John PastreUnbeatable Mortgage Broker

Mortgage Broker · Miami, FL

Mortgage Broker in Miami, FL – Home Loans for Every Buyer

Miami is one of the most dynamic housing markets in the country — and one of the most complex to finance. Whether you're a first-time buyer in Hialeah, a foreign national purchasing a Brickell condo, or an investor eyeing a Wynwood rental, the loan program you choose matters as much as the home you pick. John Pastre (NMLS #1827883) is a licensed mortgage loan originator serving buyers across Miami and Miami-Dade County, offering access to conventional, FHA, jumbo, DSCR, and foreign national home loan programs.

Loan Programs Available in Miami, FL

FHA Loans Miami

The Miami housing market has seen robust demand, with the median home value standing at approximately $564,100. For buyers who haven't saved a 20% down payment, an FHA loan can be a smart path forward. The 2025 FHA loan limit for Miami-Dade County is $654,350 for a single-unit home — meaningfully higher than Florida's baseline limit, which reflects the county's elevated home values. FHA loans typically allow down payments as low as 3.5% and may be available to buyers with a range of credit profiles. If you're purchasing in areas like Kendall, Doral, or Hialeah, an FHA loan in Miami may be a strong fit.

Jumbo Mortgages Miami

The conforming loan limit for Miami-Dade County in 2025 follows the national baseline of $806,500 — any loan amount above that threshold is considered a jumbo loan, requiring different underwriting standards and lender guidelines. Luxury condos in Brickell, waterfront estates in Coral Gables, and single-family homes in Miami Beach routinely exceed this threshold. A $1.2 million home purchased with 20% down results in a $960,000 loan — well into jumbo territory. John works with investors and move-up buyers who need flexible jumbo solutions tailored to high-value South Florida properties.

Foreign National Mortgage Miami

Miami is a global city, and a significant share of its real estate is purchased by buyers from Latin America, Europe, and Canada. Foreign national mortgages are available to non-U.S. citizens and non-permanent residents purchasing property in Miami — commonly as a primary residence, vacation home, or investment condo. These loans typically require a larger down payment than conventional financing, and lenders generally use alternative income documentation in lieu of U.S. tax returns. If you're purchasing in Edgewater, Sunny Isles Beach, or Surfside and hold a non-U.S. passport, a foreign national mortgage in Miami may be the right solution. Contact John for program details specific to your country of residence and visa status.

Miami-Dade Down Payment Assistance

Saving a down payment in this market is no small feat — but help is available. Miami-Dade County offers a deferred-payment loan of up to $35,000 for income-eligible first-time homebuyers purchasing within the county. The loan carries 0% interest and requires no monthly payments for up to 30 years, with the full balance due on sale, transfer of title, refinance, or death of the borrower.

Florida's statewide programs can also help. The State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program provides up to $25,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance through zero-interest assistance for homebuyers in select Florida counties. Income limits and property eligibility apply to all programs. John can help you determine which Miami-Dade down payment assistance program you may qualify for before you apply.

DSCR Loans for Miami Investors

Miami's rental market — from short-term Airbnb units in South Beach to long-term rentals in Little Havana and Allapattah — attracts real estate investors from around the world. A Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loan qualifies the property on its rental income rather than your personal W-2 or tax return, making it an ideal tool for self-employed buyers and portfolio investors. No personal income verification is required; instead, the property's projected or actual rent is compared to the monthly loan payment.

Conventional Loans & Refinancing

For buyers with strong credit and stable employment, conventional financing often offers the most flexibility — including options with as little as 3–5% down. If you already own a home in Miami, refinancing may allow you to lower your monthly payment, tap equity, or switch from an adjustable to a fixed rate. Whether rates shift in your favor or your home has appreciated, a refinance review costs you nothing.

Find the right loan for your Miami purchase

Get a personalized mortgage quote — no credit check — and see which programs fit your situation.

