🏛️ Licensed Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker · NMLS #2838446

Your Path to
Homeownership
Starts Here

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC is a licensed Pennsylvania mortgage broker. We shop multiple wholesale lenders on your behalf to find competitive rates and programs — one application, multiple comparisons, your advocate.

Apply Now View Today's Rates Explore Loan Programs
📍 Proudly Serving Pennsylvania

Licensed statewide across Pennsylvania
Expanding to additional states — ask us about your state

🏦 Mortgage Broker — Not a Lender

We shop multiple wholesale lenders on your behalf to find competitive rates and programs.
One application. Multiple comparisons. Your advocate.

📚 Free Educational Tools
  • ✅ Live Mortgage Rate Table
  • ✅ Monthly Payment Calculator
  • ✅ Full Amortization Schedule
  • ✅ 7 Loan Program Guides
  • ✅ Homebuyer FAQ & Timeline
🏛️ NMLS #2838446  |  Equal Housing Opportunity  |  Verify on NMLS
7Loan Programs
Available
MultiWholesale Lenders
We Shop For You
PALicensed
Mortgage Broker
$0Cost for Our
Educational Tools
Today's Reference Rates (Freddie Mac PMMS — For Reference Only)
30-Yr Fixed—
15-Yr Fixed—
FHA 30-Yr—
VA 30-Yr—
Jumbo 30-Yr—
Full Rate Table →

Why Bright Rate

A Mortgage Broker Working For You

As a licensed mortgage broker we work as your advocate — not a direct lender — connecting you with competitive options from multiple wholesale lenders.

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Broker Access

We shop multiple wholesale lenders on your behalf to find competitive terms. We are not a direct lender — we work for you.

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Education First

Informed borrowers make better decisions. We walk you through every step so you understand exactly what you're signing.

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Pennsylvania Licensed

Licensed by the PA Dept. of Banking and Securities — committed to helping Pennsylvania residents achieve homeownership.

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Compliance Driven

We hold ourselves to the highest regulatory and ethical standards including full NMLS disclosure and transparent practices.

Educational Overview

Which Loan Program Fits You?

A quick reference to help you understand the main differences. Contact us to discuss which program fits your situation.

Conventional
Min. Down Payment3%
Min. Credit Score620+
Mortgage InsurancePMI if <20% down
Loan Limit (2026)$832,750
Best ForStrong credit, 20%+ down
Learn More →
FHA
Min. Down Payment3.5%
Min. Credit Score580+
Mortgage InsuranceRequired (MIP)
Loan Limit (2026)Varies by county
Best ForLower credit, first-time buyers
Learn More →
VA
Min. Down Payment0%
Min. Credit ScoreVaries by lender
Mortgage InsuranceNo PMI
Loan Limit (2026)No limit (no down pmt)
Best ForVeterans & active military
Learn More →
USDA
Min. Down Payment0%
Min. Credit Score640+ typical
Mortgage InsuranceGuarantee fee
Loan Limit (2026)Income limits apply
Best ForRural & suburban buyers
Learn More →
Jumbo
Min. Down Payment10–20%+
Min. Credit Score700+ typical
Mortgage InsuranceVaries by lender
Loan Limit (2026)Above $832,750
Best ForHigher-priced properties
Learn More →
Non-QM
Min. Down PaymentVaries
Min. Credit ScoreVaries by program
Mortgage InsuranceVaries
Income VerificationBank stmts, DSCR, assets
Best ForSelf-employed, investors
Learn More →

Loan program information is for educational purposes. Requirements vary by lender and borrower profile. Contact us to discuss which program fits your specific situation.

How It Works

The Mortgage Process Step by Step

Understanding each stage helps you prepare and move with confidence.

1

Check Your Credit & Finances

Review your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and savings before you start. Most loan programs require a minimum credit score of 580–640+. Pull a free report at AnnualCreditReport.com.

