First Access Lending Reviews

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Edited by: Matt Zane

About First Access Lending

First Access Lending is a digital mortgage lender based in Baltimore, Maryland, that serves borrowers in 16 states and Washington, D.C. Operating through East Coast Capital, the company provides in-house underwriting and access to a variety of purchase, refinance and home equity loans plus options for nontraditional borrowers.

Pros
  • Broad range of mortgage options
  • Entirely digital process
  • In-house funding and underwriting
Cons
  • Not available in all states

What is First Access Lending?

First Access Lending is a digital brand based in Baltimore, Maryland, that offers mortgage products to borrowers in 16 states. It was established in 2024 and operates through East Coast Capital, a financial services company that provides in-house funding and underwriting.

The company advertises a streamlined loan process with access to a range of mortgage products, including purchase, refinance, government-backed, home equity, non-QM and commercial loans.

First Access Lending application process

First Access Lending is a digital lender, meaning borrowers can complete the entire loan process online. To get started, click on the blue “Get Access” link on the company’s website and complete a short form asking about the type of loan you’re looking for and your contact information.

Once this is submitted and received, you’ll be contacted by a licensed lender who will help you set up an account through the company’s online portal. From here, you can upload financial documents and communicate with your loan officer from application to closing.

First Access Lending application features

First Access Lending rates

First Access Lending rates are not listed online and are dependent on the type of loan, the qualifications of the borrower and the federal funds rate. To get a rate quote, you need to contact the company directly.

First Access Lending loan types

First Access Lending is able to offer borrowers a wide range of mortgage products:

  • Conventional
  • Jumbo
  • Commercial
  • Government-backed:
    • Federal Housing Administration (FHA)
    • Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
    • United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
  • Non-qualified (non-QM):
    • Bank statement
    • Debt-service coverage ratio (DSCR)
    • Interest-only
    • Asset-based
    • Individual tax identification number (ITIN)
    • Foreign national
  • Second mortgage:
    • Reverse
    • Home equity
    • Home equity line of credit (HELOC)

First Access Lending requirements

Borrower requirements will vary and are dependent on factors like credit score, credit history, debt-to-income ratio (DTI), down payment amount and the type of loan. For instance, many government-backed loans have lower thresholds for credit score and down payment than a conventional mortgage.

Requirements will also vary for non-QM borrowers who may be able to use alternative documentation like bank statements or assets to prove income.

First Access Lending cost and fees

First Access Lending charges a flat fee of $1,299 for most conventional purchase loans, which includes application, origination and processing. Additionally, borrowers will also have to pay third-party costs like appraisal or titling. Because the company is a direct lender through East Coast Capital, all the underwriting is done in-house, which can cut down on borrower costs.

First Access Lending also offers some no-closing-cost mortgage options, which typically require the borrower to accept a slightly higher rate in exchange for eliminating closing costs. Fees associated with home equity and second mortgages are loan-dependent.

First Access Lending FAQ

How does First Access Lending work?

As a potential borrower, you’ll start by filling out an online application. A licensed lender will reach out and help you create an account through the company’s online portal. From here, you’ll be able to upload the required documents and complete the entire loan process.

Is First Access Lending legit?

Yes, First Access Lending is a legitimate company and is a trade name of the larger East Coast Capital Corporation that has been in the mortgage industry for over 25 years.

Where is First Access Lending available?

First Access Lending is available in 16 states and Washington, D.C.

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Illinois
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Missouri
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Ohio
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Virginia

First Access Lending Reviews

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    TechPunctuality & SpeedStaff

    Reviewed Nov. 22, 2025

    James and Diana have been saints! We were not an easy refinance and they made it feel effortless. I know the work happening behind the scenes was constant. Helping and waiting through many hiccups. We knew what we hoped to get out of this refinance and James came back with even more beneficial scenarios that have made retirement in our timeframe a reality. There aren’t words to say thank you enough and we can’t recommend them enough. We were nervous using a lender across the country from us, and not staying local but we know this is exactly where we were supposed to be. Thank you James and Diana for everything and we look forward to working with you again!

