What I offer

Mortgage solutions for every stage of your journey

From pre-approval to closing, I provide the guidance and rate options you need — no pressure, no surprises.

Home Purchase Loans

First-time buyer or seasoned investor — I'll match you with the right loan program, from conventional to FHA, VA, and USDA options tailored to your situation.

Refinancing

Lower your rate, shorten your term, or pull out equity — I'll run the numbers and show you exactly when refinancing makes sense for your finances.

Pre-Approval

Get a clear picture of your budget before you start looking. A strong pre-approval letter gives you leverage and confidence in a competitive market.

Rate & Term Reviews

Market conditions shift constantly. I monitor rates daily so you know when to lock in and when to wait — keeping your timeline and budget in sync.

Jumbo & Specialty Loans

Chicago's luxury and non-QM market requires a different approach. I work with lenders who understand high-balance and unique property situations.

Loan Education

Confused by APR, points, or closing costs? I explain things in plain language so you can make decisions you're comfortable with — not rushed into.

John Johnson, mortgage professional in Chicago office

About me

A Chicago native who takes lending seriously

I've spent over a decade helping people in this city make one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. I grew up here — I know the neighborhoods, the market cycles, and what it takes to get from pre-approval to closing without losing your mind.

At Guaranteed Rate, I have access to a wide range of loan products and competitive pricing. But what sets the experience apart isn't just the rates — it's the communication. You'll know exactly where your loan stands at every stage, and I'll flag issues before they become problems.

Licensed in Illinois · NMLS #139664

Guaranteed Rate — national lender, local presence

Direct access — no call centers, no runaround

Serving Chicago and surrounding communities

How it works

From first call to closing day

A straightforward process with clear milestones — no black boxes, no guesswork.

01

Initial consultation

We'll discuss your goals — buying, refinancing, or just exploring — and I'll explain which loan programs fit your situation best.

02

Pre-approval & rate lock

I'll pull your numbers, run scenarios, and get you a pre-approval letter. When the rate is right, we lock it in so you're protected.

03

Processing & underwriting

Your file moves through appraisal, documentation, and underwriting. I keep you updated at each checkpoint — no surprises.

04

Closing & move-in

Final walkthrough, signing, and recording. You'll walk out with the keys and a loan you understand — not one you just signed.

Client feedback

What people say about working together

Real experiences from Chicago homeowners and investors.

John walked us through our first-home purchase in Lincoln Park like we were his only clients. He answered every question, even the ones we were embarrassed to ask.

Michael & Sarah T. Homebuyer · Lincoln Park

We refinanced our condo near the lake and saved over $300 a month. John showed us the numbers honestly — including when it didn't make sense to refi.

David R. Refinance client · Streeterville

As a self-employed investor with multiple properties, I needed someone who understood non-QM loans. John found us a program that actually worked.

Angela M. Investor · Hyde Park

Contact

Let's find the right loan for you

Whether you have a specific question or just want to explore your options, reach out. I typically respond the same business day.

Office 3940 N Ravenswood Ave
Chicago, IL 60613

Phone 773-290-0511

Email jj@rate.com

NMLS #139664

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