(239) 571-6943 Mike.Steele@edgehomefinance.com
5-Star Reviews Apply Online
Southwest Florida's Mortgage Broker

Your Dream Homein Paradise

"I Shop Rates So You Don't Have To"

I work for YOU โ€” not the lender. I shop your loan with 100+ lenders. From Cape Coral canals to Naples estates โ€” local expertise and personal service.

100+ Lenders Shopped
No Obligation Quote
Licensed FL Broker
Google 5-Star Rated
30+ Yrs Experience
100+
Lenders We Shop
30+
Years as Loan Officer
5โ˜…
Google Rating
SWFL
Serving SW Florida
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What SWFL Homeowners Are Saying
Real reviews from real clients โ€” Mike delivers results across Southwest Florida
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"Mike made buying our Cape Coral canal home an absolute breeze. He explained every step, shopped multiple lenders, and got us a fantastic rate. We saved thousands compared to what the builder's lender quoted!"

JR
Jason & Rachel M.
Cape Coral, FL โ€” Canal Home Purchase
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"As a veteran, I wanted someone who truly understood VA loans. Mike knew exactly what we qualified for, guided us every step, and we closed on a beautiful Fort Myers home with ZERO down. Truly outstanding."

TD
Tom D.
Fort Myers, FL โ€” VA Loan
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"Relocating from Chicago to Naples was overwhelming until we found Mike. He answered every call, explained everything in plain English, and we closed on time. The difference between Mike and bank lenders is night and day."

SL
Sarah L.
Naples, FL โ€” Relocation Purchase
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What We Offer

The Right Loan for Every SWFL Buyer

Whether you're a first-timer, veteran, investor, or looking to refinance โ€” Mike shops 100+ lenders to find your perfect loan.

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Conventional Loans

Flexible financing with competitive rates. Multiple term and rate options available โ€” as little as 3% down for qualified buyers.

Get a Quote
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VA Loans

$0 down, no PMI โ€” honor your service. Mike proudly serves SWFL veterans & active duty with expert VA loan guidance.

Learn About VA Loans
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FHA Loans

As little as 3.5% down with flexible credit requirements. Perfect for Cape Coral & Fort Myers first-time buyers.

Read FHA Blog Post
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Jumbo Loans

For Naples estates, Marco Island waterfront & high-value SWFL properties above conforming loan limits.

Get a Quote
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Refinancing

Lower your rate, reduce your payment, or tap into your equity. Mike shops 100+ lenders for the right refi option.

Try Refi Calculator
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2nd Home / Vacation

Dreaming of a SWFL vacation home or investment property? Special programs for second homes with competitive rates and flexible down payment options.

Get a Quote
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Specialty Programs

Bank statement loans, USDA rural ($0 down), investor DSCR, construction, renovation loans, and non-QM solutions.

Ask Mike
How It Works

3 Simple Steps to Your Dream Home

Mike makes the mortgage process easy, transparent, and stress-free.

1
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Talk to Mike

Call, text, or apply online. Mike will review your finances and explain your options โ€” with zero pressure, zero obligation.

(239) 571-6943
2
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Get Pre-Approved

Mike shops 100+ lenders to lock in a competitive rate for your situation. Get your pre-approval letter fast so you can shop with confidence.

Apply Online 24/7
3
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Close & Move In

Mike guides you through underwriting, appraisal, and closing โ€” keeping you informed every step of the way. Welcome home!

Get Started Today
Watch & Learn

Mike's Mortgage Minute

Quick videos explaining key mortgage topics โ€” because knowledge saves you money.

Watch More on YouTube
Why Mike Steele?

Your Loan. Your Broker.
Your Advantage.

A mortgage broker works for YOU โ€” not the bank. That means more options, lower rates, and someone fighting on your side from application to closing.

100+ Lenders Shopped

We all sell the same money โ€” it's about who charges the least. Mike compares every option to save you thousands over the life of your loan.

Fast Pre-Approvals

SWFL's competitive market moves fast. Get your pre-approval letter quickly and make strong offers with confidence.

Direct Access โ€” Always

Call or text Mike directly at (239) 571-6943. No call centers, no runaround. You always get Mike.

30+ Years as a Loan Officer

Deep local expertise across every SWFL community. Mike is ready to assist you with your home financing needs from Punta Gorda to Marco Island & all of Florida.

