About Matt Kennedy
Helping homebuyers in Illinois buy homes with confidence and without the stress. Hi, I'm Matt Kennedy, a mortgage loan officer based in the North Shore suburbs of Chicago, helping clients navigate the home financing process with clarity and confidence. Being in the business for 16 years, I specialize in working with a broad mix of buyers and homeowners, from first timers, to investors, veterans, and even business owners. I help customers throughout Illinois, including those in Glenview, Northbrook, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, and Chicago, all the way up to the Wisconsin border. I offer tailored loan solutions and a smooth, transparent experience from start to finish. Whether you're: - Buying your first home - Exploring refinancing options - Looking into programs like conventional loans, jumbo loans, Non-QM, FHA, and VA I'll walk you through your options and help you choose the right strategy—not just the easiest one. What sets me apart: - Clear, honest communication—no surprises - Fast, reliable pre-approvals to help you win offers - A hands-on, local approach backed by top-tier technology - A focus on education so you feel confident every step of the way Our team uses the motto SECA (speed, execution, certainty, and accountability). We try to provide certainty upfront to provide comfort that they can get the transaction accomplished. Once under contract, we execute the plan with speed and provide accountability throughout the process. Do you need 20% down to buy a home? No—many buyers qualify with as little as 3–5% down depending on the loan program. What credit score do you need? It varies, but there are options available even if your credit isn't perfect. How much home can you afford? That depends on your income, debt, and goals—I'll help you break it down clearly. One thing about me that stands out is my availability. When a lot of loan officers aren't picking up the phone, I am. I'm not afraid to stay involved with the process to ensure things get done properly. I also don't hide when there are problems. I make the difficult calls when a lot of loan officers would hide. I've helped thousands of clients throughout secure financing for homes, and I'm proud to be a trusted resource for both buyers and local real estate agents. Clients like to praise my fast response, knowledge, communication, and calming demeanor during the loan process. Check out my client reviews, though, to see what it's like to really work together. I have proudly qualified multiple times for President's Club at Guaranteed Rate Affinity after being a top producer. When I'm not helping clients, you'll find me married to a loving wife with two boys. I'm an avid golfer and Chicago sports fan- go Cubs, Bears, and Bulls! I also graduated from Michigan State University. I believe this business is about relationships—and being someone people can rely on long after closing. If you're thinking about buying, refinancing, or just want to explore your options, let's connect.
We can make it happen!
Down payment assistance
Overcoming the obstacle of a down payment is possible with grants and programs available from federal and local governments for homeownership.
Low down payment loans
As the initial home investment, we offer VA loans, FHA loans, and USDA loans which have 0-10% down payment requirements.
Veteran loans
Military service members and their families are in the unique position to build equity through real estate at a lower cost than typical homebuyers.
Bank Statement loans
Self-employed? Our Bank Statement Loan program allows self-employed borrowers to seek a home loan without tax returns, W2s or pay stubs.
Jumbo loans
You may consider this type if you plan to purchase a larger property or luxury home in high-end real estate markets.
Lock in your rate
Lock ‘N’ Roll: Lock in a mortgage rate for 60, 75, or 90 days without a signed contract. Secure a lower rate while house shopping with this program.
Accelerated timelines
Our Same-Day program facilitates you to get your loan approved in one day with options as little as 3% down.
Physician loans
Physician homes loan, can be an affordable option for medical professionals. Our program includes paid mortgage insurance and as little as 5% down.
Foreign National loans
Not a US Citizen? Foreign National loans are available without a social security number, green card, or visa and do not require a FICO score.
Mortgage Calculator
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*This is not a commitment to lend. Consumers are advised to obtain a Loan Estimate. Rates are subject to change and are dependent on credit and underwriting criteria.
Your actual rate, payment and costs could be higher. Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC cannot predict where rates will be in the future. Sample rate provided for illustration purposes only and is not intended to provide mortgage or other financial advice specific to the circumstances of any individual and should not be relied upon in that regard. Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Restrictions may apply, contact Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC for current rates and for more information. All information provided in this publication is for informational and educational purposes only, and in no way is any of the content contained herein to be construed as financial, investment,or legal advice or instruction. Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC does not guarantee the quality, accuracy, completeness or timelines of the information in this publication. While efforts are made to verify the information provided, the information should not be assumed to be error free. Some information in the publication may have been provided by third parties and has not necessarily been verified by Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC. Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC its affiliates and subsidiaries do not assume any liability for the information contained herein, be it direct, indirect, consequential, special, or exemplary, or other damages whatsoever and howsoever caused, arising out of or in connection with the use of this publication or in reliance on the information, including any personal or pecuniary loss, whether the action is in contract, tort (including negligence) or other tortious action. Sample rate provided for illustration purposes only and is not intended to provide mortgage or other financial advice specific to the circumstances of any individual and should not be relied upon in that regard.
Located at 1800 W Larchmont Ave, Chicago IL, 60613