LINTHICUM, MD, January 2, 2024 – NFM Lending is honored to have been named a Top Workplace by Scotsman Guide for 2024. This is Scotsman Guide’s inaugural year hosting the award and the first time NFM has won it. According to Scotsman Guide, a Top Workplace is a company that has exceptional achievements in operations, benefits, corporate culture, philanthropy, and DEI commitment. Although the Top Workplaces feature is not a ranking like Scotsman Guide’s other awards, NFM Lending was included in the Editor’s Picks category along with 15 other companies.
“We are immensely honored to be named a ‘Top Workplaces 2024’ by Scotsman Guide, a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering a workplace culture that values excellence, collaboration, and innovation,” said Gene DiPaula, Vice President of Communication at NFM. “This recognition reflects every team member’s dedication and hard work, and we are proud to be acknowledged by the leading resource for mortgage loan originators. As we continue to prioritize a thriving work environment, this accolade inspires us to reach even greater heights in delivering outstanding service to our customers and cultivating a workplace where success is celebrated together.”
NFM Lending is consistently hailed for its remarkable company culture. These awards include Top Workplace USA by Top Workplaces and Energage, Top Mortgage Employer by National Mortgage Professional Magazine, Top Workplace by the Washington Post, and ‘Best Mortgage Companies to Work For’ by National Mortgage News.
The company and its loan originators have received numerous accolades from Scotsman Guide over the years for excellence in lending and record sales numbers. NFM has made the Top Mortgage Lenders list for five years and is among the top 30 lenders nationwide.
NFM Lending is proud of this new recognition and is thankful to everyone in the NFM Family of Lenders for their contributions.
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending is a national mortgage lending company currently licensed in 49 states in the U.S. and Washington, D.C. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies includes Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, Elevate Home Loans, and Element Home Loans. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.
If you’ve been eyeing interest rates and waiting for an opportunity to refinance, your time has come! Refinancing is an excellent way to make your home work for you, and we’re answering the top five questions people have about refinancing.
Refinancing is when your original loan is replaced with a new loan with different terms. It can be a smart move if you plan to stay in your home for a while; use a refinance mortgage calculator and speak with a lender to know your breakeven point. Many people refinance to lower their monthly payment, but it can also be used to access home equity, remove someone from the mortgage, get rid of private mortgage insurance (PMI), or change your loan type. Work with a loan originator to find out what refinance option is right for your needs.
Much like purchase loans, there’s no one-size-fits-all refinance. There are several types of refinances that can help you achieve your financial goals:
Rate and term refinance: This is the most common type of refinance because it allows you to lower your monthly payment or shorten the loan’s term. When interest rates drop, it’s a great time to take advantage of a rate and term refi, especially if you bought your home at a higher rate. You can also use this type of refinance to change your loan type (like going from an adjustable-rate to a fixed-rate mortgage) or remove PMI. Be aware that lowering your payment can lead to a longer term and more payments for the life of the loan, while choosing to shorten the repayment period can lead to a higher monthly payment.
Cash-out refi: A cash-out refinance leverages your existing home equity by replacing your first loan with a higher mortgage and giving you the difference in cash. There’s no limit to how you can use your newfound funds—they can be used to pay off debt, make home repairs, take a vacation, or to pay for tuition. Since a cash-out refinance is riskier, the rates can be slightly higher than other refinance types. Cash-out refinances are also available for VA and FHA loans. You’ve put so much love and labor into your home, and a cash-out refi lets you reap those rewards!
Streamline or Interest Rate Reduction Refinance (IRRRL): A streamline refinance could be a good option for you if you have a FHA, USDA, or VA loan. Streamlined refinances and IRRRLs reduce how many items (such as an appraisal or credit check) are needed for eligibility, shortening the process.
Renovation Loans: The Fannie Mae Homestyle Renovation Loan, FHA 203(k), and VA Renovation are specifically for people who want to make home repairs or upgrades. One benefit of these options is that the renovation costs are rolled into the new loan amount, so there’s only one closing and one interest rate. Instead of using your home’s current value for the loan amount, your lender will use the detailed project proposal submitted by your contractor to determine your home’s “as-completed” appraised value.
Additionally, some lenders offer incentives that allow you to refinance with little-to-no fees when rates drop, making refinancing even more attractive.
