Your Local Mortgage Lender

Located in Downers Grove, IL

Personalized Mortgage Experience

Mike Ruffalo offers personalized service and loan options you'll love. We shop multiple lenders to find the best rate and product for you, getting you into your dream home faster.

With wholesale interest rates and cutting-edge technology, we make the mortgage process seamless. Trust the experts who focus solely on mortgages. Support your local community and experience elite client service.

Let us help you achieve your homeownership dreams!

The Home Loan Process

Mortgage Pre-Approval

Get pre-approved from one of our Loan Officers to see how much you can afford.

House Shopping

Work with a trusted Real Estate Agent to find a home you would like to move into.

Loan Application

Complete your home loan application to get the lending process started.

Don't take my word for it

Reviews on Zillow

What our clients say about The Mortgage Store Co.

5.0 ★★★★★ Based on 12 reviews on Zillow
  • ★★★★★
    3/9/2021

    Best Around

    Mike Ruffalo is hands down the best there is around. My husband and I closed on our home at the end of October 2020 (late, but necessary review) Mike made our dream of being homeowners possible when no one else could. He is extremely professional and knowledgeable. We are incredibly …
    30 Year FixedFHA LoanLow Credit Score
    T
    The Kleine's from Lake Villa, IL
    Purchase · Closed Oct 2020
  • ★★★★★
    10/13/2018

    This guy might be a wizard

    Mike made our closing happen despite all odds. In the face of several challenges out of our control, Mike was able to keep our deal afloat and see it through to the end, and we are SO GRATEFUL to him. He went ABOVE AND BEYOND to make our dream home …
    30 Year FixedVA LoanFirst-Time Home Buyer
    R
    RLT from Chicago, IL
    Purchase · Closed Sep 2018
  • ★★★★★
    3/15/2018

    I never thought I would be a home owner

    Well I am a home owner. I honestly didn’t think I could do it. I didn’t have the greatest credit, in fact my score was really low. Mike Ruffalo was amazing at helping me understand what I could do to get my score up in order to buy a house. …
    30 Year FixedFHA LoanFirst-Time Home BuyerLow Credit Score
    N
    nicw from Marengo, IL
    Purchase · Closed Jul 2017
  • ★★★★★
    3/10/2018

    Great Experience

    Mike was knowledgeable, easy to contact, prompt, and kept us informed throughout the whole process. From pre-qualification to closing we were satisfied with the level of customer service and professionalism provided to us.
    30 Year FixedConventional LoanFirst-Time Home Buyer
    J
    Joey from Elk Grove Village, IL
    Purchase · Closed Feb 2018
  • ★★★★★
    9/20/2017

    If you are non perm resident alien (L1 / H1b etc..) this is the lander for you

    Michael help me find the right bank, explain the rates, help we with visa, transfers from foreign bank account, translating bank statements, low down payment, etc…

    probably things that will scare away other banks.

    Also his "cash needed to close the deal" was dead on, no surprises.
    30 Year FixedConventional LoanFirst-Time Home Buyer
    Y
    Yoav from Chicago, IL
    Purchase · Closed Aug 2017
  • ★★★★★
    7/25/2017

    Wonderful Lender to Work With

    Mike was so great to work with. He was always available for any and all questions, which me not knowing much, he was able to guide me through the process and kept me updated at every step. He got me a very low rate and made our closing last less …
    30 Year FixedConventional Loan
    U
    user2308310 from Palatine, IL
    Purchase · Closed Jul 2017
  • ★★★★★
    7/21/2017

    No Michael No Home!

    Michael took a very complicated situation (US citizen repatriated after 14 years overseas, no recent credit history, funds coming in from foreign sources, etc) and made it all super easy for me. Add the fact that I was traveling out of state most of the week and was home only …
    30 Year FixedConventional LoanFirst-Time Home BuyerLow Credit Score
    J
    Julia Kim from Glenview, IL
    Purchase · Closed Jun 2017
  • ★★★★★
    6/1/2017

    Michael Ruffalo

    Mike was a true professional that was always available for any and all questions. He guided me through the process and kept me updated at every step. He is an true asset to your company and I will contact Mike when any other needs arise.
    7-Year ARMConventional Loan
    T
    Thomas rose2 from Arlington Heights, IL
    Refinance · Closed Jul 2017
  • ★★★★★
    12/23/2016

    More than a loan officer

    I have now closed four loans with Mike and referred him to numerous friends who have also closed on loans with a great experience. He basically does everyone's job for them to avoid any possibility of clerical delays. I trust him implicitly and feel his only weakness is marketing himself. …
    30 Year FixedConventional Loan
    J
    joeandmichelleehler from Lockport, IL
    Refinance · Closed Dec 2016
  • ★★★★★
    4/30/2016

    He is the only mortgage guy that I know that has this type of financial understanding.

