Unfortunately, I would not recommend Optimum First Mortgage, Fountain Valley, CA for a mortgage. We began the refinance process with them end of June 2010. All requested documents, records and even appraisal were received in their office by the 9th of July. Long story short we heard little to no contact from them through August 19 other than I would call for an update and be told excuses such as the lender was overloaded and there was a question with the appraisal. Over these 6 weeks no one ever requested a verification of employment from either of our employers – this was suspicious as usually this process begins immediately. So August 19th, frustrated at this point I made a call to their office the day before the 45 day rate lock expired and was told the lender said the appraisal came in too high. They did not offer to extend the rate and help work it out. My loan rep Cody offered to see if another lender would be available. Two weeks passed and I never heard back from Cody. Now having lost 2 months’ time, our low interest rate and $365 on a wasted appraisal, I emailed them and ask for a refund of my appraisal fee. My last response from them was this…..
Carmen,
I will have my manager get in contact with you today. Thank you.

Optimum First Mortgage

Unfortunately, something is very suspicious about this whole process.

That all said, we decided to start the process with a local company – we sat down with them on Tuesday August 31. In 3 ½ weeks we have now already signed loan documents and will close early next week. By the way the appraisal came in $25K higher than the first one. Bottom line – find a local mortgage company or bank referred by a local real estate professional or friend. And don’t take a chance on Optimum First Mortgage.