Testimonial 04/08/13 Kyle here, The team at Creekside Mortgage, simply put, is ABSOLUTELY EXCEPTIONAL! Normally, you would only purchase a home once or twice in a lifetime. With not knowing the ends and outs of the loan process, it is nice to have a credible and incredible mortgage company in your corner, and you'll definitely find that with Creekside Mortgage. Creekside is a phenomenal locally owned private company that has 80+ years of combined experience in the real estate industry. Being local, they have a rock solid presence with local builders and real estate professionals. The builder we chose was very familiar with Creekside and seemed relieved knowing that's who we were using to process our loan. Which we found reassuring. Looking for incomparable customer service? Creekside is by far the most customer focused company that I have dealt with in years. I am actually incorporating some of Creekside's customer service practices to use at my own company. They worked with us on a personal level. We were assigned one agent, Chelsey Howard the Great, who worked with us exclusively throughout process. This was momentous for us, to only work with one contact person with a direct phone number, who is familiar with you and your loan. This made the process much easier then having to call an 800 number go through several automated channels to get information. The extraordinary, thorough, and prompt Chelsey the Great, kept us well informed and up to date throughout the whole process. Chelsey contacted us on a regular basis, reciprocating via phone, email, and text. As busy as Chelsey was, she always found time to follow through with what was promised and addressed our every concern. We never felt lost or uninformed about anything from the start of our application to signing with the title company. Were there any issues? Yes, during the appraisal process, we did have some uncontrollable issues between the builder and the appraisal company, which was delaying the appraisal and jeopardizing our closing. At this time, we were surprised to receive a call from the President of Creekside, Mr Kerry Greenwald, who was very forthcoming in explaining the circumstances behind the appraisal issues, how it would impact us, and what we can do to expedite the issues. We could tell Mr. Greenwald was genuinely sincere and concerned, which we found to be very ethical, steadfast, and trustworthy. Try and find these personal and professional traits at a large national company. OK, enough said. In summary, Creekside Mortgage is Absolutely Exceptional. Thanks again Creekside Mortgage! Satisfied Home Owners, Kyle & Patty M read more

We highly recommend Gayle Hepler, to anyone looking to secure a mortgage or refinance! Gayle and the team at Creekside provided outstanding customer service, a thorough knowledge of industry regulations, and consistent communication throughout our Re-fi process. We first contacted Gayle over a year ago, seeking a second opinion on a ridiculously low appraisal received while attempting a refinance through an on-line broker. The experience with the on-line broker was abysmal; poor communication, lack of knowledge of industry regulations, and multiple empty promises to close "soon which never happened. Because of the low appraisal now on record, at that time Gayle was unable to help us, and we thought our chance to Re-fi with low rates were lost. Unbeknownst to us, over a year after our first contact with her, Gayle had kept tabs on our file and watched the market for more favorable values. She reached out to us inquiring about our interest in moving forward with a Re-fi. Were we still interested? Absolutely, we were interested!!! Our Re-fi took less than 30 days from loan approval to signing documents. That process included a big change in direction when our appraisal came in slightly low, but with Gayle's mortgage regulation acumen and her perseverance in working with the lender, she successfully brought our Re-fi to closing. We gladly and unreservedly recommend Gayle to anyone for their mortgage broker needs ... and should we need mortgage services of any kind down the road, Gayle at Creekside Mortgage will be our first and only call. Al & Terri C. read more

I recently had the pleasure of working with Creekside Mortgage, and I couldn't be more impressed with the level of service and professionalism I received. From start to finish, Kerry Greenwald, the loan officer, was incredibly supportive, guiding me through the process with clear communication and expert advice. Kerry and his team made sure I understood each step and answered all my questions with patience and care. Additionally, Nicolle Khounphachansy, the Processor, played an essential role in keeping everything moving smoothly. Nicolle was efficient and meticulous, ensuring that no detail was overlooked and that I was always up to date on the progress of my loan. Chelsea Vliet, the Loan Production Manager, was another standout. Chelsea's dedication to ensuring a smooth and timely process was evident in every interaction. She worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everything was in place and on track, always prioritizing my best interests. What truly sets this team apart is their compassionate approach and genuine care for their clients. They consistently went above and beyond, making sure I felt supported every step of the way. It's rare to find a team that is so dedicated to protecting your interests and providing such personalized service. I highly recommend Creekside Mortgage to anyone looking for a mortgage team that truly cares. read more

