Blake Hermann is a Scottsdale, Arizona mortgage loan officer (NMLS #2271358) with Pillar Mortgage Group, specializing in communication-first lending for buyers, investors, and self-employed borrowers. Pillar Mortgage Group, NMLS #2700076.
Every buyer's situation is different. We work with a full suite of loan products — conventional, government-backed, and specialty programs — to match you with exactly the right financing for where you are and where you want to go.
Whether you're buying your first home, a vacation property, or an investment — we have the right loan and the expertise to close it cleanly.
The gold standard for buyers with solid credit and steady income. Conventional loans offer flexible terms, no upfront mortgage insurance with 20% down, and work for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties.
Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans are designed to help buyers with lower credit scores or smaller down payments get into a home. One of the most accessible paths to homeownership available today.
A benefit earned through service. VA loans offer the most powerful terms available in the mortgage market — no down payment, no private mortgage insurance, and some of the most competitive rates anywhere.
For properties above the conforming loan limit ($766,550 in most markets), jumbo loans require custom underwriting and a stronger financial profile — but offer the same speed and clarity you'd expect from PMG.
If your home has appreciated, you've built a powerful financial tool. A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) lets you access that equity on a flexible draw schedule — use it when you need it, pay it down as you go.
Refinancing isn't always the right move — but when it is, it can dramatically improve your financial picture. We run the numbers honestly and tell you exactly when a refi makes sense for your specific situation.
Asset-based lending for real estate investors, fix-and-flip buyers, new construction projects, and deals that don't fit traditional underwriting. Speed and flexibility are the priority — we can close in as little as 7–10 days.
Not every borrower fits inside the box — and that's okay. Non-QM (Non-Qualified Mortgage) programs are built for self-employed buyers, investors, and borrowers with complex income or recent credit events who still deserve excellent financing.
That's exactly what we're here for. A 15-minute conversation is all it takes to find your best path forward.
A side-by-side look at the key differences between our most popular loan products. Every situation is unique — ask us for a personalized comparison.
| Loan Type | Min. Down Payment | Min. Credit Score | PMI Required | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional Popular | 3% | 620+ | No (at 20% down) | Strong-credit buyers, investors, second homes |
| FHA | 3.5% | 580+ | Yes (for life of loan) | First-time buyers, lower credit scores |
| VA Benefit | 0% | Flexible | No | Veterans, active military, surviving spouses |
| Jumbo | 10–20% | 700+ | Varies | High-value homes above $766,550 |
| HELOC | N/A (existing equity) | 620+ | No | Homeowners needing flexible access to equity |
| Refinance | Existing equity required | 620+ | Depends on equity | Current homeowners — lower rate or cash out |
Note: The above represents general guidelines. Actual requirements may vary by lender, market conditions, and individual loan scenario. Contact us for a personalized assessment.
Takes two minutes to start. We'll match you with the right program and get your letter in hand — fast.