    The Mortgage Store and Mike Ruffalo were instrumental in buying our new home. Since we were buying before selling the condo we already owned, we needed a Jumbo loan that allowed us to only put ten percent down (80/10/10 loan). My best friend who works for a mortgage wholesaler (and …
    C
    cmccann17 from Highland Park, IL
    Purchase · Closed Apr 2016
  • ★★★★★
    4/29/2016

    He helped us buy our first house and continuously monitored our loan so we could …

    We have been working with Mike Ruffalo and The Mortgage Store for over a decade. He helped us buy our first house and continuously monitored our loan so we could take advantage of refinancing (several times) to save a substantial amount of money. Unlike others who are focused on the …
    U
    user5798234 from Glencoe, IL
    Purchase · Closed Apr 2016
  • ★★★★★
    4/29/2016

    We had a difficult situation to overcome from our prior short sale, but he helped …

    We have bought a few houses and working with Mike was the nicest and easiest process ever! We had a difficult situation to overcome from our prior short sale, but he helped us figure out the best option to buy a new house (a year earlier than we thought possible!) …
    R
    Russ Slovey from Villa Park, IL
    Purchase · Closed Apr 2016
Read all reviews on Zillow

Reviews are shown as written by clients on Zillow.

Mortgage Programs

Experience the best mortgage experience located in Downers Grove, IL

Home Loan Options

Our experienced mortgage advisors will walk you through the best mortgage loan program that will fit your specific scenario.

Conventional Home Loans.

FHA Home Loans.

USDA Home Loans.

VA Home Loans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often can I refinance my mortgage?

There is no limit to the number of times you can refinance. However, you must qualify every time you apply and there will be costs associated with closing the loan each time.

Can I buy a home if I do not have money for a down payment?

Yes! There are a number of bond programs that offer low or no down payment financing options.

How do I know which mortgage is right for me?

The key to choosing the right mortgage is to understand the range of options and features available to you, as well as your budget, circumstances, and goals. Our licensed mortgage professionals are here to help you navigate that process. The more you know, the more comfortable and confident you will be choosing the best option for you and your family.

How long will the loan process take?

The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) does not permit a lender to close a loan until at least seven (7) business days have passed from the date your application was received. A typical home loan takes 30 days, as a number of third-party services such as appraisals, title work, and credit are required in conjunction with the mortgage process. Once you familiarize your Loan Officer with the details of your specific loan scenario, they will be able to provide you with a more specific timeline.

Will I qualify for a home loan?

The only way to find out is to speak with a qualified mortgage professional. Our Loan Officers have helped numerous clients who didn’t know if they could qualify to become home owners. We take the time to understand your financial situation and long-term financial goals, and then match you with the loan program that best fits your needs. Your approval for a loan may also largely depend on the price of the home you are financing. Getting pre-qualified prior to beginning your home search can give you an idea of what you may be able to afford.

Why do people refinance their mortgages?

Homeowners typically refinance to save money, either by obtaining a lower interest rate or by reducing the term of their loan. Refinancing is also a way to convert an adjustable loan to a fixed loan or to consolidate debts.

How much money will I have to pay upfront to buy a home?

This question does not have a simple, one-size-fits-all answer. The exact amount will depend on the price of the home you buy as well the type of mortgage financing you choose. Depending on your loan program, your down payment could be as much as 20% of the home’s price or as little as 3%, while some loans require no down payment at all.

Can I get a mortgage after bankruptcy?

You may still qualify for a home loan even if you have experienced a bankruptcy. The best way to find out if you qualify is to talk with a Loan Officer to discuss your options. Be sure to bring all paperwork regarding your bankruptcy so your Loan Officer can find the program that best fits your situation.

Should I lock my interest rate now, or wait until we are closer to our closing?

Interest rates fluctuate all day, every day. If an interest rate is good, it may be in your best interest to lock now. If you wait, you run the risk of an increase in rates later. If you are concerned that rates may go down after you lock, contact your Loan Officer to discuss your options. Some programs allow you to lock for an extended period and choose to lower your rate should a better one become available.

