Category: First Home News

Exciting news from First Home Mortgage! We’re thrilled to announce that Matt Nader has been appointed as our new President. As the mortgage industry evolves rapidly, with challenges like housing supply imbalances, margin compression, and increased competition, Matt’s leadership marks a new chapter of innovation and resilience for our company.

A Visionary Leader with a Proven Track Record

Matt joined First Home Mortgage in 2018 as a loan officer and quickly became one of our top producers. His commitment to excellence and ability to inspire those around him led to his promotion as Director of Sales in early 2023. Under his guidance, our teams have achieved remarkable results, further solidifying his reputation as a dynamic and visionary leader.

“Matt has an incredible ability to inspire teams, deliver outstanding results, and drive innovation,” said David Waters, CEO of First Home Mortgage. “His leadership as President will be instrumental in shaping the bright future of First Home Mortgage.”

Driving Innovation and Growth

In his new role, Matt is committed to building on our legacy of trust, collaboration, and exceptional service. “It’s an honor to step into this role at a company I deeply care about,” said Matt. “I’m excited to work alongside our incredible team to create outstanding experiences for our clients and drive innovation across the industry.”

As President, Matt plans to focus on expanding First Home Mortgage’s reach, enhancing client experiences, and strengthening our relationships with referral partners. His forward-thinking approach ensures that we’re not just keeping pace with industry changes but leading the way forward.

Looking Ahead

With Matt at the helm, First Home Mortgage remains steadfast in its mission to empower homebuyers and foster long-lasting partnerships with clients and referral partners. We’re excited about what’s ahead and confident that Matt’s leadership will continue to guide us toward success.

First Home Mortgage is proud to announce the launch of its transformative Community Empowerment Initiative, a bold new program designed to make homeownership more accessible to underserved communities. This initiative marks a major step forward in the company’s ongoing mission to bridge the homeownership gap and expand affordable housing opportunities across the region.

As a long-standing leader in affordable housing, First Home Mortgage continues to play a crucial role in fostering homeownership for individuals and families. The new Community Empowerment Initiative builds on this legacy, targeting those who need it most—particularly residents in majority-minority census tracts—by removing key barriers that have historically hindered homeownership.

Continuing a Tradition of Impact

First Home Mortgage’s deep commitment to affordable housing is not new. The company has consistently been the largest single participant in the Maryland Mortgage Program, while also leading in many other state Housing Finance Agencies. In May of 2023, First Home Mortgage introduced the First Home Dream program, offering eligible borrowers a $3,000 grant toward their down payment or closing costs. Since its launch, the program has distributed more than $800,000 in grant funds, helping countless families achieve the dream of homeownership.

The Community Empowerment Initiative builds upon this solid foundation by offering a generous $5,000 grant to eligible borrowers in select markets. These funds can be applied toward down payments or closing costs, giving a substantial boost to those pursuing homeownership in Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.

A Program Focused on Underserved Communities

This initiative is designed to meet the unique challenges faced by historically underserved populations. By offering targeted support to residents of majority-minority census tracts, the Community Empowerment Initiative aims to address longstanding disparities in homeownership rates.

“We’re thrilled to introduce the Community Empowerment Initiative,” said Tim Whittier, President of First Home Mortgage. “This program builds on our leadership in affordable housing and reflects our deep commitment to the communities we serve. It’s another powerful example of how we’re expanding opportunities for those who need it most.”

Leading in Affordable Housing

With a proven track record of success, First Home Mortgage has facilitated over $13.49 billion in loans to more than 46,000 first-time homebuyers in the past decade. The company’s partnerships with state Housing Finance Agencies and other internal initiatives have made a lasting impact on the housing landscape. The launch of the Community Empowerment Initiative continues this tradition of innovation and dedication to community upliftment.

The Path Forward

The Community Empowerment Initiative, effective September 30, 2024, promises to open new doors for individuals and families in need, providing crucial financial support to those pursuing homeownership. As a trailblazer in affordable lending, First Home Mortgage continues to empower communities, strengthen families, and create brighter futures.

We are thrilled to unveil our latest offering, First Home Mortgage’s Professional Solutions for Bank Statement Loans, meticulously crafted especially for small business owners, consultants, and freelance professionals like yourself. This innovative product aims to simplify the mortgage process and make homeownership more accessible for individuals with non-traditional income sources. 

