Refinance

Refinance

Purchase

Purchase

 

First Time Buyers

First Time Buyers

 

Debt Consolidation

Debt Consolidation

 

Reverse Mortgage

Reverse Mortgage

 

More Programs

More Programs

 

Message from President

Thank you for visiting our site. I will personally give you the most honest and knowledgeable advice in the lending industry.

This service is FREE. Why am I willing to spend my time with you? Because I know you will appreciate sound advice and some of you will probably close loans with us. I invite you to fill out the two step quick application, or call now toll free 866.562.6838 I will respond and help you immediately.

Jeff Kutnick
President, First Rate Lending

Lending Resources

Taking your financial future seriously

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Loan Calculator

Calculate the difference in your payment at each rate, term, loan amount, and more

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Glossary

A guide to understanding common mortgage terms and acronyms

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Document Upload

Securely upload documents needed for your home mortgage

House and a Key

Loan Programs

First Rate lending offers a very wide selection of loan programs.  Which one is right for you?

Testimonials

When do you ever hear someone say they love their loan company? I am, right now! I couldn’t recommend this company more highly. They work in sync, Jeff, Cole, Camden and Kathy. I felt throughout the loan application process that they all were briefed daily on my progress, helping me to secure the documentation. I could talk to any of them and get my questions answered immediately. I applied for a HECM Loan, a reverse mortgage to purchase. This is a difficult loan to secure but they helped me every step of the way. I’m now living in my new home, love it, and will always be grateful to them for helping me to get here.

– Nancy

We have done new loans, and subsequent re-fi's, with Jeff at First Rate Lending over the last 15 years. He got us fantastic rates and his team made the whole process very easy. Over the years, we have recommended Jeff to many family members and friends who all have had the same experience, and have thanked me for turning them on to Jeff. I highly recommend using First Rate Lending.
Jeff and his team at First Rate Lending go above and beyond when it comes to purchase and refinance loans. I purchased a home using First Rate 2 years ago and Jeff made sure I understood absolutely everything about the home buying and loan process. He spent time with me to make sure I got the LOWEST rate available and it was a very smooth transaction; funded in under 30 days. Since then, I refinanced when rates dropped significantly. Jeff made sure I was aware of the rate drop and explained how much money I was going to save. I recommend First Rate Lending to all my friends and family, and I will never use any other company. JEFF IS THE BEST!

– Shane

I have worked with Jeff Kutnick at First Rate Lending multiple times over the last 3 years, covering purchases and refinances. The first time I was moving across the country from Massachusetts - timing the sale of my condo back there and the purchase of a condo out here. Jeff was extremely responsive and helpful guiding me through the process helping ensure everything went very smoothly between the two transactions. I completed a number of refinances at better rates during the course of owning that property. Most recently, Jeff helped with the purchase of our home. This process was extremely smooth, even during a global pandemic. Jeff is always so helpful when talking through the process! I will be doing business with Jeff for many years to come.

– Ian

We have worked with First Rate Lending on several mortgage transactions over the course of the last 5+ years. The entire team makes a complicated process as easy as possible, while never sacrificing accuracy. We trust First Rate Lending and look forward to our next transaction.

– Tal

I have worked with many loan brokers and lenders over the years. None have come close to the service and attention I have received from Jeff at First Rate Lending. Not only is Jeff great to work with, he was also able to offer better rates than others I had worked with previously. I was so happy with the service and rates I received from Jeff and First Rate Lending for a previous refinance of my mortgage that I am using them again on a home purchase loan. I have referred my family to Jeff and he has taken great care of them as well. Jeff returns call promptly, explains things very well and will offer options to consider and he makes sure that you understand those options. As long as First Rate Lending is around, I am never going with a big bank or online lender again.

– Robert

With an extensive knowledge and expertise in their field, Jeff and the team at First Rate Lending have helped my family save thousands over that last several years. Thank you!

