Mortgage Broker Videos | Mortgage Broker in OC | Empire Home Loans | Serving all of California

Lee Korengold

(714) 336-0930

lee@empirehomeloans.com

NMLS# 236625

Jeff Markell

(714) 614-4040

jeff@empirehomeloans.com

NMLS# 224196

Jeff Markell NMLS# 224196 AKA Grandpa Mortgage 714.614.4040 and Lee Korengold NMLS# 236625 AKA Home Loan Lee 714.336.9030 talk about home loans (and themselves) via their Mortgage Broker Videos. Get to know the Mortgage Broker In OC guys providing mortgages throughout California. Empire Home Loans NMLS# 1838243 #MortgageBrokerInOC #MortgageBrokerVideos

Check out the types of home loans Jeff and Lee provide throughout California and Oregon: www.mortgagebrokerinoc.com

Jeff entered the mortgage business in 1996. Licensed in California and Oregon, Jeff has dedicated his mortgage career to helping people become homeowners and accumulate wealth through real estate. His broad experience as a Mortgage Loan Originator, as a REALTOR, and in Management make him a trusted advisor you can count on. A California native and U.S. Air Force veteran, he has lived in Orange County for over 30 years. He has been married to his wife, Mary, since 1992, and they have two kids and two grandsons. Jeff and his family love dogs and actively support dog rescue organizations. Outside of work, Jeff is passionate about cycling, golf, music, and motorcycles.

Lee has been a loan officer for 25+ years and has always had one goal: to help his clients find the best loan available with integrity and honesty. Lee says, “It’s a great feeling when I’m part of a transaction that helps a person or family find the home of their dreams.” The most important part of his life is family. Lee has been married to his wife, Paula since 1977. They have 2 sons; one is an officer in the Marines and, the other is a vice president of a major home and commercial builder. Their sons have blessed them with 7 wonderful grandchildren. Lee enjoys going to the gym and playing as much golf as possible.

Watch our Mortgage Broker Videos below. People tell us they can’t get enough of our Videos!

Video 89, Is There Any Way to Drop Private Mortgage Insurance? Paying for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) every month can feel like throwing money away — but the good news is, there are ways to drop it! In this video, I’ll break down 3 proven strategies to help you eliminate PMI and lower your monthly mortgage payment fast. You’ll learn: How to request PMI cancellation once you hit 80% loan-to-value (LTV). Why refinancing might remove PMI — especially if your home’s value has increased. How a new appraisal could make you eligible to ditch PMI even sooner. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or looking to refinance, these tips can help you save big over the life of your loan. Subscribe for more insider mortgage tips from Grandpa Mortgage and Empire Home Loans, and discover smart ways to manage your mortgage, build equity, and achieve financial freedom! Stop paying for PMI sooner than you think! #Mortgage #PMI #PrivateMortgageInsurance #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee #HomeLoans #RefinanceTips #MortgageAdvice

Video 88,💰🏡 How To Get Down Payment Assistance: Dreaming of owning a home but short on cash for a down payment? You’re not alone — and there’s help available! In this video, we break down three powerful resources that could make your homeownership dreams a reality. From state housing finance programs to local city and county assistance, and even HUD’s national options, you’ll learn where to look, how to qualify, and what steps to take next. ✨ Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or just need a little boost to get started, this guide gives you clear, actionable tips to find programs that fit your situation. The key is knowing where to look — and we’ll show you exactly where. 🚀 Ready to start your journey to owning a home? Hit play, take notes, and visit your state, county, city, and HUD websites for the latest down payment assistance programs near you. Your new home might be closer than you think! #DownPaymentHelp #HomeBuyingAssistance #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