Depending on the refinance program you choose, there may be a minimum requirement for the number of payments made or length of homeownership, though this is more often the case for loans backed by the federal government. Some conventional loans don’t have a wait time, but cash-out refis usually have a six-month waiting period. Wait times vary depending on your lender, your current mortgage, and your refinance plan. Your current equity is also a major determining factor. For example, 20% in home equity is required for most cash-out transactions. There’s also no limit to how many times you can refinance the same property if you meet eligibility requirements.
Even though you already own your home, you may be surprised to know there can be closing costs when refinancing. Closing costs can be 2-5% of the loan amount, though this can vary. Much like the closing costs associated with buying a home, the fees for a refinance may include an origination fee, recording fee, appraisal fee, and more. Note that some refinances require an additional fee in addition to closing costs: the FHA Streamline refinances come with a mortgage insurance premium (MIP) and an upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP); VA Streamline refinances mandate a funding fee of 0.5% for most cases.
On average, it takes 30 days to refinance a home. The process is similar to buying a home in it involves submitting an application, providing any needed documents, going through a home appraisal in (some instances), getting underwriting approval, and attending closing. Sending correct information to your lending team on time will go a long way in speeding up the process.
No matter your reason for refinancing, it’s important to understand your goals and what’s involved with the process. Working with an experienced lending team will ensure your refi goes smoothly.
If you have any questions about refinancing, contact one of our licensed Mortgage Loan Originators. If you are ready to begin the home buying process, click here to get started!
For informational purposes only. Refinancing an existing loan may result in the total finance charges being higher over the life of the loan. Veterans Affairs loans require a funding fee, which is based on various loan characteristics. LTVs can be as high as 96.5% for FHA loans. FHA minimum FICO score required. Fixed-rate loans only. W2 transcript option not permitted. Minimum required credit score of 620 for conventional loans.
LINTHICUM, MD, November 15, 2023 — NFM Lending is pleased to announce the opening of a new branch led by Branch Manager Kenneth Ufret. Pending licensing finalizations, the branch will be located in Cherry Hill, NJ. The NFM Lending branch will focus on expanding NFM’s flexible and powerful lending platform to better serve community families with exceptional customer service. NFM Lending offers Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, FNMA, Jumbo, and many other loan options to fit every borrower’s needs.
The branch’s goal is to continue to provide the same commitment and dedication to borrowers, ranging from first-time homebuyers to seasoned buyers looking for their next home, a second home, or investment properties.
“In this changing market, I went with a company that has the products and programs needed to meet any buyer’s needs, along with a reputation for superior customer service,” said Ufret.
“We are very excited to have Ken join our team in the Philadelphia market,” said Branch Manager Jeffrey Rice. “Ken brings over 30 years of experience in real estate and mortgage financing, and he is a well-respected and proven leader in the community. Ken will us help grow NFM in the Philadelphia area in the years to come.”
Ufret is currently seeking qualified Mortgage Loan Originators for full and part-time positions.
For more information, please contact:
Kenneth Ufret
Branch Manager
NMLS# 185399
973-981-0437
kufret@nfmlending.com
www.nfmlending.com/kufret
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending is a national mortgage lending company currently licensed in 49 states and Washington, D.C. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies includes Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, Elevate Home Loans, and Element Home Loans. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.
LINTHICUM, MD—December 12, 2023— NFM Lending is proud to announce it was named a Top Workplace by The Baltimore Sun. NFM Lending has received this honor for twelve consecutive years. The publication held the Top Workplaces awards ceremony on December 7, 2023, at the Grand Lodge of Maryland in Hunt Valley, MD.
Out of 155 Baltimore-area businesses, NFM Lending ranked #10 for companies with 150-399 employees. Each year, the Baltimore Sun distributes a survey to employees of Baltimore area workplaces. The survey analyzes job satisfaction and engagement of employees along with the values and organizational health of the company.
“We are immensely honored to be recognized as a ‘Top Workplace’ by the Baltimore Sun,” said NFM President and Chief Operating Officer Bob Tyson. “This accolade is a testament to the exceptional dedication and talent of our incredible team at the NFM Family of Lenders. Our success is a direct result of the hard work and commitment of each employee, who consistently contributes to our vibrant and positive workplace culture. We take great pride in fostering an environment where innovation, collaboration, and excellence thrive. This achievement is a reflection of our collective efforts, and we remain committed to maintaining a workplace that empowers and inspires every member of our NFM family.”
NFM Lending prides itself on its exceptional culture. The company fills the employees’ work environment with encouragement and teamwork, building a positive workplace that rewards commitment and performance. Management encourages employees to voice their questions and concerns, which are addressed promptly and appropriately. In addition, managers often surprise staff members for their birthdays, and the company holds contests, holiday celebrations, and other initiatives to encourage collaboration and show employees their appreciation.