💡 Even a small score improvement can significantly lower your interest rate.
2

Get Pre-Approved

We review your income, assets, credit, and employment to issue a pre-approval letter. This tells sellers you're a serious buyer and defines your price range. Pre-approval carries more weight than pre-qualification.

💡 Rate differences of 0.25% on a $300K loan save ~$15K over 30 years.
3

Find Your Home & Make an Offer

Work with a real estate agent to find a home within your budget. Once under contract, your mortgage process officially begins. Most contracts give you 30–45 days to close.

💡 Your pre-approval letter should match the offer price — not show your maximum budget.
4

Loan Application & Processing

You submit a full mortgage application. We order an appraisal, verify all documents, and package your file for underwriting.

💡 Don't change jobs, open new credit accounts, or make large purchases during this period.
5

Underwriting

An underwriter reviews your entire file and makes the credit decision. This stage typically takes 1–2 weeks. Respond quickly to any requests to keep your closing on track.

💡 Fast responses to underwriter requests are the #1 way to avoid closing delays.
6

Clear to Close & Closing Day

Once fully approved, you receive a "Clear to Close." Review the Closing Disclosure (CD) at least 3 business days before closing. On closing day, sign documents, pay closing costs & down payment, and get your keys!

💡 Wire closing funds early — transfers can cause delays if sent last minute.

Free Tools

Start Learning Right Now

Free calculators and tools — no login required.

📈

Today's Rates

Live Freddie Mac rates for 30-yr, 15-yr, FHA, VA, and Jumbo — updated automatically.

View Rates →
🧮

Payment Calculator

Estimate your full monthly payment including P&I, taxes, insurance, HOA, and PMI.

Open Calculator →
📊

Amortization Schedule

See exactly how much of each payment goes to principal vs. interest over the life of your loan.

Open Schedule →
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Loan Programs

In-depth guides to Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, Jumbo, Refinance, and Non-QM options.

Learn More →

Common Questions

Homebuyer FAQ

Answers to the questions we hear most often.

A direct lender uses its own funds and can only offer its own products. A mortgage broker like Bright Rate Mortgage LLC acts as an intermediary — we submit your loan profile to multiple wholesale lenders and help you compare offers. Brokers often have access to rates and programs not available through retail channels, and you only need one application to get multiple comparisons.

VA and USDA loans can require 0% down for eligible borrowers. FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down. Conventional loans start at 3% down for qualified buyers. A 20% down payment eliminates PMI and reduces your monthly payment, but is not required.

General guidelines: FHA — 580+ (3.5% down) or 500–579 (10% down). Conventional — 620+. VA — no official minimum, but most lenders require 580–620+. USDA — 640+ typical. Your score also significantly impacts your interest rate — even small improvements can save thousands over the life of a loan.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) protects the lender if you default, typically required on conventional loans when down payment is less than 20%. It costs 0.5%–1.5% of the loan amount annually. Avoid it by: putting 20%+ down, using a VA loan, or requesting removal once you reach 20% equity. FHA has its own Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) which works differently.

From application to closing, the typical process takes 30 to 45 days. Getting pre-approved before making an offer and having your documents ready — W-2s, tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs — are the two biggest factors in speeding up your closing.

Closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount and include origination fees, appraisal, title insurance, attorney fees, prepaid taxes and insurance, and more. On a $300,000 loan, expect $6,000–$15,000. We are required to provide a Loan Estimate (LE) within 3 business days of your application.

Most lenders need: Identity — government-issued photo ID, SSN. Income — last 2 years of W-2s and/or tax returns, 30 days of pay stubs. Assets — 2–3 months of bank statements. Employment — employer contact info. Property — purchase contract, homeowners insurance info. Self-employed borrowers typically need 2 years of business tax returns and a year-to-date profit & loss statement.