Our Professional Solutions program is not just about mortgages; it’s about empowerment. Traditional mortgages might not see the full picture of your financial success, but our new Professional Solutions product line is here to change that. With over 16 and a half million self-employed individuals in the workforce today, making up more than 10 percent of the economy, it’s clear that the traditional employment landscape is evolving. Our Professional Solutions products are centered around an alternative way to make a qualification decision, looking at the whole picture of your finances. 

Why should you care about this? Because this is about you. This is about giving you more options. We’ve heard the stories of well-deserving borrowers left out in the cold by traditional qualifications. Maybe that is you, but we’re here to give you a lifeline. 

Whether you’re a freelance professional, a small business owner, or a consultant, our Professional Solutions are here for you. It’s time to get the mortgage you deserve. 

What sets our program apart is its unique feature of accepting bank statements as proof of income, where we can review both 12 or 24-month options. Moreover, this product embraces 1099 income, ensuring a more inclusive approach to mortgage qualification. 

With First Home Mortgage’s Professional Solutions program, primary residences can qualify for up to $3,000,000 in financing, while second homes are eligible for up to $2,000,000. Notably, there’s no requirement for mortgage insurance, providing greater financial flexibility for our valued customers. 

To be eligible for this program, applicants should have a minimum FICO score of 660, and individuals with 25% or more ownership in a business are considered self-employed. At First Home Mortgage, we are dedicated to providing tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of our customers. 

Think you may qualify? Contact a loan officer today or dive into our video featuring our SVP and Director of Sales, Matt Nader, along with our VP of Capital Markets, James Baublitz, to delve deeper into our new program and its potential to elevate your homebuying journey. 

At the recent annual awards ceremony hosted by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, excellence in the housing sector was celebrated with much fanfare. Among the esteemed honorees, First Home Mortgage Corporation stood out as the top-performing lender for the Maryland Mortgage Program in 2023. This recognition underscores First Home Mortgage’s commitment to providing accessible and sustainable homeownership opportunities to the people of Maryland.

The Maryland Mortgage Program, an initiative dedicated to offering fixed-rate mortgages primarily to first-time homebuyers, has been a cornerstone of affordable housing in the state for over four decades. With a mission to empower individuals and families to achieve their dreams of homeownership, the program provides essential support such as down payment and closing cost assistance, along with innovative solutions like the Maryland SmartBuy initiative, which offers relief for student debt.

In 2023, the Maryland Mortgage Program achieved a significant milestone by surpassing $1 billion in loan reservations for the fourth consecutive year. This remarkable achievement reflects the program’s unwavering commitment to making homeownership attainable for all Marylanders.

Secretary Jake Day, expressing his gratitude for the collaborative efforts of industry partners, emphasized the vital role played by like-minded lenders, realtors, title companies, and housing counselors in advancing the program’s mission. Indeed, it is through such partnerships that the Maryland Mortgage Program has been able to fulfill its mandate of fostering opportunity and wealth-building through homeownership.

In addition to recognizing top lenders, the awards ceremony also applauded outstanding individuals and organizations who have demonstrated excellence in their respective roles. From top-producing loan officers and processors to leading realtors and real estate companies, the event showcased the diverse talents and contributions driving Maryland’s housing market forward.

Among the standout performers honored at the ceremony were Ryan Paquin and Tammi Printz from First Home Mortgage Corporation, recognized as top-producing loan officers. Their dedication and expertise exemplify the professionalism and commitment to excellence that define Maryland’s housing industry.

Through collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for a more equitable future, we can continue to build stronger communities and brighter futures for generations to come.

For more information about the Maryland Mortgage Program and its partners, please visit mmp.maryland.gov.

First Home ONE Program empowers qualifying homebuyers to secure a home with just a 1% down payment and 3% equity, making homeownership more accessible than ever. Building upon the success of First Home’s Dream Program, this innovative offering extends a helping hand to aspiring homeowners, opening up new possibilities for realizing their homeownership dreams. 

James Baublitz, VP of Capital Markets at First Home Mortgage, commented, “In today’s fiercely competitive housing market, our loan officers understand the challenges that prospective homebuyers face. The First Home ONE program is part of our ongoing efforts, which include First Home Advantage, First Home Heroes, and First Home’s Dream Program, all aimed at making homeownership more affordable and attainable for the communities we serve.” 

