Jason GrayMortgage Loan Officer · Washington State
Washington home loans since 1993. Clear answers, fast replies, and a plan that fits.
📍 Office: 1524 Market Street, Suite 103, Kirkland, WA 98033 · serving all of Washington State
Yes, let's make your home plans real.
I'm Jason Scott Gray, Branch Manager | Mortgage Consultant, NMLS 118354, with NEXA Lending (NMLS 1660690). No pressure. No obligation. Just honest answers and a plan.
Quick, no-pressure conversation. Questions are free.
Helping Washington families feel at home
Stock photos (models), licensed from Pexels.
Where are you starting?
🏡 Buying in Washington State
From Bellingham to Vancouver, Washington, and Seattle to Spokane, get pre-approved and know your numbers before you tour.
🔁 Refinance or HELOC
Exploring a new payment, cash out, or tapping equity? See whether it makes sense for you.
🤔 Not sure yet
Start with a checklist and a short conversation.
The files other lenders turn down
If your situation doesn't fit a box, that's usually where I start. I've spent decades working through loans like these, and as a NEXA Lending broker I can shop your scenario across many wholesale lenders to look for a fit.
Self-employed
Your tax returns don't tell the whole story? Bank-statement, 1099 or P&L options may let us qualify you on what your business actually brings in.
Bankruptcy
Still in an active Chapter 13? With on-time plan payments and your trustee's written approval, financing may be possible. Already discharged? Once the waiting period passes, we may be able to move forward.
Investors (DSCR)
Buying a rental? A DSCR loan may let you qualify on the property's rental income instead of your personal income.
Asset-based
Strong savings but little traditional income? Asset-depletion options may let lenders count your savings and investments toward qualifying.
Manufactured home in a park
Buying a home on leased land in a park? Chattel loan options may be available, depending on the home, the park and lender guidelines.
Every file is different. Program availability depends on eligibility, property and lender guidelines.
About Jason
Branch Manager | Mortgage Consultant at NEXA Lending in Kirkland. Formerly NAF Kirkland Branch Manager. Helping Washington families since 1993, from my Kirkland office to clients across the state.
Loan programs — by who they're for
Tap a program to see who it's typically a fit for, the general basics, and what to bring.
Conventional & first-time buyers
Buyers with steady income and established credit, including first-time buyers who want a clear walkthrough of down payment, costs and timing.
Good fit if…
Buyers with steady income and established credit, including first-time buyers who want a clear walkthrough of down payment, costs and timing.
Key basics
- Conventional loans follow Fannie Mae / Freddie Mac guidelines.
- Down payments can generally be as low as 3% for eligible first-time buyers (at least one borrower a first-time buyer) on a one-unit primary residence; some programs have income limits.
- Private mortgage insurance is typically required with less than 20% down and can generally be removed later as equity builds.
- Homebuyer education may be required when all borrowers are first-time buyers and the down payment is under 5%.
What to bring
- Recent pay stubs (about 30 days)
- W-2s and/or tax returns (typically 2 years)
- Bank / asset statements (typically 2 months)
- Photo ID
- Source of any gift funds
FHA
Buyers who want more flexible down payment and credit guidelines.
Good fit if…
Buyers who want more flexible down payment and credit guidelines.
Key basics
- FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration.
- Generally a 3.5% minimum down payment with a credit score of 580 or higher; scores of 500–579 generally require 10% down.
- Upfront and annual mortgage insurance premiums apply.
- For owner-occupied primary residences; FHA area loan limits apply.
What to bring
- Recent pay stubs
- W-2s and/or tax returns (typically 2 years)
- Bank statements (typically 2 months)
- Photo ID
- Gift letter, if family is helping
VA
Eligible veterans, active-duty service members and certain surviving spouses.
Good fit if…
Eligible veterans, active-duty service members and certain surviving spouses.
Key basics
- Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- VA generally requires no down payment when the price doesn't exceed the appraised value (lenders may require one in some cases).
- No monthly mortgage insurance; a one-time VA funding fee generally applies, with exemptions such as for those receiving VA service-connected disability compensation.
- The benefit can generally be used more than once.
What to bring
- Certificate of Eligibility (I can help request it)
- DD-214 or statement of service
- Pay stubs / LES and W-2s
- Bank statements
- VA disability award letter, if applicable
Jumbo
Purchases or refinances with a loan amount above the conforming loan limit for the county.
Good fit if…
Purchases or refinances with a loan amount above the conforming loan limit for the county.
Key basics
- Conforming loan limits are set each year by FHFA and vary by county; high-cost areas have higher limits.
- Loans above that limit are jumbo loans and follow each lender's own guidelines.
- Lenders typically look for stronger credit, larger down payments and more cash reserves than for conforming loans.
- Appraisal requirements can be stricter, sometimes including a second appraisal.
