Business Details
Trusted Mortgage Brokers in Scottsdale, AZ
Counsel Mortgage Group was founded on the principle that borrowers require straightforward and competent counsel to make well-informed mortgage decisions. Established by John Rapasky, a licensed mortgage broker, attorney, and CPA, the company addresses the need for professional guidance in navigating complex mortgage products. With expertise in residential and commercial financing, the team specializes in securing competitive rates and tailored loan solutions across Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Illinois. The leadership team combines decades of legal, financial, and real estate experience to provide ethical service, transparent communication, and personalized support. Counsel Mortgage Group maintains affiliations with major lenders and offers access to wholesale rates unavailable to the public.The firm emphasizes client education through interactive resources, including blogs, calculators, and market updates, ensuring informed decision-making. Committed to community involvement, the team actively participates in industry associations and local initiatives. Their approach prioritizes long-term client relationships over transactional interactions, demonstrated by testimonials highlighting responsiveness, expertise, and successful outcomes. Licensed in four states, the company serves diverse client needs from first-time homebuyers to commercial investors.
Services
Residential Loans
Commercial Loans
VA Loans
FHA Loans
Jumbo Loans
Reverse Mortgages
Construction Loans
SBA Loans
Home Equity Loans
Asset Depletion Loans
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of combined mortgage brokerage experience with legal and financial expertise
- Our team provides access to exclusive wholesale rates from major lenders
- We specialize in complex loan scenarios including VA, FHA, and jumbo loans
- Our brokers maintain active industry affiliations and local market knowledge
- We guarantee personalized service with 24/7 client support availability
Associations and certifications
- NMLS 178927
- AZ MB 0909580
- CA DBO 60DBO43873
- HI 178927
- IL MB.6761723
What people say
Knowledgeable and responsive
Expertise and availability
Excellent communication
Best financing options
Professional guidance
Services
Residential Loans
We provide comprehensive residential mortgage solutions for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties. Our offerings include purchase loans, refinancing options, and specialized programs for first-time homebuyers. With access to multiple lenders and wholesale rates, we help clients secure competitive terms tailored to their financial situations while maintaining transparent communication throughout the process.
Commercial Loans
Our commercial mortgage services cover office spaces, multi-family properties, gas stations, and other commercial real estate. We offer SBA loans, construction financing, and land acquisition support through relationships with banks and private lenders. The team specializes in complex transactions, including commercial foreclosure bailouts and specialized property financing while providing expert market analysis and personalized service.
VA Loans
We specialize in VA loan programs for veterans and active-duty personnel, offering 100% financing options with no down payment requirements. Our experts guide clients through the unique VA loan process, including eligibility verification and benefit optimization. We work with veterans to secure favorable terms while addressing specific needs like credit improvement and closing cost assistance.
FHA Loans
Our FHA loan program provides accessible financing with low down payment requirements (3.5% minimum) for first-time homebuyers and those with moderate credit histories. We help clients navigate HUD regulations, property requirements, and mortgage insurance considerations while ensuring compliance with federal guidelines and maximizing affordability.
Jumbo Loans
We offer jumbo loan solutions for high-value properties exceeding conventional loan limits. Our team assists clients with full documentation requirements, competitive rate shopping, and specialized underwriting considerations. We maintain relationships with lenders offering flexible terms for luxury home purchases and investment properties while ensuring transparent communication about qualification criteria.
People
John Rapasky
Founder
Licensed mortgage broker, attorney, and CPA with 30+ years experience. Serves on Arizona Association of Mortgage Professionals board. Founded Counsel Mortgage Group to provide expert mortgage counsel.
John Nicholls
Mortgage Loan Originator
Licensed Arizona MLO since 2012 with legal background in real estate and corporate law. Former Vermont attorney with 40+ years legal experience. Specializes in residential mortgage transactions.
Mike Green
Commercial Loan Officer
20+ years Arizona commercial lending experience. Specializes in gas station and convenience store financing. Former investment banker with MBA from JFK University. Member of Arizona Petroleum Marketers Assn.
Nicole Cameron
Loan Originator
15+ years mortgage experience. Specializes in commercial real estate, VA loans, and reverse mortgages. Arizona State University graduate. Focuses on veteran and senior client needs.
Sherry Harrison
Loan Originator
Licensed Arizona loan originator with legal background in probate law. Certified closing agent. Hosts Tucson law radio show. Specializes in complex real estate documentation and client education.
Questions
What mortgage loan types do you offer?
We offer conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, reverse, and commercial loans. Our specialists also handle construction, SBA, and investment property financing options.
Are you licensed in my state?
We are licensed in Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Illinois. Our NMLS ID 178927 covers multi-state operations. Contact us for specific state licensing details.
How do I qualify for a mortgage?
Qualification depends on credit score, debt-to-income ratio, employment history, and down payment. Our ACID Test process evaluates these factors to determine eligibility.
Can you help with bad credit mortgages?
Yes, we work with clients to improve credit scores through coaching. Our team specializes in helping clients with unique financial situations find appropriate loan solutions.
What are today's mortgage rates?
Current rates vary by loan type. As of October 9, 2025: 15-year conventional at 5.125%, 30-year conventional at 5.99%. Rates subject to change daily.
How does your mortgage process work?
We begin with a complimentary consultation, followed by pre-approval, document submission, rate locking, and closing coordination. Our team guides clients through each step with personalized support.