– Matt

Jeff and his team over at First Rate are a dream to work with. They help to simplify every step of the process and they make you feel as though your needs are their number 1 priority. I'll be going to First Rate for all my lending needs and advise anyone else to do the same!

– Shane

Jeff and his team have been life changing for me and my family. I’ve worked with First Rate on 4 loans, 3 refis, and 1 Heloc. There is no way in hell anyone else could've made all these loans happen, except Jeff and staff. I’m a small business owner and recommend the First Rate group to my family, friends, and small business network. The knowledge and customer service can’t get higher.

– Brandon

I have been doing business personally and professionally with Jeff and First-Rate Lending for more than 7 years. Every transaction has always been flawless. Always on time and the best rates!!! Highly recommend!

– Jack

Jeff and team are outstanding. I highly recommend using them for your load needs. I have financed with them four times with some loans over $2 million each and always got white glove treatment and exceptional rates! Very professional and knowledgeable.

– Anthony

“My eternal optimism is constantly challenged with poor customer service. Not this time. I knew this was going to be a good experience after the first sentence I heard from Jeff. He speaks with a combination of kindness, knowledge, and professionalism that cannot be beat. I contacted Jeff after going through a frustrating experience with a lender that was approaching the 5-week mark. Jeff had me approved in 2 weeks and at a rate considerably lower than my previous lender. Jeff still touches base with me a year later to make sure everything is going ok. I have recommended him to many friends and while I have no plans for a new loan anytime soon, I know that Jeff would have my best interest at heart. You will not regret contacting Jeff. I feel really comfortable and happy knowing I have Jeff as my lender.”

- Leslie  – San Dimas Ca.

Where do I start, Jeff is absolutely amazing. I started my finance journey with zero knowledge of the mortgage/lending business. Jeff and his staff took the time to explain every detail, every step of the way with kindness and patience. I am so thankful for trusting and believing in Jeff. His professionalism, honesty, and ability to explain terms and definitions in layman terms was important to me because I wanted to understand so that I could make educated decisions as the process unfolded.
Again, I am extremely thankful for Jeff and his staff. Each and every one of them really helped me and had my best interest at heart.
I would recommend First Rate Lending to any and everybody because they are top notch!!!
Thank you Jeff 🙂

– Natalie

We have worked with the folks at First Rate lending over several years and on several loans. In our experience these folks go above and beyond with their service. When dealing with the refinancing of a home or the processing of a loan there can be almost daily contact with your loan company. Through the many dealings and interactions, we have had with First Rate Lending, they have became more like trusted Friends or Family. Should you choose to use First Rate Lending, you will be in competent and caring hands.

– Jacob

I went to Jeff a couple times looking for a loan. I didn’t end up going with him for the first one but because my experience with him was so positive I went back as soon as I started looking for a loan again.

I would recommend him to anyone and everyone. He is knowledgeable, honest and willing to explain whatever you have questions on. A superb experience.

– Justin

Cole was great from the start! He provided all the information I needed to purchase my first home! Highly recommend!

– Karina

Had a great experience with Jeff and the whole Team at First Rate Lending. Jeff is extremely knowledgeable and gave different options when considering my unique situation. They respond quickly, keep you updated, and help answer all questions to keep the process moving forward. I recommended First Rate to friends and recommend them to others looking to refinance.

– Andy

Jeff and his team are responsive and consultative. We are very happy with the service and results!

– Cathy

Jeff made the process very easy and we got a great rate. Very professional would highly recommend Jeff and his team

– Rich

"Wired funds are in! Thank you again Jeff.  What you have helped create for my family is better than I could have imagined when I first called you a few weeks ago. Your honesty and sincerity for not just doing what is right, but what is best for your clients is rare in your industry. I consider you a trusted adviser and look forward to future collaborations."

- Ed - Mission Viejo Ca.