What to bring
- Tax returns and W-2s (typically 2 years)
- Recent pay stubs
- Bank, retirement and investment statements
- Documentation of other real estate owned
- Photo ID
Self-employed & bank-statement
Business owners and 1099 earners whose tax returns don't tell the whole story.
Good fit if…
Business owners and 1099 earners whose tax returns don't tell the whole story.
Key basics
- Full-documentation loans typically use 2 years of personal (and sometimes business) tax returns.
- Bank-statement loans are non-QM programs that typically calculate income from 12 or 24 months of personal or business bank statements.
- Non-QM programs follow each lender's own guidelines and often call for larger down payments or reserves.
- Business ownership history (often 2 years) is typically reviewed.
What to bring
- 12–24 months of bank statements, or 2 years of tax returns
- Year-to-date profit & loss statement
- Business license or CPA letter
- Photo ID
- Asset statements
Investors / DSCR
Real estate investors buying or refinancing rental property.
Good fit if…
Real estate investors buying or refinancing rental property.
Key basics
- DSCR (debt-service coverage ratio) loans generally qualify on the property's rental income rather than personal income.
- The lender compares expected rent to the property's housing expense; requirements vary by lender.
- These are business-purpose, non-owner-occupied loans and typically require larger down payments and reserves.
- Available on many property types, subject to lender guidelines.
What to bring
- Lease(s) or rent estimate
- Entity documents if buying in an LLC
- Bank / reserve statements
- Schedule of real estate owned
- Photo ID
Bankruptcy in the past
Borrowers rebuilding after a bankruptcy who want to know what waiting periods and options apply.
Good fit if…
Borrowers rebuilding after a bankruptcy who want to know what waiting periods and options apply.
Key basics
- FHA and VA: generally 2 years after a Chapter 7 discharge; during a Chapter 13, generally after 12 months of on-time plan payments with court/trustee approval.
- Conventional: generally 4 years after a Chapter 7 discharge (2 years with documented extenuating circumstances); generally 2 years after a Chapter 13 discharge or 4 years after a dismissal.
- Re-established credit since the bankruptcy is typically reviewed.
- Some non-QM programs may have shorter waiting periods, per lender guidelines.
What to bring
- Bankruptcy discharge papers and schedules
- Chapter 13 payment history and trustee approval, if applicable
- Letter of explanation
- Income and asset documents
- Photo ID
Refinance, cash-out & HELOC
Owners looking to change loan terms, consolidate debt, or access equity.
Good fit if…
Owners looking to change loan terms, consolidate debt, or access equity.
Key basics
- A rate-and-term refinance replaces your current loan with new terms.
- A cash-out refinance replaces your loan with a larger one; maximum loan-to-value limits apply by program.
- A HELOC is a revolving line of credit secured by your home, typically kept in addition to your first mortgage.
- We'll compare the costs and your goals to see whether it makes sense for you.
What to bring
- Current mortgage statement
- Homeowners insurance declarations page
- Income documents
- Recent property tax statement
- Photo ID
FHA 203(k) renovation
Buyers or owners who want to finance a home and its renovation in one loan.
Good fit if…
Buyers or owners who want to finance a home and its renovation in one loan.
Key basics
- An FHA program that combines the purchase or refinance with repair costs in a single mortgage.
- Limited 203(k) is for minor, non-structural repairs up to a HUD-set maximum (reviewed annually).
- Standard 203(k) is for larger or structural projects, generally with at least $5,000 in repairs, and requires an FHA-approved 203(k) consultant.
- Standard FHA guidelines for down payment, credit and mortgage insurance generally apply.
What to bring
- Contractor bids / scope of work
- Purchase agreement, if buying
- Income and asset documents
- Photo ID
- Contractor license and insurance info
Program guidelines vary and are subject to change and credit approval. Information above is general program-guideline education only, not an advertisement or offer of specific loan terms. Down payment, credit score and waiting-period figures describe general published agency guidelines; actual requirements depend on the lender, loan amount, property and your full application. Not all applicants will qualify. No interest rate, APR, payment or terms are quoted; a Loan Estimate with full terms is provided after you apply.
Calculators
Illustrative tools only. You enter every number, including the interest rate — no rate, APR, payment or terms are being advertised or offered. Results exclude APR, mortgage insurance, closing costs and other fees, are not a loan offer, pre-approval or commitment to lend, and your actual terms may differ.
Quick answers on video
Short, plain-English explainers you can watch anytime.
First 48 hours after going into contract
Retail lender vs. broker
How a pre-approval helps you win the house
When you can stop paying mortgage insurance
Building a high credit score before pre-approval
Videos are general education only, not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Your options depend on your situation and lender guidelines.
What clients say
“Jason went above and beyond to get us into a house. Lots of lenders wouldn't have been able to help , but Jason's experience and diligence made it possible for us. Highly recommended.”
