Joel Smith, Director of Mortgage Lending
Joel Smith
Joel Smith is the Director of Mortgage Lending, leading the mortgage team while helping clients navigate the home financing process with confidence. He brings 18 years of banking experience, including 14 years focused on mortgage lending across both operations and production, along with a background in finance.
Joel enjoys helping customers reach their goals—whether it’s buying a home, building new, or refinancing to improve cash flow or leverage equity. His approach is simple: understand what matters most to each client and find the best path forward. Known for being a strong problem solver, he excels at simplifying even the more complex aspects of lending to create a smooth, straightforward experience.
Outside of work, Joel has called Bellingham home for 18 years and takes full advantage of everything Whatcom County has to offer. He spends as much time as possible playing and coaching soccer, and enjoys traveling with his wife and their four young kids.
Request a Custom Quote from Joel
Mortgage rates as low as:
6.336%
APR
30-year Fixed Rate Purchase
6.091%
APR
15-year Fixed Rate Refinance
6.146%
APR
30-year VA Purchase
6.174%
APR
30-year USDA Fixed Rate Purchase
Start Your Loan Application Online
Apply for preapproval, purchase, refinance, or construction loans.
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Documentation Checklist
- Proof of identity: Driver's license or other government-issued photo ID, SSN, signature
- Proof of Income: W-2 wage statements from past two years
- Proof of asset: Bank statements and/or investment account statements
- Employment verification: Pay stubs or business statements for self-employment
- Credit report will be pulled during the application based on ID provided
Purchase: Conforming Loan Rates
| Loan Term | Interest Rate | APR | Discount Points | Ex: Loan Amount | Ex: Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30-year Fixed Rate Purchase | 6.250% | 6.336% | 0.250 | $450,000.00 | $2770.73 |
| 15-year Fixed Rate Purchase | 5.875% | 5.994% | 0.125 | $450,000.00 | $3767.03 |
Interest Rates Effective: 06/25/2026
Refinance: Rate-and-Term Refi Rates
| Loan Term | Interest Rate | APR | Discount Points | Ex: Loan Amount | Ex: Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30-year Fixed Rate Refinance | 6.375% | 6.450% | 0.125 | $450,000.00 | $2807.41 |
| 15-year Fixed Rate Refinance | 5.990% | 6.091% | 0.000 | $450,000.00 | $3794.92 |
Interest Rates Effective: 06/25/2026
VA Home Loan: Purchase
| Loan Term | Interest Rate | APR | Discount Points | Ex: Loan Amount | Ex: Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30-year VA Purchase | 5.875% | 6.146% | 0.250 | $510,750.00 | $3021.28 |
Interest Rates Effective: 06/25/2026
Rates listed are for primary residence in single family home with a 0% down payment and borrower credit score of 780. Annual Percentage Rate (APR) represents the true yearly cost of your loan, including any fees or costs in addition to the actual interest you pay to the lender. Example monthly payments include principal, interest and financing of the VA Funding Fee. Actual fee amount may vary based on loan type and borrower eligibility. Actual payments may be higher if they include taxes and insurance. Rate, terms and fees are subject to change without notice. Subject to credit approval. Ask us about additional available loan programs.