Jeff Kutnick and his team at First Rate Lending were wonderful to work with. They helped me complete my refi with incredibly low rates and in such an effective and efficient manner. Jeff is always so professional and sincere in how he communicates and put my mind at ease as I went through this process. His consultative nature gives you total peace of mind knowing that your business is in the hands of a true professional. 100% recommend 👍

– Art

“Jeff, I just want to personally thank you and your staff for doing such a great job handling our refinance project for our home loan. You had been recommended to us by a close friend who also recommended you to another close friend.  You have a growing fan club in the OC.  All of us are more than pleased with the outcomes. You have handled two refinances for us and the first one was quite challenging but you made it happen. This more recent one was "easy" compared to that first one.  You and your staff have always been professional yet personal.  You explained things along the way and were only a phone call away if we ever needed to reach you.

Thanks for helping us and I look forward to a continuing and lasting relationship.”

- Clara and Eldon – Santa Ana Ca.

Outstanding! We recently initiated a refinance and not only did we get a great rate, but we also had no issues during the process. No change in terms and no unnecessary delays. It all went very smoothly and the communication during the entire process was FIRST RATE!

– Erin

Was such a quick experience they closed my loan in 3 weeks. Very experienced staff.

– Brad

The team at first rate lending is amazing! Very responsive and quick to answer all questions. Explained every step and form in the process. The turn-around time for forms and time to close is quick and this is due to their diligence and professionalism. Extremely friendly and professional! The best lender I’ve worked with so far!

– Kelly

If you are looking for a new mortgage or to refinance go to First Rating Lending! Jeff and his team are amazing. The level of customer service and knowledge that Jeff has is unmatched. We bought our home in a very competitive market and having Jeff as our lender made all the difference. We were able to put together a competitive offer that included an extremely fast close. Jeff was able to accommodate what we needed without hesitation! In addition to the amazing customer service Jeff’s rates are the best around! No need to look any further, First Rate Lending is the best option and you will not be disappointed!

– Cory

“Jeff and Cole, we are thrilled with our new home. Thank you for all your valuable time and help throughout this process.  We appreciate your attention to detail, and all the time you took to explain the many aspects of our loan. We appreciated your professionalism and your honesty regarding this entire process. Both of you went above and beyond what the other lenders were doing. Thanks again.”

 - Garret - Nipomo

Jeff and his team are who we refer our clients to when starting the home buying process. I know as an agent that when Jeff tells the client that they qualify, that when it is time to close and complete their purchase, that home loan will in fact close.

Jeff is extremely knowledgeable and understands the ins and outs of home loans and is who I also trust to handle my personal home loan needs.

I not only refer my clients to Jeff, I am a client of Jeff's as well. I trust him with my home and my clients and so should you.

– Kevin

Jeff and his team helped us purchase our first home in 2015. As first time buyers, Jeff, Cole, and his team explained every step of the way. Their knowledge and recommendations made the process less stressful. We've gone back to Jeff and his team for our investment properties and they continue to do a fantastic job! We've already recommended First Rate Lending to family members and they've had the same great experience. We'll definitely reach out again when we are ready for our next investment property. Thank you Jeff and Team for all your help!

– Sandra

“First Rate Lending offers great rates and very competitive pricing on loan packages.  Jeff made the whole process quick and easy.  Thanks Jeff”

- Rob – Huntington Beach Ca.

Our refinance with Jeff First rate lending went smoothly I would definitely
recommend. Thanks Jeff and your staff for making it easy.

- Becky

Exceptional service at First Rate Lending. Jeff is always very professional and transparent with information related with interest rates, closing costs and savings. I been working with Jeff for several years and would not go anywhere else. Highly recommend First Rate Lending.

– Griselda

Jeff and his team are thorough, prompt and efficient when it comes to getting these matters taken care of in a timely manner. I have used them for several purchases over the years and trust them implicitly. Don’t think twice and use someone who knows what they are doing and better than conventional banks!

