Your Personal Mortgage Expert
Better rates.
More options.
Guidance you can trust.
I’m Laz Vastardos — your independent mortgage broker. That means I work for you, not a lender. With access to a network of over 120 lenders, I shop the market to find you the absolute best loan — with the lowest rate and fees — that fits your unique needs.
The Broker Advantage
Why My Approach is Better
When you walk into a bank, you get one set of rules and one set of rates. When you work with me, you get a world of options. As your independent broker, my loyalty is to you, not a financial institution.
More Options, Better Approvals
I have access to a network of over 120 different lenders. If one bank says “no,” I have dozens of other options ready. This means a higher chance of approval, especially for unique situations like self-employment or investment properties.
Lower Rates & Fees
Lenders compete for my business, which drives down your interest rate and closing costs. I access wholesale rates that are not available to the general public, saving my clients thousands over the life of their loan.
One Application, One Credit Pull
Instead of applying to multiple banks and taking a hit on your credit score each time, you submit one application with me. I do the shopping for you with a single credit pull, protecting your score while finding you the best deal.
I'm Someone You Can Trust
My Commitment to You: A Partner, Not Just a Processor
In today’s fast-paced market, you can’t afford to wait for a call back. A mortgage is one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, and you deserve a guide who is as invested in your success as you are.
I'm Always Accessible
Have a question at 7 PM on a Sunday? Need an updated pre-approval letter to make a winning offer? Call or text me directly. I personally answer my phone and respond quickly, even outside of traditional business hours. You won't be routed to a call center or left waiting for days.
Guidance & Transparency
I believe an educated client is an empowered client. I take the time to break down complex mortgage terms, explain your options in plain English, and provide honest advice. You will understand every step of the process, from application to closing, so you can move forward with confidence.
Your Loan, Your Way
Solutions for Every Goal
Whether you’re buying your first home, building a real estate portfolio, or optimizing your current mortgage, I have the expertise and lender network to find you the perfect loan.
Home Purchase Loans
FHA loans (3.5% down), conventional programs (3% down), VA loans (0% down), and USDA rural loans. I’ll connect you with local down payment assistance programs.
Construction Loans
Construction-to-permanent or construction-only options. Custom homes, spec homes, and multi-family developments. Interest-only during construction.
Refinancing
Lower your rate, shorten your term, or switch from ARM to fixed. Cash-out options available for debt consolidation, home improvements, or investments.
DSCR Loans for Investors
Perfect for real estate investors. Qualify based on property income, not personal W-2s. Up to $5M loans, 20-25% down, 30-year terms available.
Fix & Flip Loans
Short-term financing for speed and profit. Close in 7-10 days with interest-only payments. Up to 90% of purchase price plus renovation costs.
Conventional & Jumbo
Perfect for strong credit borrowers, offering competitive rates on 15-30 year terms. Jumbo loans available for high-value properties with down payments as low as 5%.
Mortgage, Made Easy
The Process Made Simple
Getting a mortgage can feel complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. I’ve streamlined the process into six clear steps, and I’ll be there to guide you through each one.
01
Pre-Approval
Contact a mortgage lender and get pre-approved to buy.
Estimated Time Frame: 1-3 days
02
Look for Homes and Submit Offer
Work with your buyer’s agent to preview homes for sale and submit an offer.
Estimated Time Frame: 1-4 months
03
Finalize Loan Application
Finalize the loan application and update your documents.
Estimated Time Frame: 1-3 days
04
Process Loan
Your lender will assign a processor who packages your file and monitors the process.
Estimated Time Frame: 5-15 days
05
Underwritting
An underwriter verifies the loan fits all guidelines and issues a motgage comitment letter.
Estimated Time Frame: 5-20 days
06
Pre-Closing
Last details finalized by the lender like title review and insurance.
Estimated Time Frame: 3-5 days
07
Close
Paperwork is finalized and signed and you take ownership.
Estimated Time Frame: 5-7 days
08
Show the Love
If your team worked hard to deliver an amazing experience and you’re happy, tell your friends and family. A refferal is the greatest compliment.
Estimated Time Frame: ASAP
Testimonials
Praised and Trusted by Homebuyers
I’m proud of the relationships I’ve built and the families I’ve helped. But don’t just take my word for it. My clients’ feedback speaks for itself.
Stay Connected
Follow Me On Social Media
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Welcome Home, Jen & Julius!
When Should a Buyer Get Pre-Approved?
From Obstacles to Keys 🔑
What Is PMI for a Mortgage?
Better Rates, Less Stress
Plan Your Payment
Estimate your monthly payment in seconds—then let me shop 120+ lenders to secure your best rate and terms.
About Me
20+ Years of Experience, Working for You
I’m Lazaros “Laz” Vastardos, and for over two decades, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people achieve their dream of homeownership. I started as a top loan officer at a major retail bank, but I saw a better way to serve my clients.
That’s why I became an independent mortgage broker. By stepping away from the retail world, I gained the freedom to offer my clients what they truly deserve: choice. Now, I leverage my deep industry knowledge and a vast network of over 120 lenders to find the perfect loan for every client, every time.
My background in both retail banking and brokerage gives me a unique perspective. I know how the big banks operate, and I know how to navigate the wholesale lending world to your advantage.
Lazaros Vastardos, NMLS #25231
Mortgage broker, licensed in 48 states.
Primary markets: New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania.
FAQ
Your Questions, Answered
I believe in transparency. Here are answers to some common questions I receive.
How do you get paid?
As a mortgage broker, I am typically compensated by the lender who ultimately funds your loan. This is a standard practice in the industry and is fully disclosed to you. My goal is to find you the best overall deal, and my compensation does not influence which lender I recommend. The focus is always on the lowest rate and fees for you.
How much house can I afford?
This depends on several factors, including your income, credit score, existing debts, and down payment. The best way to find out is to go through a quick pre-qualification process. I can help you with this in just a few minutes, with no cost or obligation.
I’m self-employed/1099 — can I qualify?
Yes. I work with lenders offering bank-statement, P&L, asset-depletion, and DSCR programs. We’ll match documentation to your income profile to get you approved.
What is PMI and when do I have to pay it?
PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) is insurance that protects the lender if you stop making payments on your loan. It doesn’t protect you as the borrower, but it allows you to buy a home with a smaller down payment.
On most conventional loans, PMI is required when you put less than 20% down (or your loan is more than 80% of the home’s value). It’s usually added to your monthly mortgage payment and can often be removed once you build enough equity.
Example:
If you buy a home for $400,000 with 5% down ($20,000), your loan amount would be $380,000. Because you’re putting less than 20% down, your lender will likely require PMI. You’ll pay a PMI amount each month as part of your mortgage until you reach about 20% equity, at which point we can look at options to remove it.
What is a good credit score to buy a house?
While a higher credit score generally leads to better interest rates, there are excellent loan programs available for a wide range of credit scores. FHA loans, for example, are designed to be more flexible. Don’t count yourself out! Let’s review your situation and find a program that works for you.
How long does the mortgage process take?
On average, the process takes about 30 days from application to closing. However, this can vary. My streamlined, digital process and proactive communication help ensure we close as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Why is working with a broker better than going to my own bank?
Your bank can only offer you its own products. If you don’t fit their specific box, you’re out of luck. As a broker, I have access to over 120 lenders. I can find programs for first-time buyers, investors, self-employed individuals, and more—all while shopping for the most competitive rate. You get more options and a better deal.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Let's Talk.
Whether you have a quick question or are ready to start your loan application, I’m here to help. Reach out today for a free, no-obligation consultation.