Mike Steele SW Florida Mortgage Broker

Mike Steele

SW Florida Mortgage Broker ยท Edge Home Finance

"I am a SW Florida mortgage broker. I work for YOU, not the lender. I shop your loan with multiple lenders โ€” over 100 if needed โ€” to get YOU the right deal for your particular situation. Home loans should not cost more just because you're working with a 'preferred lender.' You deserve a great deal. Period. Full stop."

From the Blog

Florida Mortgage Insights

Read All Posts
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FHA Loans

FHA Loans for SW Florida โ€” A Deep Dive

How FHA financing with seller concessions helps SWFL buyers navigate high insurance costs in 2026.

Read Full Post โ†’
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Market Update

Average Mortgage Rates โ€” What You Need to Know

Current rate environment and what it means for buyers in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Naples today.

View Current Rates โ†’
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New to Florida

New to Florida? What You Need to Know

Flood zones, homestead exemptions, HOA considerations, and everything a new FL homeowner should know.

Download Guide โ†’
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Rate Watch

Rate Watch News

Stay informed on the latest mortgage rate movements, trends, and what they mean for your home purchase.

Read Rate Watch โ†’
FAQs

Common Mortgage Questions

How is a mortgage broker different from a bank lender?
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A bank lender can only offer you their bank's products. As a mortgage broker, Mike shops your loan with 100+ lenders โ€” banks, credit unions, wholesale lenders โ€” to find competitive rates and terms for YOUR specific situation. You get more options and often a great deal.

How quickly can I get pre-approved?
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Most clients get their pre-approval letter within 24โ€“48 hours. Having your documents ready (last 2 pay stubs, W-2s, 2 months bank statements, and photo ID) speeds the process significantly. Apply online anytime at mikesteeleloans.my1003app.com.

What credit score do I need to buy a home in SWFL?
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As a standard, FHA we like 580 and 620 for a conventional loan, BUT we have lenders that offer loans with lower scores. VA loans have flexible requirements for veterans. Mike will review your full financial picture and find the best path โ€” even if you're working on your credit.

Are there first-time buyer programs in Southwest Florida?
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Yes! There are Florida-specific down payment assistance programs, FHA loans with 3.5% down, and USDA rural loans with $0 down available in certain SWFL areas like parts of Lehigh Acres. Mike will identify every program you qualify for.

What about flood insurance for Cape Coral & waterfront properties?
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Flood zones are critical in SWFL. Mike helps you understand flood zone designations (AE, X, VE), how they affect insurance costs and loan requirements, and how to shop for competitive flood insurance rates alongside your mortgage.

Do I need 20% down to buy a home?
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Not at all! There are many programs with low or zero down payment options. VA and USDA loans offer $0 down, FHA requires just 3.5%, and conventional loans can go as low as 3%. Mike will help you find the right option for your budget.

Can I buy a 2nd home or vacation home in SWFL?
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Absolutely! There are specific loan programs for second homes and vacation properties. Down payment requirements are typically 10-15% for second homes. Mike can walk you through the options and help you secure competitive rates for your SWFL getaway.

Ready for Your Piece of Florida Paradise?

I'll shop 100+ lenders to get you the right deal. No obligation โ€” just honest, local expertise.

Apply Online Now Call (239) 571-6943 Calculators
Proud to Serve Those Who Served

VA Home Loans
in Southwest Florida

You've earned this benefit. Let Mike help you use it โ€” with $0 down, no PMI, and competitive rates through 100+ lenders.

$0 Down Payment

With full VA entitlement, purchase any priced home with zero down payment. No loan limit for fully eligible veterans in 2026.

No PMI / No MIP

Unlike FHA or conventional loans with less than 20% down, VA loans never require private mortgage insurance โ€” saving you hundreds per month.

Lower Interest Rates

VA loans typically offer rates 0.25โ€“0.50% below conventional loans. With Mike shopping 100+ lenders, you'll get a highly competitive rate.

Lifetime Benefit

Your VA loan entitlement can be used again and again. Sell a home and buy another with a new VA loan โ€” or keep your existing VA loan and buy a second.

2026 VA Loan Limits

Great news for veterans with full entitlement: there is no loan limit. You can purchase a home at any price with $0 down, subject only to the lender's underwriting requirements and your ability to qualify.