My husband, new born daughter, and I were living with my in-laws... I'm sure you can imagine my excitement when we started looking for our first home. From our very first visit with Creekside we knew we were in good hands. They went above and beyond when it came to explaining the process to us. A couple of times we had issues arise that made me nervous about whether we would close or not, but the people at Creekside Mortgage took the time to explain that sometimes there is turbulence, but the plane is not going to crash. Sure enough, the overall flight was a smooth ride and we made a nice landing right into our very first home. We couldn't have done it without their help. My husband, new born daughter, and I were living with my in-laws... I'm sure you can imagine my excitement when we started looking for our first home. From our very first visit with Creekside we knew we were in good hands. They went above and beyond when it came to explaining the process to us. A couple of times we had issues arise that made me nervous about whether we would close or not, but the people at Creekside Mortgage took the time to explain that sometimes there is turbulence, but the plane is not going to crash. Sure enough, the overall flight was a smooth ride and we made a nice landing right into our very first home. We couldn't have done it without their help. read more

I am a widow with a single income, so a low, monthly payment was very important to me. So, how do you tell a really great mortgage company, from the others? Repeat business! I have had three (3) consecutive, home loans/re-fi's with Kerry at Creekside Mortgage... I wouldn't have done the latter two loans, if I hadn't had such awesome service the first time! My first loan with them, was the most stressful for me, because my financial situation wasn't the greatest, so it was a harder job for Creekside, to get me a loan, with my ratio/debt numbers... but they did it! So after I moved and bought a new home, of course I called them, again. And again, they did all the work, gave me reminders of when I had to submit paperwork, and just plain made the process of a loan, easier! (I hate paperwork, so this was important to me). They must keep really good notes, too, as I didn't have to remind them, of my need of a low monthly payment. So, if you need a home loan, I highly recommend working with Creekside Mortgage. Next year, I'll be moving again, and I WILL BE calling Kerry for help with it! (and NO, I was NOT paid to do this, I just really appreciate a good company!) Lauren Fox, repeat client read more

As a single, older, service connected female veteran (Vietnam era), this was my first occasion to buy a home on my own outside of a past relationship. Mike Frakes, a retired Naval Veteran and VA loan specialist at Creekside Mortgage, was referred to me through my daughter, also a service connected vet who worked with him when she bought her house. And a friend had also originally referred her. Wow! I am soooo happy he was my mortgage broker! Mortgage language might as well be Greek to me, and Mike steered me in the right direction as far as explaining things in simple terms, looking out for me every step of the way as to how much I could afford or what I needed to do. It turned out to be a completely seamless operation on my end while he took care of the business end. I felt totally comfortable with his direction. We had been working together for quite a long time as I took my time to find just the right place for the right price. My VA loan was approved and he was able to procure an unbelievable interest rate for me, as well. Personally, I don't think there is a better VA Loan Specialist around in the Portland / Vancouver area. I am in my new home loving it now because Mike Frakes made it so easy for me. I absolutely couldn't have done any better! Thanks, Mike! read more

Before I write a review, let me stat of by saying if you're a Veteran using a VA home loan, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN CREEKSIDE! This is our first home-buying experience, and it couldn't have been easier. Gayle was in constant communication with us, and if we ever had any questions, we could send her an email and she would respond pretty fast, regardless of what time of day it was. This whole process was extremely fast-paced with a lot of things happening that my wife and I needed help understanding. It was nice knowing Creekside had our best interest at heart, and through this life-changing (and scary) process you can trust them. Gayle also recommended the real estate agent we used, and he was awesome as well! Our one gripe is we had to keep resubmitting documents that we had already given them. Although we found this annoying, the amount of work they were doing in a short time, I don't blame them for misplacing something here or there. I don't know the details of it, but at closing, Gayle managed to get us back $400. We actually "made money" through this process - can't complain with that. Gayle and Creekside Mortgage are extremely professional, knowledgeable, and kind. Please don't hesitate to set up an appointment with them! read more

First off 5 stars just isn't enough, triple that :) We were first time VA loan home buyers, nervous and had no clue what to expect. The first phone call with Nicolle set our minds at ease, she explained the whole process to us and it was an easy choice to choose Creekside. Nicolle made us feel like we were her only clients and and her first priority. She answered or returned calls quickly, every question we had (which was tons) she answered or did her best to find out. When we ran into snags she went to bat for us and went that extra mile. Kerry the President of Creekside even called us when there was an issue at closing, he told us it wasn't us and they were doing everything in their power. That helped us tremendously to calm down. They are all professional and friendly and i just can't say enough good things about everyone I encountered. I would recommend anyone looking for a home to go through Creekside. They are on top of their game and when you go through something as big as buying a home you want someone on YOUR side and they are on YOUR side. Nicolle, Kerry and Creekside thank you is not enough, you made our dream possible and for that we are forever grateful. Wes and Tricia Villagomez read more

