Apply with John - The Yi Team - Mortgage on a Mission

Welcome!

Welcome to The Yi Team Mortgage On A Mission! I’m John Walowac, 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 25 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!

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? Jen Hansel, 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.

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 Timeline

John at a hockey game sitting in the bleachers

Say Hi to John Walowac’s Team

Hey there! I’m John Walowac – your go-to mortgage guy here at The Yi Team Mortgage. Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating with your family, or using your well-earned VA loan benefits, I’m here to make the home loan process smooth, clear, and maybe even a little fun (seriously!).

If you’re looking to buy in Maryland, DC, Virginia, or West Virginia, I’ve got the experience, tools, and team to help you feel confident from pre-approval to closing day.

Meet the Walowac Mortgage Dream Team

While I’ll be your main point of contact and guide you through the big picture, I’ve got a not-so-secret weapon to help us get the job done right: Christa Fitch.

Christa is my right-hand rockstar, a licensed loan officer and production powerhouse. You’ll be hearing from her often – and trust me, you’ll be glad you did. She’s the organized, friendly, lightning-fast partner who keeps your loan moving forward. By the time we’re shouting “clear to close,” Christa will feel like your new best friend (and you’ll probably be wondering how you ever lived without her).

A Little About Me

I was born and raised in Northern Virginia, played college baseball in Baltimore, Maryland (go Essex Knights!), and spent 15+ years running a successful small business in Arlington, VA. I even moonlighted as the Golf Pro at Virginia Golf Center for over a decade—so if you’re into golf or fishing, we’ll have plenty to talk about.

These days, when I’m not helping people become homeowners, I’m spending time with my wife Elizabeth and our four amazing kids. Family means everything to me, and that’s how I approach this job: with heart, hustle, and the kind of care I’d want for my own people.

At The Yi Team Mortgage on a Mission, 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 John Walowac!