For veterans with partial entitlement (e.g., you still have a VA loan on another property), the 2026 conforming limits apply:

Standard Counties
$832,750
Most of Lee & Collier County
High-Cost Areas
$1,249,125
Select high-cost counties nationwide

Who Is Eligible for a VA Loan?

VA loan eligibility is based on your service history. Generally, you may qualify if you meet one of the following:

  • 90+ consecutive days of active-duty service during wartime
  • 181+ consecutive days of active-duty service during peacetime
  • 6+ years of service in the National Guard or Reserves
  • National Guard with 90 days including 30 consecutive under Title 32
  • Surviving spouse of a veteran who died in service or from a service-connected disability
  • Current active-duty service members after 90 days

Your first step is obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) โ€” Mike can often pull this for you in minutes through the VA's automated system.

The VA Funding Fee

The VA funding fee is a one-time charge that helps sustain the VA loan program. For 2026, first-use purchase loans with $0 down carry a 2.15% funding fee (3.3% for subsequent use). You can pay it upfront or roll it into your loan balance.

Fee waivers apply if you have a VA disability rating of 10% or higher, are a Purple Heart recipient serving on active duty, or are a surviving spouse receiving DIC benefits.

How VA Qualifying Differs

VA loans use a residual income calculation โ€” not just your debt-to-income ratio. This measures how much disposable income your family has after all major expenses. The result? Many veterans can qualify for more home than they could with a conventional loan, because the VA wants to ensure you can comfortably afford your mortgage.

VA Loan Advantages at a Glance

No prepayment penalties

Pay off your loan early without any fees.

Assumable loans

Future buyers may assume your VA loan and rate โ€” a powerful selling point.

Lenient credit guidelines

No VA-mandated minimum score. Most lenders accept 580โ€“620+.

VA Streamline Refinance (IRRRL)

Lower your rate with minimal paperwork and often no appraisal.

Why SWFL Veterans Choose Mike

Mike understands the VA appraisal process, the Termite Inspection (Wood Destroying Organism report) requirements unique to Florida, and how to navigate flood zones that can complicate VA purchases in our area. With access to 100+ lenders, Mike can find VA-approved lenders offering the most competitive rates and terms for your situation.

Ready to Use Your VA Benefit?

Let Mike pull your COE and get you pre-approved โ€” most clients hear back within 24โ€“48 hours.

Apply Online Now Call (239) 571-6943
Mortgage Calculators

Crunch the Numbers

Get estimates in seconds. For exact figures tailored to your situation, talk to Mike.

Monthly Payment Calculator

How Much Home Can You Afford?

Refinance Savings Calculator

FHA Loan Calculator

VA Loan Calculator

Estimated Monthly Payment
$2,023
Principal & Interest on $320,000 loan
P&I
$2,023
Taxes
$417
Insurance
$200
Total PITI
$2,640

These calculators provide estimates only. Actual rates, terms, and payments depend on your individual credit profile, loan program, and current market conditions. Contact Mike for an accurate, personalized quote.

Cape Coral

Mortgage Broker
in Cape Coral, FL

Cape Coral โ€” the "Waterfront Wonderland" โ€” has over 400 miles of canals, making it the perfect spot to find your dream home. Mike has been helping Cape Coral residents secure competitive mortgage rates for years.

Apply Now (239) 571-6943

Home Loans for Cape Coral Buyers

Cape Coral is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation, attracting families, retirees, and investors alike. Whether you're buying a canal-front home, a new-construction property in one of the rapidly developing Northwest neighborhoods, or your first starter home, Mike shops 100+ lenders to find the right deal for you.

Popular Neighborhoods

SW Cape (Yacht Club)
Pelican/Coral Oaks
NW Spreader Canals
Cape Harbour
Burnt Store
Sandoval

Why Cape Coral?

  • 400+ miles of navigable canals โ€” more than any city on earth
  • No state income tax in Florida
  • Rapid new-construction growth with modern floor plans
  • Close to Fort Myers beaches and Sanibel Island
  • Strong community with parks, golf, and boating
  • Homestead exemption saves residents up to $50K on property taxes

Understanding Cape Coral Flood Zones

Flood zone awareness is essential in Cape Coral. Many properties fall in AE zones (high-risk) while others are in X zones (minimal risk). Flood zone designation significantly impacts your insurance costs and lender requirements. Mike will help you understand how the flood zone affects your total monthly cost and shop for the most competitive insurance alongside your mortgage.