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      StaffRates

      Reviewed Sept. 17, 2025

      I had the pleasure of working with James ** on my Home Equity line of credit and I was very impressed with his service. He was extremely efficient, thorough, and professional throughout the entire process. What stood out most was his genuine interest in my situation, making sure I understood every step and felt comfortable with the decisions. I truly appreciate his dedication and support, and I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking assistance.

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      Customer ServiceStaff

      Reviewed July 5, 2025

      Outstanding Refinance Experience with James ** at First Access Lending. I recently completed a home refinance with the help of James ** at First Access Lending, and the experience was truly exceptional from start to finish. James went above and beyond every step of the way, providing not only professional expertise but also the kind of personalized care and patience that’s rare to find in the lending industry today. Throughout the process, James was attentive, responsive, and incredibly supportive. He took the time to understand my goals and made sure I was fully informed at every turn. His communication was always clear and timely, and he made sure I felt confident and comfortable with each decision.

      What really stood out was his commitment to making sure I got the most favorable terms and maximum benefit from the refinance. He explained options thoroughly, answered all my questions with patience, and was never pushy—only focused on what was best for me. James made what could have been a complicated process feel seamless. His professionalism, integrity, and genuine care made all the difference. If you're looking for someone trustworthy and experienced to guide you through a refinance or mortgage, I highly recommend James ** at First Access Lending. He delivers five-star service every step of the way.

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      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaffRates

      Reviewed May 6, 2025

      Working with Zach and First Access Lending was easily one of the best decisions we could have made when buying our new home. Zach was always available, quick to respond and incredibly knowledgeable throughout the buying process. Navigating today's market was no easy task, but Zach was very proactive in ensuring we obtained the best rate and were always asking the right questions. As a result of his efforts, we were not only able to secure our forever home, but we settled on a rate that was better than all other options on the market thanks to Zach's insight. We would highly recommend Zach and First Access Lending to anyone buying a new home!

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      Rates

      Reviewed March 6, 2025

      A truly customized and personal approach. Rather than a large company where you're another number or a broker sending off your file to a 3rd party you'll work directly with the source of the funding! They offered a number of creative products and solution to complex needs! I was shocked at the number of different programs available and at a great rate!

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      Staff

      Reviewed Dec. 31, 2025

      James, Jake, and the entire team were outstanding throughout my HELOC process. They were knowledgeable, responsive, and took the time to clearly explain every step, which made the experience smooth and stress free. Their professionalism and attention to detail really stood out. I truly appreciated their support and would highly recommend them to anyone considering a HELOC.

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      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed Dec. 8, 2025

      100% top notch service... especially Connor Kern! Very helpful and always available by phone, text or email! Got the refi on my home approved and closed quickly! I would not hesitate to use them again!

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      StaffTransparencyHonesty & Transparency

      Reviewed Sept. 30, 2025

      James and Jake, and the team at First Access really made the refinance experience very clear from the start and the honest and transparent approach was very much appreciated. This process can be super overwhelming, but the guidance and support you both offered was awesome. Looking forward to collaborating again in the future. Highly recommend this group!

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      Staff

      Reviewed Sept. 20, 2025

      Connor was very professional, kind and patient. He always got right back to me, and helped me understand things to figure out my best options. He made the whole process easier and less stressful. I will definitely use his services again if needed.

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      Loan Process

      Reviewed Sept. 18, 2025

      Phenomenal experience. Mortgage Loan Originator James had his finger on the pulse from Day 1. Kept me informed every step of the way. Was readily available to answer any questions I may have had throughout the process. Coordinated with all parties involved during the process to ensure a timely closing. Great job folks! Highly recommend.

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      First Access Lending Company Information

      Company Name:
      First Access Lending
      Address:
      400 Pratt St., 8th Floor
      City:
      Baltimore
      State/Province:
      MD
      Postal Code:
      21202
      Country:
      United States
      Website:
      www.firstaccesslending.com