Most Recent Blog Updates

Chicago Three Bedroom Rents Jumped 10 Percent and the Gap Between Renting and Buying Is Now Just 152 Dollars

Chicago Three Bedroom Rents Jumped 10 Percent and the Gap Between Renting and Buying Is Now Just 152 Dollars

Owning vs renting gap narrowed to $152 in Chicago. Mike Ruffalo explains why renter clients should act now. ...more

Mortgage

September 14, 2026•2 min read

Chicago's Central Area Plan 2045 Has 250 Policy Proposals and Here Is What It Means for Buyers Now

Chicago's Central Area Plan 2045 Has 250 Policy Proposals and Here Is What It Means for Buyers Now

New CTA stations, district growth, 20-year plan approved. Mike Ruffalo explains how to position buyers ahead of it. ...more

Mortgage

August 26, 2026•3 min read

Chicago Home Prices Are Rising Because Supply Can’t Keep Up

Chicago Home Prices Are Rising Because Supply Can’t Keep Up

Chicago home prices are rising as inventory falls and new construction lags demand. ...more

Mortgage

August 25, 2026•3 min read

New Yorkers Are Moving to Chicago More Than Anywhere Else and Here Is What That Means for the Market

New Yorkers Are Moving to Chicago More Than Anywhere Else and Here Is What That Means for the Market

Chicago tops 2026 migration rankings, prices up 5.6%. Mike Ruffalo explains why the Chicago narrative has changed. ...more

Mortgage

August 19, 2026•3 min read

A 600000 Dollar Budget Buys a Three Bedroom in Lincoln Park and a Studio in San Francisco Here Is Why

A 600000 Dollar Budget Buys a Three Bedroom in Lincoln Park and a Studio in San Francisco Here Is Why

Chicago median $420K vs SF $1.4M. Mike Ruffalo explains Chicago's massive value advantage for coastal buyers. ...more

Mortgage

August 18, 2026•3 min read

Chicago Office to Residential Conversions Are Expanding Fast and Here Is What It Means for Buyers Now

Chicago Office to Residential Conversions Are Expanding Fast and Here Is What It Means for Buyers Now

207 units at YMCA HQ, $16M loan on Ontario St. Mike Ruffalo explains what Chicago's conversion wave means now. ...more

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August 14, 2026•3 min read

Mortgage Calculator

See your total mortgage payments using the tool below.

16.67
%
%
years
$/year
%
$/year
$1,685.20
Your estimated monthly payment with PMI.
PMI:
$208.33
Monthly Tax Paid:
$200.00
Monthly Home Insurance:
$83.33
PMI End Date:
Dec 2027
Total PMI Payments:
27
Monthly Payment after PMI:
$1,476.87
🏠Mortgage Details
Loan Amount:
$250,000.00
Down Payment:
$50,000.00 (16.67%)
Total Interest Paid:
$179,673.77
Total PMI to :
$5,416.67
Total Tax Paid:
$72,000.00
Total Home Insurance:
$30,000.00
Total of 360 Payments:
$537,298.77
Loan pay-off date:
Sep 2055
⚖️Monthly Vs Bi-Weekly Payment
$1,476.87
Monthly Payment
Sep 2055
Pay-off Date
$179,673.77
Total Interest Paid
$738.44
Bi-weekly Payment
Aug 2051
Pay-off Date
$151,482.12
Total Interest Paid
Total Interest Savings: $28,191.64
Yearly Amortization Schedule
Year Interest Principal Balance
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Contact Us

(847) 805-1818

3808 Sterling Road Downers Grove, IL 60515

FL — Florida Mortgage Broker License - Florida License #MBR1858

IL — Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee#MB.0006392 – Regulator: Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Banking, Bureau of Residential Finance - 555 W Monroe Street,5th Floor, Chicago, IL 60661.General Inquiries: 1-888-473-4858 TYY: 1-866-325-4949.Website: www.idfpr.com. State of Illinois Community Reinvestment Notice - The Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (Department) evaluates our performance in meeting the financial services needs of this community, including the needs of low-income to moderate-income households. The Department takes this evaluation into account when deciding on certain applications submitted by us for approval by the Department. Your involvement is encouraged. You may obtain a copy of our evaluation. You may also submit signed, written comments about our performance in meeting community financial services needs to the Department. Regulator: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Division of Banking, Bureau of Residential Finance 555 W. Monroe Street, 5th Floor. Chicago, IL 60661 General Inquiries: 1-888-473-4858 TYY: 1-866-325-4949 Website:www.idfpr.com

Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Mike Ruffalo NMLS #230051 | The Mortgage Store Co NMLS #230046 | Equal Housing Opportunity | Equal Housing Lender