Know the Difference

Mortgage Broker vs. Direct Lender

🤝 Mortgage Broker That's Us

  • ✅ Shops multiple wholesale lenders for you
  • ✅ Works as your advocate throughout the process
  • ✅ Access to programs not available at retail banks
  • ✅ One application, multiple lender comparisons
  • ✅ Transparent fee disclosure required by law
  • ✅ Compensation is disclosed on the Loan Estimate

🏦 Direct Lender

  • • Funds loans from their own capital
  • • Offers only their own products and rates
  • • You must shop multiple lenders yourself
  • • Each application may trigger a credit pull
  • • Rate comparison requires multiple visits
  • • Pricing varies widely between institutions

Pennsylvania Market

Buying a Home in Pennsylvania

Key facts and figures for Pennsylvania homebuyers. Data for general educational reference.

$249KMedian Home PricePennsylvania 2025 est.
3%PA Transfer TaxState (1%) + Local (varies)
1.5%Avg. EffectiveProperty Tax Rate
30–45Days to CloseTypical PA timeline

Pennsylvania Homebuyer Highlights

  • 🏛️
    PHFA Programs The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) offers down payment assistance, affordable loan programs, and homebuyer education for qualifying PA residents.
  • 📋
    Attorney State Pennsylvania requires a licensed attorney at closing. Attorney fees are included in your closing costs.
  • 🏠
    Property Tax Variations Property tax rates vary significantly by county and school district. Always confirm current rates with the local tax authority.
  • 🔑
    First-Time Buyer Programs PA offers reduced interest rates, closing cost assistance, and tax credits through the Mortgage Tax Credit Certificate (MCC) program.
  • ⚡
    Competitive Markets Central PA markets including Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg, and York have seen strong demand. Being pre-approved before you shop is critical.

Ready to Start Your Homeownership Journey?

We're here to guide you every step of the way. Get pre-approved today and take the first step toward your new home.

Apply Now Try the Calculator

Our Story

About Bright Rate Mortgage LLC

Who We Are

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC is a licensed Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (NMLS #2838446), regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities. We are not a direct lender — as a broker, we work on your behalf, presenting your loan profile to multiple wholesale lenders to find competitive options that fit your unique situation.

Founded on a mission to bring transparency, education, and integrity to the mortgage process, Bright Rate Mortgage LLC is committed to making homeownership more accessible to Pennsylvania residents — and beyond as we expand to additional states.

Our Mission

To demystify the mortgage process through clear communication and to advocate for our clients by shopping the wholesale lending market on their behalf — delivering options, not pressure.

Broker vs. Direct Lender — Why It Matters

A direct lender underwrites and funds loans with their own capital and can only offer their own products. A mortgage broker like Bright Rate Mortgage LLC acts as an intermediary — we submit your application to multiple wholesale lenders and help you compare real offers. Brokers often access pricing and programs not available through retail banking channels.

Company Details

  • CompanyBright Rate Mortgage LLC
  • TypeLicensed Mortgage Broker
  • StatePennsylvania
  • NMLS ID2838446
  • LicenseActive — PA Mortgage Broker
  • Phone(717) 455-0952
  • Emailinfo@brightratemortgagellc.com
  • Address600 Bent Creek Blvd, Ste 150, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050

Equal Housing Opportunity

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC is committed to the principles of equal housing opportunity and will not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.

The People Behind Bright Rate

Meet Our Team

Licensed mortgage professionals dedicated to helping you navigate homeownership.

Loading team profiles…

Loan Programs

Mortgage Loan Programs

We broker access to a wide range of loan programs. Contact us to find the right fit for your situation.

Conventional

Conventional Loans

Conventional loans conform to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac standards and are among the most common mortgage types available.

Key Characteristics
  • Down payments as low as 3%
  • PMI required if down payment is less than 20%
  • Loan limit: $832,750 in 2026
  • Generally require 620+ credit score
  • Available in fixed and adjustable-rate terms
FHA

FHA Loans

FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, ideal for borrowers with lower credit scores or smaller down payments.

