Jason LaBelle
VP of Mortgage Lending
Email: Jason(dotted)LaBelle(at)grarate(dotted)com
Phone: 773.858.5706
NMLS # 213743
Jason is a client-focused loan officer who helps borrowers navigate the homebuying process with clarity and confidence. By listening carefully to each client’s goals, he provides practical guidance and tailored solutions that lead to successful outcomes.
Known for being personable, honest, and highly responsive, Jason has built a strong track record of repeat business and referrals from past clients, financial planners, and real estate professionals. His clear, consistent communication helps ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved.
With more than 20 years in the mortgage industry, Jason has worked with first-time buyers, repeat homeowners, and experienced investors. He offers access to a wide range of loan products – including renovation financing – allowing him to tailor solutions to meet nearly any homebuyer’s needs.
A long-time Chicago-area resident, Jason lives in Glencoe with his wife, son, and their Bernedoodle. He holds a BA from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Emory University. Active in the community, he has served on alumni and nonprofit boards and currently sits on multiple committees for the Winnetka Northfield Glencoe Chamber of Commerce. Outside of work, Jason enjoys live music, reading, theater, travel, paddle tennis, biking, and tackling projects around the house – including mowing his own lawn.
Mortgage tools at your fingertips
Apply for your pre-approval in minutes and have all your mortgage tools in one place
Click to apply from anywhere
Calculate the estimated cost of your mortgage payments
Scan and send loan documents with ease and security
Check your loan status and take the mystery out of the process
Direct access to your loan officer
Why choose Guaranteed Rate Affinity?
Personalized service throughout the loan process
Part of Rate Inc. Family – The 2nd largest retail lender in the country
Industry leading tech – including our Digital Mortgage and FlashClose platforms – streamline the loan process
We originate and fund all of our own transactions
97% Customer Satisfaction Rate, with an NPS score in the high 90%
Which Loan Is Right For You?
Conventional Loans
A conventional mortgage loan is offered by private lenders like mortgage companies, banks, and credit unions. They follow the lending rules set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. For 2026, conventional loans up to $836,750 are considered Conforming Loans. A Conventional mortgage is not backed by the federal government.
Jumbo Loans
Also in the conventional loan category, a loan amount in excess of $836,750 is considered a Jumbo or non-conforming loan. These loans might have more stringent down payment and documentation requirements compared to conforming loan amounts. These are not backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac or the Federal government.
Government Loans
- FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration and might be a good option for those with a low down payment, lower credit score, or past credit delinquencies such as bankruptcy or foreclosure. FHA loans come have monthly mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) which is an extra cost that remains for the loan’s lifetime unless refinanced. They also have upfront mortgage insurance that can be rolled into the loan amount.
- VA loans are backed by the US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) and are only available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses. These offer as little as 0 down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance, though, they do come with an upfront funding fee that can be rolled into the loan amount.
- USDA loans are available for low to middle income homebuyers in certain rural areas. These loans also might not require a down payment.
Non-QM Loans
A non-QM loan is a type of mortgage loan that does not meet the criteria for a qualified mortgage (QM) as set forth by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Non-QM loans are not subject to the same standards and regulations as qualified loans. Some examples of Non-QM Loans include Debt Service Coverage Ration (DSCR) loans, Bank Statement Loans, and Asset Related Loans.
Renovation Loans
Renovation loans allow a borrower to finance a property in less than ideal condition and build the cost of renovations into the loan amount, thereby making the improvements immediately following the closing. Renovation loans can be done via FHA, VA, and Conventional Loans
