Skip to main content
headshot of Brett Cooker, wearing a black polo

Brett Cooker

Branch Manager
NMLS #817290
5.0 Rating (134 Reviews on Experience.com)

Sanford Branch
100 E Sybelia Ave
Suite 375
Maitland, FL 32751

CUSTOMERS Come First

Whether you dream about purchasing your first home, or third, we are here to help your homeownership dream become a reality—which is why we’ve made buying a home easier than ever with our leading-edge technology, alleviating piles of traditional paperwork.

When you work with Novus Home Mortgage, you can close on your home simply faster with our digital mortgage application process. 

Why Homebuyers Love Working with NOVUS

Buying or refinancing a home is a big decision. You deserve straight answers. No jargon. No guesswork. You get clear explanations, real guidance, and consistent updates from pre-approval through closing.

Your goals, budget, and timeline are unique, so your mortgage should be too. Whether you are exploring:

• Conventional financing
• FHA (Federal Housing Administration) loans
• VA (Department of Veterans Affairs) loans
• USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) loans
• Investment property loans
• Second home loans
• Construction loans
• And more!

We help you compare your options and choose a loan that fits your life.

You should never feel like just another name on a list. With Novus, you get a loan officer who truly listens, cares about your goals, and guides you through every step with clarity and support. We blend personal care with smart technology to make your experience easier long after the closing table.

TEMPORARY RATE BUYDOWN FAQs

Answers to the most common questions about temporary rate buydowns, including costs, qualification, loan eligibility, refinancing, and seller contributions.

Novus Home Mortgage contributes up to the amount shown above. The seller then negotiates their share on top. It can also be funded by a builder, or by the buyer. The seller’s portion is agreed per property and written into the contract — it is not automatic and not a standing offer on every home.

Sometimes a seller lists slightly higher to fund their share, and sometimes they fund it out of the existing price. Either way the buyer sees the price and the credit in the contract. What a buydown avoids is a public price reduction, which is why sellers often prefer it.

No. Discount points permanently reduce the note rate for the life of the loan. A temporary buydown leaves the note rate alone and subsidizes the payment for the first year or two from an escrow account. Points cost more; a temporary buydown buys a bigger visible drop for less money, but it does not last.

The full note rate, not the reduced year-one rate. That’s the part people get wrong. A temporary buydown lowers what you pay in the early years; it does not increase how much you can borrow. A permanent buydown does lower the qualifying rate.

Funds left in the buydown escrow are generally applied to the payoff, so the unused portion is not lost. The exact treatment is set by the buydown agreement on your specific loan — ask before you assume.

Conventional, FHA and VA all permit temporary buydowns, subject to program rules and occupancy restrictions. Contribution limits differ by program and by how much you put down. We confirm what a specific file allows before anything goes into a contract.

A price cut moves the monthly payment surprisingly little. The same money aimed at the rate moves it a lot more — so the home reaches buyers who were shopping below the price. It also avoids a public reduction and the days-on-market story that follows one.

That’s exactly what this is for. Put in the list price and the contribution you think the seller would consider, and it shows the payment story you can take to them. For the full picture — net proceeds, price-cut comparison, contribution limits — call and we’ll build it on the actual property.

Learn how to Buy Your First Home

Buying a home is a big step — and I’m here to make it easier. I’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you find the right loan to fit your life and goals.

Our Services

Younger woman in her new home

Home Purchase Loans

Expert guidance through the home buying process
Young family with children in new home

Refinancing Options

Solutions to lower your interest rate or monthly payments
Younger couple starting out in first home

Personalized Consultations

One-on-one meetings to discuss your financial goals
Family outside just sold new home

Loan Program Guidance

Detailed explanations of different loan programs available

In Our Community

Our work doesn’t stop at helping families buy homes—we’re committed to strengthening the places we live and work. From sponsoring youth programs to supporting local charities, we’re proud to give back to our community.

Younger couple in new home with plants

Proudly Giving Back

We volunteer, sponsor local events, and support programs that strengthen our community.
Older couple walking into new home

Local Food Drives

We partner with local food banks to fight hunger, sponsoring community drives that help families in need.
Couple enjoying move-in day in new home

Youth Sports Sponsorships

We’re proud to support local youth sports programs, helping kids build teamwork, confidence, and lifelong skills both on and off the field.

Estimate your mortgage

See estimated monthly payments based on your loan details. Compare scenarios to find what best fits your budget.

$

5%

1%

5%

0%

$
$

$1421

Monthly Payment

Principal & Interest $1421

Monthly Taxes $1421

Monthly HOA $1421

Monthly Insurance $1421

Monthly PMI $0

$

5%

1%

5%

$
$

$1421

Monthly FHA Payment

Principal & Interest $1421

Monthly Taxes $1421

Monthly HOA $1421

Monthly Insurance $1421

Up-Front MIP (1.75%)$0

Monthly Mortgage Insurance $0

$

0%

5%

1%

$
$

$1421

Monthly VA Payment

Principal & Interest $1421

Monthly Taxes $1421

Monthly HOA $1421

Monthly Insurance $1421

Purchase Price $1421

VA Funding Fee $1421

Amount Financed $1421

$
$
$
$
$
%

You can afford up to

$

Monthly Payment $

Principal & Interest $

Tax $

Insurance $

$
%
months
$
%
months
$

Refinancing could save you

$/month

New monthly payment $

Refinance fees $

Lifetime Savings $

Steps to Easy Home Buying with Novus

Buying a home is a major milestone. You deserve a path to homeownership that feels clear and supported at every step. The Novus Path brings together experienced loan officers, innovative technology, and industry-leading knowledge in both traditional and Non-Qualified Mortgage (Non-QM) lending.

