Business Details
25 Years
experience
Your Trusted Mortgage Partner in San Jose, CA
With over 24 years of dedicated service in the mortgage industry, Loans by Irene has established itself as a trusted partner for homebuyers and investors alike. Our founder, Irene Moustakas, combines deep market knowledge with a personalized approach to guide clients through every step of the financing process. Holding a California Real Estate Broker License and a Nationwide Mortgage License, we specialize in tailored loan strategies that align with individual financial goals. Our commitment to transparency is reflected in proactive communication, detailed documentation guidance, and ongoing client education through monthly newsletters and market updates.Recognized as a Top Originator by Scotsman Guide and certified as a Military Housing Specialist, we leverage extensive experience in conventional, FHA, VA, and specialized investor loan programs. From first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors, our focus remains on delivering competitive rates, innovative solutions like 30-year fixed second mortgages, and post-closing support that includes proactive refinancing opportunities. Backed by an MBA in Business Administration and a career spanning thousands of successful transactions, we maintain rigorous industry knowledge through continuous education on evolving lending standards and government programs.
Services
Conforming Loans
FHA Loans
VA Loans
HELOCs
Business Entity Loans
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- 24 years of mortgage industry experience with thousands of successful transactions
- Proactive communication with regular loan status updates and process transparency
- Personalized loan comparisons tailored to individual financial goals and needs
- Certified Military Housing Specialist with VA loan expertise
- Ongoing client support including post-closing refinancing opportunities
Associations and certifications
- Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System
- Certified Military Housing Specialist
What people say
Great to communicate with
Knowledge and expertise
Best loan possible
Compassionate and positive
Prompt responses
Services
VA Loans
Specialized mortgage solutions for military members and veterans featuring competitive rates and favorable terms. Our Certified Military Housing Specialist guides clients through VA loan requirements, eligibility verification, and documentation preparation. These programs offer unique benefits including zero down payment options and lenient credit requirements while ensuring veterans receive optimal financing structures.
HELOCs
Flexible credit line solutions using home equity with variable rates and draw periods. We offer 30-year fixed second mortgage options alongside traditional HELOCs, helping clients determine the best choice for debt consolidation, home improvements, or investment opportunities while carefully explaining associated risks and repayment terms.
FHA Loans
Low-down-payment mortgage programs insured by the Federal Housing Administration for first-time buyers and those with moderate credit histories. Our expertise ensures clients understand FHA requirements, mortgage insurance premiums, and how these loans compare with conventional alternatives while navigating the unique qualification criteria.
Preapprovals
Comprehensive financial assessment process establishing borrowing capacity before house hunting. We streamline preapproval by efficiently collecting paystubs, tax returns, and asset statements, providing clear documentation guidelines and explaining how different loan programs affect purchasing power and monthly obligations.
Refinance Programs
Strategic mortgage restructuring to reduce payments, shorten loan terms, or access home equity. We analyze current loan terms against market conditions, explain cash-out options, and project break-even points while ensuring clients understand closing costs and potential savings timelines.
People
Irene Moustakas
Mortgage Broker
24-year mortgage industry veteran with California Real Estate Broker License #01419531 and Nationwide Mortgage License #325332. Holds MBA from San Jose State University and recognized as Scotsman Guide Top Originator. Certified Military Housing Specialist with expertise in conventional, FHA, and VA loan programs.
Questions
What's the difference between a quoted interest rate and APR?
The quoted rate determines monthly payments while APR includes both the interest rate and associated mortgage costs.
Why do some lenders charge points while others don't?
Points (1% of loan amount) can buy down rates, but higher rates may cover closing costs - we help determine optimal choices.
What is Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) and when is it required?
PMI protects lenders for loans with less than 20% down payment and may be tax deductible for qualifying borrowers.
What are the benefits of getting pre-approved for a mortgage?
Pre-approval establishes budget certainty, strengthens purchase offers, and streamlines the closing process through early documentation review.
How long does the average mortgage closing process take?
Typical loan closings occur within 30 days from application, though market conditions and seller requirements may affect timelines.