My husband and I thought we would never be able to take advantage of a VA loan until we met Kerry Greenwald and Joe Kuziel from Creekside Mortgage. It was a year ago at the Home and Garden Idea Fair we met them at the New Tradition Homes booth. We had tried to buy a home before under the VA program but were told they had insufficient information on my husband. It was explained to us that my husband's records had been destroyed in a fire where the Army kept their records. I remember the grin that came across Kerry's face when I told him this story and he said to me, "I can get those records for you". And so a little less than a year later, we are in a beautiful home only because of Creekside Mortgage and their wonderful team! Our process had lots of ups and downs but Creekside was there with a steady calm professional hand to guide us through the closing process. Michelle, Kerry's Loan Officer Assistant, was so kind and understanding when I would get frustrated with all the information the VA needed, and Kerry was outstanding in getting us a fantastic rate! If you are every in need of a Great VA Loan Specialist, Creekside Mortgage is for sure the people to call. read more

A big thank you to Creekside Mortgage, Kerry and team , also Nicolle, I finally used my VA loan after sitting on the sidelines for so long, I was preparing for the worst, I was expecting to hear "yea but" before I even started the process. The first time I stepped foot into Creekside office I knew I made the right decision, I felt at ease, and welcomed, there was a certain warmth on that late dreary February day, when I sat down with Nicolle to go over my paperwork she was very kind, and patient, she always asked if I had any question, and let me know that if I do have questions later they would get back with me asap, and that was exactly the case. I cant believe how smooth the whole mortgage process went for my me, my family is happy, and I look like a genius, but I owe it all to the Creekside team, on May 1st I had keys to my new home, i'm hear to tell you the whole process went smoothly, including the home inspection, appraisal, closing, I was very impressed, I salute Kerry Greenwald, Nicolle Khounphachansy, and the whole Creekside Mortgage team, I will look no where else if the need arises in the future, thank you very much. William R. read more

Our offer was accepted on September 16th 2013 and our loan was ready to close in less than 30 days. We were able to have a courtesy signer come to our home October 10, so we could sign our paperwork on our own schedule. Our loan officer, Gayle Hepler communicated with us every step of the way from getting us preapproved first. She negotiated 3% of our sales price into the deal being paid as closing costs by our seller. This saved us $10,400.00 because Gayle knew the program. Gayle quickly locked in a low interest rate and then our appraisal was ordered so we knew the value early on in the process. At the end we were delighted to learn she had gotten us the very lowest mortgage insurance possible with a split edge mortgage insurance program through her lender. We are 2nd time home purchasers and return customers. We bought our first condo in Seattle and Gayle helped us with our financing in 2005. We had looked at well over 100 houses over a period of over 9 months; and finally got the home of our dreams accepted. Each time we needed a preapproval letter Gayle was available; and sent it over quickly so our agent could get the offer in fast. read more

We recently purchased a home using Creekside Mortgage. We chose Creekside Mortgage to handle our VA loan because of testimonials much like the one I am writing here. Because this was our first home buying experience, we sought a company that would guide us though the full process of buying a home. Kerry and Nicolle were very helpful throughout the process from beginning to end and answered all questions in great detail. We were extremely impressed by the urgency in which they handled their business affairs. We never had to wait for Creekside to follow through with their part in the process. We were also impressed with the network of experts that were used to assist us with choosing and buying the home. Creekside recommended an excellent buying agent that went above and beyond to meet our needs. We got the impression that this company has an excellent reputation in this community and they have a network of dedicated professionals that know how to get the job done and done right. Our VA home buying process was a smooth, stress free experience that closed in less than 30 days. We applaud Creekside Mortgage for a job well done. read more

I would like to take this opportunity to share my experience working with Creekside Mortgage, particularly Mike Frakes, Sr. VA Loan Specialist. My friend recommended Mike Frakes to me after he had just purchased his home. He had nothing but glowing reviews about Mike and Creekside Mortgage. After my initial contact Mike stayed in touch with me for almost 11 months until I was ready to purchase a home. During this timeframe, Mike was very professional, friendly, and knew the business! I was so impressed by his demeanor and the way he treated me and my family, FIRST CLASS! He was never once pushy or demanding. Mike Frakes is a veteran helping veterans to get the best possible loans available. I didn't purchase a million dollar home but I was treated like a million dollar customer. Lots of people write reviews and say a lot of glowing words about people you don't really know. I will say this.... Don't trust my words but do call Mike Frakes and see for yourself. Not only is Mike Frakes a veteran brother that served our great country but also a person I trust and now call my friend. Thank you for reading my review. read more

