Financing Center: Preferred Lenders, Loan Programs & Mortgage Resources

Dated: July 7 2026

Views: 119

The Kawash Group Financing Center

Everything you need to finance your next home — trusted preferred lenders, loan program breakdowns, and a clear path from search to close.

Meet Our Preferred Lenders

Your Path to Homeownership

1
Search Homes
2
Book a Showing
3
Connect With a Preferred Lender
4
Get Pre-Approved
5
Schedule a Consultation
6
Start Buying

Tip: connecting with a preferred lender before you tour homes means you can make a confident, competitive offer the moment you find the right one.

Meet Our Preferred Lender

When it comes to financing your home purchase, having a lender who knows the local market and moves quickly makes all the difference. I recommend Salma Perez with Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation as my preferred lending partner for mortgage pre-approvals, conventional, FHA, and VA loans, down payment assistance programs (including Cook County DPA, subject to current requirements), and first-time homebuyer financing.

Salma Perez
Preferred Mortgage Lender, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation
Get Pre-Approved

Why Get Pre-Approved First?

Know your real budget. A pre-approval tells you exactly what you can afford before you fall in love with a home outside your range.
Win competitive offers. Sellers take pre-approved buyers seriously — in a multiple-offer situation, it can be the difference-maker.
Move faster. When you find the right home, a pre-approval lets you write an offer immediately instead of scrambling.

Loan Programs Explained

FHA Loans

Government-backed loans popular with first-time buyers. Down payments as low as 3.5% with more flexible credit requirements than many conventional loans.

VA Loans

Available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses. Often allows 0% down with no private mortgage insurance required.

Conventional Loans

Not backed by a government agency, typically requiring stronger credit. Down payments can start around 3-5% for qualified buyers, with PMI options that can be removed later.

Jumbo Loans

For loan amounts above conforming loan limits — common for luxury and larger properties in our area. Requires stronger credit and reserves, with competitive rates available.

Down Payment Assistance

Illinois and local programs may offer grants or low-interest loans to help cover down payment and closing costs. Ask one of our preferred lenders which programs you may qualify for.

First-Time Buyer Resources

New to the process? Start with our full guide, then reach out to a preferred lender to map out your specific numbers.

Mortgage Payment Estimator

Estimated 30-year fixed principal & interest payments by loan amount and rate. For illustration only — taxes, insurance, and HOA are not included. Contact a preferred lender above for a personalized, accurate quote.

Loan Amount6.0%6.5%7.0%7.5%
$250,000$1,499$1,580$1,663$1,748
$350,000$2,098$2,212$2,329$2,447
$450,000$2,698$2,844$2,994$3,146
$550,000$3,298$3,476$3,659$3,846
$650,000$3,897$4,108$4,324$4,545

Principal & interest only, based on a 30-year fixed term. Actual payments depend on your credit profile, down payment, taxes, insurance, and current market rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan program — FHA can go as low as 3.5%, some conventional loans as low as 3%, and VA loans can be 0% for eligible buyers. Your preferred lender can pinpoint the exact number for your situation.
How long does pre-approval take?
Many lenders can issue a pre-approval letter within 24-48 hours once you provide income, asset, and credit documentation.
Is pre-approval the same as pre-qualification?
No. Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on unverified information. Pre-approval involves your lender verifying documentation, giving sellers much stronger confidence in your offer.
Can I choose any lender I want?
Absolutely — our preferred lenders are recommended because they are responsive and know our local market, but you are always free to work with the lender of your choice.
What happens after I get pre-approved?
We’ll schedule a consultation to align on your must-haves and budget, then start touring homes with confidence knowing exactly what you can offer.

Request a Lender Introduction

Tell us a bit about your home financing needs and we’ll personally connect you with the preferred lender who’s the best fit.

Request a Lender Introduction Call (773) 999-5366

Ready to Get Pre-Approved?

Connect with a preferred lender today and start your home search with confidence.

View Preferred Lenders
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Fares Suleiman

Fares Suleiman | REALTOR® | Residential & Commercial Real EstateWhether you’re buying your first home, expanding your investment portfolio, leasing commercial space, or selling a propert....

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