Key Characteristics
  • Down payments as low as 3.5%
  • Flexible credit requirements (580+ common)
  • Upfront MIP (1.75%) and annual MIP required
  • Loan limits vary by county
  • Primary residences only
VA

VA Loans

VA loans are guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for eligible active-duty service members, veterans, and surviving spouses.

Key Characteristics
  • No down payment required for qualified borrowers
  • No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
  • Competitive interest rates
  • VA funding fee may apply (can be financed)
  • Must meet VA service eligibility requirements
USDA

USDA Loans

USDA loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for eligible rural and suburban homebuyers who meet income requirements.

Key Characteristics
  • No down payment required
  • Property must be in a USDA-eligible rural area
  • Income limits apply by household size and area
  • Upfront and annual guarantee fees apply
  • Primary residences only
Jumbo

Jumbo Loans

Jumbo loans exceed FHFA conforming loan limits ($832,750 in 2026) and are used to finance higher-priced properties.

Key Characteristics
  • Loan amounts above $832,750
  • Typically require stronger credit and cash reserves
  • Higher down payments common (10–20%+)
  • Underwriting guidelines vary by lender
  • Available for primary, second home, and investment
Refinance

Refinance Loans

Refinancing replaces your existing mortgage with a new loan to lower your rate, change terms, or access equity.

Common Types
  • Rate & Term: Adjust rate and/or loan term
  • Cash-Out: Borrow against home equity
  • Streamline: Simplified process for FHA/VA loans
  • Closing costs typically apply
Non-QM

Non-QM / Investor Loan Options

Non-QM loans serve borrowers with unique income situations or investment strategies that don't fit conventional guidelines.

Bank Statement Loans

Income verified via bank statements — ideal for self-employed borrowers.

DSCR Loans

For real estate investors — property rental income qualifies the loan.

Asset Depletion

Assets calculated as qualifying income — suitable for retirees.

Interest-Only Loans

Lower initial payments during the interest-only period.

Ready to find the right loan for your situation?

Apply Now — Get Started

Free Tool

Loan Payment Calculator

Loan Details

Monthly Costs

Estimated Monthly Payment

$0.00
Principal & Interest$0.00
Property Tax$0.00
Homeowners Insurance$0.00
HOA Dues$0.00
PMI$0.00
Total Est. Monthly$0.00

Calculator results are estimates for educational purposes only. This is not a Loan Estimate, offer, approval, or commitment to lend. Contact us for accurate figures based on your specific situation.

Free Tool

Amortization Schedule

Live Market Data

Today's Mortgage Rates

Today's Mortgage Rates

Loading live rates…

Live — Freddie Mac PMMS
$360,000
PROGRAMRATEAPRMONTHLY P&I

Rates sourced from Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) via FRED (Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis), updated every Thursday. Rates assume a well-qualified borrower with a 740+ FICO credit score, 20% down payment, owner-occupied single-family primary residence, 30-day rate lock, and no discount points. APRs are estimates. Actual rates vary based on credit score, LTV, loan amount, property type, lender, and market conditions. These rates are for reference only and are not a rate offer, rate lock, or commitment to lend. Contact us for a personalized quote. Bright Rate Mortgage LLC, NMLS #2838446. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Factors That Affect Your Rate

📊Credit Score
🏠Loan-to-Value
💵Loan Amount
🗺️Property Location
🏢Property Type
📅Loan Term
📉Market Conditions
🏦Lender Guidelines
⬆️Discount Points
🔒Rate Lock Period

Get Started

Contact Us

Start Your Application

All information is kept confidential. We will contact you within 1 business day. NMLS #2838446 | Equal Housing Opportunity.

Contact Information

📍
Address

600 Bent Creek Blvd, Ste 150
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050

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✉️
🏛️
🕐
Business Hours

Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET
Sat: By Appointment

What Happens Next?

