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- monday: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
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- thursday: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
- friday: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Your Local CrossCountry Mortgage Loan Officer
Brandon Von Almen
Your biggest decision is my biggest passion
Hi, I’m Brandon. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, I moved to Columbus and fell in love with Ohio State football. I now live in Wayne County with my wife and our five kids. I served nine years in the U.S. Army as an Infantry Soldier and was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant in 2010. After the Military, I started in home financing and became a licensed originator in 2013.
My commitment to simplifying the mortgage process has earned me recognition as:
- Mortgage Executive Magazine Top 1% Originator
- Scotsman Guide Top Originator (2019–2025)
- Top Veteran Originator (2023–2024)
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned homeowner, I’ll guide you through the process and keep you informed. Outside of work, I’m active in the community as a Green Local Schools Board Member and member of the Wooster Chamber of Commerce and Wayne-Holmes Association of Realtors®. I enjoy golf, the gym and family time. Backed by America’s #1 Retail Mortgage Lender, I’m here to make homeownership a reality.
Brandon’s testimonials
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How much will my mortgage payment be?
This calculator is being provided for educational purposes only. The results are estimates based on information you provided and may not reflect CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC product terms. The information cannot be used by CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC to determine a customer’s eligibility for a specific product or service.
Inspiration for your home loan journey
Frequently asked questions
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Refinancing costs typically range from 2% to 6% of the loan amount and include fees such as appraisal, title insurance, and closing costs. Factors like your loan type, location, and credit score can significantly impact these expenses. Our team can help to provide strategies that can help minimize costs.
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To determine how much home you can afford, you’ll want to assess your financial situation. This includes your income, expenses, and debt-to-income ratio, to ensure your mortgage fits comfortably within your budget. A general guideline is to spend no more than 28% of your gross monthly income on housing costs and 36% on total debt.
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A good credit score typically starts at 620 for conventional loans, while FHA and VA loans may accept scores as low as 500, though higher scores offer better terms. A strong credit score can help you secure lower interest rates, saving you significant money over the life of a home loan.
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A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a revolving line of credit that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their home. HELOCs function like a credit card, giving access to funds up to a set limit, which can be used for expenses like renovations or debt consolidation. You only pay interest on the amount you borrow, and the repayment terms typically include a draw period followed by a repayment period.
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To calculate your mortgage payments, start with your loan amount, interest rate, and loan term. Your payment will depend on the interest charged over time and the repayment schedule. You can use a monthly mortgage payment calculator or connect with us to learn more.
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1. Pre-qualify for a home loan
2. Check your credit report
3. Meet with a CCM loan officer
4. Establish your homebuying budget
5. Get pre-approved
6. Work with a real estate agent
7. Find your dream home
8. Submit your mortgage application
9. Make an offer
10. Get a home inspection
11. Close your loan
12. Move into your home!
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It depends on the home loan. For example, conventional loans require a minimum credit score of 620. But VA and FHA loans may allow homebuyers to qualify with a credit score as low as 500. It’s important to note that lower credit scores often come with additional requirements or higher interest rates.
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It typically takes a few months to buy a home. The exact length of the process will depend on the market, home and other financing factors.
At CrossCountry Mortgage, we’re dedicated to making the mortgage side of homebuying smooth and stress-free – offering full approvals quickly through our FastTrack program.
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First, let’s see if you qualify for certain government-back loans. If you are a Veteran or Service Member, VA loans require 0% down. Same goes for rural homebuyers with USDA loans.
Second, talk to a CCM loan officer about local, state and national down payment assistance programs that may cover your down payment costs.
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That is more about you than the market! You’ll want to consider if you are ready to take on the homebuying process and then calculate your purchasing power with a CCM loan officer. Once you know your homebuying budget, it’s time to house hunt and explore your desired community for the home of your dreams.
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Before you find your dream home, it will help to have:
- Your credit score
- Proof of employment and income
- Cash or assistance for a down payment
- The right loan
- A homebuying budget
- An expert real estate agent
- Your dedicated CCM loan officer