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How to Find a Lender

Today, lenders can be found through a variety of sources. In addition to calling on ads in the newspaper, you can also find and apply to lenders over the internet, and through referrals from your REALTOR. We would be happy to suggest lenders we have used successfully, who have proven themselves competitive and capable even with problem properties or poor credit.

Choosing the Right Lender

Interview several lenders to evaluate the following:

  • Ability to explain things clearly and return your phone calls in a reasonable time period
  • Competitiveness of interest rates, costs & fees.
  • Availability of loan programs that suit your credit profile and desired property
  • Access to local loan approval committee that understands the kind of property you are buying

Choosing the Right Kind of Loan

Today there are so many types of loans on the market that it is beyond the scope of this page to list or explain them all. Your lender is the best person to help you select a loan program to suit your needs. Below is a summary of the three most popular loan types we see in practice; for more detailed information click the link at the end of this page.

  1. Fixed loan: The fixed rate loan assures your monthly payments will stay the same over the life of the loan, which is typically between 15 and 30 years. Fixed rate loans may be best if you intend to hold the property for a long period of time, say over 7 years.
  2. ARMs (adjustable rate mortgages): ARM’s may be suitable if you plan to sell or refinance your home within the next few years. The starting interest rate is typically lower than a fixed rate loan, saving you money initially. However, it is important to understand the index, the readjustment interval, the capitalization rate and downside risks of an ARM before making a final decision to use this type of loan.
  3. Intermediate ARMs: Also called Hybrid Loans, these loans can offer fixed interest rates for the first 3, 5, 7 or 10 years after which the interest rate adjusts with the market every 6 months or year thereafter.

What ourClients Say

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Jody Neal guided me step by step through the process of selling my property. He was very patient with all of my questions. He got a great value for my property.

— Kathy Brown

"We selected Jody to represent us in the sale of a parcel of land on the Gaviota coast. The purchaser was a high profile buyer and the transaction was complex and sensitive. Jody did a great job of coming up with a strategy to sell the property and navigating all issues that came up during…

— Patrick Brown

Jody is a pleasure to work with. This is my second purchase with him as my agent. Over 4 months, he listened to my needs and responded promptly to all inquiries. His market awareness and empathetic approach were a perfect fit. I trust him completely and will use him again to sell my home in…

— Thomas L

When we got started looking at ranches/farms we were met with new questions and concerns we hadn’t thought of. We were nervous and had a healthy amount of fear. We were connected with Jody and when I say this was the best experience possible, I mean it. Like, happily ever after type of joy. We…

— Max Perutz

Old Mac Donald had a farm, which is what we have now because Jody made our dreams come true. The only thing more impressive than his sourdough skills is his ability to sell your house and help you purchase a new one. His attention to detail, experience, and knowledge is impeccable! (Insert chefs kiss here).…

— Chandler Buchanan

As first-time buyers, the prospect of searching for the perfect property seemed daunting. Luckily, Jody helped us navigate the challenging real estate market with competence and confidence. He was the perfect combination of being highly responsive without being pushy or overbearing. His expertise in the art and science of real estate negotiation was impressive. He…

— Scarlett Okerblom-Sincoff

Jody helped us sell a small, undeveloped lot we inherited. He found a buyer quickly and it seemed like a simple deal until we discovered all kinds of complexities with the title. With every one of the many steps it took to clear things up, Jody was calm, professional and efficient. He put in a…

— Jono Kornfeld & Mirande Blankenship

We highly recommend Jody in any real estate sale. Jody was professional, prompt, and made the process easy for us. We didn't expect to sell as quickly as we did but Jody found potential buyers and helped us close well before expected. We are so happy we found him and recommend him to anyone looking…

— Melissa Moore

In brokering our deal with a probate lot adjacent to our home, Jody Neal made it happen as seamlessly as we could've imagined. His attention to detail and tireless research made uncovered several potential pratfalls that could've killed the deal. In the end, we got an incredible view lot with unlimited potential for what we…

— Mike and Cheryl Baker

It was a pleasure working with Jody, he's always available, works fast, knows the ins and outs of Santa Barbara County well, and was able to get our offer accepted in a competitive market. Highly recommended, thanks Jody.

— Jerome Chiaro

It was pleasure working with Jody. He is a direct communicator with his foot on the gas at all times. I was very impressed with his out of the box thinking- he got my property sold in 9 months after it had been on the market for 5 years with another agent.

— Owen Schafer

Thank you for everything you have done in regards to getting us through this process. First-time sellers that needed a little extra guidance. You walked us through and held strong through the process. We thank you for your hard work and will highly recommend you to anyone in need of your expertise.

— David and Janet McCall