Explore Mortgage Options | Personalized Home Financing Solutions

NMLS Licensed #1791379

Which Mortgage is Right for You?

Explore mortgage options designed for different buyers and financial goals.

Choosing the right mortgage is about more than simply finding a rate. The structure of your loan can impact your monthly payment, cash flow, flexibility, and long-term financial strategy.

At Hess Mortgages, we help buyers compare mortgage loan options based on:

Down payment goals
Monthly payment comfort
Credit profile
Property type
Income structure
Long-term plans

Purchase Loan Options

Types of home loans available through Hess Mortgages

Hess Mortgages helps homebuyers across California explore conventional loans, FHA loans, VA loans, jumbo mortgages, and personalized financing solutions tailored to their goals.

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Conventional Loan

Ideal for buyers with solid credit and stable income. Competitive rates, flexible terms.

Learn more

Not sure which loan is right for you? Andy will walk you through it — no pressure, no jargon.

Schedule a Free Call Compare All Options

First-Time Homebuyer Guidance

Buying your first home? We'll walk you through the process.

Many buyers start the mortgage process unsure where to begin. Our goal is to simplify the experience and help you make informed decisions at every stage.

We help first-time buyers understand:

How much home they may qualify for
Down payment options
Monthly payment expectations
Mortgage pre-approval
Closing costs
Loan program comparisons

Common Questions

First-Time Homebuyer Questions

Quick answers to the questions most first-time buyers have before they start the mortgage process.

How much home can I afford as a California buyer?

It depends on your income, monthly debts, down payment, credit profile, and the loan program you choose. Rather than guessing, Andy will walk through real numbers with you and give you an honest, personalized range — including an estimated monthly payment — before you start touring homes.

What's the difference between conventional, FHA, VA, and jumbo loans?

Conventional loans suit buyers with solid credit and steady income. FHA loans are more flexible on credit and down payment. VA loans offer strong benefits for eligible veterans and service members. Jumbo loans cover higher-value homes above conforming limits. Andy compares all of them based on your goals — there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

How much down payment do I actually need?

Less than many buyers expect. Conventional loans can start as low as 3% down, FHA from 3.5%, and VA loans may allow $0 down for eligible buyers. Andy can also help you understand how your down payment affects your monthly payment and whether mortgage insurance applies.

What is pre-approval, and why does it matter?

Pre-approval is a lender's review of your income, assets, and credit that shows how much you may be able to borrow. In competitive California markets, sellers often expect it before accepting an offer. Andy can help you get pre-approved so you can shop with confidence.

I'm a firefighter with overtime and shift income — how is that treated?

Overtime and shift-differential income may be counted toward qualifying when it's documented and meets lender guidelines. Andy works with firefighters, police officers, EMTs, paramedics, and nurses regularly, and can explain what documentation may be needed for your income to be reviewed fairly.

How long does the home-buying process take?

Once you're under contract, closing typically takes about 30–45 days, though it varies by lender, property type, and documentation. Andy keeps the process moving and communicates at every milestone so you always know what's next.

Why Buyers Work with Hess Mortgages

A more personalized mortgage experience.

The mortgage process can feel overwhelming — especially in competitive California markets. Hess Mortgages focuses on making the experience more strategic, transparent, and relationship-driven.

Clients choose Hess Mortgages because they want:

Direct access to an experienced advisor
Personalized mortgage guidance
Clear communication throughout the process
Financing strategies aligned with long-term goals
A trusted resource before, during, and after closing

The Mortgage Process

What to expect during the home loan process.

Five clear steps. No surprises. From your first call to closing day, Andy guides you the whole way.

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Schedule a Call

Book a free 20-minute consultation. Andy will listen to your goals, answer your questions, and give you an honest picture of what's possible.

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Review Your Options

Andy will pull together personalized loan scenarios — real numbers, real rates — so you can compare and choose with confidence.

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Submit Your Application

The application process is streamlined and mostly digital. Andy guides you through every document and keeps you updated along the way.

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Close with Confidence

Andy stays involved through closing day and beyond — so you know exactly what to expect and who to call.

Start with a Free Call

Referral Partners

Trusted by buyers, families, and referral partners.

Many of our clients are referred by real estate agents, financial professionals, past clients, friends, and family members.

We believe every referral deserves:

Responsive communication
Professional guidance
Clear expectations
A thoughtful client experience

If you're referring a client, we'll treat them with care and professionalism throughout the process.

Purchase Mortgage Questions

Buying a Home in California, Answered

Andy's answers to the questions buyers ask him most.

How much do I need for a down payment?

It depends on the loan program. Conventional loans can start as low as 3% down, FHA loans around 3.5%, and VA loans let eligible borrowers put $0 down. A larger down payment lowers your monthly payment, while a smaller one keeps more cash on hand — Andy will walk you through the trade-offs for your situation.

What credit score do I need to qualify for a mortgage?

There's no single cutoff. Conventional loans generally favor higher scores, while FHA loans can work with more flexible credit. Your score affects your options and terms, but it's only one piece — income, debt, and down payment all matter too. Andy can review where you stand and what's realistic.

What's the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

A pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on information you share. A pre-approval is more thorough — your finances are reviewed and verified, which makes your offer far stronger when you find a home. Andy recommends getting fully pre-approved before you start shopping.

How long does the mortgage process take?

Most purchase loans close in about 30–45 days from a complete application, and refinances are often similar. Timelines vary with your loan type, property, and documentation. Andy keeps things moving and updates you at every milestone so nothing feels like a black box.

What documents will I need to apply?

Typically recent pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, bank statements, and a photo ID — though it varies by situation. You don't need anything prepared for a first conversation. Andy will give you a clear, specific checklist once you decide to move forward.

Should I wait for rates to change before buying or refinancing?

Timing the market is difficult, and the right decision depends on your goals — not just the headline rate. The smartest move is to understand your numbers now so you're ready to act when it makes sense for you. Andy can run your scenario honestly, with no pressure either way.

Buy a home with a mortgage strategy built around you.