  • 1️⃣
    We Review Your InquiryWithin 1 business day we'll reach out to discuss your goals.
  • 2️⃣
    We Shop LendersWe present your profile to multiple wholesale lenders for you.
  • 3️⃣
    You ChooseWe show you the options and you decide what's best for you.

Legal

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: [Insert Date] | Last Updated: [Insert Date]

1. Introduction

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC ("Company," "we," "us," or "our"), NMLS ID: 2838446, located at 600 Bent Creek Blvd, Ste 150, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050, is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website or submit an inquiry.

2. Information We Collect

Information You Provide: When you submit our contact form, we collect: full name, email address, phone number, state of residence, loan purpose, estimated home price, and message content. We do not collect Social Security numbers, dates of birth, financial account numbers, or credit reports through this website.

Automatically Collected: IP address, browser type, pages visited, time on site, and referring URL collected through standard web analytics.

Cookies: We may use session and persistent cookies to enhance your experience. You may disable cookies through browser settings.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to: respond to your mortgage inquiry; connect you with appropriate loan programs; communicate with you about your application; comply with applicable laws and regulations; and improve our website and services.

4. TCPA Consent

By submitting our contact form, you expressly consent to receive calls, SMS messages, and emails from Bright Rate Mortgage LLC regarding your mortgage inquiry, including calls using automatic dialing systems or prerecorded messages. Consent is not a condition of receiving services. Reply STOP to opt out of SMS. Message and data rates may apply.

5. Information Sharing

We do not sell your personal information. We may share your information with wholesale lenders for the purpose of obtaining loan pricing on your behalf, with your consent. We may also share as required by law or regulatory authority.

6. California Privacy Rights (CCPA/CPRA)

California residents have the right to know, delete, and opt out of the sale of personal information. Contact us at info@brightratemortgagellc.com to exercise these rights. We will respond within 45 days.

7. Data Security

We implement reasonable security measures to protect your information. No internet transmission is 100% secure; we cannot guarantee absolute security.

8. Opt-Out Rights

Opt out of marketing communications at any time by emailing info@brightratemortgagellc.com, replying STOP to any text, clicking unsubscribe in any email, or calling (717) 455-0952.

9. Children's Privacy

Our website is not directed to individuals under 18. We do not knowingly collect information from minors.

10. Contact

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC · 600 Bent Creek Blvd, Ste 150, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 · info@brightratemortgagellc.com · (717) 455-0952

Legal

Terms of Use

Effective Date: [Insert Date]

1. Acceptance

By using this website you agree to these Terms. If you disagree, please do not use this site.

2. Company Information

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC, NMLS ID: 2838446, is a licensed mortgage broker organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, located at 600 Bent Creek Blvd, Ste 150, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050. Licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities.

3. Nature of Services

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC is a licensed mortgage broker. We are not a direct lender. We do not underwrite or fund mortgage loans from our own capital. We act as an intermediary connecting borrowers with wholesale lenders. All loan approvals, underwriting decisions, and final loan terms are determined by the wholesale lender, not by Bright Rate Mortgage LLC.

4. Rate and APR Disclosures

Rates displayed on this site are sourced from the Freddie Mac PMMS via FRED and represent national weekly averages. Rates assume a 740+ FICO score, 20% down payment, owner-occupied single-family primary residence, 30-day rate lock, and no discount points. Rates are not a rate offer, rate lock, or commitment to lend. Actual rates vary. APRs are estimates. You will receive a formal Loan Estimate within 3 business days of submitting a complete application.

5. Calculator Disclaimer

Payment calculators generate estimates for educational purposes only. Results are not a Loan Estimate under TRID, a Good Faith Estimate, or a loan commitment. Always obtain a formal Loan Estimate from a licensed lender for accurate figures.

6. State Licensing

Services are available in states where Bright Rate Mortgage LLC holds an active license. Not all loan products are available in all states.

7. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Bright Rate Mortgage LLC shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of this site.

8. Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.

9. Contact

info@brightratemortgagellc.com · (717) 455-0952

Regulatory Information

Licensing & NMLS Disclosure

NMLS Disclosure

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC
NMLS ID: 2838446
License Type: Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker License
License Status: Active
Licensed By: Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities

Verify our license at www.NMLSConsumerAccess.org.

What Is a Mortgage Broker?

A mortgage broker is a licensed intermediary connecting borrowers with wholesale lenders. Bright Rate Mortgage LLC acts solely as a mortgage broker — not a direct lender, lender, or mortgage banker. We do not underwrite or fund loans from our own capital. We shop multiple wholesale lenders on your behalf to find competitive rates and programs.

Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities

Pennsylvania Dept. of Banking and Securities
17 North Second Street, Suite 1300
Harrisburg, PA 17101
www.dobs.pa.gov  |  (800) 722-2657

Equal Housing Opportunity

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC is committed to the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. We will not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, or any other protected class.

State Licensing

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC holds an active Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker License. Services are available in Pennsylvania. We are actively pursuing licensing in additional states. Not all loan products are available in all states.

Legal

Accessibility Statement

Last Updated: [Insert Date]

Our Commitment

Bright Rate Mortgage LLC is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We continually improve the user experience for everyone and apply WCAG 2.1 Level AA accessibility standards to our website.

Implemented Features

  • Semantic HTML structure with appropriate heading hierarchy
  • Descriptive alt text for all informational images
  • Sufficient color contrast ratios between text and backgrounds
  • Keyboard-navigable interactive elements
  • Form labels associated with their corresponding input fields
  • Resizable text that does not break page layout at 200% zoom
  • No auto-playing audio or video content
  • Focus indicators visible on keyboard navigation

Feedback & Contact

Accessibility Contact:
Bright Rate Mortgage LLC · 600 Bent Creek Blvd, Ste 150, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Email: info@brightratemortgagellc.com · Phone: (717) 455-0952
We aim to respond to accessibility feedback within 2 business days.

Formal Complaints

If you are not satisfied with our response, contact the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division at www.ada.gov.

📍 600 Bent Creek Blvd, Ste 150, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
📞 (717) 455-0952
✉️ info@brightratemortgagellc.com
🏛️ NMLS #2838446 · Licensed PA Mortgage Broker

Licensing: Bright Rate Mortgage LLC, NMLS ID: 2838446, is a licensed mortgage broker regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities. Not a direct lender. We do not underwrite or fund mortgage loans from our own capital.

Rate Disclosure: Rates displayed are sourced from the Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS) via the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis (FRED) and represent national weekly averages. Rates assume a well-qualified borrower, 740+ FICO score, 20% down payment, owner-occupied single-family primary residence, and 30-day rate lock. Rates are not a loan offer, rate lock, or commitment to lend. Actual rates vary. Not a commitment to lend. Not an offer of credit.

Calculator Notice: Payment estimates are for educational purposes only and do not constitute a Loan Estimate, Good Faith Estimate, or Truth-in-Lending disclosure under Regulation Z or RESPA.

State Licensing: Services available in states where Bright Rate Mortgage LLC holds an active license. Not all products available in all states. PA Dept. of Banking and Securities — www.dobs.pa.gov — (800) 722-2657. NMLS Consumer Access: www.NMLSConsumerAccess.org.

⊕ Equal Housing Opportunity · Bright Rate Mortgage LLC complies with the Fair Housing Act and Equal Credit Opportunity Act. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, disability, age, marital status, or any other protected class.

© Bright Rate Mortgage LLC. All rights reserved. NMLS #2838446  |  600 Bent Creek Blvd, Ste 150, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050  |  (717) 455-0952  |  info@brightratemortgagellc.com  |  Privacy Policy  |  Terms of Use  |  Accessibility