Delaware Mortgage Broker
Licensed mortgage broker serving homebuyers across Delaware. Get matched with the right loan program for your situation.
Honest pricing, clear guidance, and a local team that picks up the phone — from first question to final signature.

Plan a Delaware home purchase
Loan Types We Specialize In
Explore the loan programs available to Delaware home buyers and homeowners.
Serving Homebuyers Across Delaware
If you’re buying, refinancing, or planning your next move anywhere in Delaware, I’m here to help you sort out the best way forward. Whether your goal is a first home in Wilmington, a beach place down in Lewes, or a move-up home in Middletown, I’ll help you weigh your options and find the right fit. I handle a wide range of loans — conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and jumbo — plus the state’s own programs. I’m licensed in Delaware and Texas, and I take pride in making sure there are no surprises later for my clients, wherever you’re headed in the state.
What Buying a Home in Delaware Is Really Like
Delaware is a small state, but buying a home here is anything but one-size-fits-all. I see everything from historic rowhomes in Wilmington to brand new builds in Middletown, and each comes with its own financing quirks.
Let’s start up north. In New Castle County, Wilmington and Newark have neighborhoods full of older homes. Appraisers here are always looking carefully at things like the roof, electric, and heating systems. If you’re considering FHA or VA financing, we plan ahead for repairs that could be flagged — it’s just part of the landscape.
There’s a fair share of condos in Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley. Condo project approval can be a sticking point, especially with smaller buildings or older associations. I go over the association’s paperwork up front so you’re not blindsided later. If you’re looking at a townhouse or attached home, we check whether it’s legally a condo or a planned unit — it affects the loan type and approval process.
Down in Kent and Sussex Counties, things shift. You see more rural properties and a surprising number of homes with acreage. USDA loans might be an option here, but eligibility comes down to the exact address — some areas outside Dover or Milford qualify, while others don’t. In the beach towns like Rehoboth, Lewes, and Bethany, second homes and vacation properties are common. Lenders look at occupancy, and flood insurance can be a factor near the coast or in lower-lying areas. It’s not just a box to check — flood zone mapping shifts, and I make sure you get the right quote before it’s too late to adjust your offer.
Multi-unit properties pop up in Wilmington, Dover, and sometimes in the small towns. If you’re buying a duplex or triplex, the lender will want to see rental income and a solid plan for occupancy. Investment properties have their own guidelines, especially around reserve funds and expected rents.
Competition is another story. In some areas, especially near the beaches in spring and summer, homes move fast and sellers expect strong offers with quick closings. I help you position your financing so you’re ready to move — whether that’s a local pre-approval or a plan for bridge financing if you’re selling a home out of state. Let’s run the numbers early, so you don’t fall in love with a place and find out later it’s out of reach.
How We Help Delaware Buyers and Homeowners
Every buyer or homeowner who comes to me has their own story — and their own hurdles. Here’s the deal: I listen first, then we figure out what makes sense for you.
- First-time buyers — Delaware offers some good programs for those buying their first place, but the paperwork can get tangled fast. I walk you through the application, explain tax credits and grants, and make sure you understand what “first-time” actually means in this state. It’s not always as simple as it sounds.
- Moving up or downsizing — If you’re selling a house and buying another, timing is everything. Delaware’s tight closing schedules mean you may need to coordinate a fast sale, a rent-back, or interim financing. I help you lay out all your options — including bridge loans or using proceeds from your sale — so you can make decisions without last-minute stress.
- Self-employed, commission, or variable income — I see a lot of folks in Delaware who own small businesses, work on contract, or earn commissions. We look at your tax returns, business structure, and cash flow to figure out how lenders will view your income. Sometimes it’s about finding the right lender for your situation, not just the lowest rate on paper.
- Multi-unit and investment buyers — Whether you’re buying a duplex in Wilmington or a rental at the beach, I help you document expected rental income and navigate the stiffer reserve requirements. If you’re buying a place to rent out part-time, we go over short-term rental rules and the way different lenders treat that income.
- Refinancing — Delaware homeowners come to me to lower their payments, tap equity for renovations, or drop mortgage insurance. I help you weigh the costs and benefits. If you’re in a flood zone or have an older home, I’ll point out any issues that might come up in the appraisal or insurance review.
- Competitive situations — Some markets in Delaware move quickly. If you need to close fast or want to make your offer more attractive, I help you get fully underwritten upfront or provide a strong pre-approval. If you’re buying a new construction, we look at rate lock options and builder requirements so there are no surprises later.