Video 87, Thinking about buying a home but wondering if it really pays off at tax time? You’re not alone! In this video, we break down the real financial advantages of homeownership compared to renting — and trust me, some of these might surprise you. Discover how owning a home can open the door to major tax deductions, including: Mortgage interest deduction Mortgage insurance premiums Property tax payments While renters don’t get these perks, homeowners often see thousands in savings over time. I’m not a tax professional, so definitely confirm the details with your CPA — but these are some of the biggest reasons many people say that owning beats renting in the long run. If you’re thinking about buying a home or just want to better understand the financial side of real estate, Call Jeff at (714) 614-4040 or Lee at (714) 336-0930! Let’s make homeownership work for you! For personalized guidance, reach out to me anytime — I’m here to help you make smart, confident decisions. #Homebuying #TaxBenefits #RentVsBuy #MortgageTips #RealEstateAdvice #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

Video 86, Ever wonder how a $0 down VA loan can still end up costing thousands at closing? 🤔 You’re not alone! While VA loans are one of the best benefits available to veterans and service members, there’s a lot more to know about closing costs before you sign on the dotted line. In this video, we’re breaking down where that money actually goes — from property taxes and insurance to lender fees, VA appraisals, and everything in between. 💵 Learn which costs are fixed, which are negotiable, and which ones are set by law so you can plan ahead and avoid surprises at closing. 💡 You’ll Learn: ✅ Why “0 Down” doesn’t mean “no cost” ✅ Typical closing costs on a $400,000 VA loan ✅ What fees are veterans legally protected from paying ✅ How to negotiate closing costs with sellers or lenders ✅ Smart ways to cover your closing costs — without breaking your budget Some lenders might roll your closing costs into your loan with a slightly higher rate, while sellers can sometimes help cover them. 🏡 But each option comes with trade-offs — higher payments, longer-term debt, or tighter approval conditions. 👉 Before you start house hunting, talk to your VA Expert to find the best strategy for your financial situation. 📞 Contact: Jeff Markell (714) 614-4040 | Home Loan Lee (714) 336-0930 | Mortgage Broker Videos 🎬 Subscribe for more clear, veteran-friendly mortgage advice from Grandpa Mortgage — helping you make smarter homebuying decisions every step of the way! #VALoan #VACloseCosts #Veterans #HomeBuying #MortgageTips #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

Video 85, Where to Find Downpayment Assistance for Your Home 🏡💰 | Mortgage Broker Tips - Looking to buy a home but struggling to cover the downpayment? 🏠💸 Don’t worry — there are programs and resources designed to help first-time buyers and homeowners in need of financial assistance. In this video, we break down where to find downpayment assistance, how these programs work, and the eligibility requirements so you can get the support you need. Learn how to maximize your opportunities, reduce your upfront costs, and take the first step toward owning your dream home! 💡 You’ll Learn: ✅ Types of downpayment assistance programs ✅ Federal, state, and local options ✅ How to qualify for grants or low-interest loans ✅ Tips from “Grandpa Mortgage” on smart homebuying ✅ Steps to combine assistance with your mortgage for maximum benefit Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to move into your next property, this guide will give you the knowledge to make your homeownership dream a reality! 💬 Have questions about downpayment assistance or home loans? Comment below and we’ll help you out! 📞 Contact: Empire Home Loans (714) 614-4040 | Home Loan Lee (714) 336-0930 | Mortgage Broker Videos #DownpaymentAssistance #HomeBuying #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

Video 84, Ready to buy a home but not sure where to start? 🏠📝 This video breaks down exactly what you need to get pre-qualified for a home loan and sets you on the path to homeownership. Understanding the pre-qualification process helps you know what you can afford before house hunting, so you can shop confidently. You’ll learn: ✅ The essential documents lenders typically require ✅ How W-2s, bank statements, and tax returns play a role ✅ Why pre-qualification helps you set realistic expectations ✅ How your mortgage advisor guides you through the process Getting pre-qualified is a crucial first step in securing a conventional mortgage. By gathering the right documents early, you streamline the process and put yourself in a strong position to find your dream home. #Mortgage #PreQualification #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

