Yanis Gelfman brings clarity, speed, and genuine personal attention to every mortgage in New York — because buying a home shouldn't feel like navigating a maze.
Yanis Gelfman founded Family First Mortgage with one conviction: the people who lend your money should care about your future as much as you do. In a city where transactions feel impersonal, he built a practice around the opposite — knowing your name, your timeline, and what keeps you up at night.
Based on Third Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, Yanis guides first-time buyers, move-up families, and experienced investors through every step — from pre-approval to closing. No pressure. No hidden fees. Just honest advice from someone who treats your home purchase like it's their own family's.
100%
Client-focused approach
NMLS
1147784 — fully licensed
Services
Every loan path, mapped out clearly.
Whether you're stepping onto the ladder for the first time or expanding your portfolio, Family First Mortgage offers the full spectrum of residential lending — tailored to your situation.
First-Time Homebuyers
The journey to your first home deserves a guide who explains each step in plain language — from pre-approval strategies to closing day. Yanis makes the process feel achievable, not intimidating.
FHA, Conventional & VA loans
Down payment assistance programs
Personalized rate comparisons
Refinancing
Lower your rate, shorten your term, or cash out equity — refinancing can reshape your financial picture. Yanis runs the numbers honestly so you know exactly what you gain before you commit.
Rate & term refinances
Cash-out refinances
Break-even analysis
Investment Properties
Building a rental portfolio or buying your next income property requires a lender who understands investment structures. Yanis navigates the complexities so your numbers work before you sign.
Multi-family financing
DSCR & non-QM options
Portfolio strategy guidance
Jumbo Loans
New York's luxury market demands a lender who understands conforming limits and jumbo requirements. Yanis delivers competitive terms on high-balance loans with the same personal attention.
High-balance conforming
Non-warrantable condos
Portfolio lending relationships
Construction & Renovation
From ground-up builds to major remodels, construction lending requires a lender who understands draw schedules, inspections, and timeline risk. Yanis coordinates with your builder from day one.
Renovation FHA 203(k) loans
Construction-to-permanent
Renovation financing
Personal Consultation
Not sure where to start? Book a no-obligation conversation with Yanis. He'll review your financial picture, explain your options, and give you an honest assessment — no sales pitch.
A smooth closing starts with a clear process. Yanis walks you through each phase — explaining what documents you'll need, what to expect, and when — so there are never surprises.
1
Initial Consultation
Call or message Yanis to discuss your goals. He'll ask the right questions and outline which loan products fit your situation — no commitment required.
2
Pre-Approval
Submit your financial documents and Yanis processes your pre-approval quickly — often within 24-48 hours — so you can make offers with confidence.
3
Rate Lock & Processing
Once you find a home, Yanis locks your rate and manages the underwriting process — coordinating with your agent, title company, and appraiser along the way.
4
Closing Day
Review your Closing Disclosure, sign the final paperwork, and get your keys. Yanis is available until the very end to answer any last questions.
"The best feeling in the world."
Why Family First
What happens when a lender treats you like family?
Speed Without Sloppiness
In New York's competitive market, speed matters. Yanis processes applications fast — but never at the cost of accuracy. Every detail is double-checked before it goes to underwriting.
No Hidden Fees, No Surprises
Every cost is disclosed upfront. You'll know your closing costs before you sign, and Yanis flags any potential issues long before they become problems.
You Talk to Yanis, Not a Call Center
Your loan officer is your point of contact from start to finish. No scripts, no transfers, no "let me get back to you." Just direct communication with someone who knows your file.
Deep New York Market Knowledge
NYC lending has unique quirks — co-op rules, condo certifications, high-balance conforming limits. Yanis knows the landscape and finds solutions that generic lenders miss.
Competitive Rates, Vetted Lenders
Yanis shops multiple wholesale and retail channels to find your best rate. He doesn't just accept the first offer — he negotiates and compares until you're getting real value.
Family-First Philosophy
This isn't just a tagline — it's how Yanis runs his business. He turns down loans he thinks aren't right for you, suggests alternatives, and celebrates your wins like they're his own.
Get in Touch
Ready to talk about your home?
Whether you have a specific question or just want to explore your options, Yanis is happy to hear from you. Reach out by phone, email, or stop by the office — there's no pressure, just a conversation.
