A simpler place to begin
You do not need to know which mortgage to choose.
Start with what you want to do, what feels uncertain, or where you need help. We’ll narrow the choices and explain why they may fit.
Illustrative photography. The people shown are not QHM clients.
Choose the question that sounds closest
What would you like help with?
There may be more than one answer. Pick a starting point and we’ll help you compare the choices.
Start with what you need help with
You do not need to learn mortgage abbreviations or decide which loan is right before you call. Choose the question that sounds closest to your situation. We’ll explain what may fit and why.
Different loans solve different problems. Some may help with a smaller down payment, self-employed income, a rental property, or a home that needs work. This page is here to help you recognize the possibilities—not make the decision alone.
How to use this guide: Find the question that sounds most like yours. It is normal if more than one section applies. You do not need to sort it out alone. Tell us what you are planning, and we’ll help you understand the next step.
What if I receive regular paychecks?
For people paid a salary or hourly wage by an employer
This is the mortgage many buyers hear about first. The amount you may qualify for depends on your pay, monthly debts, credit, down payment, and the home you choose.
A common starting point for buyers with regular employment income
FHA financing may offer more flexibility with credit, down payment, or existing monthly debts. It includes mortgage insurance, so the monthly payment and upfront costs should be compared carefully.
Worth comparing when a conventional loan feels out of reach
Eligible veterans and service members may be able to buy with no down payment. We can help confirm eligibility and explain the home, income, and monthly-budget requirements.
A strong option to review for eligible military borrowers
What if I own a business or do not receive regular paychecks?
For business owners, freelancers, contractors, and people with income from several sources
Some programs may use deposits shown on personal or business bank statements to estimate income. We can compare that result with the income shown on your tax returns.
Worth reviewing when business tax deductions make income look smaller on paper
This guide explains the different ways a lender may review business income and what paperwork may help. You do not need to know which method applies before you begin.
Start here when your income does not fit neatly on one pay stub
Some programs can consider eligible savings or investment assets when regular monthly income is not the strongest part of the application. The account type, ownership, and amount you need after closing still matter.
Worth exploring when savings and investments are stronger than monthly income
What if I am buying a rental property?
For long-term rentals, short-term rentals, and other investment properties
A DSCR loan looks mainly at whether the property’s expected rent can support its proposed mortgage payment. Your down payment, available savings, the property, and local rental rules still matter.
Worth comparing when the rental income is central to the plan
Use this guide to compare common rental-property loans, estimate the cash needed, and think through the plan before making an offer.
Start here to compare the main rental-property paths
What if I need help with a down payment?
Buyers who want to understand lower-down-payment and assistance options
Start by estimating how much you may need for the down payment, closing costs, and a safety cushion after closing. We can compare FHA, conventional, VA, or USDA options when eligible and check current California or Nevada assistance programs with you.
A good place to start when saving for the upfront costs
Not sure where to start? You do not need a loan name or a complete stack of paperwork. Share what you hope to buy, how you earn your income, and what you have saved so far. We can explain what to work on next. Call (775) 525-1595 or send a text.
A manageable next step
Bring your questions. We’ll help with the loan options.
Share what you are planning and what feels uncertain. We’ll narrow the choices and explain the next steps in plain language.
Mortgage guidance: Steven “Harry” Protopappas, Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #2543750, licensed in California and Nevada. Updated August 12, 2026. Program availability and lender requirements can change; current details must be checked for the actual borrower and property.