active to passive investing (selling rental properties to move into syndications, for example), we help with the financing aspects of that transition.

Legacy Angels: Multi-Generational Wealth Transfer

What do we offer those focused on legacy?

Estate planning integration – We work with estate planning attorneys to structure property holdings optimally for wealth transfer.

Family financing strategies – Helping the next generation acquire property using your equity as leverage, or structuring loans that benefit multiple family members.

Trust and entity lending – Access to lenders comfortable with complex ownership structures (trusts, LLCs, family partnerships).

Long-term relationship approach – We’re not just handling one transaction; we’re supporting your family’s financial success across generations.

See yourself in these scenarios? Get pre-approved to start your journey.

Real Results: How Stairway Stands Out

Mission, technology, team, and partnerships matter—but what results do they produce?

Success Metrics That Matter

What defines success for us?

High approval rates across complex scenarios – We successfully close loans that other lenders decline. Self-employed borrowers with strong income but complex documentation? We find solutions. Credit challenges in your past but strong current financials? We know which lenders look at your complete story.

Fast closing timelines – Our hybrid model enables competitive closing speeds. For straightforward scenarios, we often close in three weeks or less. For complex situations, we manage timelines efficiently while maintaining quality.

Strong repeat and referral business – A significant percentage of our volume comes from past clients and referrals. People return to us for their next purchase or refinance, and they recommend us to friends and family. That doesn’t happen unless experiences are genuinely excellent.

High satisfaction scores – While we don’t plaster cherry-picked reviews everywhere, our borrowers consistently report positive experiences. They appreciate our communication, transparency, and expertise.

Long-term relationships – We maintain relationships with clients beyond closing. They reach out with questions years later. They ask for refinance analysis when rates drop. They consult us before making real estate decisions. That’s the kind of relationship we want.

Client Experience Highlights

What do borrowers appreciate most?

Clear communication throughout – You’re never wondering what’s happening or what’s needed next. We explain each step, set realistic expectations, and update you regularly.

Problem-solving ability – When complications arise (and they sometimes do), our team knows how to troubleshoot effectively. We don’t just tell you about problems; we present solutions.

Educational approach – Borrowers consistently mention that they learned a lot working with us. We don’t just execute transactions; we help you understand the process and make informed decisions.

Speed without sacrificing quality – We move quickly when you need speed, but we never cut corners or rush you into poor decisions.

Access to multiple options – Instead of take-it-or-leave-it offers, you see multiple paths forward and choose the one that serves you best.

Portfolio of Success Stories

Want to see real results? Explore our case studies featuring:

• First-time buyers who competed successfully in hot markets
• Self-employed borrowers approved after bank declines
• Investors who scaled from one property to multiple
• Homeowners who tapped equity strategically for wealth-building
• Seniors who accessed retirement security through home equity
• Families who transferred wealth across generations effectively

Why do we share these stories? Because they demonstrate how our approach produces real outcomes for real people in diverse situations. You can see yourself in these scenarios and understand how we might help you.

Ready to explore your options? Use our calculator to see how this works for your situation.

How to Evaluate Mortgage Companies Yourself

We believe you should evaluate us critically, not just accept our claims. Here’s how to assess any mortgage provider, including us.

Questions to Ask Any Lender or Broker

What’s your lending model?

• Are you a bank, credit union, direct lender, broker, or hybrid?
• How many lenders do you work with?
• Do you offer only your products, or can you shop multiple options?

What experience do you have with my specific situation?

• How often do you work with [first-time buyers/self-employed/investors/etc.]?
• What percentage of your loans are [my loan type]?
• Can you provide examples of similar scenarios you’ve handled?

How quickly can you provide pre-approval?

• What’s your typical pre-approval timeline?
• What documents do you need for pre-approval?
• How strong are your pre-approval letters with sellers and agents?

What’s your typical closing timeline?

• How long from application to closing for straightforward loans?
• What factors might extend that timeline?
• What percentage of your loans close on time?

How will you communicate with me?

• Who will be my primary point of contact?
• How quickly do you typically respond to questions?
• What technology do you provide for tracking loan status?

What are your fees?

• What origination fees do you charge?
• Are there circumstances where fees might change?
• How do your fees compare to direct lenders?
• (Learn more about broker fee structures)

Can you show me multiple options?

• Will you present multiple lenders or programs for comparison?
• How do you decide which lender to recommend?
• Can I choose a different option if I prefer?

What happens if my situation is complicated?

• How do you handle complex income documentation?
• What if I don’t meet standard guidelines?
• Do you have lenders who specialize in unique situations?

Red Flags to Watch For

What should make you cautious?

Pressure tactics – Any lender pressuring you to act immediately, before you’re comfortable, isn’t serving your interests. Good lenders want informed, confident clients.

Guaranteed rates without qualification – If someone quotes you a rate before reviewing your financial profile, they’re either misleading you or operating unethically.

Reluctance to explain – If your questions are met with evasion, dismissiveness, or annoyance rather than clear answers, that’s a bad sign for the working relationship.