— Daniel Newsome, Seattle, WA (Zillow, 6/4/2019)
“Jason was very professional and sharp during the whole mortgage process. He helped me and my family find a mortgage and then go through the entire procedure painlessly. Jason's support was essential for us, as he replied very quickly, including during the weekend. I would highly recommend him and his team!”
— mtrend, Bellevue, WA (Zillow, 5/18/2019)
“We had a great experience with Jason. He was open and forthright from beginning to end, and responded to questions and concerns quickly. He maintained a high standard of contact throughout the process and lived up to every commitment he made. He and his team provided service that exceeded my expectations. I have and will continue to recommend Jason Gray.”
— chris7548, Everett, WA (Zillow, 4/14/2015)
5.0 stars from 21 reviews on Zillow. Reviews shown verbatim; some predate Jason joining NEXA Lending. Individual results vary. Verified October 2026. See all reviews on Zillow.
Serving buyers and homeowners across Washington State
From Bellingham to Vancouver, Washington, and from Seattle to Spokane, I work with clients statewide. Most of the process happens by phone, video and secure upload, so wherever you are in Washington, you get the same quick, straight answers. Pick your area for a local guide.
Puget Sound
Seattle
Condos, craftsman homes and townhomes near light rail.
Kirkland
My home office: waterfront, Juanita, Finn Hill and Totem Lake.
Bellevue
Downtown condos to jumbo homes, plus RSU and bonus income.
Redmond
Townhomes near Overlake, Education Hill and stock-comp income.
Everett
VA near Naval Station Everett and Boeing overtime income.
Tacoma
VA near JBLM, FHA 203(k) for older homes, first-time buyers.
Also serving Sammamish, Issaquah, Bothell, Woodinville, Lynnwood and nearby communities.
North Sound
South Sound & Southwest
Olympia
State employees, JBLM families and rural Thurston County.
Chehalis
Acreage, USDA options and flood-zone planning in Lewis County.
Vancouver, Washington
Clark County new construction and Portland-commuter income.
Eastern & Central Washington
Spokane
South Hill to Spokane Valley, plus VA near Fairchild AFB.
Yakima
USDA options and seasonal or agricultural income.
Tri-Cities
Kennewick, Pasco and Richland: new homes and relocation.
Moses Lake
Grant County growth, USDA options and new-job buyers.
Wenatchee
Orchard income and second homes near Leavenworth.
Common questions
Who is Jason Gray?
Jason Scott Gray (NMLS 118354) is a Branch Manager and Mortgage Consultant with NEXA Lending (NMLS 1660690), based at 1524 Market Street, Suite 103 in Kirkland, WA. He has been originating home loans since 1993 and previously managed the NAF Kirkland branch.
What areas do you serve?
I work with buyers and homeowners across Washington State, including Seattle, Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, Everett, Tacoma, Olympia, Bellingham, Vancouver, Washington, Spokane, Yakima, the Tri-Cities, Moses Lake, Wenatchee and Chehalis, subject to licensing.
Can you help if I'm self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed income is one of the areas I work in most. Depending on your situation, full-documentation or bank-statement options may be available. We'll look at your actual paperwork and talk through what fits.
Can I get a mortgage after a bankruptcy?
Often, yes, once the applicable waiting period has passed and your credit is rebuilding. The rules differ by program, so the first step is a conversation about your dates and history. You may also be able to get a mortgage while you are still in an active Chapter 13 bankruptcy, depending on the loan program (for example, FHA or VA). Generally that means a record of on-time plan payments, often about 12 months, and written permission from your bankruptcy trustee.
Why work with a mortgage broker?
As a broker with NEXA Lending, I can shop your scenario with many wholesale lenders instead of one, to look for a program that fits your file. Through NEXA, I have access to over 320 wholesale investors, so I can shop your loan across many options. Approval and terms always depend on the lender's underwriting.
How do I get started?
Start your pre-approval at jasongrayloans.com, book a call, or call 425-260-3482. Questions are free.
For realtor partners
Your buyers get a quick reply, a clear pre-approval, and an update before you have to ask. When a file is tricky — self-employed, past credit events — I'll tell you early and straight.
Let's work together
Call or text 425-260-3482 to set up a quick intro.
No referral fees, kickbacks or other things of value are offered or paid for referrals of settlement-service business (RESPA Section 8). Buyers are always free to choose any lender.
Not ready yet? Start here.
No rush. These resources help you get organized at your own pace — when you're ready, we'll have a head start.
🧮 Run your own numbers
Try the payment and affordability calculators with figures you choose.
📍 Explore local guides
Get a feel for neighborhoods and communities across Washington State.
💬 Read common questions
Plain-English answers about self-employed income, past credit events and more.
📋 Your document checklist
Save this list. Gathering these early makes the first conversation easier.
Get pre-approved or book a call
Quick, no-pressure conversation. Questions are free.
Office: 1524 Market Street, Suite 103, Kirkland, WA 98033 · 425-260-3482
Meet in person by appointment, or by phone and video.