New Jersey Hero Background Image

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.

What our New Jersey clients say

See more testimonials

Excellent Experience, Great people!!!

J D.

google

My adventure with Total Mortgage was flawless. I started looking in one state then transferred to another state. They had easily moved my file internally from one contact to the other licensed to the state I wanted to buy a home in. Both locations were quick to respond to any questions I had making the process that much easier to complete. Should I ever find a need to obtain a mortgage again I will reach back out to Total Mortgage. Thank you!

Andrew T.

google

I heard about Ed and his team from one of my customers and from day one Ed treated me as if I mattered to him. His help leading and guiding us through an estate sale which was very time consuming. The morgage process was very smooth. They asked for documents and you gather and send. Very impressed with the process and was a very educational. We thank everyone involved for such a great experience. Don P

Donald P.

google

I cannot say enough great things about my experience with Denise and Total Mortgage. From start to finish, the entire process was seamless, straightforward, and surprisingly easy. Denise was absolutely fantastic throughout the entire process. She was always positive, responsive, engaged, and genuinely a pleasure to communicate with. She kept everything moving, answered my questions, and made sure I always understood where we were in the process. Instead of feeling stressful or overwhelming, she made the experience feel personal and manageable. After dealing with traditional banks and all of the red tape, delays, and frustration that can come along with them, working with Denise was a completely different experience. I can honestly say that she made the mortgage process enjoyable, which is something I never thought I would say! I would highly recommend Denise and Total Mortgage to anyone looking for a mortgage or refinance—especially if you are tired of dealing with the traditional banking system and want someone who is responsive, knowledgeable, positive, and truly engaged from beginning to end. Thank you, Denise, for making this such a great experience. You absolutely earned a five-star review and my highest recommendation!

Matt C.

google

Kevin and his mortgage team are one of the best in the business—reliable, responsive, knowledgeable, efficient, and professional throughout the entire process. All of our clients love working with him. Highly recommend!

Bill S.

google

Shane was an absolute consummate professional throughout our process of buying our first home. If you need a mortgage professional, Shane is the person you need to be speaking to. Shane was extremely knowledgeable, including minute-to-minute real world updates on the market - he was on the phone with us at all hours to explain every detail of our loan, and even helped us monitor the stock market and geopolitical news to make informed decisions that ultimately led us to have a winning mortgage contract. Shane knew exactly how to best represent our interests and get us an affordable mortgage and rates that worked for us. When you need an honest and reliable mortgage banker, I cannot recommend Shane enough. Thank you Shane!

Kevin

google

Shane was an absolute consummate professional throughout our process of buying our first home. If you need a mortgage professional, Shane is the person you need to be speaking to. Shane was extremely knowledgeable, including minute-to-minute real world updates on the market - he was on the phone with us at all hours to explain every detail of our loan, and even helped us monitor the stock market and geopolitical news to make informed decisions that ultimately led us to have a winning mortgage contract. Shane knew exactly how to best represent our interests and get us an affordable mortgage and rates that worked for us. When you need an honest and reliable mortgage banker, I cannot recommend Shane enough. Thank you Shane!

Kevin

zillow

We worked with Zack and he was very helpful to work with as a first time homebuyer. He was always willing to text or jump on a call to discuss next steps, what our options were and provide guidance on what we should consider. He made the home buying process easier for us. I would recommend working with Zack and Total mortgage.

Jack S.

zillow

Zack helped us through the entire process. Would 100 percent recommend him. We have multiple text and phone call. He was always available to me. Day and night including weekends

Steve D.

zillow

Shane was exceptional to work with! Always available (even when not in the office) to handle all our questions, worked around the clock, and was extremely knowledgeable! I’d recommend him to everyone!

Joseph D.

zillow

Frequently asked questions about New Jersey mortgages

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

Speak to a New Jersey mortgage expert today