Who This Is For

John Pastre works with a wide range of Miami homebuyers and property owners:

How the Process Works

Getting a mortgage in Miami doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here's how John guides clients from start to close:

  1. Step 1

    Free Consultation

    Share your goals, timeline, and financial picture. John will review loan options and help you understand what you may qualify for — no obligation.

  2. Step 2

    Pre-Approval

    Get a verified pre-approval letter that strengthens your offer in a competitive Miami market. Sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously.

  3. Step 3

    Loan Processing & Underwriting

    John coordinates documentation, appraisals, and condo approval (critical in Miami's many condo-heavy buildings) so you're not chasing paperwork.

  4. Step 4

    Clear to Close

    Once underwriting signs off, you're headed to the closing table. John stays in contact through funding so there are no surprises.

Local Miami Market Knowledge

Miami-Dade County spans a remarkably diverse set of neighborhoods, each with its own financing quirks:

Brickell & Downtown Miami

High-rise condos require lender-approved condo project review; foreign national buyers are common here.

Coral Gables & Coconut Grove

Established single-family neighborhoods where jumbo financing is frequently needed.

Doral & Hialeah

Popular with first-time buyers; FHA and down payment assistance programs are frequently used in these communities.

Wynwood & Edgewater

Rapidly appreciating areas attracting investors and DSCR loan borrowers.

Miami Beach & Surfside

Luxury and vacation properties where jumbo and foreign national programs are the norm.

Kendall & Homestead

More affordable pockets of Miami-Dade where conventional and FHA loans remain common.

As of early 2025, the number of homes for sale in Miami increased 15%, suggesting a more responsive supply — good news for buyers who felt shut out in prior years. That said, desirable neighborhoods remain competitive, and a strong pre-approval is still essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What credit score do I need for an FHA loan in Miami?+

FHA guidelines allow credit scores as low as 580 with a 3.5% down payment, and some lenders may work with scores below that with a larger down payment. Every lender has overlays, so your actual eligibility depends on the full picture of your application. Contact John for a no-obligation review.

How much is the down payment for a foreign national mortgage in Miami?+

Foreign national loans are not government-backed, so they are typically privately underwritten. Down payment requirements can vary widely by lender and program — commonly ranging from 25–30% or more for non-U.S.-citizen borrowers. The exact requirement depends on the property type, loan amount, and your country of residence. Request a personalized quote to get accurate figures.

Can I combine Miami-Dade down payment assistance with an FHA loan?+

Miami-Dade's deferred-payment assistance of up to $35,000 is designed for income-eligible first-time buyers and can often be layered with FHA or other first mortgage programs, subject to lender and program approval. Eligibility requirements — including income limits and property price caps — apply. John can walk you through which combination you may qualify for.

What is the jumbo loan threshold in Miami-Dade County in 2025?+

In 2025, any loan amount above $806,500 is considered a jumbo loan in Miami-Dade County, following the national baseline conforming limit set by the FHFA. Jumbo loans typically require stronger credit, larger reserves, and a more detailed underwriting process.

Do DSCR loans work for Miami short-term rentals?+

DSCR loans are available for investment properties, but lenders treat short-term rental income differently than long-term leases. Some programs accept projected or historical Airbnb/VRBO income; others require a long-term lease agreement. John can match you with lenders whose guidelines fit your specific rental strategy.

Can I refinance my Miami home if I have an FHA loan?+

Yes. Homeowners with existing FHA loans may be eligible for an FHA Streamline Refinance, which typically requires less documentation and no new appraisal. Conventional refinance options are also available if your equity and credit profile qualify. Whether refinancing makes financial sense depends on your current rate, remaining term, and goals — something John can help you evaluate.

Other Loan Programs

Ready to get started in Miami?

Miami's real estate market moves fast. John Pastre (NMLS #1827883) is licensed in Florida and brings hands-on experience with the programs, neighborhoods, and lenders that matter most in Miami-Dade County. Get a free quote — no credit check.

All loan programs are subject to credit approval, income verification, and lender guidelines. Programs and limits are subject to change. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to lend. Contact John directly for a personalized quote.

NMLS #1827883