My approach is simple: break down the steps, explain your choices, and keep the process calm — even when things get a little stormy. If you ever want a second opinion on your numbers, I’m happy to take a look and walk you through what I see.
Regions We Serve in Delaware
Delaware might be small, but each part feels different when you’re buying or refinancing a home.
- New Castle County — Home to Wilmington, Newark, and the Brandywine Valley, this is where you’ll find historic neighborhoods, classic rowhomes, and a good number of condos and townhomes. Buyers here often want to know about property condition, condo association reviews, and transit access. Commuters to Philadelphia tend to look at loan options with flexible down payment requirements.
- Kent County — Dover anchors this region, along with towns like Smyrna and Milford. The housing stock is a mix of newer developments and older single-family homes. USDA eligibility comes up more often here, especially in the rural pockets outside the city centers. Military buyers from Dover Air Force Base sometimes look for VA loans with quick closing timelines.
- Sussex County — This is beach country: Rehoboth, Lewes, Bethany, and Fenwick Island. Second homes and vacation properties are big here, and flood insurance is a frequent topic. I also see clients looking at investment properties or retirement moves. Inland towns have more flexibility for USDA, but the beach areas have their own rules around short-term rentals and condo approvals.
I serve every corner of the state, from the Brandywine Hundred down to Delmar. Each area has its own flavor — and its own financing details to match.
Programs Available to Delaware Buyers
The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) offers several programs designed to help buyers get into homes across the state. I keep up with their offerings and can help you sort out what fits your situation.
- DSHA Homeownership Loan Program — For buyers who need a standard mortgage with the option for down payment assistance. Good for first-timers and repeat buyers alike.
- DSHA Preferred Plus Assistance — Offers help with upfront costs, especially for those who qualify based on income or location. This is often paired with the standard loan program.
- DSHA First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit — Reduces federal tax liability for qualified buyers, potentially freeing up more for your monthly payment.
- DSHA Second Mortgage Assistance Loan (SMAL) — Provides additional help with down payment or closing costs, often for buyers who qualify for other DSHA programs.
- DSHA Home Sweet Home Program — Designed for buyers purchasing in certain targeted areas or meeting specific criteria, with extra flexibility around credit and income.
Program terms change from time to time, so I confirm current details for every client. We’ll talk through eligibility, paperwork, and next steps — and I’ll let you know if a DSHA program is the right move for you.
Talk to Someone Who Knows Delaware
If you want to talk through your options with someone who genuinely understands Delaware’s market, let’s connect. I’m calm in the center of the storm, and my job is to make complicated numbers clear and manageable. You’ll always get a real conversation, not a sales pitch — just honest guidance and answers to your questions. Licensed in Delaware and Texas, NMLS 216620. Reach out when you’re ready.
About Larry Knopf NMLS# 216620
Broker at 1st Capitol Mortgage NMLS# 205695
With 33 years of mortgage experience, I specialize in helping homebuyers navigate the mortgage process with confidence. Licensed in DE, TX. Whether you’re buying your first home or refinancing, I’m here to help you find the right loan for your situation.
📞 302-222-2064 ✉ larry@1stcapitolmtg.com 🌐 https://1stcapitolmtg.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What first-time homebuyer programs are available in Delaware through DSHA?
The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) offers several programs to help first-time homebuyers, including down payment and closing cost assistance. These programs have specific eligibility requirements, so it's best to check with a mortgage professional to see which options fit your situation.
Can I use rental income from a duplex or multi-family property to qualify for a mortgage in Delaware?
Yes, you may be able to use projected rental income from a two- to four-unit property in Delaware to help qualify for a mortgage. Lenders will require documentation and may have specific guidelines for how rental income is calculated during the approval process.
Are there special requirements for financing condos at the Delaware beaches?
Condominiums near Delaware’s beaches, like those in Sussex County, must meet certain eligibility criteria for conventional or FHA financing. These requirements often relate to the condo association’s financial health and insurance coverage, so check with your lender to ensure the property qualifies.
What should I know about getting a mortgage for an older home in Wilmington or New Castle County?
Older homes in Wilmington and New Castle County may have unique appraisal or renovation requirements, especially if repairs are needed. Some loan programs offer renovation financing to help address these issues as part of your mortgage.
Does Delaware require flood insurance for homes near rivers or the coast?
Homes located in designated flood zones in Delaware, especially near rivers or coastal areas, may require flood insurance as part of your mortgage approval. Your lender will determine if this is necessary based on the property’s location and FEMA maps.
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