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A trusted New Jersey mortgage lender

Total Mortgage provides mortgage solutions tailored to New Jersey’s diverse housing market, helping buyers navigate state housing programs, down payment assistance opportunities, and competitive financing options.

Serving borrowers across New Jersey

Whether you’re in North Jersey, along the shore, or elsewhere, our experienced loan professionals offer solutions for every stage of homeownership:

  • First-Time Buyers: Access to NJ Housing programs and down payment assistance

  • FHA & VA Loans: Flexible government-backed financing options

  • Jumbo & Conventional: Competitive solutions for higher-priced homes

  • Refinancing: Options for lower monthly payments or access home equity

Why New Jersey homebuyers choose Total Mortgage

New Jersey’s housing market varies widely by region, from high-cost suburban areas to growing coastal communities. That’s why we take a local, strategic approach to every loan.

From navigating NJHMFA program requirements to understanding property taxes and closing costs, we guide you through every step of the process. 

NJ Housing program expertise

We help buyers take full advantage of New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) programs, including down payment assistance and special financing options.

Down payment assistance guidance

Many New Jersey buyers qualify for up to $15,000 in assistance. We’ll help you understand eligibility, structure the loan correctly, and maximize available benefits.

Support for specialized programs

From first-time buyer programs to exclusive options for police and firefighters, we ensure you’re matched with the right loan for your situation.

Lo que dicen nuestros clientes en New Jersey

Ver más testimonios

Before we found Denise my family did not know if we would be able to find a home but she was an absolute god send. Highly recommend her to anyone looking for a home.

Birdie P.

google

Denise was a pleasure to work with. She made the entire process smooth and efficient, and we were able to close in less than two weeks with a great rate. She was always prompt, knowledgeable, and responsive. I highly recommend her!

Victor J.

google

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ + Denise Panza is truly THE BEST OF THE BEST 🙏❤️! As a Florida real estate professional and an expert in Naples FLORIDA area, I have had the pleasure of working with Denise on multiple mortgages for my clients / buyers, and she has consistently delivered an exceptional experience. Her professionalism, extensive knowledge, and more than 30 years of mortgage banking experience are evident throughout every transaction. Denise always goes above and beyond to find the right financing solution, communicate clearly, meet important deadlines, and ensure the entire loan process moves forward as smoothly as possible. Her responsiveness, attention to detail, and ability to get things done in a timely manner continually exceed everyone’s expectations. Most importantly, Denise genuinely cares about every client she serves. She combines expertise and determination with a warm, personal approach that gives buyers confidence and peace of mind throughout the mortgage process. I trust Denise completely with my clients and highly recommend her to anyone seeking an experienced, dependable, and outstanding mortgage loan originator. She truly puts the fun in funding and delivers five-star service every time! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Naples L.

google

This is my second time working with Tim and somehow he's gotten better, this was streamlined and Tim kept me updated and informed all throughout the process. Returned calls and e-mails in a timely manner and gave me all the necessary information that i could use so as to make a decision.

Anthony S.

zillow

TJ was great to work with. Very responsive and made the process super easy while answering every question I had in detail. Highly recommend working with him!!

Dante P.

google

I had an excellent experience with the whole team, but Zach definitely made sure that I knew he had things under control. Anytime I had a concern he addressed it politely and professionally. It was like working with a friend not just another business man looking to meet his numbers. I will definitely be referring my insurance clients to him and Total mortgage!

Kyle J.

zillow

I would 100% recommend Shane as your mortgage lender. He was extremely nice and thoughtful throughout the whole experience. He made the process extremely quick and easy and was there anytime you needed him. Definitely use Shane as your lender!

Brianna H.

zillow

George made me feel completely at ease and comfortable throughout the entire home-buying process. He was always just a phone call away, promptly answered all of my questions, and consistently returned my calls in a timely manner. His promptness, professionalism, and support helped ease all of my fears about buying a home. Thanks to George, the process was much easier, less stressful, and even fun! I’m truly grateful for all of his help and would highly recommend him to anyone looking to buy a home.

