• Skip to main content
  • Skip to header right navigation
  • Skip to site footer

THE YI TEAM IS A PROUD SUPPORTER OF AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

The Yi Team Mortgage On A Mission Logo White

The Yi Team - Mortgage on a Mission

Mortgage Experts in Rockville, MD

  • HOME
  • ABOUT
    • About Us
    • News
    • Mortgage 101
    • Mortgage On A Mission
    • Home Loans for Travel Nurses
    • Success Stories
    • The Buzz
  • CONTACT
  • LET’S GET STARTED
    • Apply With Chong Yi
    • Apply With Derek Harman
    • Apply With Erin Finke
    • Apply With John Walowac
    • Apply with Jon Ingram
    • Apply with Paul Defngin
    • More About Each Mortgage Advisor


Welcome!

Welcome to Harman Team , powered by The Yi Team Mortgage On A Mission! I’m Derek Harman, senior mortgage advisor. Let’s get you home with confidence. Here’s everything you need to know.

Get Pre-Approved


Buying a home is a big deal, and we’re here to make it smooth, stress-free, and even a little fun.
We don’t just do mortgages—we structure them with your bigger financial and housing goals in mind.
With 14 years of experience and thousands of happy homeowners, we’ve built a process that’s fast, transparent, and proactive.
You’ll get regular updates, quick turn times to meet your deadlines, and a team that stays in full control from start to finish—no surprises, just smooth sailing to closing day.
Plus, we throw in some cool tools and unexpected gifts to make the journey even better.
And when your loan closes, you can feel good knowing it’s making a positive impact on the community. Let’s do this!


Derek Harman with 3 golfers

FAQ

How long does the mortgage process take?

We close fast. Like, really fast. Our Perfect Loan Process keeps everyone on the same page, so your loan moves smoothly from start to finish. You’ll get regular updates (so will your real estate agent), and we’ll make sure you close on time, without surprises.


What documents will I need?

We’ll guide you through exactly what’s needed, but typically, you’ll need pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and ID. The good news? Christa Fitch, our mortgage rockstar, will help handle all the details, so you don’t have to stress.


How much will I need for a down-payment?

It depends! Some loans allow as little as 3% down, and there are even zero-down options available. During our Discovery Call, I’ll review your financial picture with you and help structure the best mortgage strategy to build your wealth—because buying a home isn’t just about getting the keys, it’s about setting yourself up for long-term financial success. Ask about our Total Cost Analysis.


What’s the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?

A pre-qualification is a quick estimate of what you might be able to borrow, but a pre-approval is the real deal—it means I’ve reviewed your income, credit, and assets so you can shop with confidence and stand out to sellers. And because communication is our thing, we’ll keep you updated throughout the process so you always know what’s next.


Will I be left in the dark during the loan process?

Absolutely not! My team and I believe great relationships and communication are the key to success. That means you’ll hear from us regularly, and so will your real estate agent. You’ll always know where things stand, what’s next, and when you can expect to close.


Why should I work with you instead of my bank?

We’re not just about loans—we’re about helping you build wealth and reach your financial goals. We take the time to structure a mortgage that works for you now and in the future. Plus, banks are known for being slow and impersonal. We’re the opposite. With faster closings, clear communication, and a team that actually picks up the phone, we make sure your experience is smooth from day one.


Home Loan Time Line with Derek Harman

Derek Harman at the grill


At Home on Opening Day

Say Hi to Harman Team

Hey, I’m Derek Harman—and if you’re buying a home, you’re in the right place. I’ve been helping people through the mortgage process since 2011, and I still get fired up every time I get to help someone move into a place they can call home.

Originally from Petersburg, West Virginia, I moved to Delaware in high school, then played college baseball at Salisbury University (go Seagulls!), where I earned my degree in Mass Media Communications and a minor in Psychology. (Turns out, both of those come in handy in the mortgage world!) I’ve lived in Virginia, DC, and Maryland, and I truly love the unique feel of each one. These days, I live in Maryland with my amazing wife and our two daughters—who keep me humble and laughing every day.

When you work with me, I’ll bring the calm to what can sometimes feel like a chaotic process. I’ll walk you through your options, help you make smart decisions, and make sure you feel taken care of from start to finish.

You’ll also hear a lot from Christa Fitch, my secret weapon and the person who keeps everything running like clockwork. Christa is a licensed loan officer and production partner who makes sure your loan stays on track, your questions get answered fast, and your stress level stays low. Clients love her—and honestly, I don’t know what I’d do without her.

Together, Christa and I have built a loan experience that’s organized, supportive, and surprisingly fun. We’re more than just a mortgage team—we’re your partners in homeownership, and we’re in this together. Scroll down to read my 5-star reviews, and let’s get you home with Derek Harman!


Guides & Resources

Do's and Don'ts of Home Buying Download

DO’S & DON’TS CHECKLIST

Welcome Brochure, Derek Harman

WELCOME PACKET

Moving Checklist for a Stress Free Move

MOVING CHECKLIST

Homebot Home Equity Report on Laptop

HOME EQUITY REPORT


Full size headshot of Derek Harman against white circle

Let’s Connect

Derek Harman
Senior Mortgage Advisor, NMLS #882287
703-309-4886
derek@theyiteam.com


Hours of Operation

Monday – Friday
8:30 am – 5:30 pm


Find Derek Harman on Instagram and Facebook @harman_derek
Get Pre-Approved

Derek Harman and Christa Fitch

Find out what people are saying about Team Harman

We strive to give every borrower and referral partner a 5 star service. We have over 100 testimonials to back that up. Click below for our Zillow reviews to see what others are saying!

Read Our Reviews
FAQ Mortgages During Quarantine

Let’s Get Started On Your Journey to Homeownership

A well planned mortgage helps to build your long term wealth.

Custom home loans designed to help you reach your goals,
with real people who guide you every step of the way,
for the life of your home loan.

Let’s Get Started
Our Family of Brands to serve you better:  Vellum Mortgage, Mortgage on a Missions, The Yi Team

The Yi Team - Mortgage On A Mission logo

Let’s Get Social

  • Instagram
  • Facebook

Licensed in AR, AZ, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, and WV

Privacy Policies
Licenses
Disclosures

Refinancing your loan may increase the total finance charges over the life of the loan.

© 2025 · Mortgage on a Mission · All Rights Reserved
The Yi Team is DBA of Vellum Mortgage, Inc. LLC NMLS #1657323– nmlsconsumeraccess.org – Equal Housing Lender.