Question 1

Do you only originate loans in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — under Pineyro Capital Group Inc. NMLS# 420112, yes!  We proudly offer access to over 200 loan programs, including options for first-time homebuyers, real estate investors, residential and commercial financing, long-term loans, and bridge loans.

Through our Pineyro Capital Group Commercial Division, we provide comprehensive financing solutions for real estate investors in over 44 states.

👉 Click here to learn more: [Insert Link]

Question 2

Do you pay real estate agents for referring loans?

Accepted Answer

Yes and no.

In Florida, if the loan is for an owner-occupied property (also known as a TRID loan), you must be licensed as a Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) in Florida and have an active NMLS number. If you’re already licensed, we can get you onboarded within 72 business hours — and yes, you can get paid.

If you're not licensed as an MLO in Florida (or in any of the other 43 states where we originate), you can only be compensated on non-TRID loans — these are loans for real estate investors, strictly for business or investment purposes.

👉 To learn more, [click here]

Question 3

Can I legally refer a client to a mortgage company in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can refer clients to a mortgage company, but you must comply with RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act) and Florida law, which prohibit receiving kickbacks or referral fees unless you are licensed to do so.

Question 4

Can I receive a referral fee from the mortgage lender?

Accepted Answer

Not unless you are a licensed mortgage loan originator. RESPA and Florida law prohibit unlicensed individuals (including real estate agents) from receiving referral fees or compensation for mortgage referrals.

Question 5

How do I choose a reliable mortgage company to refer clients to?

Accepted Answer

Look for lenders who are responsive, transparent, licensed in Florida, have strong reviews, offer competitive rates, and have experience with the type of loan your client needs (e.g., FHA, VA, conventional, NON QM, Investor Loans).

Question 6

Can I refer my client to more than one mortgage company?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. In fact, it’s often a good idea to provide multiple lender options so clients can compare offers and feel confident in their decision.

Question 7

What information should I provide to the mortgage lender?

Accepted Answer

Typically, the client’s name, contact information, type of property, and whether they’re a first-time buyer. Be sure to get your client's consent before sharing any details.

Question 8

How involved should I be during the mortgage process?

Accepted Answer

Stay informed so you can help guide the transaction, but don’t give financial advice. Communicate with both the client and lender to help keep the deal on track.

Question 9

What red flags should I watch for in a mortgage lender?

Accepted Answer

Watch out for poor communication, hidden fees, unlicensed activity, or pressure tactics. These can lead to closing delays or unhappy clients.

Question 10

How long does it typically take to close a mortgage in Florida?

Accepted Answer

On average, it takes 21 to 30 days to close a mortgage loan in Florida, depending on the loan type and how responsive all parties are.

Question 11

What loan programs are most common in Florida?

Accepted Answer

The most common are Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. In Florida, there are also first-time buyer assistance programs and down payment assistance grants that lenders can help with.

Question 12

Can I share my preferred lender’s contact info in my marketing materials?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but be careful. You must disclose the relationship, avoid implying exclusivity, and not accept compensation unless properly licensed. Always include a statement like: "You are not required to use this lender as a condition of your purchase."

Question 13

What’s the difference between FHA and Conventional loans?

Accepted Answer

FHA loans are government-backed, typically require lower credit scores (580+) and lower down payments (3.5%) and in some cases NO MONEY DOWN, but come with mortgage insurance. Conventional loans aren’t government-backed and usually require higher credit scores (620+), and a minimum of 3% to 5% down (depending on the program).

Question 14

What is a VA loan and who qualifies?

Accepted Answer

VA loans are for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and some military spouses. They offer no down payment, no mortgage insurance, and competitive rates, but the buyer must provide a Certificate of Eligibility (COE).

Question 15

Are there any programs for first-time homebuyers in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Florida offers programs like the Florida Hometown Heroes, Florida Assist (FL Assist), and Florida Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) that provide down payment and closing cost assistance to qualified first-time buyers.

Question 16

What’s the minimum down payment for a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

For first-time buyers, it can be as low as 3%, depending on income and credit. For others, it’s usually 5% or more. The higher the down payment, the lower the monthly mortgage insurance.

Question 17

What is a USDA loan and who qualifies?

Accepted Answer

USDA loans are zero-down loans for properties in eligible rural areas. Borrowers must meet income limits and the home must be in a USDA-approved zone. Great for buyers looking outside city limits.

Question 18

What credit score do buyers need to qualify for most loan programs?

Accepted Answer

• FHA: 580+ (with 3.5% down)
 • Conventional: 620+
 • VA: No official minimum, but lenders typically want 580–620
 • USDA: Around 640+
 Higher scores usually lead to better rates and terms.

Question 19

Can buyers use gift funds for the down payment?

Accepted Answer

es, most loan types allow gift funds from relatives or close relationships. FHA and Conventional loans permit it, but the buyer must provide a gift letter and documentation showing the funds are not a loan.

Question 20

Are there loan options for self-employed buyers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While traditional loans require 2 years of tax returns, there are bank statement loans or non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) options that use bank deposits instead of tax returns to qualify income.

Question 21

What loan programs are best for buyers with student loan debt?

Accepted Answer

FHA is often more flexible when factoring in student loans. However, some Conventional programs (like Fannie Mae’s) will accept income-based repayment amounts, which can help borrowers qualify more easily.

Question 22

What is mortgage insurance and who has to pay it?

Accepted Answer

Mortgage insurance protects the lender if the borrower defaults.

• FHA loans require upfront and monthly mortgage insurance.
 • Conventional loans require it if the buyer puts less than 20% down, but it can be removed once equity reaches 20%.
 • VA and USDA loans do not require monthly mortgage insurance.

Question 23

Can I get paid a referral fee on non-TRID loans without a mortgage license?

Accepted Answer

Yes — but only in specific situations. Non-TRID loans (like commercial, business-purpose, or investment property loans) are not covered by RESPA, which means referral fees may be legal. However, it's critical to check state-specific regulations (like in Florida) to make sure you’re not violating any licensing or compensation laws.

Question 24

What types of loans are considered non-TRID or business-purpose loans?

Accepted Answer

Common examples include:

• DSCR loans (Debt Service Coverage Ratio)
 • Fix & flip loans
 • Bridge loans
 • Commercial real estate loans
 • Hard money loans

These are generally for non-owner-occupied properties or investment/business use, so they’re not governed by RESPA and may allow for legally paid referrals to non-licensed individuals.

Question 25

How do I legally get paid a referral fee on these non-TRID deals?

Accepted Answer

Here’s a general legal-safe approach:

• Partner with a lender or broker who specializes in business-purpose loans and offers referral agreements.
 • Have a written agreement clearly outlining your role and compensation.
 • Make sure the referral is for a non-owner-occupied, business-use property — not a primary residence.
 • Consider setting up an LLC or corporation to receive payment if required by your state or lender.

💡 Pro tip: Even though it's legal in many cases, transparency is key — always disclose your referral relationship to the client and avoid acting as a loan officer unless you're licensed.

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​For many, a home loan denial can feel like the end of a dream. With our flexible lending approach, we’re changing that narrative, helping more buyers secure the home they want.

*According to NAR - Mortgage Rates and Approval Rates in the Last 5 Years

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