Business Details
25 Years
experience
Your Trusted Houston Mortgage Broker
Flagstone Mortgage was founded in 2001 with a commitment to delivering personalized mortgage solutions. Our team combines over 85 years of collective experience, including Darren Smith, a CPA and MBA holder who joined as a partner in 2005 to lead commercial lending. We specialize in jumbo and super-jumbo mortgages, leveraging our financial expertise to tailor loans to individual client needs. Our concierge lending approach ensures every client receives dedicated attention, with direct communication channels to loan officers.Recognized by industry peers and regulatory bodies, we prioritize education, transparency, and client trust. Over 95% of our business comes from repeat clients and referrals, a testament to our mission of treating every client professionally, respectfully, honestly, and fairly. Our awards, including multiple 'Best of Houston Mortgage Company' honors, reflect our dedication to excellence in mortgage brokerage.
Services
Mortgage Loans
Refinancing
Jumbo Loans
FHA Loans
VA Loans
Conventional Loans
USDA Loans
Home Equity Loans
Reverse Mortgages
Construction Loans
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- We offer a concierge lending approach with personalized service.
- Over 85 years of combined experience in mortgage financing.
- Direct communication with loan officers, no call centers.
- 95% of business comes from repeat clients and referrals.
- Award-winning service recognized by industry peers.
What people say
Top notch communication
Responsive and transparent
Saved us money
Seamless process
Highly recommend
Services
Mortgage Loans
Flagstone Mortgage provides tailored mortgage loans for home purchases, including jumbo, FHA, VA, and conventional options. Our experts guide clients through preapproval, property selection, and closing, ensuring competitive rates and personalized terms. With flexible down payment options and streamlined processes, we cater to first-time buyers and experienced homeowners in Houston.
Refinancing
Our refinancing services help homeowners lower monthly payments, access equity, or adjust loan terms. Options include conventional, VA IRRL, FHA streamline, and cash-out refinancing. We evaluate individual financial situations to recommend solutions that reduce costs or fund home improvements, ensuring transparent communication throughout the process.
Jumbo Loans
Jumbo loans cater to high-end property purchases exceeding conforming loan limits. Flagstone Mortgage offers competitive rates and flexible terms for luxury homes, with expert underwriting to meet stringent qualification criteria. Our team simplifies complex transactions, ensuring clients secure financing tailored to their unique needs and financial profiles.
FHA Loans
FHA loans provide accessible homeownership for buyers with lower credit scores or limited savings. With 3.5% down payment requirements and flexible underwriting, we assist first-time buyers in Houston. Our specialists navigate FHA guidelines to ensure smooth approvals, including financing for manufactured homes and streamline refinancing options.
VA Loans
VA loans offer zero-down payment options for veterans and active-duty members. Flagstone Mortgage streamlines the process with no appraisal or credit check requirements for IRRLs. We prioritize fast execution and personalized support, ensuring military families secure favorable terms and achieve homeownership goals with minimal financial barriers.
People
Darren Smith
President
Darren Smith, CPA and MBA holder, leads Flagstone Mortgage's commercial lending division. With over 20 years of mortgage expertise, he specializes in jumbo loans and client-focused solutions. Recognized for exceptional service, Darren ensures personalized guidance and competitive rates for all clients.
Jaqui Butler
Processing Manager
Jaqui Butler manages loan processing with precision, leveraging her 20+ years in real estate and mortgage operations. Her expertise ensures efficient transactions, from contract review to closing. Clients praise her professionalism and responsiveness in navigating complex loan scenarios.
Pat Rutledge
Loan Officer
Pat Rutledge provides tailored mortgage advice, specializing in first-time homebuyer programs. With deep local market knowledge, he simplifies financing options and ensures clients understand every step of the loan process for informed decisions.
Brian Jordan
Senior Loan Officer
Brian Jordan combines technical expertise with client-centric service, focusing on conventional and government-backed loans. His proactive approach ensures timely approvals, with a track record of resolving complex underwriting challenges to meet client needs.
Questions
What mortgage loan types are available in Texas?
Texas homebuyers can choose from fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, and conventional loans, each with distinct eligibility criteria and benefits tailored to different financial situations.
How much down payment is required for a Houston home?
Down payments vary: FHA loans require 3.5%, conventional loans 5-20%, while VA and USDA loans may allow zero down payment based on eligibility and property type.
Can refinancing reduce my mortgage costs?
Yes, refinancing can lower interest rates, shorten loan terms, or access equity. Savings depend on current rates, closing costs, and how long you plan to stay in the home.
What are the benefits of a jumbo loan?
Jumbo loans finance high-value properties exceeding conforming limits, offering competitive rates and flexible terms for luxury homes or unique financial situations requiring larger loan amounts.
How does the mortgage preapproval process work?
Preapproval involves verifying income, credit, and assets to determine loan eligibility. Flagstone Financial provides quick preapprovals, helping buyers confidently pursue properties within their budget.