Amidst the current housing market dynamics, the First Home ONE Program comes as a welcome relief for individuals and families seeking to purchase a new home, catering to both first-time and current homeowners. Eligible borrowers can access up to $5,500 in funds for down payment and/or closing cost assistance, effectively reducing the barriers to homeownership and providing much-needed support. 

This program is available on 30-year fixed conventional standard loans, combined with a streamlined underwriting process for efficiency and transparency. Interested borrowers can collaborate with First Home’s loan officers to assess their eligibility and explore tailored options that suit their unique circumstances and goals. 

“We are committed to creating diverse pathways to homeownership and will continue to seek innovative ways to open doors for our clients,” emphasized Baublitz. “The launch of the First Home ONE Program underscores this commitment.” 

To learn more, please reach out to one of our qualified loan officers today!

More exciting news about our ongoing growth and expansion efforts: First Home Mortgage is opening a new office location in Sevierville, Tennessee! That’s right – following closely on the recent announcement of our latest branch expansion in Crofton, we’re opening up a new chapter in a new state, bringing our total count to 33 offices in 21 states!

Just as with our previous office openings, we knew we’d need the right person to put together a talented team and lead our operations before we could open our doors. We’re proud to introduce Brad Guinn, a recent addition to the First Home leadership team who will serve as the Sevierville branch manager.

“I am deeply honored to lead a dynamic team and contribute to the thriving East Tennessee housing market,” Brad said. “With a strong local presence, I am dedicated to providing unparalleled service and expert guidance to the residents of Sevierville and beyond.”

Brad has 30 years of experience in mortgage and financial services, including accounting, finance, and higher education. His comprehensive experience encompasses leadership roles, specialization in construction financing, and financial planning. His insightful approach and passion for leading and teaching has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor within the industry.

Brad is also a family man and a proud, active member of the community. Outside of work, he dedicates some of his free time to leading a local youth athletic program that he and his wife founded, and supporting his two sons in playing various sports. Additionally, he teaches corporate finance at local university campuses as an adjunct professor.

Matt Nader, our Senior Vice President and Director of Sales, shared his enthusiasm for Brad’s leadership and our new office opening.

“Brad’s financial expertise and community-oriented approach perfectly position him as a strong fit and valuable addition to the First Home team,” Matt said. “We welcome Brad as the leader of our inaugural office in the state of Tennessee and eagerly anticipate the positive impact he and his team will make in Sevierville and the surrounding area.”

Through the launch of our Sevierville branch, we mark an important milestone, entering Tennessee to extend our mission of making homeownership attainable by all.

“We’re entering a new era of growth and potential with the launch of this office,” Nader added. “Brad and his team will lead us in offering new pathways to homeownership for the people of Tennessee.”

With the help of Brad and his team, we are looking forward to making Sevierville and its surrounding areas a thriving hub of homeownership opportunities!

At First Home Mortgage, we know that the key to our success is the cumulative talent, effort, and dedication of our incredible teams, and that’s why we’re always seeking new opportunities to grow our talent pool. Today, we are excited to announce that our Crofton office is growing with the addition of new members of the First Home team, as well as two new leaders, Branch Managers Scott Bienstock and Michael Grossblatt!

Scott Bienstock

Scott brings over 15 years of real estate and mortgage experience to his role as Branch Manager of the Crofton office. As a former licensed real estate agent, he has a valuable perspective of the industry and unique insights into the entire homebuying and mortgage process. Scott specializes in purchases, first-time homebuyers, FHA 203k, investment properties, USDA, VA, VA rehab and conventional rehab loans.

“First Home Mortgage’s commitment to excellence and client-focused philosophy made accepting this new position an easy decision,” said Scott. “I am excited to be part of this incredible team of passionate, talented mortgage professionals serving the Crofton community.”

Michael Grossblatt

With more than two decades of experience in the mortgage industry, Michael Grossblatt brings a wide range of mortgage origination expertise and financing industry knowledge to his new role as Branch Manager. Michael is passionate about community service and is active in supporting a variety of local organizations and nonprofits. He is enthusiastic about helping his clients build wealth and accomplish their goals through homeownership.

“In the real estate and mortgage business, building and nurturing relationships within your community is the key to success,” said Michael. “As a member of the First Home Mortgage team I look forward to taking a community-first approach to helping my clients and neighbors achieve their homeownership dreams.”

A Shared Vision for Success

Scott and Michael share a common goal for the Crofton branch – to continue building on the vibrant and supportive culture where clients feel valued and supported throughout their homeownership journey. With the help of the other new members of the team, they will continue raising the bar for home financing even higher.

