First-Time Home Buyer Tips: Expert Advice from Lauren Zambelli Davis

by Kim Faines

Building Dreams One Home at a Time: The Inspiring Story of Lauren Zambelli Davis

When it comes to making dreams come true through homeownership, few people are as passionate or dedicated as Lauren Zambelli Davis. A seasoned mortgage banker at Cliffco Mortgage based in Uniondale, New York, Lauren has spent over 13 years helping families navigate one of life’s biggest milestones—buying a home.

From Teacher Aspirations to Mortgage Mastery

Lauren’s journey into the world of mortgages was anything but conventional. Originally pursuing a career in teaching, she quickly realized her true calling lay elsewhere. Joining her family business—a team of loan officers including her mom and sister—Lauren discovered her knack for guiding clients through the complexities of securing a mortgage.

A Personal Touch That Sets Her Apart

What makes Lauren stand out? It’s her unwavering commitment to her clients’ success. “I genuinely care about my clients,” she says passionately during her interview on The Dream is Real Podcast. “This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about helping families build generational wealth.”

Educating First-Time Home Buyers

For first-time buyers nervous about taking the plunge into real estate, Lauren is their biggest cheerleader—and educator. She emphasizes that buying a house doesn’t require perfection; instead, it requires preparation.

“Many people think they need perfect credit or 20% down,” she explains. “That’s simply not true.” With access to programs like down payment assistance and tailored solutions like FHA loans or VA loans, Lauren ensures every client gets personalized advice suited to their situation.

Breaking Down Misconceptions

Lauren also debunks common myths around mortgages:

You need 20% down: False! Many buyers qualify with as little as 3%.
Credit scores are everything: Not entirely true; debt-to-income ratio plays an equally important role.
VA loans are always best: While great for some veterans, conventional loans may offer better rates depending on individual circumstances.

Innovating with Technology

At Cliffco Mortgage, innovation meets tradition. From mobile apps that track loan progress to e-signatures that simplify paperwork, technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing client experiences.

Balancing Work & Family

Beyond mortgages, Lauren wears many hats—including mom! As founder of Mamas and Minis of Long Island, she supports thousands of local mothers through events and resources.