Planet Home Lending Opens Eastern Pa. Branch

Planet Home Lending, a national mortgage lender and servicer, said Thursday it is opening a new branch office in Lehigh Valley, Pa., as part of its continued expansion across the U.S.

The new office will be led by two Bethlehem natives: Retail Branch Manager Christopher Lewis and Retail Branch Manager Nick DeJesus, and by Sales Manager Andrew Keller. The three are known for their high energy and relationship-based business model, the company said.

"Planet's efficiencies allow us to deliver what first-time homebuyers expect in the Lehigh Valley market," DeJesus said. 

Home sellers and new home builders can use Planet's rate buydowns to help make home purchases more affordable. The company also offers down payment and closing costs assistance nationwide to make it easier to buy a home.

"Full of historic charm, the Greater Lehigh Valley area has long been a draw for people because of its convenient location between New York City and Philadelphia, and this continues to be true," said Michael Dubeck, CEO and president of Planet Financial Group, parent of Planet Home Lending. "Lehigh County has seen home prices appreciate, posting gains of 14% in October, according to Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors' data. Planet Home Lending is equipped with the resources to help homebuyers and homeowners in this desirable market."

The latest branch opening solidifies Planet's strong presence in direct retail lending. The company recently released its third-quarter earnings, which showed a 14.1% increase in home loan volume from the previous quarter, despite the down market.

Part of Planet's success can be attributed to its numerous offerings designed specifically to help homebuyers and homeowners achieve their goals, Lewis said. "We were drawn to Planet by the company's great rates, on-time closing guarantee, and innovative technology," he said.

Planet Financial Group LLC is based in Meriden, Conn. It is a fully integrated family of companies delivering origination, servicing, and asset management services. PFG is the parent of Planet Home Lending LLC and Planet Management Group LLC, which also does business under the name Planet Renovation Capital.