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headshot of Rebecca Bergquist, wearing a black shirt

Rebecca Stiles Bergquist

Branch Manager
NMLS #244829
4.9 Rating (36 Reviews on Experience.com)

Normal Branch
2404 E Empire St
Bloomington, IL 61704

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.

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5%

1%

5%

0%

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$1421

Monthly Payment

Principal & Interest $1421

Monthly Taxes $1421

Monthly HOA $1421

Monthly Insurance $1421

Monthly PMI $0

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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

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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

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You can afford up to

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Monthly Payment $

Principal & Interest $

Tax $

Insurance $

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Refinancing could save you

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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

Rebecca was patient with me and my situation. She asked clear questions and worked to get the full picture of what was happening. She never made assumptions or made me feel embarrased for not understanding information the first time. She was through and kept me updated at all times during the process. I'm grateful for her hard work on my behalf and creating a safe environment, so things ran smoothly.
Kimberly B.
SNELLVILLE, GA
October 13, 2026
Excellent experience working with Rebecca and her team! I would highly recommend her and her team!
Jeremy B.
NORMAL, IL
September 19, 2026
Rebecca was absolutely wonderful to work with throughout the entire mortgage process. She always took the time to answer my questions, no matter the time of day, and explained everything clearly so I understood what was happening. She was patient, responsive, and made what could have been a stressful process feel so much easier. I truly appreciate everything she did to help me through the process and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a mortgage professional.
Danielle D.
ARROWSMITH, IL
August 25, 2026
Rebecca is awesome! Every step of the way she was very informative and quick to help!
Taylor C N.
NORMAL, IL
August 15, 2026
Answered every question I had, even when I asked 5 follow up questions. Great customer service.
Dylan W.
PEKIN, IL
August 6, 2026
Rebecca was always avaliable to talk about questions and concerns we had . She helped my wife and I calm our nerves and be prepared to buy our first home. Thank you So much, Rebecca!
Andrew B.
BLOOMINGTON, IL
August 3, 2026
We had a great experience with Rebecca and would highly recommend her to anyone! She listened to our concerns, and explained the whole process ro to us! She was always there whenever we had questions. Thank you Rebecca!
Allysen B.
BLOOMINGTON, IL
July 31, 2026
Being completely unfamiliar with this whole process, Rebecca was phenomenal at explaining and remained patient regardless of my incessant questions. Would highly recommend.
Samantha K.
LEXINGTON, IL
July 15, 2026
Becca was so great at teaching me and keeping me informed about the mortgage and closing process. She is a consummate professional and great communicator!
Jane W.
LANCASTER, SC
July 6, 2026
Rebecca is very helpful and always available to answer questions. She goes above and beyond!
Shannon T.
NORMAL, IL
July 1, 2026
Rebecca was just amazing. Always available and if not returned my calls assoon as she could. Also kept me updated on the progress that was being made on my loan. I absolutely would recommend her to anyone looking to buy a home.
Holly K.
PEKIN, IL
June 19, 2026
My family and I were very stressed about having to start the mortgage process over with a new lender. However, in less than 10 days, we were able to sign the contract for our new house, something we never thought would happen so quickly. The entire experience exceeded our expectations. The communication was excellent, and every step of the process was handled professionally and efficiently. We are truly grateful for all the support and guidance we received throughout this journey.
Lenah Bubing F.
BLOOMINGTON, IL
June 15, 2026
Yes, you are very professional, efficient, and speedy in the process. Thank you for all!
Jean – Marie Khonde K.
BLOOMINGTON, IL
June 11, 2026
Excellent communication from Rebecca and Ashley. Would highly recommend to family and friends.
Kristen B.
NORMAL, IL
June 10, 2026
Rebecca and Ashley were amazing! They were transparent,and we're timely on everything. Very pleasant experience!!
Andrew O.
CHENOA, IL
June 8, 2026
Becca made my first time home buying process very easy and everything went smoothly. Highly reccomned!
Ty E.
LE ROY, IL
June 6, 2026