About Us

Eshl team cali

Who is Equity Smart Home Loans?


Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Pasadena, California, Equity Smart Home Loans is a leading mortgage company licensed in 10 states and committed to helping people build wealth through homeownership. For over 20 years, we’ve helped families and investors secure the right financing to strengthen their future. We believe every client deserves personalized guidance, honest advice, and a loan strategy built around their goals.

Loans by Monica, powered by Equity Smart Home Loans, proudly serves Lauderhill and the surrounding South Florida communities with local expertise, transparency, and care. We’re more than mortgage professionals, we’re long-term partners in your journey. Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or exploring new opportunities, our team is here to guide you with clarity, confidence, and a truly customized experience.

Your goals matter here. And we’re honored to help you reach them.
Contact Us
F8bda992 7d72 4d59 9a18 ba0b1f23ca87

Meet Me


Monica B. Ochoa is a bilingual mortgage loan officer, web designer, and lifelong entrepreneur with a passion for helping clients build stability, wealth, and confidence through smart financial decisions. She holds a B.A. in Computer Science from Keiser University and brings over 14 years of experience as a business owner, along with a strong background in negotiations, collections, and financial advising.

Monica is known for her honest guidance, problem-solving mindset, and commitment to educating clients throughout the mortgage process. Her goal is simple: to create clients for life, not just close transactions. She is also a licensed esthetician, nail tech, and makeup artist, blending creativity with business in everything she does.

She is one of the founding members of the BNI Visionaries Chapter and an active member of Mujeres Latinas Unidas. Outside of work, Monica enjoys yoga, meditation, and skincare.
Book a FREE Consultation

Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
 


What is the difference between a mortgage lender and a mortgage broker?
A mortgage lender is a financial institution that directly provides home loans. A mortgage broker, on the other hand, acts as an intermediary between borrowers and multiple lenders, helping clients find the best mortgage terms and rates from a variety of lenders.
 

Why should I work with a mortgage broker instead of going directly to a lender?
Mortgage brokers offer several advantages, including access to a wide range of lenders and mortgage products, which can result in better loan terms and rates. They also provide personalized guidance, simplifying the complex mortgage process and saving you time and effort.
 

How do mortgage brokers get compensated?
Mortgage brokers are typically compensated through lender-paid commissions or borrower-paid fees, or a combination of both. These fees are disclosed upfront, ensuring transparency in the process. Brokers have a legal obligation to act in the best interests of their clients.
 

What factors affect mortgage eligibility and interest rates?
Mortgage eligibility and rates are influenced by factors such as credit score, income, employment history, debt-to-income ratio, down payment amount, and the type of mortgage product. Your mortgage broker will help you understand how these factors impact your specific situation.
 

How long does the mortgage approval process take?
The mortgage approval timeline can vary depending on factors like the complexity of the application, the lender's processing times, and the responsiveness of all parties involved. On average, the process typically takes 30 to 45 days from application to closing. Your mortgage broker will work to expedite the process whenever possible.
 

Talk to Our Mortgage Experts

Ready to make your homeownership dreams a reality? Contact Loans by Monica/Equity Smart Home Loans today to schedule a free consultation.
Get Started