WHY EX BANKER MIKE
Big-bank experience. Modern lending options. Straight answers.
Most borrowers only see the outside of the lending process. My career was built inside the banks, working closely with financial advisors, business bankers, tellers, associates, branch managers, and clients navigating real financing decisions.
That experience helps me explain why a bank may say no, what documentation matters, and which loan paths may be worth reviewing based on your goals.
Career foundation
Major bank background
Experience across Chase, Bank of America, Citibank, and Wells Fargo.
Branch-based lending
Worked inside branches with advisors, bankers, tellers, associates, and managers.
Complex borrower perspective
Focused on income, assets, credit, property type, and the details that can affect approval.
Now powered by loanDepot
Helping clients explore available financing options through loanDepot.
Who I work with
I work with clients and referral partners who want a thoughtful scenario review, clear communication, and a professional who can explain options in plain English.
Homebuyers
Primary residence, first-time buyer, jumbo, FHA, VA, USDA, down payment assistance, and grant-related scenarios.
Homeowners
Refinance, cash-out, HELOC, home equity, debt consolidation, renovation, and construction financing conversations.
Self-employed clients
Business owners, 1099 income, bank statement options, W-2 plus bonus income, RSU income, and Non-QM scenarios.
Investors & commercial clients
DSCR, rental properties, mixed-use, commercial real estate, and portfolio lending discussions.
Specialty program clients
Doctor loans, reverse mortgages, jumbo, Non-QM, and other specialized financing paths.
Referral partners
Realtors, builders, CPAs, financial advisors, and attorneys who need responsive communication and scenario review.
How I work
Listen first
We start with your goal, property, income, timeline, and any prior lender feedback.
Review the scenario
I help identify which program paths may be worth exploring based on available information.
Explain options clearly
You get plain-English guidance before moving forward with any application steps.
Move with purpose
If there is a fit, we work through next steps, documentation, and timing.
Common questions
Why did you build the Ex Banker Mike brand?
The brand reflects my background inside major banks and my focus on helping clients understand their financing options before giving up after one lender says no.
Do you guarantee approvals?
No. All loans are subject to credit, income, property, program, and underwriting approval. My role is to help clients explore available options and understand potential paths.
Do you only work with California clients?
The website is built around direct support and a nationwide referral network, subject to licensing, program availability, and loanDepot guidelines.
What makes your background different?
I spent 24 years working inside major banks and branch environments, which gives me a practical view of how banks think, why they decline loans, and what alternative options may be worth reviewing.
READY FOR A SECOND LOOK?
Request a scenario review.
Share a few details and request a call. Do not include sensitive personal information beyond what is requested.
Michael Ciglar
NMLS #240274
925-998-5478
MCiglar@loandepot.com