Business Details
41 Years
experience
Your Trusted Mortgage Broker in Orange County, CA
Jeff Markell is a dedicated mortgage brokerage serving California and Oregon, founded on principles of personalized service and financial expertise. With over 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry, we specialize in guiding clients through homeownership and refinancing journeys tailored to their unique financial goals. Our commitment to excellence is rooted in a deep understanding of the market, a wide array of loan programs, and a passion for helping clients build wealth through real estate. As a U.S. Air Force veteran and Orange County resident since 1985, our founder brings integrity, military discipline, and local market knowledge to every transaction. We pride ourselves on transparency, competitive pricing, and a client-first approach that prioritizes long-term financial security over short-term gains.Our team at Empire Home Loans leverages relationships with multiple lenders to secure the best rates and terms for our clients, ensuring a seamless and rewarding mortgage experience. From first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors, we provide education, support, and customized solutions to overcome common challenges like affordability, down payment hurdles, and income qualification. Our track record of satisfied clients and industry recognition reflects our dedication to exceeding expectations in every interaction. We measure success not just by closed loans but by the lasting legacies our clients create through informed homeownership decisions. Let us help you transform your real estate aspirations into reality with the same care and expertise we apply to every client relationship.
Services
Conventional Loans
FHA Loans
VA Loans
Jumbo Loans
Reverse Mortgages
USDA Loans
Refinancing
Investor Loans
Bank Statement Loans
Down Payment Assistance
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of mortgage industry experience with personalized loan solutions.
- Our team secures competitive rates by accessing multiple lenders' programs.
- Specialized expertise in VA loans for military veterans and their families.
- Comprehensive guidance for first-time homebuyers and investment property purchases.
- Proven track record of client satisfaction with transparent, no-hidden-fee service.
What people say
Exceptional guidance
Competitive rates secured
Military veteran support
Transparent process
Successful complex loans
Services
Reverse Mortgages
Reverse mortgages allow seniors to convert home equity into tax-free cash while retaining ownership. This solution provides financial flexibility for retirement, medical expenses, or debt elimination. Our HECM and HomeSafe programs offer competitive terms with no monthly payments required.
VA Loans
Specialized VA loan programs help military veterans achieve homeownership with zero down payment and no private mortgage insurance. We guide veterans through the entire process, ensuring they maximize their earned benefits while securing favorable loan terms.
First-Time Homebuyer Programs
Tailored solutions for first-time homebuyers include down payment assistance, low-documentation options, and educational resources. Our proven methods simplify the purchase process while addressing common challenges like credit score requirements and affordability.
Jumbo Loans
Jumbo loan programs cater to high-value property purchases exceeding conventional loan limits. We provide competitive rates and flexible underwriting for luxury homes, investment properties, and unique real estate opportunities in California and Oregon.
Refinancing Services
Our refinancing options help homeowners reduce monthly payments, shorten loan terms, or access equity through cash-out refinances. We analyze current market conditions and individual financial situations to determine optimal refinancing strategies.
People
Jeff Markell
Mortgage Broker
U.S. Air Force veteran with 20+ years in mortgage banking, real estate, and management. Specializes in personalized loan solutions for California and Oregon residents. Active community member supporting dog rescue and local youth sports programs.
Questions
What mortgage services do you offer?
We provide conventional, FHA, VA, jumbo, reverse mortgages, and refinancing options across California and Oregon with personalized solutions for unique financial situations.
Are you licensed to operate in California and Oregon?
Yes, we hold active licenses in both states with NMLS# 224196 and are affiliated with Empire Home Loans (NMLS# 1839243).
How can a reverse mortgage benefit seniors?
Reverse mortgages convert home equity into tax-free cash without monthly payments, providing financial flexibility for retirement expenses while maintaining home ownership.
Do you work with first-time homebuyers?
Yes, we specialize in first-time buyer programs including down payment assistance, low-documentation options, and educational resources to simplify the purchase process.
What makes you different from other mortgage brokers?
Our military veteran background, 20+ years of local market experience, and commitment to personalized service with transparent, no-hidden-fee pricing set us apart.
How do you help clients secure better rates?
By accessing multiple lenders' programs and leveraging our industry relationships, we shop for the most competitive rates and terms tailored to each client's unique needs.