Creekside Mortgage Feedback My realtor referred me to Creekside Mortgage saying they had positive feedback from other homebuyers about this company. When I bought my home last year I did my original VA home loan with them at a great rate, and when interest rates went down recently, they helped me refinance with a streamlined VA loan, which saved me even more money. I'm so grateful for the honesty and integrity I've experienced with them. Their customer service has been exceptional, including the owner Kerry Greenwood returning my calls and helping me make important loan decisions and Nicole K. who helped guide me through the home loan process every step of the way. She answered my questions clearly, accurately and promptly. When I've needed to call, she normally answers the phone on the first or second ring. When I've left messages she gets back to me immediately, often within minutes of leaving my message. A home loan is a major financial investment for most and Creekside really understands this. This is a quality organization, and I am so grateful my realtor referred me to them. read more

I am a home owner again and Creekside Mortgage helped me along with this process. The people at Creedside Mortage were very helpful and made the whole experience so much easier. I called two other mortage brokers and felt as though I was just another customer. These brokers simply wanted to take a number and gave me the impression, "we'll get to you when we get to you." However, from my very first call to Creekside, I was greeted as though I was their only customer. Use Creekside and you will not only receive great service, you will end up having a friend working on your behalf. My note to Creekside: My wife and I absolutely appreciate your time and effort and we want thank you for the excellent service we received. I know this is your business but one thing that unquestionably comes across is that you care about your work. Thank you for taking the time to talk with me and explain the reasons behind some of the banks questions. I sincerely appreciate the time you spent working on our behalf. I will recommend Creekside Mortgage to everyone I know. read more

Working with Gayle Hepler from Creekside Mortgage has been a  wonderful experience! We started the process by obtaining a sales contract on August 11th, locked in our rate on the 18th then submitted all the required information on the 19th.  Our loan was approved the very next day. Gayle was extremely helpful, providing a detailed list of the documents needed to obtain financing. Nearly every time I called, she answered the phone personally. On a few occasions, I left her a voice message, she was very prompt in returning my call and answering my questions. We were able to close on the 9th of September, 2025. We highly recommend Gayle Hepler from Creekside Mortgage for home purchase or refinancing of an existing home. We have known Gayle professional for nearly 25 years. Not only have we used her help, we also referred several friends and family members to use her to process their loans as well. Each of us have been extremely pleased with her assistance. We highly recommend Gayle Hepler to be your loan officer, you will not be disappointed! KM & PDM read more

The 5 star rating is beyond well deserved here. I couldn't be more satisfied with the customer service. I was very surprised at how quick and seamless the whole process was. David was consistently helpful and patient through it all, and always kept me up to date on what was needed and when. With this being my first time purchase, I really couldn't have asked for a better loan specialist to assist me. I felt confident and informed beginning to end, I was always kept in the loop about what was going on. I really appreciate Dave's wisdom, guidance, and transparency while dealing with me. He really represents the company well. One of my co-workers was telling me he has been waiting on his company to sort out some of the last bits of the process for nearly six months. With Creekside, I got my place in 30 days.. I've always heard that purchasing a home is stressful and time consuming, but I'm fortunate to say I can't relate. So if you're seeking a stress-free home buying experience, I would highly recommend you start with Creekside! read more

Not sure why Yelp insists on filtering reviews. This company has over 50 amazing reviews that have all been filered out by Yelp as "not recommend". I would recommend that people go in and read what Creekside does for veterans and their families. They are pretty amazing yet Yelp doesn't seem to want people to know this :( Review: I decided to go with my local VA specialists at Creekside Mortgage. Kerry and the team of specialists he has assembled at Creekside are some of the best people that I have had the opportunity to work with. His ability to get a VA home loan through in a short period of time and with little to no hassle has been a breath of fresh air. This company embodies veterans who truly care about our military men and women and will go to the ends of the earth to help get them into the right type of home loan for their needs. The process was seamless, the rate was amazing and the timing was lightning fast. If you are looking for a company that shows integrity and compassion for their fellow veterans, look no further. read more

Kerry and Nicolle strike again! After being our hero's and helping us close on our home from what almost was a disaster with a previous group, we have been happily living in our home and enjoying every minute of it. We still wake up thinking, "wow, this is our home!?". Now, because of their knowledge and incredible ability to work quickly and efficiently, we were able to use a VA benefit for the 6 month lower interest refinance -- I didn't even know that was a thing. We lowered our rate almost a whole percent, and it also gives us two months of mortgage we got to skip and save! we now have the extra money to build our deck and patio, so it was all around huge win for us. Again, I can't say this enough, I will never trust another team as much as I trust them. We even stay in contact with Nicolle, showing her our updates and enjoying a friendly and seemingly close relationship with the same people we know we can trust for these things. Thank you again guys! Semper Fi, The Ryan Family read more