Adam Hawkins

Branch Manager

NMLS#852996

En Español →

AZ, OR

English Only

Where do you stand right now?

Pick the situation that fits and I’ll point you in the right direction.

🔑

First-time buyer

"I have never bought a home before. I don't know where to start."

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💵

Low down payment

"I have some savings, but not 20% down."

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🏡

Move-up buyer

"I own a home now and I am ready for the next one."

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📊

Credit concerns

"My credit isn't perfect. Can I still qualify?"

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🎖️

Veteran or active military

"I served. I want to use my VA benefit the right way."

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Don’t see your situation above? No problem. I’ve worked with just about every scenario, including refinances. Just give me a call:

(480) 789-3985

Here's Where I Specialize

“Over 15 years and more than 40 lender partners. I find the loan that fits your life, not the other way around.”

FHA Loans

Lower down payments, flexible credit guidelines, and rules built to help first-time buyers get in the door. FHA is often the right fit when conventional won't work yet.

Learn about FHA loans →

Conventional Loans

The flexible workhorse for buyers with solid credit. Lower mortgage insurance, more property types, and the smoothest path for well-qualified borrowers.

Learn about Conventional loans →

Down Payment Assistance

If saving for a down payment is what's holding you back, you have more options than you think. I know the active DPA programs across Arizona and Oregon.

Learn about DPA programs →

These are my top three, but I work with the full range of loan programs available →

Here's How It Works

No surprises, no pressure. This is what the process actually looks like.

1

Tell me your situation

"We talk through your goals, your timeline, and your finances. No commitment. Just a conversation."

2

I review your options

"I shop your scenario across multiple lenders and bring back the best options with real numbers."

3

You choose the best fit

"You decide. I'll walk you through each option in plain English, without the pressure or the jargon."

4

We close - I'm with you

"From application to closing keys, I manage the process and stay reachable the whole way."

No commitment required. Just a conversation.

Run the Numbers Yourself

Use these free tools right here. No login, no forms, no sales calls.

Mortgage Payment Estimator

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Home Price ($)

Down Payment ($)

Down payment cannot exceed the home price.

Loan Amount ($)

Loan amount cannot exceed the home price.

Interest Rate (%)

Loan Term

Monthly Tax + Insurance (optional)

Estimated Monthly Payment

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This is an estimate only. Your actual payment may vary based on your loan type, credit profile, and lender. Contact Steve for an accurate quote.

Use the full mortgage calculators and tools →

How Much Can I Buy?

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Household Income — Pre-Tax

Include all borrowers who will be on the loan. Enter your combined pre-tax income.

Monthly Debt Payments ($)

Include car payments, student loans, credit card minimums, and any other monthly loan payments. Do not include household bills such as rent, utilities, phone, or insurance.

Down Payment ($)

Based on what you've entered, you may qualify for a home up to

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This is an estimate based on standard debt-to-income guidelines. Your actual buying power depends on your credit score, loan type, and lender. Talk to Steve for a real number.

Talk to Steve for a real number — (480) 329-3346 →

From the First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Know your real number before you shop

Understanding pre-approval vs. pre-qualification so you shop with confidence, not guesses.

Down payment assistance is more common than you think

Most buyers don't realize help exists in their state. This guide shows you what's available.

Closing costs are negotiable

Knowing what's negotiable before you make an offer can save you thousands.

“I put this guide together for first-time buyers I work with.”

— Adam Hawkins

Free PDF — No email required

Wondering What Rate You'd Qualify For?

Your rate depends on your credit score, loan type, and financial profile, not a national average. Let me show you what you actually qualify for.

Why I Do This Work

“My job is not just to get you a mortgage. It is to guide you every step of the way and make sure you feel confident that you are getting the right loan for your family and your future.”

Hi, I’m Adam Hawkins, Producing Branch Manager at Lender Express Mortgage in Scottsdale, Arizona.

I’ve spent the past 12+ years helping people like you buy homes with confidence. Whether you’re purchasing your very first home, upgrading to your next, or investing in property, I’m here to guide you through the mortgage process every step of the way. My goal is to make sure you feel informed, supported, and completely comfortable from start to finish.

I got into the mortgage business because I’ve always loved real estate and numbers—but more importantly, I love helping people. Early in my career, I was fortunate to have a mentor who taught me the importance of communication, education, and building trust with every client. That’s still how I approach my work today.

At Lender Express Mortgage, we pride ourselves on creating a family-like environment. We offer the tools, experience, and flexibility to tailor your loan to your unique needs. You won’t be treated like a transaction here—you’ll be treated like a person. I take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and walk you through every detail so there are no surprises.

Even in tough market conditions, I’ve helped clients achieve great results. In fact, in 2023, I doubled my personal loan volume by staying focused, proactive, and solution-oriented. I bring that same energy and commitment to every borrower I work with.