Welcome aboard, Scott and Michael!

We’ve got more great news to share! A new First Home Mortgage branch office just opened in Carroll County, Maryland, under the skilled leadership of Branch Sales Manager RL Kyker – one of the latest additions to our growing team!

“Joining the team at First Home and having the honor of leading this new branch is a tremendous opportunity,” said Kyker. “I believe people deserve great service and straight-forward advice, and I look forward to serving the community of Carroll County as a trusted advisor, partner, and neighbor.”

RL has over 17 years of experience in the mortgage financing industry, serving new homebuyers and existing homeowners across Maryland. He finds inspiration in supporting the life-changing experience of homeownership and prides himself in providing the most dependable, convenient, and positive experiences possible to his clients. He values relationship-building, consistency, and clear communication in his dealings with clients.

In addition to his day-to-day work, RL stays active in the industry as an affiliate member of the Carroll County Association of Realtors, where he also serves on the Community Outreach Committee. Through this outreach, he has volunteered with and supported a variety of nonprofit organizations, including Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity, and Boys & Girls Club of Westminster.

“Anyone who’s had the pleasure of working with RL knows that his passion for working at the community level makes him a perfect fit for the First Home team,” said Matt Nader, Senior Vice President and Director of Sales for First Home Mortgage. “We’re thrilled to welcome him aboard as the leader of our new Carroll County office.”

As we look forward to the opening of our new branch location, we’re confident that RL will lead his team to success thanks to his extensive experience, commitment to his clients, and dedication to the Carroll County community.

Today, we are proud to announce that for the ninth consecutive year, First Home Mortgage has made the Scotsman Guide 2023 Top Mortgage Lenders! In the Top Overall Lenders category, First Home was ranked among the top 50 lenders – a prominent spot in a crowded field of some of the largest names in the industry.

Scotsman Guide’s annual Top Mortgage Lenders rankings, originating in 2013, has long been a trusted benchmark for excellence in the industry. In the words of the publication, the list is “the industry’s most comprehensive, verified rankings of the nation’s top-producing mortgage companies.”

Thanks to the hard work of our talented team of loan officers located across our 31 offices, First Home has been honored to make the list for nine years in a row! For us, it’s another indication that our commitment to working with our local communities to deliver first-rate service and exceptional mortgage solutions continues to be noticed.

“We are delighted to be recognized once again as a Top Mortgage Lender in the nation by Scotsman Guide,” said Matt Nader, Senior Vice President, Director of Sales at First Home. “This achievement is a testament to the effort, dedication, and commitment of our entire team to providing distinguished service to our clients. Our mission is to help individuals and families realize their dreams of homeownership, and this recognition is just one more indication that we are on the right path.”

The Top Overall Lenders for 2023 is available online, allowing industry professionals and mortgage enthusiasts to explore the best-in-class lenders in the country.

First Home Mortgage’s Columbia, Maryland office location is about to get a little bit bigger with the exciting addition of our newest branch manager, Jeff Modeski.

Jeff is an experienced mortgage professional with more than 22 years of experience working for some of the best mortgage lenders in the industry – including First Home Mortgage! That’s right, Jeff actually began his career as a loan officer with First Home in 1997, working as part of our team for nearly five years before venturing off to explore other opportunities throughout the industry. Now, he’s returning to us as a seasoned expert in the field of residential lending.

“First Home is where I got my start in the industry,” said Modeski. “I learned invaluable lessons and had some truly memorable experiences that have stayed with me throughout my career. I look forward to beginning this new chapter as branch manager of the Columbia office and once again being a part of this incredible organization.”

The branch manager role is an essential one, and Jeff will be in good company as he leads his team to success. He joins Chris Sittig, the current branch manager of the Columbia office, who himself has more than 20 years of experience originating mortgage loans and helping buyers achieve their dreams of homeownership.

Both Chris and Jeff share a passion for working with clients to meet their unique homeownership goals. The two branch managers will be leading branch operations together to provide the local community with their signature level of high-quality service.

“On behalf of the entire First Home team and the Columbia branch, we’re excited to welcome Jeff back to First Home,” said Sittig. “This office has set some ambitious goals and set the bar high for client service. Jeff’s talent and experience will no doubt help us continue to reach even higher as we build on our tradition of excellence.”

 

Welcome home, Jeff!