Get to Know James
10+ Years
of experience500+
Families Served50 States
One trusted partnerPeople say life’s biggest moments are getting married, having a child, and buying your first home. I get to be part of that third one, helping people qualify for the right mortgage, understand their options, and put down roots in a place they love.
For more than 10 years, I’ve helped over 500 families review their loan options and choose what makes the most sense for their situation. I work with homebuyers across Ohio and in all 50 states and I understand the pace, pressure, and questions that come with buying in markets like Cleveland and the surrounding areas.
I’ve worked with first-time buyers, repeat buyers, and clients with more complex income or financing scenarios. My goal is to make sure you understand your options, know what to expect, and never feel lost in the process.
I work directly with every client from start to finish, so you always know who to call, what comes next, and how to move forward with more clarity and less stress.
Professional Achievements
Real Guidance, Not a Sales Pitch
A lot of borrowers get shown a loan. Fewer get a clear explanation of why one option makes more sense than another.
My job is to help you break down and compare your options by looking at payment, cash to close, rate, loan structure, required documents, and timing—so you know what is available and what makes the most sense for your situation.
I work with you from start to finish, with no handoffs to other departments or call centers, so you always know who to call, what comes next, and how to move forward with more clarity and less stress.
Who I Help
f you’re not sure where to start, this is the right place.. I work with first-time buyers, repeat buyers, self-employed borrowers, medical professionals, real estate investors, and clients who want a second opinion after being turned down elsewhere.
Whether you’re trying to understand your budget, get pre-approved, compare loan options, or solve a more complex financing issue, the goal is the same: clear answers, a practical strategy, and the right next step based on your situation.
BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME AND WORRIED ABOUT THE DOWN PAYMENT?
Many buyers do not need 20% down. Depending on the program, options may include 3%, 3.5%, or even 0% down.
Loan Options I Help Clients Compare
Conventional Loans
FHA Loans
VA Loans
USDA Loans
Investment / DSCR Loans
Self-Employed / Bank Statement Loans
Physician Loans
Refinance Loans
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.
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.
Proudly Giving Back
Local Food Drives
Youth Sports Sponsorships
Estimate your mortgage
See estimated monthly payments based on your loan details. Compare scenarios to find what best fits your budget.
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.
Get Pre-Approved
Explore Your Loan Options
Find the Right Home
Apply and Submit Documents
Processing and Underwriting
Closing, Getting Your Keys, And Beyond
Real Stories from Real Owners
I highly recommend James. He assists in making the process smooth and stress free. His knowledge and patience and the time he takes to explain the process has made my first time home buyers much more comfortable in the process. He is always available to answer any questions.
I highly recommend James. He assists in making the process smooth and stress free. His knowledge and patience and the time he takes to explain the process has made my first time home buyers much more comfortable in the process. He is always available to answer any questions.
I had a very good experience! They were very attentive and available for my needs and concerns! Thanks James!
I had a very good experience! They were very attentive and available for my needs and concerns! Thanks James!
James was great to work with and made the process seamless!
James was great to work with and made the process seamless!
I recently worked with James Thom of Fairway Mortgage. He helped my buyers buy their dream home. He was a partner throughout the process. He communicated promptly and was transparent with the lending process. His has in-depth knowledge of the market. His commitment to my clients was par excellence! He kept my buyer and me informed and made sure the process was painless and not stressful. As a team we got the best deal for my buyers – as in favorable terms, excellent rate, and an electronic close so my buyers were done in less than 30 minutes at the closing table. I look forward working with him again because he gives such good service, finds solutions and very pleasant to work with. I highly recommend James Thom for a smooth, stress free loan process. He cares about his clients and is a team player .
I recently worked with James Thom of Fairway Mortgage. He helped my buyers buy their dream home. He was a partner throughout the process. He communicated promptly and was transparent with the lending process. His has in-depth knowledge of the market. His commitment to my clients was par excellence! He kept my buyer and me informed and made sure the process was painless and not stressful. As a team we got the best deal for my buyers – as in favorable terms, excellent rate, and an electronic close so my buyers were done in less than 30 minutes at the closing table. I look forward working with him again because he gives such good service, finds solutions and very pleasant to work with. I highly recommend James Thom for a smooth, stress free loan process. He cares about his clients and is a team player .
James was available for us on the call. He explained all the concepts about the loan and the mortgage very well. Extremely interactive.
Nate and his crew did a fantastic job! They walked me through the entire process and were very professional and efficient. I highly recommend them to anyone. I'm so glad I found them. Thank you, Nate and team, for everything!
Nate and his crew did a fantastic job! They walked me through the entire process and were very professional and efficient. I highly recommend them to anyone. I'm so glad I found them. Thank you, Nate and team, for everything!
James was helpful and very patient with us, thanks again!!!
James was helpful and very patient with us, thanks again!!!
Helpful, easy process that is typically very stressful. We had a ton of questions and learned a lot. I will definitely be recommending to anyone I know who needs a mortgage. Thanks!
James is the real deal. He understands his processes and always looking for new ways to grow and bring buyers benefits and make impacts in the mortgage world. Working with him is always a pleasure and my clients are always satisfied with the level of care they given. He goes above and beyond, understands his products at a deep level, can mitigate issues before they arise and very solutions based. Coming from a Realtor, that means a lot as there are so many lenders who are not willing to work nights and weekends and in the trenches with us for his clients. He definitely does. Can’t go wrong with James Thom!
James is the real deal. He understands his processes and always looking for new ways to grow and bring buyers benefits and make impacts in the mortgage world. Working with him is always a pleasure and my clients are always satisfied with the level of care they given. He goes above and beyond, understands his products at a deep level, can mitigate issues before they arise and very solutions based. Coming from a Realtor, that means a lot as there are so many lenders who are not willing to work nights and weekends and in the trenches with us for his clients. He definitely does. Can’t go wrong with James Thom!