NFM Lending is consistently recognized for its exceptional company culture. These awards include Top Workplace USA by Top Workplaces and Energage, Top Mortgage Employer by National Mortgage Professional Magazine; Top Workplace by the Washington Post; and ‘Best Mortgage Companies to Work For’ by National Mortgage News. NFM Lending is proud of these accomplishments and its team’s work to make it a Top Workplace.
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 49 states and Washington, D.C. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies includes Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, Elevate Home Loans, and Element Home Loans. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.
LINTHICUM, MD, November 7, 2023 — NFM Lending, a leading mortgage company, is excited to announce a significant rebranding effort for one of its core divisions. The company’s Influencer Division will now be known as The Creator Collective, reflecting a strategic shift to more accurately represent the innovative work being done by this dynamic group of social media pioneers.
The name change from Influencer Division to The Creator Collective is more than just a semantic shift; it’s a reflection of the division’s evolution and the multifaceted nature of their contributions. In the digital age, these individuals do far more than merely “influence” others. They are content creators and educators who hold the key to financial empowerment. They particularly play a vital role in helping Gen Z homebuyers, who prefer to receive information through videos on apps like YouTube and TikTok, navigate the complexities of the mortgage process.
This rebranding acknowledges the dedication and creativity of each member of The Creator Collective. These individuals invest significant time and effort in crafting valuable, informative, and engaging content related to the mortgage industry. They are true creatives, with distinctive styles and unique niches that set them apart not only from each other but also from online creators in other sectors.
The Creator Collective is committed to producing content that empowers and educates potential homebuyers. They craft insightful narratives, offer expert advice, and use their creativity to demystify the home-buying process. As a result, they are increasing financial literacy, making it more accessible to a broader audience, especially Gen Z buyers, a burgeoning set of prospective homebuyers.
This rebranding effort underscores the true essence of the division’s mission. The name The Creator Collective better signifies the work they are doing and the significant value they bring to online content in the mortgage industry. By embracing this new name, NFM Lending is reaffirming its commitment to innovation in social media and excellence in mortgage lending.
NFM Lending is excited to embark on this new chapter with The Creator Collective and looks forward to the continued impact and inspiration they will bring to the world of homeownership and mortgage education.
For more information about NFM Lending and The Creator Collective, please email TheCreatorCollective@nfmlending.com.
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending is a national mortgage lending company currently licensed in 49 states and Washington, D.C. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies include Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, Elevate Home Loans, and Element Home Loans. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.
LINTHICUM, MD, October 19, 2023 – NFM Lending is proud to announce that it has received three Culture Excellence awards from Top Workplaces by Energage for the fourth quarter of 2023.
For the third consecutive year, Top Workplaces recognized NFM for its Employee Well-Being, Employee Appreciation, and Professional Development. NFM prides itself in creating a company culture where employees thrive and feel like valued family members. At the branch and corporate level, NFM promotes internal employees and offers engaging training opportunities. The company has also been honored with the national Top Workplace USA and Financial Services Industry awards each year since 2021.
“Our employees are the lifeblood of The NFM Family of Lenders,” said President and COO Bob Tyson. “The fact that our team members feel appreciated, have a great work-life balance, and have opportunities for professional growth indicates that we are on the right track to making our company a great place to work and grow together.”
The Top Workplaces program distributes a survey to the employees of each nominated company, asking them to evaluate their workplaces. The survey asks participants to rank their companies on the quality of leadership, work-life balance, pay and benefits, and more. The Culture Excellence Awards focus on key aspects of the workplace environment and are released throughout the year. NFM Lending is consistently recognized for its exceptional company culture. Other awards include: ‘Top Workplace USA’ by Energage, ‘Top Mortgage Employer’ by National Mortgage Professional Magazine; ‘Top Workplace’ by The Baltimore Sun and the Washington Post; ‘Great Place to Work’ by Great Place to Work, and ‘Best Mortgage Companies to Work For’ by National Mortgage News, and ‘50 Best Places to Work For’ by Mortgage Professional Magazine. NFM Lending is proud to have received these distinctions and is thankful for each team member within the NFM Family.
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending is a national mortgage lending company currently licensed in 49 states and Washington, D.C. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. NFM Lending and its family of companies include Main Street Home Loans, BluPrint Home Loans, Elevate Home Loans, and Element Home Loans. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. For more information about NFM Lending, visit www.nfmlending.com, like our Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.