Rick

My mortgage journey started in 2006, and since then, I’ve developed a passion for helping people find solutions as a master problem solver. It brings me complete joy to help families achieve the American dream of becoming homeowners, building wealth, and leaving a legacy.

I am a California native and have lived in Oregon for almost 30 years. I’m a proud girl dad, father to three princesses, and I have two grandkids. I have fallen in love with the Pacific Northwest and consider this my forever home.

I love to travel, listen to music, and vibe out to old-school R&B and reggaeton! When business permits, I try to travel at least once a quarter. My favorite destinations include Florence, Italy; Cancun, Mexico; and San Diego, California.



I focus on eating healthy, whole foods as a non-meat-eating pescatarian. I love to meditate and go to the gym every day. Family is everything to me. As the firstborn son with several younger siblings, I’ve always valued those close relationships.

Jason

I have been a loan officer at Mortgage Express since April 2022, helping individuals and families navigate the home loan process. The most rewarding part of my job is guiding clients toward homeownership and making their dreams a reality. However, one of the toughest moments is having to tell a family they don’t yet qualify for a home—it’s never easy, but I do my best to provide a path forward.



Outside of work, I’ve recently taken up golf and am still very much a beginner, but I enjoy the challenge, and the time spent with family and friends on the course. My favorite travel experiences are my trips to Mexico to visit family, where I gain perspective and a renewed sense of gratitude. When it comes to favorites, nothing beats a plate of chilaquiles, and my Rottweiler holds a special place in my heart.

Kayla

Loan Officer Assistant to Rick

I have been a loan processor with Mortgage Express since September 2021, and I must say, this is one of the best jobs I’ve ever had. It’s so exciting to witness someone become a first-time homebuyer! There’s a unique sense of joy that comes from seeing them achieve such a significant milestone and begin a new chapter in their lives.

The challenging part of my job is dealing with tight deadlines. There are often multiple parties involved—lenders, underwriters, appraisers, and realtors—and staying in sync with everyone while pushing things forward can be quite a balancing act. However, no achievement can be accomplished without teamwork!



For fun, I enjoy fishing, camping, hunting, and hiking. I love the opportunity nature gives you to disconnect and connect all at the same time. My favorite trip was a three-night, 20-mile hike in the Trinity Alps with my family. The beauty of that trip was truly intense! As for food, my favorite is sushi—there are so many delicious varieties to choose from!

Keja

Loan Processor

I have been processing loans for Mortgage Express since 2020, but I have worked in many different roles within the mortgage industry for over 20 years. The loan process can be very fast-paced and stressful at times, but it all feels worth it when a loan closes, and you know you’ve helped someone improve their financial situation or helped a family realize their dream of homeownership. Those are the times when you feel like you’re really making a difference in people’s lives.



My biggest passions are music and traveling. I love to experience other cultures (and their food)! I took a break from the mortgage industry in my 30s and lived in Southeast Asia for four years, teaching English to primary school children in Vietnam and managing a backpacker resort in Thailand. It was an unforgettable, life-changing experience!

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my friends, watching live music as often as I can, and staying active by playing softball in a local co-ed rec league.

Why Choose Rick Valdez?

Rick has been helping homeowners in Arizona, California, Washington, Idaho, and Oregon since 2007!

Down payment assistance programs

Jumbo loans

ITIN and DACA recipient financing

All emails responded to within 24 hours

FREE refinancing quotes within 24 hours

FREE homebuying consultations

FREE homebuying consultations

Helping families since 2007

Spanish-speaking available

Top 100 Latino mortgage loan originator recipient