– Rob

I have known Jeff for just over 5 years and I am a huge fan. Jeff and his team completed a mortgage and a couple of refinances. All transactions were well prepped and unfolded smoothly, and rates were excellent. Customer service is always pleasant and excellent from anyone on the team. Of course, I was a cautious in the beginning but as I got to know Jeff, I have found him to be very experienced, professional and worthy of trust. Jeff will explain as much or as little of the process and the pros/cons as you wish to have. He is proactive and always available for questions. He builds relationships. I was fortunate to have found Jeff and I have and will continue to recommended him to my friends.

– Cheryl

Incredible experience, much better than my prior lenders. Responsive, fast and the most competitive pricing. I really enjoyed my experience with Jeff on my first and 2nd loan. Will definitely be back for a 3rd at the appropriate time.

– John

Jeff and his team are the best in the business. My wife and I were first time home buyers and they gave us confidence throughout the entire process. Jeff takes the time to explain things in a clear and simple way and goes above and beyond when it comes to finding solutions. I was recommended by a close friend to Jeff and I will recommend him to all of my friends going forward. 10/10!

– Blake

Just finishing up my THIRD loan with Camden @ First Rate Lender. Being in the business myself, there is nothing like connecting with someone who is 100% transparent and trustworthy. Camden & his team are a great one-stop-shop for all of your mortgage needs. I will definitely be a customer in the future! Thank you Camden!

– Christian

Would give more than 5 stars if I could! Jeff helped me step by step as a first time home buyer. He broke down the process, making it easy for me to understand and feel confident in each document I signed. I wouldn't be in my condo today if it weren't for him. Highly recommend!!

– Monique

Jeff and his staff are "First Rate". He has been available over the years to answer any and every question I have asked and is a great wealth of knowledge. He has been so helpful to me and I very much appreciate his time, patience and knowledge professionally and personally. I would and have recommended him to friends and family. Please speak with him before going with another company regarding your financing needs.

– Lance

First Rate Lending is a professional and experienced lending company. We not only went with First Rate Lending one time but numerous times. Will go to no other company, they are friendly kind hearted, fast and diligent when it comes to getting you what you need. If you need someone to explain everything you need to know about getting a loan Jeff Kutnick is the one to ask for. Jeff goes above and beyond, such a wonderful being in our world. Thank you First Rate Lending for making our lives a better and wonderful world, couldn't ask for more.

– Maudy


Highly Recommend. I have used First Rate Lending for several real estate transactions. They were with me when I first bought my home and got me a great rate with an expert, completely flawless experience. These people know what they are doing and are very good at it. Jeff at First Rate gives you a personalized service you will not find anywhere else because they run a "First Rate" company. Which means, these are not people who will take your money and run never to be heard from again. This is a family company made of professional people, who will become family friends looking out for your best interests. When rates came down, they reached out and helped me save a ton of money with a refinance. Whether it's your first home or beyond they have your back 110% which is why we have always gone with First Rate and used them when we upgraded to the purchase of our latest home. I cannot recommend this company enough; they will go the extra mile for you with a process and a service that is incomparable to the competition.

– Dave

Jeff is one of the most knowledgeable mortgage brokers I know. I highly recommend him to all of my clients looking for loans or refi’s. He has saved me on many occasions. Thank you Jeff!

– Michael

First Rate is one of the best companies I have ever dealt with. It was my first time refinancing and boy I am glad I went with them. Working with Jeff was an extreme pleasure and he helped me understand everything every step of the day. He is a true pro at what he does. The service and rate he was able to provide after refinancing has truly changed our lives for the better, and I would use their services again 100%. Thank you again Jeff for everything you do. I look forward to working with you again in the future. 100/10 would definitely recommend!

– Allster

“Jeff and First Rate Lending were the best loan experience I have ever had. I can honestly say no one has taken as much time and care in answering my questions as Jeff in any professional setting.  Jeff at First Rate doesn't simply answer your questions, he makes sure you understand how all of the pieces come together to make the answer.  Jeff didn't just beat the competition badly; he beat them and their builder’s credit.  Other lending institutions should be embarrassed that they don't conduct business like First Rate Lending.”

