Informed
first.
We pre-underwrite your mortgage before you shop, and explain every step on the way. Broker and lender, NMLS #2523172, Manahawkin, New Jersey.
Start where you are
Buying, refinancing, or just wondering what you could qualify for: a loan originator will look before you commit to anything.
Informed,
not sold.
25years of experience

At Informed Mortgage LLC we are not just your mortgage lender: we are your partners, your educators and your advocates. Our commitment is to guide you toward responsible homeownership while securing the best possible terms for your situation. That starts with teaching you how a mortgage really works, comparing the programs you qualify for side by side, and shopping the rate only after the right program is chosen. Twenty-one licensed loan originators, one office in Manahawkin, and clients in twenty-two states.
Four pillars, in order
Every file we work goes through the same four stages, in this sequence. Rate comes third on purpose.
Education

An informed borrower makes better decisions. We explain the options before we recommend one.
Program

Not all mortgages are equal. We work with a wide range of lenders and programs to fit your situation.
Rate

Once the program is right, we shop for the most competitive terms available for it.
Technology

A secure online application and clear status updates, so you always know where your loan stands.
Approved before you shop
Decision First® reverses the usual order: full pre-underwriting first, then the house hunt, then a faster close.

Pre-underwritten
Your income, assets and credit are reviewed by an underwriter up front, not after you sign a contract.

Shop with certainty
Your offer carries a real approval, which lets you compete with cash buyers and avoid last-minute surprises.

Close faster
Closing documents delivered 48 hours before closing and funds wired 24 hours before settlement.
Our loan originators
Those are our 21 licensed loan originators. Each has a page, a direct line and an online application.
Who can help in your state?
What clients say
“Clear communication and expectations from the start. Following through on what was told to us and always responding in a timely manner.”
“Everyone I worked with was so kind, responsive and helpful throughout it all. I hear stories about how difficult the mortgage process can be. That is not the case with this team.”
“We were able to get a mortgage for the property we wanted after being turned down by another broker.”
Reviews quoted from Informed Mortgage LLC clients, first name and town as they gave them.
Questions we hear every week
What’s the minimum credit score needed for each loan type?
B
Conventional loans typically require 620+ mortgage FICO scores. FHA loans allow scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down, or 500 with 10% down. VA and USDA loans don’t have official minimums, but most lenders prefer 620+. These are the mortgage credit scores (FICO 2, 4, 5), not the scores you see on apps.
How much do I need for a down payment?
B
Minimum down payments vary by loan program:
- FHA requires 3.5%
- Conventional requires 3% for first-time home buyers, 5% for all others
- USDA & VA require 0%
- Forgiveable grants and down payment assistance programs are also availabe
How long does it take to close a loan?
B
A typical purchase or refinance transaction takes between 30-45 days. Many variables dictate the length of a transaction, many of which are out of a lender’s control such as attorney review, title searches, appraisal inspections, seller requirements, etc. While every effort is made to meet the contractual closing dates in a purchase contract, the date is merely an estimated target and not set in stone; it can be and often is changed as the transaction progresses.
Can I finance my closing costs?
B
You can on a refinance. On a purchase, the costs cannot be rolled in however, they can be paid by the seller, the lender, the builder, the realtor, or any other interested party to the transaction. The use of seller credits is a very common approach to effectively financing your closing costs into the mortgage.
Can I get 100% financing with no down payment?
B
Yes, there are zero % down payment loan options available through the VA and the USDA. There are also 100% forgivable grant programs available for FHA loans.
Can I improve my mortgage credit scores quickly?
B
The fastest improvement usually comes from paying down credit card balances below 10% of your limits. This change typically shows up within 1-2 billing cycles. Other improvements like removing errors or adding positive payment history take longer. If you’re already under contract, rapid rescoring can update your scores within a few days for a fee.
Visit or call
799 Route 72 E, ManahawkinMon – Sat, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
(609) 597-0007 Pre-qualify