Our Story: Empowering Financial Independence in the DC-Baltimore Region

Your financial independence is our mission. We believe the world is a better place when people are more financially literate and empowered to make wise investment decisions. Quite simply, we help you build wealth so you can have the life you want.

YOUR FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE IS OUR MISSION.

We believe the world is a better place when people are more financially literate and empowered to make wise investment decisions. Quite simply, we help you build wealth so that you can have the life you want.

jumbo loan bethesda

THE RIGHT LOAN

Matching you with competitive rates tailored to your needs.

Mortgage Rates Change Over Time

THE BIG PICTURE

Seeing how your mortgage fits into long-term wealth building.

Financial Literacy Is Important

FINANCIAL LITERACY

Educating you in simple terms to build confidence.

Home equity is your childhood piggy bank!

START EARLY

Guiding first-time buyers and families toward generational wealth

John Downs, trusted mortgage advisor at Vellum Mortgage helping homebuyers across DC, Maryland, and Virginia

"I Was Always Good With Numbers. Now I'm Good With Futures"

"With over 25 years as a mortgage officer, I've closed more than $1.5 billion in loans and helped over 4,000 families—from first-time homebuyers to veterans, generals, and even senators—achieve homeownership in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas. I've navigated the Financial Crisis, shifted to regional banks, and helped form Vellum Mortgage in 2020 to make lending 10x better with cutting-edge tech and lean staffing, now closing $1.0 billion annually.

Rooted in Annapolis, MD, with a strong family focus and military emphasis, my passion is relating to people, teaching in common words, and building confidence for the next generation. The 2008 crisis taught me a hard lesson: Too often, the industry pushes loans that fit lenders, not clients. People in the DMV real estate market deserve better—honest counsel, streamlined processes, and mortgages that build long-term wealth, like financial independence or retirement security.

That's why I reinvented the process: In-depth counseling, 100% accurate applications, and ethical partnerships with local agents. We're not about rates and points; we're about unlocking futures through smart DC mortgage loans, Maryland home financing, and Virginia home loans.

Most people work toward a home—I want your home to work for you."

Our Dedicated Team: Sharing the Same Vision

"As my business grew, I brought on a small, tight-knit team who live and breathe the same values I do—truly caring about people, providing honest counsel, and focusing on long-term financial success in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas.

JoshBrawerHeadshot_Circle

Josh Brawer is my business partner and fellow Mortgage Advisor. We speak the same language, share the same core beliefs, and approach every client with genuine empathy. Many of our clients say they can't even tell the difference between us because we give the same thoughtful advice, whether it's navigating complex VA loans in Virginia or first-time buyer options in Annapolis. Learn more about Josh.

Vicki Wilkerson is the pre-underwriting specialist for The Downs Mortgage Group at Vellum Mortgage.

Then there's Vicki Wilkerson, our application-to-closing specialist. She's a guideline expert and document perfectionist who works seamlessly with underwriting and closing departments to make sure every loan closes effortlessly and on time—no stress, no surprises. Her attention to detail ensures our clients in the DMV real estate market get the smooth experience they deserve. Learn more about Vicki.

Together, we're not just a team—we're your partners in building a brighter financial future."

What Our Clients Say

Shannon M.

Washington, DC Purchase

Our financial advisor recommended Josh and Vellum Mortgage to us, and we could not be happier with our decision! Throughout the home buying process, Josh and his team were phenomenal. They're available to answer questions at any time and are clear with their answers to those questions.

Jessica M.

Vienna, VA Home Purchase

I could not speak more highly of John Downs and his team over at Vellum Mortgage. This is our third transaction with John's team (2 purchase loans and 1 refinance), and they have exceeded our expectations every time. John is responsive, hard working, transparent, strategic and highly knowledgeable.

Rebecca G.

Rockville, MD Home Purchase

I would say that the team is very responsive, transparent, and supportive throughout the entire process. I felt well informed by the time I purchased a home, and I didn’t feel like I was being pushed to make a decision that wasn’t in my best interest.

Jeanne V.

Alexandria, VA Home Purchase

John was exceptional at explaining things and was very on the ball. I would (and will) highly recommend him to anyone looking to buy a house.

Pat H.

Washington, DC Purchase

I had a great experience with John and his team at Vellum Mortgage. They offered the best rate I could find and were incredibly responsible and flexible during the process. I highly recommend working with this team.

Michael K.

Washington, DC Purchase

John and his team offer terrific, timely service and advice. They helped us close in record time, offered us multiple options along the way, and shepherded us through myriad underwriter requests. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a mortgage!

Not the Same Old Spammy Newsletter

We hate dumb newsletters, which is why we refuse to send one to you. Instead, how about getting a tasty financial snack in your email? Smart, useful, funny, and mercifully short, our monthly tidbits help you become financially independent.