Video 83, 🏡💔 Going through a divorce and wondering how to remove your ex-spouse from your mortgage? You’re not alone. Many homeowners face this challenge, and knowing the right steps can save you time, stress, and money. In this video, I’ll break down the process of removing an ex-spouse from a mortgage, the options you might have (like refinancing), and the legal considerations you need to be aware of. ✨ 👉 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ Why contacting your lender is the first step ✅ When refinancing may be necessary to qualify on your own ✅ How a quitclaim deed transfers ownership rights ✅ Why working with both a mortgage advisor and divorce attorney is crucial Divorce is difficult enough—don’t let mortgage confusion make it worse. Get the facts, know your options, and take control of your financial future. 🚀 #Mortgage #Divorce #MortgageTips #Refinance #MortgageAdvice #MortgageBrokerVideos #HomeOwnership #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

Video 82, Before you jump into house hunting, there’s one critical step you need to take that will save you time, stress, and money! In this video, Grandpa Mortgage breaks down why getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your very first move before browsing homes online or scheduling showings. Learn how pre-approval gives you a clear picture of: How much you can truly afford What your monthly payments will look like How much cash you’ll need to close By taking this step, you’ll shop with confidence, avoid disappointment, and be ready to act fast when you find the right home. If you’re serious about buying a home, this is the #1 tip you can’t afford to skip! Watch now to get set up for success. #HomeShopping #PreApprovedMortgage #MortgageTips #GrandpaMortgage #HomeBuyingTips #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #HouseHuntingTips #MortgageAdvice #BuyingAHome #MortgageBrokerVideos #HowToBuyAHouse #HomeLoanTips

Video 81, Thinking about moving out of state? Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or just a change of scenery, this roadmap will guide you step by step through the home-buying process. From budgeting for your move , researching the cost of living , and finding a local Realtor —to getting pre-approved , taking virtual home tours , and finally making an offer on your dream home —this video has you covered. Buying a home in a new state doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and mortgage guidance, you can make your move smooth, stress-free, and successful. In this video, you’ll learn: How to set a realistic budget for your relocation. Why researching the cost of living in your new state is crucial. Tips for finding a Realtor who really knows the area. Why getting pre-approved early can save you time and stress. How to use virtual tours to narrow down your home search. The importance of visiting in person before making an offer. The step-by-step process to land your new home. Pro Tip: Getting pre-approved early helps you set your budget, streamline your search, and put in strong offers confidently. If you’re ready to start your out-of-state home journey, this roadmap will put you on the fast track to success. #Mortgage #Relocation #MovingOutOfState #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee #HomeBuyingTips #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstateAdvice #MovingTips #NewHomeJourney

Video 80, Discover the powerful wealth-building secret that sets homeowners apart from renters! 🏠✨ Did you know that, on average, homeowners have 40x more net worth than renters? 💸📈 In this video, we break down the reasons why owning a home creates long-term financial stability, equity growth, and generational wealth. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just curious about the financial benefits of homeownership, you’ll learn: ✅ How building equity boosts your net worth over time ✅ Why renting keeps you paying someone else’s mortgage ✅ The role of appreciation in growing your wealth ✅ How owning a home sets you up for a stronger financial future

Video 79, Can’t Get A Home Loan? Are you struggling to get approved for a traditional mortgage? Don’t give up just yet! In this video, I’ll break down alternative loan programs designed for non-traditional homebuyers. One of the most powerful options is the Portfolio Mortgage — a special type of loan that lenders keep in-house instead of selling on the secondary market. Because these loans aren’t sold, lenders can set their own guidelines — giving you more flexibility when it comes to: Debt-to-income ratio Credit score requirements Down payment options This is HUGE for buyers who are: Self-employed Have recent credit challenges Have assets but limited income on paper A portfolio loan could be the solution that finally helps you get approved and move into your new home Don’t let denials stop your dream of homeownership. Learn how portfolio loans and alternative strategies can open the door to homeownership for you. If you found this video helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss more tips to help you reach your homeownership goals! #PortfolioLoan #CantGetApproved #MortgageHelp #NonTraditionalHomebuyer #HomeLoanTips #MortgageBrokerVideos #HomebuyingMadeSimple #MortgageAdvice #SelfEmployedBuyer #FirstTimeHomebuyer