Younger woman in her new home

Get Pre-Approved

A Novus pre-approval gives you a clear idea of what you can afford, helps you understand your loan options, and strengthens your offer when it is time to make a move.
Unboxing and move in day

Explore Your Loan Options

From conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans to Non-QM, jumbo financing, and down payment assistance programs, we help you compare options and choose the one that fits your goals.
Younger couple starting out in first home

Find the Right Home

With your pre-approval in hand, you and your real estate agent can focus on homes that match your budget and priorities. Your loan officer stays connected throughout your search to answer questions and offer guidance.
New couple in home during move in day

Apply and Submit Documents

Our technology makes it easy to apply, upload documents, and see what’s next. Your loan officer will walk you through exactly what is needed and help you stay organized to keep your application on track.
First time homebuyer with my new home sign

Processing and Underwriting

Our team reviews your file, verifies your information, and prepares your loan for underwriting. Underwriting is the step where a loan expert reviews your financial details to make sure everything meets the guidelines for your loan. We keep you updated throughout the process and let you know if anything else is needed to keep your loan moving.
Family outside just sold new home

Closing, Getting Your Keys, And Beyond

Once your loan is cleared to close, you’ll sign your final documents and celebrate becoming a homeowner. Your Novus loan officer is here for you long after closing, whether you need answers, updates, or help with future financing.

Real Stories from Real Owners

Brett and Tori were very patient with me through the entire process. They answered my questions in a timely manner, and I felt like they were truly looking out for me.
Jeffrey D.
SANFORD, FL
October 6, 2026
The whole process was well informed and least to understand
Mark S.
SANFORD, FL
September 27, 2026
Quick reaponse and smooth transaction. Could not have been a better experience!
Deborah S.
SANFORD, FL
September 25, 2026
Very helpful and professional Novus home mortgage made everything so easy. All the documents that were required were signed electronically which made the process very easy and stress free.
Markndebseibert
Sanford, FL
September 22, 2026
After working with another lender, I was told that getting the deal done simply could not be done. I decided to give Brett and his team a chance, and I am SO glad I did! From start to finish, they were professional, transparent, and incredibly knowledgeable. They kept me informed throughout the entire process, clearly explaining the numbers, down payment, and every step along the way. The process was smooth, and they made what could have been a stressful experience feel manageable. Thanks to Brett’s expertise, dedication, and ability to think outside the box, we were able to close the deal and get into our dream home! I am extremely grateful for Brett and his entire team. If you’re looking for a lender who genuinely cares about helping families achieve their homeownership dreams, I highly recommend them!
Jasmine F S.
PANAMA CITY, FL
September 7, 2026
I’m incredibly grateful for all the time and effort Brett put into helping us get approved for our mortgage loan. They never made me feel like just another client and were there to answer every question along the way. Brett stayed in contact with us for two years and he always followed up! He is Amazing!!! it was incredibly stressful moving cross country from Northern California -However Brett and the Novus Home team and Their dedication and professionalism made such a difference. The process was a breeze! Thank you for helping make homeownership possible for me and my family in Central Florida! We couldn't be any more grateful! if your in Florida or thinking of moving to Florida this is your guy!! id give 10 Stars if I could!!!! Thank you Brett and the Novus Team!
Rosanna N.
Apopka, FL
August 14, 2026
Made first time buy a home a breeze. Him and his assistant , Tori were super responsive and assisted us along the entire process.
Jared Wingate B.
ORLANDO, FL
August 10, 2026
He made the whole process so easy and he was so helpful. He was so knowledgeable about all the details of the loan process and called me back immediately as soon as i would call with any questions Thank you Brett for all you have done for me with the loan you were great.
Christine G.
Sorrento, FL
July 2, 2026
The whole transaction was handled in a timely and professional manner. Brett's team was on top of every issue and kept us informed every step of the way. We are truly excited about this new chapter in our lives, and Brett's team was key in making this happen. We definitely recommend him and his team.
Ivan G.
MOUNT DORA, FL
May 27, 2026
elise Hamilton went above and beyond to answer any concerns and questions. She was always available and she was very patient with me as I was very anxious about providing the documentation that was needed. I am not a technological person, but she really made the process better.
Jana J D.
Saint Cloud, FL
May 17, 2026
Brett and his team made this process the easiest it could possibly be, highly recommened. All paperwork was completed via Docusign and they answered phone calls even off hours
Kenneth S.
Saint Cloud, FL
May 5, 2026
I’m very grateful for the amazing support I received throughout my homebuying process. The team was incredibly patient and guided me every step of the way. They helped me thru the application for the Hometown Heroes program and secured a great interest rate for me. Their teamwork and professionalism truly stand out, and they clearly know what they are doing. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a smooth and reliable mortgage experience.
Glemnys G.
OCALA, FL
May 1, 2026
I’m very grateful for the amazing support I received throughout my homebuying process. The team was incredibly patient and guided me every step of the way. They helped me during the process of applying for the Hometown Heroes program and secured a great interest rate for me. Their teamwork and professionalism truly stand out, and they clearly know what they are doing. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a smooth and reliable mortgage experience.
Glemnys C.
Ocala, FL
April 28, 2026
Brett and Novus were anazing, thank you for everything!
Christopher Evan P.
Orlando, FL
April 19, 2026
Great painless transaction
Frederick M.
The Villages, FL
April 7, 2026
Simple and thorough process.
Ursula M.
The Villages, FL
April 1, 2026