When I’m not helping clients, I’m a proud father of three daughters and a son. I also played football at Washington State University and had the opportunity to compete in the 1998 Rose Bowl—an experience that taught me the value of teamwork, discipline, and showing up for others.

If you’re thinking about buying a home and want someone in your corner who will guide you with honesty, clarity, and care—I’d love the opportunity to earn your trust.

Licensed in Arizona & Oregon

NMLS#852996

15+ Years in Mortgages

English Only

First-Time Buyer Specialist

DPA Programs

Questions I Hear Most

Straight answers, no sales pitch. Browse the mortgage glossary for more definitions.

Understanding the Broker Model

What is the difference between a broker and a lender?

A lender is one company with one set of products. A broker shops many lenders for you. At Lender Express I have more than 40 lender partners. That means I can compare programs and rates side by side and bring you the best fit for your situation. You get more choice, often a better rate, and one point of contact through the whole process.

Does it cost more to work with a broker?

No. In most cases working with a broker costs the same or less than going directly to a bank. Lenders pay brokers a small fee for delivering a clean, qualified loan. That fee is built into the loan, not paid separately by you, and is disclosed up front. The real value is access to more loan programs and better pricing.

Why not just use my current bank?

Your bank is one option. If they have the best fit and the best price, great. But they only offer their own products. If your situation is even a little outside the box (low down payment, self-employed income, credit dings, unique property), the bank may say no when a broker could say yes. I run your file against many lenders so you do not miss a better option.

Getting Started

What is the first step?

A 15-minute phone call. I learn about your goals, your timing, and your situation. I tell you what I think is realistic, and what your next move should be. No pressure, no commitment, no paperwork yet. Most people leave that first call with more clarity than they have had in months.

How long does the full process take?

A typical purchase loan closes in 21 to 30 days from contract to keys. Pre-approval can be done in 1 to 3 business days once I have your documents. If you are still shopping, you can be pre-approved before you even pick a house. That makes your offers stronger.

What documents do I need to get pre-approved?

Two years of W-2s or tax returns, your most recent pay stubs, two months of bank statements, and a photo ID. If you are self-employed, I will need a couple of years of business returns too. I will give you a full list once we talk, and I keep it simple.

Credit and Qualification

What credit score do I need?

For FHA loans we have programs that start at 580. Conventional loans usually need 620 or higher for the best terms. There is no single magic number. Your full picture matters: income, debt, savings, and the type of loan. I will pull your credit, walk you through what we are working with, and tell you the truth about where you stand.

Will checking my credit hurt my score?

The hard credit pull I run can drop your score by a few points temporarily, but it bounces back fast. Mortgage shopping is treated as one inquiry by the credit bureaus if it happens inside a 45-day window. So you can compare quotes without taking multiple hits.

What if my credit isn't perfect?

A lot of my clients show up worried about their credit and end up qualifying without a problem. If your credit needs work, I will tell you exactly what to fix and how long it should take. I have seen plenty of buyers go from "not yet" to "approved" in 90 days with the right plan.

Specialty Programs

Do I really need 20% down?

No. That is one of the biggest myths in mortgage. FHA loans start at 3.5% down. Conventional loans can start at 3%. VA and USDA loans can go down to zero. And there are active down payment assistance programs across Arizona and Oregon that can cover most of what you would put down. I will show you the actual numbers for your situation.

How does down payment assistance work?

DPA programs cover part or all of your down payment, usually as a second loan, a grant, or a forgivable loan. Some are state-run. Some come from cities or counties. Some are tied to your job (teachers, healthcare workers, first responders). Eligibility depends on income, location, and the program. I know what is currently active and I will tell you which ones you actually qualify for.

I am self-employed. Can I still qualify?

Yes. Self-employed buyers qualify all the time. I have access to bank statement loans, P&L-only programs, and conventional loans for self-employed borrowers with strong tax returns. The trick is matching you to the right program for how your income shows up on paper.

Working with Adam Hawkins

How often will we be in touch?

As often as you need. You will hear from me at every major step, and I am quick to respond when you reach out. No ghosting, no chasing, no wondering where things stand. My clients tell me communication is what they remember most about working with me.

Do you work with first-time buyers?

All the time. First-time buyers are the heart of my business. I take extra time to explain everything in plain language, walk you through every option, and make sure you feel ready before you sign anything. There is no question too basic.

What states are you licensed in?

Arizona and Oregon. If you are in either state, we can work together. Verify my license at any time at nmlsconsumeraccess.org under NMLS #852996.

Licensing

Adam Hawkins
NMLS#852996.

Verify licensing at www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

State Mortgage Loan Originator Licenses

AZ LO-0919814

OR NMLS #852996