Popular Cape Coral Attractions

Cape Coral Quick Facts

Population~220,000
CountyLee County
Avg. Home Price$370Kโ€“$425K
Property Tax Rate~1.1โ€“1.3%
Fort Myers

Mortgage Broker
in Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers โ€” the City of Palms โ€” blends historic charm with modern amenities. From the revitalized downtown River District to scenic McGregor Boulevard, Mike knows the local market and can help you find the perfect loan.

Apply Now (239) 571-6943

Home Loans for Fort Myers Buyers

Fort Myers offers diverse housing options from historic bungalows in Dean Park to luxury condos along the Caloosahatchee. As the county seat of Lee County, Fort Myers is the employment and cultural hub of Southwest Florida. Mike has deep knowledge of the local market and can match you with the right loan program for any property type.

Popular Neighborhoods

Downtown River District
McGregor Blvd
Gateway
Whiskey Creek
Page Field / Edison Park
Iona / San Carlos

Why Fort Myers?

  • Thriving downtown with restaurants, arts & nightlife
  • Home to Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU)
  • Spring Training for Boston Red Sox & Minnesota Twins
  • Gateway to Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel & Captiva
  • Major employers: Lee Health, school district, Arthrex
  • Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)

Popular Fort Myers Attractions

Fort Myers Quick Facts

Population~100,000
CountyLee County
Avg. Home Price$320Kโ€“$400K
Property Tax Rate~1.1โ€“1.3%
Naples

Mortgage Broker
in Naples, FL

Naples is synonymous with luxury, pristine beaches, and world-class golf. Whether you're purchasing a beachfront estate, a condo on the Gulf, or a family home in Golden Gate, Mike has the lender network to secure competitive terms on any price point.

Apply Now (239) 571-6943

Home Loans for Naples Buyers

Naples and the greater Collier County area feature some of the most desirable real estate in Southwest Florida. From jumbo loans for luxury properties to FHA and VA options in more affordable areas like Golden Gate Estates, Mike's access to 100+ lenders means he can find the right loan for every price range.

Popular Areas

Old Naples
Pelican Bay
Park Shore
North Naples
Golden Gate Estates
Ave Maria

Jumbo Loans in Naples

Many Naples properties exceed conforming loan limits ($832,750 in 2026). As a mortgage broker with access to multiple jumbo lenders, Mike can compare rates across dozens of options to find the most competitive terms โ€” something a single bank simply can't do.

Popular Naples Attractions

Naples Quick Facts

Population (metro)~400,000
CountyCollier County
Avg. Home Price$550Kโ€“$800K+
Property Tax Rate~0.9โ€“1.2%
Lehigh Acres

Mortgage Broker
in Lehigh Acres, FL

Lehigh Acres offers some of the most affordable housing in Southwest Florida, making it ideal for first-time buyers, growing families, and investors. Mike specializes in helping Lehigh Acres buyers maximize their purchasing power.

Apply Now (239) 571-6943

Home Loans for Lehigh Acres Buyers

Lehigh Acres is one of the most populated communities in Lee County and one of the best values in all of SWFL. The area has seen tremendous growth in new construction, commercial development, and infrastructure improvements. Many areas of Lehigh Acres may qualify for USDA Rural Development loans with $0 down payment.

Why Lehigh Acres?

  • Most affordable entry point in SWFL for homeownership
  • Potential USDA eligibility โ€” $0 down payment
  • Rapid commercial and infrastructure development
  • Close proximity to Fort Myers and I-75
  • Excellent for first-time buyers and young families
  • Many newer-construction homes available

Lehigh Acres Hot Spots & Activities

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Mirror Lakes Golf Club

Affordable golf at Lehigh's local resort course

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Rotary Park Nature Preserve

Natural preserve with hiking trails & wildlife viewing

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Freshwater Fishing

Excellent lake & canal fishing throughout the community

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Lee Blvd Corridor

Growing shopping, dining & services hub

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Caloosahatchee River Access

Nearby river access for boating & water recreation

Lehigh Acres Quick Facts

Population~140,000
CountyLee County
Avg. Home Price$280Kโ€“$350K
Property Tax Rate~1.1โ€“1.3%
Bonita Springs

Mortgage Broker
in Bonita Springs, FL

Bonita Springs offers a perfect blend of beach living, nature preserves, and upscale communities. Nestled between Fort Myers and Naples, it's one of SWFL's most desirable addresses.