Video 78, Discover the strategies and documentation needed to qualify for a mortgage as a self-employed borrower. Learn how to navigate the process and make informed decisions. #SelfEmployed #Homebuying #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

Video 77, What You Shouldn’t Do When Selling Your Home – Discover the common mistakes sellers make and how to avoid them. Learn how to navigate the selling process and make informed decisions. #HomeSelling #SellingMistakes #MortgageBrokerVideos #HomeLoanLee

Video 76, A Loan Program Every Self-Employed Borrower Needs - Discover the Self-Employed Mortgage Program and how it can benefit self-employed borrowers. Learn how to navigate the process and make informed decisions. #SelfEmployed #Homebuying #MortgageBrokerVideos

Video 75, Is There Anything I Should Avoid So I Don't Get Turned Down? Learn what actions to avoid to improve your chances of getting approved for a mortgage. Discover the key factors that lenders consider when evaluating loan applications. #MortgageTips #LoanApproval #MortgageBrokerVideos #HomeLoanLee

Video 74, What Do I Need To Get Qualified For A VA Loan? - Learn the requirements and documentation needed to qualify for a VA home loan. Get expert advice and guidance for your unique situation. #Veteran #VALoan #Homebuying #GrandpaMortgage #HomeLoanLee

Video 73, Who You Need To Buy A Home - Uncover the key players in your homebuying team and their roles. Learn how to navigate the process and make informed decisions. #Mortgage #Homebuying #MortgageBrokerVideos #HomeLoanLee

Video 72, How To Avoid Paying Private Mortgage Insurance - Discover the strategies for avoiding private mortgage insurance and the benefits of doing so. Learn how to navigate the process and make informed decisions. #MortgageHacks #Homebuying #MortgageBrokerVideos #PMI #HomeLoanLee

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Video 71, I'm Self Employed What Things Will I Need to Get a Mortgage? - Learn what documentation and requirements needed to qualify for a mortgage as a self-employed borrower. Get expert advice and guidance for your unique situation. 🏠💸 #SelfEmployed #Homebuying #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #HomeLoanLee

Video 70, I Want To Buy A Home But My Credit Score Is Pretty Low - Learn the strategies to improve your credit score and increase your chances of getting approved for a mortgage. Get expert advice and guidance for your unique situation. 🏠💳 #Credit #Homebuying #LowCreditScore #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage, #HomeLoanLee

Video 69, Appreciation vs Depreciation - Discover the difference between appreciation and depreciation in real estate. Learn how to make informed decisions when investing in property. 🏠📈 #Homebuying #Investing #MortgageBrokerVideos #HomeLoanLee

Video 68, What to Look For In a Home Buyer - Discover the qualities to look for in a home buyer and how to work with them effectively. Learn how to navigate the selling process and make informed decisions. 🏠💸 #HomeSelling #HomeBuyer #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

Video 67, Going through a divorce is tough—and figuring out what to do with your mortgage can make things even more stressful. 🏠💔 In this video, I’ll walk you through your mortgage options after divorce so you can make the best decision for your financial future. ✅ Learn how refinancing can help you afford payments on your own ✅ Discover how to use home equity to cover a settlement ✅ Find out how to remove your ex-spouse’s name from the mortgage and title A divorce doesn’t mean you have to lose control of your home. With the right strategy, you can protect your credit, keep your home if it makes sense, and move forward with financial confidence. 👉 If you’re navigating a divorce and a mortgage, this video will give you the expert insights you need. Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more tips from Grandpa Mortgage | Empire Home Loans | Home Loan Lee. #DivorceMortgage #Refinance #HomeEquity #MortgageTips #Homebuying #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

Video 66, 🎖️ Is a VA Home Loan Really Worth It? Absolutely! In this video, I’ll break down why a VA loan is one of the best benefits available to veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, and military spouses who are ready to buy a home. #VALoan #VeteranBenefits #Homebuying #MilitaryHomeLoan #MortgageTips #MortgageBrokerVideos #GrandpaMortgage #EmpireHomeLoans #HomeLoanLee

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