Licensed: CA · OR · NV · AZ · CO · ID · FL · TX · TN

Meet the Team Behind Your Best Rate

Transparent, personalized mortgage lending from someone who actually cares about your financial future.

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Travis
Founder & Loan Officer

15+ Years Helping Homebuyers Get Better Rates

Travis started Take The Rate in 2011 after getting frustrated watching homebuyers get steered toward loans that benefited lenders, not borrowers. He believed there had to be a better way—one focused on transparency, education, and actually putting the client first.

With more than 15 years in mortgage lending, Travis has helped first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, self-employed borrowers, and veterans navigate the mortgage process. He's licensed in 9 states and has built Take The Rate on one principle: every borrower deserves access to the same quality of service, expertise, and rates typically reserved for bank VIPs.

Today, Take The Rate has helped hundreds of families secure mortgages on their terms. Travis personally reviews every application, compares rates from multiple lenders, and ensures you understand every option before making a decision.

"I got tired of seeing homebuyers get pushed into the wrong loans by lenders who prioritized their commission over the client's best interest. I started Take The Rate so every borrower — whether you're buying your first home, you're a veteran, you're self-employed, or you're an investor — gets the best loan for their situation, period."

— Travis, Founder

Our Approach

We do mortgage lending differently. Here's how:

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Education First

We explain everything. No jargon, no fine print tricks. You'll understand your loan options before you decide.

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Radical Transparency

No hidden fees. We compare rates across multiple lenders and show you the total cost upfront so you can make the best choice.

Speed & Efficiency

Pre-approvals in 24 hours. Fast closings. We respect your time and move quickly without sacrificing accuracy.

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Long-Term Relationship

We don't just close your loan and disappear. You can reach Travis directly anytime—even after closing.

By the Numbers

15 years of real results in mortgage lending

15+
Years Experience
9
States Licensed
90+
5-Star Reviews
5.0★
Google Rating
24hrs
Pre-Approval Timeline
6
Loan Types

What Clients Say

Real feedback from real homebuyers

★★★★★

"Travis was incredible throughout our first-time home buying process. He explained everything clearly, found us a better rate than we expected, and made closing day so easy. Highly recommend."

— Sarah M., CA
★★★★★

"As a self-employed contractor, I thought getting a mortgage would be impossible. Travis specialized in bank statement loans and got me approved in 10 days. Professional, fast, and transparent."

— Mike D., OR
★★★★★

"I compared Travis's rate with my bank and saved $200/month. He answered every question, was patient with all my concerns, and I closed early. Best decision I made."

— Jennifer T., TX
G ★★★★★ Read Our 90+ Google Reviews

Licensed in 9 States

We serve homebuyers and refinancers across California, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Florida, Texas, and Tennessee. If you're in one of these states, we can help.

California
Oregon
Nevada
Arizona
Colorado
Idaho
Florida
Texas
Tennessee

Common Questions About Take The Rate

Everything you need to know about working with us

Is Take The Rate a direct lender or mortgage broker?
Take The Rate is a licensed mortgage broker, not a direct lender. As a broker, we shop your loan to multiple lenders and programs to find you the best rates and terms available. This means you get access to more loan options than working with a single bank, often resulting in lower rates and better terms. We can compare conventional loans, FHA loans, VA loans, bank statement loans, and DSCR loans from different lenders so you always have choices.
How does Travis compare mortgage rates?
Travis personally reviews your financial situation and compares rates from multiple lenders. Instead of just giving you one option, we present several scenarios so you can choose the mortgage that best fits your goals. We focus on the total cost over the life of the loan, not just the rate. We factor in closing costs, points, and your long-term plans so you understand the real impact of each option.
Can I work with Take The Rate if I'm in California, Oregon, Texas, Florida, or another state?
Yes! Take The Rate is licensed in 9 states: California, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Florida, Texas, and Tennessee. If you're in one of these states, we can help you with your mortgage. If you're outside these states, we may be able to refer you to a trusted partner lender we work with. Contact us to discuss your situation.
What makes Take The Rate different from a big bank?
Unlike big banks, we provide personalized service from a real person—Travis—who knows your situation. We have access to more loan programs and flexibility. Big banks often use a one-size-fits-all approach; we customize every loan to your specific needs. You don't navigate phone trees or deal with loan officers who change. Plus, you're not paying for a massive corporate overhead. We can often offer lower rates because our cost structure is lean.
Does Take The Rate charge application fees?
No hidden fees. We believe in radical transparency about all costs upfront. Any fees are disclosed clearly and discussed with you before you proceed. Our goal is to find you the best loan for your situation without surprise charges. We explain lender fees, origination fees, and underwriting fees upfront so you know exactly what you're paying.
How do I get started with Take The Rate?
You can get started three ways: fill out our quick online form on our Apply page, call Travis directly at (800) 555-1234, or send an email to contact@taketherate.com. Each method gets you a personalized conversation. There's no credit check required to get started, and we'll respond within 1 business day with a rate quote and loan options tailored to your situation.

Ready to Work Together?

Get started today with a free consultation and rate comparison.

Get My Rate