Contact Mike
Direct line: (480) 296-6513 · Email: mcerto@cfmtg.com
Three ways to reach me
1. Call directly
(480) 296-6513 — that's my direct line, not a call center. Mon-Fri 8am-6pm California time. Voicemail goes to my phone; I return calls within one business day, usually faster.
2. Email
mcerto@cfmtg.com — for non-urgent questions or if you'd rather start in writing. Same one-business-day response.
3. Submit the form below
Fast intake form. I'll review and reach back out via your preferred method.
What to include when you reach out
Whichever method, it helps if you can share: - Your veteran status (active-duty, vet, reservist, surviving spouse) - Rough timeline (buying now, in 3-6 months, just exploring) - Where in CA you're considering - Approximate price range (rough is fine; can be a wide range) - Anything specific about your situation (disability rating, prior VA use, credit concerns, PCS dates, etc.)
If you don't have all of that, no problem — we'll work through it on the call.
Contact form
Branch information
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Loan officer | Mike Certo |
| Mike's NMLS | #260555 |
| Branch | Cornerstone First Mortgage |
| Cornerstone NMLS | #173855 |
| Service area | All of California |
| Licensing | California-licensed |
| Office hours | Mon-Fri 8am-6pm CA time |
| Equal Housing Lender | Yes |
Frequently asked questions about reaching Mike
How quickly does Mike actually respond?
Within one business day. Most calls/emails get a response within 2-4 hours during business hours.
Can I work with Mike remotely if I'm out of state?
Yes — most VA buyers shopping CA are out-of-state arriving via PCS or relocation. Mike's branch closes loans for vets in every state. Documentation is done electronically; the only CA-physical requirement is the closing notary (handled by the title company at a location convenient to you).
Is Mike licensed in other states besides California?
Mike's NMLS is licensed for California origination. For other states, Cornerstone First Mortgage may have other loan officers who can assist.
Are initial conversations actually free?
Yes. Mike does not charge for initial consultations, pre-qualification, or general questions about VA loans. Costs only come in if/when you formally apply for a loan.
What if I'm just at the "exploring" stage and not ready to buy?
Perfectly fine — Mike works with veterans 12-18 months out from buying, especially through the CA VA Credit Tune-Up free coaching service.