Apply Now (239) 571-6943

Home Loans for Bonita Springs Buyers

Bonita Springs straddles both Lee and Collier counties, offering beautiful beaches, golf communities, and a charming downtown along Old 41. Whether you're purchasing in Bonita Bay, Spanish Wells, or one of the many gated communities, Mike can match you with the perfect loan from his network of 100+ lenders.

Popular Communities

Bonita Bay
Spanish Wells
Worthington
Barefoot Beach
Village Walk
Brooks

Popular Bonita Springs Attractions

Bonita Springs Quick Facts

Population~60,000
CountyLee County
Avg. Home Price$450Kโ€“$650K
Property Tax Rate~1.0โ€“1.2%
Estero

Mortgage Broker
in Estero, FL

Estero is a vibrant, family-friendly village home to Florida Gulf Coast University, Hertz Arena, and the massive Coconut Point and Miromar Outlets shopping destinations. Its master-planned communities make it one of SWFL's top places to live.

Apply Now (239) 571-6943

Home Loans for Estero Buyers

Estero (incorporated as a village in 2014) offers a wonderful quality of life with top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and easy access to both Fort Myers and Naples. Many of its communities โ€” like Grandezza, Estero Place, and West Bay Club โ€” are highly sought after. Mike works with 100+ lenders to ensure Estero buyers get the most competitive rates.

Popular Communities

Grandezza
Miromar Lakes
West Bay Club
Coconut Point
Shadow Wood
Estero Place

Popular Estero Attractions

Estero Quick Facts

Population~35,000
CountyLee County
Avg. Home Price$400Kโ€“$600K
Property Tax Rate~1.0โ€“1.2%
Marco Island

Mortgage Broker
for Marco Island, FL

Marco Island โ€” the largest of Florida's Ten Thousand Islands โ€” offers an exclusive island lifestyle with stunning beaches, luxury waterfront properties, and world-class fishing. Mike can help you finance your piece of paradise.

Apply Now (239) 571-6943

Home Loans for Marco Island

Marco Island properties often fall into jumbo loan territory, and waterfront condos and single-family homes have unique insurance and appraisal requirements. As a broker with access to 100+ lenders including multiple jumbo specialists, Mike can find competitive rates for high-value Marco Island properties that a single bank may not be able to offer.

Second Home & Vacation Loans

Many Marco Island buyers are purchasing a second home or vacation property. These loans have specific requirements โ€” typically 10โ€“15% down โ€” and Mike can walk you through the differences between second-home and investment-property financing to ensure you get the right deal.

Marco Island Highlights

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Tigertail Beach

Pristine barrier beach ideal for shelling & birding

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Old Marco Village

Waterfront dining & authentic Old Florida fishing village vibe

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Marco Island Country Club

Golf, tennis & social events for island residents

Marco Island Quick Facts

Population~18,000
CountyCollier County
Avg. Home Price$700Kโ€“$1.2M+
Property Tax Rate~0.9โ€“1.1%
Southwest Florida

Your SWFL
Mortgage Broker

From Cape Coral to Naples and everywhere in between, Mike Steele is your local Southwest Florida mortgage expert. He shops 100+ lenders so you don't have to.

Apply Now (239) 571-6943

Serving All of Southwest Florida

Southwest Florida is one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States. Lee County and Collier County together encompass a diverse real estate market โ€” from affordable starter homes in Lehigh Acres to multi-million-dollar estates on Marco Island. Mike serves the entire region and understands the nuances of each community.

Communities Mike Serves

Cape Coral
Fort Myers
Naples
Lehigh Acres
Bonita Springs
Estero
Marco Island

Loan Programs Available Across SWFL

No matter where in Southwest Florida you're buying, Mike offers a full range of loan programs: Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, Jumbo, Non-QM, and specialized second-home/investment programs. With 30+ years of experience and access to 100+ lenders through Edge Home Finance, he finds the right fit for your situation every time.

Get In Touch

Contact Mike Steele

Ready to start your home loan journey? Have questions? Reach out anytime โ€” Mike personally responds to every inquiry.

Send a Message