New R.

zillow

Mortgage Experience Review I had a wonderful experience working with Total Mortgage, and I am truly grateful for all their help throughout the process of obtaining my mortgage to purchase my coop. Kevin Kearns worked extremely hard to help get my loan approved. He was professional, dedicated, knowledgeable, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure everything moved forward smoothly. Purchasing a home can be stressful, but Kevin’s hard work and commitment made the process much easier for me. I truly appreciate his patience, communication, and determination in helping me achieve my goal of becoming a co-op owner. Thank you, Kevin, and the entire Total Mortgage team, for your outstanding service and support. I would highly recommend Total Mortgage and Kevin Kearns to anyone looking for a mortgage and a team that genuinely cares about their clients!

Glory C.

google

I first came across Shane in some google searching in 2024, and at that point he helped me realize we weren't in position yet to make a purchase. We continued slowly eyeing the market for the next couple years and Shane stayed in touch, occasionally checking in to see how we were doing and give an update on rates. Fast forward to 2026, we finally decided we wanted to fully engage in the homebuying process, and Shane was ready to go to bat for us right away on short notice. We (luckily) had an unusually fast process of finding a home we liked and having an offer accepted, and Shane was ready with our pre-approval and full mortgage process, guiding us as first time homebuyers through the process and responding quickly to all our texts and calls with questions. Along the way Shane also made some savvy, smart, creative recommendations that helped us nail the purchase and drew compliments from my real estate agent. Basically, you want Shane on your team as you go through the homebuying process (especially if it's your first time), you'll feel confident and supported the whole way!

Peter M.

zillow

Preguntas frecuentes sobre hipotecas en New Jersey

What are the income limits for NJHMFA programs?

Income limits for New Jersey Housing programs vary by county and household size. In higher-cost areas, the limits are typically higher to reflect local home prices. Some programs also offer expanded income limits in designated “target areas”, making it easier for more buyers to qualify.

What credit score is needed to buy a home in New Jersey?

Most conventional loan programs in New Jersey require a minimum credit score of around 620. FHA loans may allow for lower scores, while VA loans offer flexible credit guidelines for eligible borrowers. Your interest rate and loan options will improve with a higher credit score.

How much are closing costs in New Jersey?

Closing costs in New Jersey typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. These costs can include lender fees, title insurance, property taxes, and prepaid expenses. Down payment assistance programs may help reduce the amount of cash needed at closing.

Are property taxes higher in New Jersey?

Yes. New Jersey has some of the highest property taxes in the country. Rates vary by town, but it’s important to factor property taxes into your monthly payment when determining affordability. A loan officer can help you estimate total monthly costs based on your location.

What first-time homebuyer programs are available in New Jersey?

New Jersey offers several first-time homebuyer programs through the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA), including the Homeward Bound program and FHA-based options. These programs provide 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with competitive interest rates, flexible credit requirements, and access to down payment assistance. Many buyers can qualify even if they’ve owned a home in the past, depending on the location and eligibility guidelines.

How does down payment assistance work in New Jersey?

Down payment assistance programs in New Jersey provide eligible buyers with funds, often up to $15,000, to help cover upfront costs like the down payment and closing costs. These programs are typically structured as a second mortgage with no monthly payment. In many cases, the assistance may be forgivable after a set period if you remain in the home and meet program requirements.

What loan options are best for New Jersey homebuyers?

The best loan depends on your financial situation. First-time buyers often benefit from FHA loans or NJHMFA programs with down payment assistance, while buyers with strong credit may prefer conventional loans. Veterans may qualify for VA loans with no down payment. A Total Mortgage loan officer can help you compare options and choose the best fit.

What are “targeted areas” in New Jersey housing programs?

Targeted areas are specific locations designated by NJHMFA where homebuyers may qualify for higher income limits and expanded eligibility. These areas are intended to encourage homeownership and investment in certain communities across New Jersey.

Do I need to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify in New Jersey?

No. Not all New Jersey mortgage programs require you to be a first-time homebuyer. While some programs are designed specifically for first-time buyers, others (like Homeward Bound) are available to repeat buyers as well. Eligibility depends on the loan program and property location.

What is the NJHMFA Homeward Bound program?

The Homeward Bound program is one of New Jersey’s most popular mortgage options, offering 30-year fixed-rate FHA and VA loans with competitive pricing. It’s available to both first-time and repeat buyers and can be paired with down payment assistance to reduce upfront costs.

Speak to a New Jersey mortgage expert

Habla con un experto hipotecario en New Jersey hoy