Unwillingness to show options – If a broker won’t show you multiple lender options or explain why they chose a specific lender, they might not be shopping in your best interest.

Hidden fees appearing late – All fees should be disclosed in your Loan Estimate within three days of application. Surprise fees appearing at closing are red flags.

Poor communication early – If communication is slow or unclear before you’ve committed, it won’t improve after. Early responsiveness predicts overall service quality.

Overpromising – Be skeptical of claims that sound too good to be true. Realistic expectations and honest communication serve you better than false promises.

Why Shopping Around Still Matters

Should you talk to multiple lenders? Absolutely. Even if you choose Stairway Mortgage, we encourage you to compare.

Why do we recommend this? Because informed borrowers make better decisions and have more confidence in their choices. If you choose us after comparing alternatives, you know you made the right choice. If you choose someone else, we’re confident you made the decision that serves you best.

How do you shop effectively?

Talk to 3-5 mortgage providers representing different models:

• Your bank or credit union
• A traditional direct lender
• A mortgage broker
• A hybrid broker-direct lender (like us)
• An online lender

Ask the same questions of each and compare:

• Lending model and access to options
• Speed and timeline
• Communication and service approach
• Fees and pricing
• Overall professionalism and transparency

Get pre-approvals from your top choices – This lets you compare Loan Estimates and see actual terms, not just marketing claims.

Trust your gut – Beyond numbers and terms, consider who you feel most comfortable working with. Mortgages involve significant stress and complexity. Choose someone you trust to guide you through it well.

Have questions about the process? Schedule a consultation to get personalized guidance.

Ready to Experience the Stairway Difference?

Now that you understand what truly makes a mortgage company excellent—and how Stairway Mortgage combines the right model, technology, team, and mission to serve your wealth-building goals—your next step is clear.

Here’s how to move forward:

Get Pre-Approved: Experience our 24-hour pre-approval process firsthand. Submit one application and access both our direct lending capability and our network of 300+ lenders. We’ll determine the best path for your specific situation and provide a strong pre-approval that strengthens your position.

Schedule a Consultation: Speak with a loan advisor who specializes in your journey stage. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, homeowner, investor, or senior, we’ll evaluate your specific scenario, timeline, and long-term goals, then recommend the approach that serves you best.

Explore Your Options: Use our calculators to model different scenarios. Compare loan programs, analyze payments, and understand how different decisions affect your long-term financial position. Education empowers better choices.

See Real Success Stories: Review case studies of borrowers like you who benefited from our hybrid model, extensive lender network, and wealth-building focus. See the concrete results our approach produces.

Why act now? Your financial goals don’t wait. Whether you’re building credit foundation, buying your first home, optimizing your current position, or scaling an investment portfolio, the right guidance and financing make a substantial difference in your outcomes.

Your next steps:

• Get Pre-Approved and experience our 24-hour process
• Schedule a Call to discuss your specific timeline and goals
• Use Our Calculator to explore different scenarios
• See Success Stories from borrowers at your journey stage
• Take Our Discovery Quiz to identify your ideal loan programs

Still have questions? Schedule a call with a loan advisor who can explain how our approach works for your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing the Best Mortgage Company

How Do You Compare to Online Mortgage Lenders?

What’s the difference between Stairway and online lenders? Online lenders excel at digital convenience and streamlined processes for straightforward scenarios. They typically use automated underwriting and offer competitive pricing for borrowers who fit standard profiles perfectly.

Where do we differ? We provide that same digital convenience—online applications, document upload, real-time tracking—plus human expertise and strategic options. If your scenario is perfectly straightforward, online lenders work well. If you’re self-employed, have credit complexities, need specialized loan programs, or want someone to shop multiple lenders on your behalf, our model serves you better.

Can you have both? That’s exactly what our hybrid model delivers. You get efficient technology for routine tasks and human expertise for strategy, problem-solving, and guidance. You’re not choosing between digital convenience and personal service—you get both.

What Makes You Different from Other Brokers?

How do we stand out from traditional brokers?

We’re also a direct lender – Most brokers are only brokers. We can close loans through our own direct lending operation when that serves you best, giving you speed that rivals banks.

Our scale provides advantages – At over eight billion in annual volume, we’ve invested in technology, team, and lender relationships that smaller brokers can’t match. You get sophistication and efficiency typically only available from major banks.

Our mission extends beyond transactions – Most brokers focus on closing the current deal. We focus on your long-term wealth building, providing education and strategic guidance beyond the immediate transaction.

Our lender network breadth – While many brokers work with dozens of lenders, we maintain active relationships with over 300. This breadth provides options in virtually any scenario.

How Do You Handle Complex Financial Situations?

What if my situation doesn’t fit standard guidelines? This is where our model particularly excels. Here’s our approach:

We listen first – We want to understand your complete financial picture, not just whether you check certain boxes. What looks like a problem on paper often has context that makes it manageable.

We know which lenders specialize in your scenario – Self-employed with irregular income? We know which lenders use alternative documentation. Credit challenges in your past? We know which lenders look at your complete story. Unique property type? We know which lenders understand those deals.

