The Right Property Deserves the Right Mortgage Strategy.
Chicago Mortgage Expert David Braun: Nearly 30 Years of Experience.
Buying a home is more than finding the perfect property. It's about understanding your financing, protecting your financial interests, and choosing a mortgage that fits your goals.
I'm David Braun, a Chicagoland mortgage loan officer with experience in mortgage lending dating back to 1997. My commitment is to educate buyers, explain their options, and help develop an informed financing strategy.
David Braun | Mortgage Loan Officer | NMLS #303007
Watch the featured video above, then discover how David Braun can help you evaluate mortgage programs and build a plan for your next home.
Finding the Home Is Only the Beginning
Whether you're exploring a Chicago condominium, a suburban single-family home, a luxury residence, or your very first property, an important question deserves careful consideration:
What's the Best Way to Finance Your Purchase?
The answer depends on your financial profile, down payment, credit, income, property type, and long-term objectives.
And the best answer isn't necessarily the loan with the lowest advertised interest rate.
Every mortgage has a structure. Every loan program has eligibility guidelines. And every borrower has individual circumstances.
That's why I believe the mortgage planning process should begin before you submit an application or make a major financial commitment.
Understanding Your Mortgage Program Options
Different mortgage programs are designed for different borrower and property circumstances. The right program is one that satisfies applicable guidelines and supports your financial objectives.
01. Conventional Mortgages
Conventional mortgages are commonly used by buyers who meet applicable credit, income, asset, and underwriting requirements.
Some eligible programs offer down payments as low as 3%, although other loans require more. Mortgage insurance may apply when the down payment is less than 20%.
Conventional financing can be appropriate for eligible first-time buyers, move-up buyers, and certain investment-property transactions.
02. FHA Mortgages
FHA-insured mortgages can be an option for qualifying buyers seeking a lower down payment and flexible qualifying requirements.
Eligible borrowers may qualify with as little as 3.5% down under applicable credit requirements. Higher down payments may be required for certain credit profiles.
FHA loans include mortgage insurance and property eligibility requirements.
03. VA Home Loans
Eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses may qualify for VA-backed mortgage financing.
VA financing may offer no required down payment for eligible transactions, subject to entitlement, lender guidelines, and property eligibility.
A VA funding fee may apply unless an exemption is available.
04. Jumbo Mortgages
Luxury homebuyers may need financing that exceeds applicable conforming loan limits.
Jumbo loan programs can involve additional reserve requirements, credit standards, income documentation, and underwriting review.
Every jumbo transaction deserves careful financial preparation.
05. Self-Employed Mortgages
Business owners, independent contractors, entrepreneurs, and self-employed professionals may qualify for mortgage financing.
Income evaluation can involve tax returns, business income, deductions, cash flow, and other documentation.
Certain lenders may offer alternative-documentation programs, subject to their particular guidelines.
06. Investment Property Financing
Financing a rental property differs from financing a primary residence.
Loan requirements can include larger down payments, cash reserves, rental-income evaluation, and additional property considerations.
Eligible borrowers may have access to conventional investment-property loans and certain other specialized financing programs.
Why Mortgage Experience Matters in Chicagoland
I began my mortgage career in 1997 at Harris Bank in the Chicago area.
Since then, I've experienced changing mortgage markets, different lending guidelines, fluctuating interest rates, and evolving borrower needs.
That experience has reinforced one important belief:
Mortgage Strategy Matters More Than Sales Pressure.
My goal is to help buyers understand the mortgage they are considering, not simply encourage them to submit an application.
A mortgage professional should help explain how loan programs compare, how payment structures work, what documents are required, and which considerations could affect a borrower's long-term financial position.
Five Questions Every Chicago Buyer Should Ask
1. What can I comfortably afford?
Consider total monthly housing expenses,
including principal, interest, taxes,
insurance, mortgage insurance, and association fees.
2. What loan programs am I eligible for?
Compare available conventional, FHA, VA,
jumbo, and other financing options.
3. How much cash will I need?
Understand down payment requirements,
closing costs, reserves, and any allowable
seller concessions.
4. Should I pay discount points?
Compare the upfront cost of points
against possible monthly payment savings
and your expected time in the mortgage.
5. How does this mortgage fit my future?
Consider whether you expect to move,
refinance, keep the property,
or change your housing plans.
Mortgage Planning for Chicago and the Suburbs
Real estate financing can involve different considerations depending on the property and location.
Chicago Condominiums
Condominium financing may require review of project eligibility, association finances, insurance coverage, and other documentation.
Naperville & North Shore
Move-up and luxury buyers may benefit from evaluating jumbo financing, available assets, reserves, and overall payment structure.
Orland Park & Lockport
Suburban buyers can compare conventional and FHA financing along with property taxes, closing costs, and available cash.
Joliet & Bolingbrook
First-time homebuyers may want to review low-down-payment programs, seller contributions, and applicable homebuyer assistance options.
My mortgage education and lending services focus on Chicago and surrounding communities, including Naperville, Orland Park, Lockport, Joliet, Schaumburg, Downers Grove, Bolingbrook, and other Chicagoland areas.
The David Braun Mortgage Planning Process
My approach emphasizes preparation, education, and clear communication.
Step 1: Discuss your property goals and financial priorities.
Step 2: Review the information needed to assess your mortgage eligibility.
Step 3: Explore available loan programs based on your circumstances.
Step 4: Compare potential loan terms, estimated payments, and closing costs.
Step 5: Prepare for the application, documentation, and underwriting process.
Step 6: Maintain communication throughout the mortgage transaction.
Why Work With David Braun?
With nearly three decades in mortgage lending, I've learned that borrowers value more than an interest-rate quote.
They value experience, accessibility, communication, and the ability to understand their choices.
Whether you're purchasing your first home, buying a luxury property, navigating self-employed income, or comparing financing for a new investment, my approach remains the same.
Build Your Mortgage Plan Before You Apply.
My commitment is to help you understand your options and approach your next mortgage decision with a plan.
Frequently Asked Mortgage Questions
Which mortgage program is best for first-time buyers?
The answer varies by borrower. Conventional and FHA programs are common choices, and eligible borrowers may also consider VA, USDA, or certain assistance programs. Qualification and total financing costs matter.
Can I purchase a home with 3% down?
Some conventional mortgage programs permit down payments as low as 3% for eligible borrowers and properties. Qualification requirements and mortgage insurance may apply.
Is an FHA loan easier to qualify for?
FHA loans may provide different credit and underwriting options, but approval is not automatic. Income, debt, credit history, property eligibility, and lender requirements must still be satisfied.
Can I obtain a mortgage if I'm self-employed?
Yes, qualifying self-employed applicants can obtain mortgage financing. Lenders evaluate income documentation and applicable underwriting guidelines.
When should I contact a mortgage loan officer?
Ideally, before you begin making offers. An early conversation can help you understand required documents, financing options, and potential costs.
YOUR HOME.
YOUR FUTURE.
MY COMMITMENT.
You have the vision for your next home. Let's work on the financing strategy.
I'm David Braun, Chicagoland Mortgage Loan Officer, NMLS #303007.
Nearly 30 Years of Mortgage Experience. One Commitment: Helping You Make Informed Decisions.
EXPLORE DAVIDBRAUNMLO.COM CONTACT DAVID BRAUNBuild your mortgage plan before you apply.