- Scott – Signal Hill Ca.

I can't recommend Jeff Kutnick and First Rate Lending enough. Prior to working with Jeff for our most recent refinance, I worked with two other broker/lenders who did the bare minimum and could not help after we encountered some issues with the refinance. We had a difficult refinance situation due to temporary Covid related income drop. Jeff identified the issues we were up against, thoroughly explained to me what we needed to do to qualify, and patiently walked me through a cumbersome process. He was always friendly and professional and delivered exactly what he promised. We were able to close on our refinance within a timely manner. His support staff were also wonderful to work with. They were responsive and easy to work with. I highly recommend Jeff and his team!

– Nina

Jeff and his team at First Rate Lending go above and beyond when it comes to purchase and refinance loans. I purchased a home using First Rate 2 years ago and Jeff made sure I understood absolutely everything about the home buying and loan process. He spent time with me to make sure I got the LOWEST rate available and it was a very smooth transaction; funded in under 30 days. Since then, I refinanced when rates dropped significantly. Jeff made sure I was aware of the rate drop and explained how much money I was going to save. I recommend First Rate Lending to all my friends and family, and I will never use any other company. JEFF IS THE BEST! - Shane - Yorba Linda
It was a pleasure to work with Camden and his staff at First Rate Lending. he was responsive to all questions, dependable, and reliable in accomplishing the task at hand. I was most impressed with the turnaround and how quickly the loan closed. – Bette
“If you are looking for a mortgage broker/lender, look no further.  You have found the best people to work with.  Jeff and Kathy are the most professional, knowledgeable and friendly people around in the business.  Everyone knows buying a home is most likely the largest financial decision we will make in our lifetimes, and First Rate treats it as such.  This was my first time purchase, so I had a lot of questions and anxiety.  Jeff explained everything in minute detail for me in layman's terms so I understood what was happening step by step and everything was completely transparent.  You can tell Jeff really cares about his clients and understands their fears and hesitations.  This is a transaction where you have to have the utmost trust and confidence in the person conducting the business on your behalf.  I assure you, Jeff is the person for this.  His excellent assistant Kathy is extremely detail oriented and always on top of your paperwork and the timing/deadlines of your financial documents.  In short, I would not hesitate to recommend First Rate Lending to you, as I've already recommended them to my own Mother.”

- Mark – Hawthorne Ca.

Jeff and the Crew at First Rate Lending always go above and beyond to make home refinancing or purchasing a very easy experience. The overall service and rates you get at First Rate cannot be beat by anyone. You will be returning again and again. I have referred many friends and colleagues over the years. That speaks volumes.

– Rob

Jeff Kutnick and his team at First Rate Lending have been great to work with. They have helped us with two purchase loans and a refinance. Each time, we’ve closed quickly and smoothly with great rates. Jeff has always been responsive, friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. We recommend First Rate to our friends and anyone else.

– Lucas

Nothing but an awesome experience. I did a couple of loans and refinances with Jeff and his team with a positive outcome. Now, we are already planning the loan for our next investment property! Thanks Jeff!

– Sonny

As a Real Estate lending company, Jeff & First Rate Lending has proven to my clients to be reliable and honest for their home loans.
Thanks Jeff!

– Joel Carlson - MJC Realty - Newport Beach Office - DRE 00546246

Jeff and his team at First Rate did a fantastic job for me on 2 new home purchases and several refinances over the last several years. Jeff is always able to get me incredible rates and is able to get loans done quickly to stay in contract. I highly recommend using First Rate Lending for all loans.

– David

I have done business with Jeff for over 20 years and have never been disappointed with his service, caring, and especially his honesty. Jeff is always looking out for his client's best interest and not afraid to give advice that may be contradictory to his own business. You will always come first. His team around him know each client and their needs and can answer any questions in Jeff's absence. It is your money. Who are you going to trust with it? For me it will always be Jeff Kutnick at First Rate Lending.

– Ed