We present multiple paths – Often there’s more than one way to structure your scenario. We show you options and explain the tradeoffs so you can choose the approach that fits best.

We work creatively – Sometimes the solution involves timing (waiting a few months while you strengthen your position), structure (how you document income), or strategy (which loan program and lender combination works). Our experience with thousands of complex scenarios helps us find solutions.

What Technology Do You Use to Make the Process Smooth?

What’s included in your technology platform? We provide:

Digital application – Complete in minutes from any device, save progress, return later if needed.

Secure document upload – Take photos with your phone or upload from your computer. Our system recognizes document types automatically.

Real-time status tracking – See exactly where you are in the process through clear milestones. No mystery or guessing.

Automated updates – Receive notifications via email and text when actions are needed or status changes.

Communication hub – Message your loan team directly through the platform. All communication documented and accessible.

E-signature capability – Sign disclosures and documents digitally without printing or scanning.

Rate lock confirmation – Lock your rate and receive immediate confirmation and documentation.

But technology doesn’t replace people – When you need to speak with your loan advisor, processor, or underwriter, you can. We believe technology should enhance service, not replace the human expertise that solves complex problems and provides strategic guidance.

How Quickly Can You Actually Close Loans?

What are realistic timelines? It depends on your scenario:

Straightforward purchases or refinances with complete documentation, strong credit, and no complications: We often close in three weeks or less. Our direct lending operation enables speed comparable to any bank.

Complex scenarios requiring specialized lenders or additional documentation: Three to five weeks is typical. We manage these timelines efficiently while maintaining thorough underwriting quality.

Investment properties or portfolio refinances: Four to six weeks depending on complexity. These loans require more extensive documentation and analysis.

What affects your timeline most?

• How quickly you provide requested documents
• Whether your income/assets are straightforward or complex
• If we identify any issues requiring resolution
• The property type and appraisal requirements
• Whether we close through our direct lending operation or place with a network lender

Our commitment: We provide realistic timelines upfront and keep you informed if anything changes. We never overpromise and underdeliver.

Do You Work with Borrowers in All States?

Where are you licensed? We’re licensed in most states across the US. When you start an application or schedule a consultation, we’ll confirm we’re licensed in your state.

What if you’re not licensed in my state? On the rare occasions where we’re not yet licensed, we can often provide referrals to trusted partners who serve that market. We’d rather connect you with someone excellent than turn you away without helping.

Still have questions? Schedule a call with a loan advisor who specializes in helping people understand their best options.

Also Helpful for Understanding Your Options

If you’re evaluating mortgage companies, these related topics will deepen your understanding:

• How to Apply for a Mortgage – Understand the complete application process and what to expect at each stage.
• Mortgage Broker vs Lender – Learn why the hybrid broker-direct lender model offers advantages neither traditional banks nor typical brokers can match.
• Getting Mortgage Pre-Approval – Discover how to get pre-approved quickly and why strong pre-approvals matter in competitive markets.
• Understanding Mortgage Broker Fees – See complete transparency about how brokers are compensated and why the model often provides better value.
• FHA Loan Programs – Explore one of the most accessible programs for first-time buyers and those with limited down payment.

NEXA Mortgage: The Scale and Resources Behind Our Service

What makes this scale and capability possible? Stairway Mortgage operates as a division of NEXA Mortgage, one of the fastest-growing mortgage companies in America with a national footprint and substantial lending capacity. This strategic partnership provides us with enterprise-level resources—advanced technology platforms, efficient processing systems, experienced underwriting teams, and strong relationships across hundreds of wholesale lenders—while allowing us to maintain our localized, wealth-building focused approach to serving clients. The combination of NEXA’s operational infrastructure and Stairway’s educational mission creates something rare in the mortgage industry: a company with both the scale to compete with major banks and the flexibility to serve complex borrower scenarios that traditional lenders decline.

What’s “NEXA” in Your Real Estate Journey?

Wherever you are in your journey, understanding what makes a mortgage company truly excellent empowers you to choose the right partner. Here’s how this knowledge connects to your next steps:

For First-Time Buyers: Now that you understand what to look for in a mortgage company, explore first-time buyer loan programs and get pre-approved to start shopping with confidence.

For Homeowners: If you’re considering refinancing or accessing equity, understanding our lender network advantage helps you see why we can find better refinance options than your current bank might offer.

For Real Estate Investors: Our investor-specific programs like DSCR loans and portfolio lending strategies support your scaling goals.

For Self-Employed Borrowers: Understanding our alternative documentation lenders helps you see how bank statement loans or 1099 loans can work when traditional banks decline you.

Explore Your Complete Options

Ready to see everything available to you? Use these resources to explore all your mortgage options:

• All Loan Programs – Browse every loan type available through our direct lending operation and broker network.
• All Case Studies – Read detailed stories of borrowers who benefited from our hybrid model and wealth-building approach.
• All Calculators – Calculate payments, compare programs, and understand your numbers across different scenarios.
• Discovery Quiz – Answer a few questions to identify which loan programs match your situation best.

Get Local Introductions – Connect with experienced real estate professionals in your area who work with informed buyers.