I’ve been helping people navigate the mortgage world since 2004, and I’ve built my business on simple principles: treat people with respect, be honest, pay attention to the details, and always be available when someone needs help. Most of my clients come from referrals, which means a lot to me—it tells me I’m taking care of people the right way.
I’m a big believer in clear communication and making sure my clients never feel left in the dark. If you need me, you can reach me. I answer my phone, I respond quickly, and I make it a priority to be accessible because the mortgage process is stressful enough without wondering whether your loan officer is going to call you back.
My goal is to make the loan process as simple and stress free as possible. I walk you through each step, explain things in plain language, and make sure you feel confident from start to finish. Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or exploring your options, I’m here to guide you with care, transparency, and a steady hand.
350 Houbolt Rd., Unit 206
Joliet, IL 60431
Branch License Number #2313902
Why work with me?
5.0/5 Rating
174 reviews
Real clients. Real results.
John made the mortgage process so simple and smooth. I really appreciated his quick responses to my questions. I'd definitely recommend him and the Preferred Rate team!
Kristen N
This is now my third mortgage I did with John and has team. They are amazing in every aspect. Dorothy does a great job and has great communication with you throughout the whole process and makes the whole process really easy. I will only work with John and his team
Brent
Great lender, very helpful and always explains everything. Can always get a hold of him, would use again.
Seth P
John and Dorothy were very professional and easy to work with.I definitely recommend them. They answer our questions promptly and made the loan process go smoothly.
Susan
John and his team were excellent. They handled all of our needs with our new home purchase. Everything was smooth and easy and we were able to close without any issues! Could not be happier with their service, professionalism and attention to detail. Highly recommend!
Amanda T
Great service and fast closing with John and Dorothy! Highly recommend!!!
Christina R
John and Dorothy were great to work with, very nice and professional. All around best experience ever will use for all my mortgage services!! John and Dorothy are the BEST!
christina r
If you need a lender that will go that extra mile and do all possible to get you to that closing John Ruiz is the one!!
Carol S
Well done and thank you SO very much! My situation and a tight timeline was tricky and John met the deadline. That truly speaks to how well your office is run and the caliber of specialists who handled the processing of my entire loan!”John and Dorothy and the entire team are the best.
Carol B
John and his crew were really professionally experienced and knowledgeable. Very professional in all aspects. My wife and I highly recommend him for all your needs. What a great experience, thank you
Edmundo F
John will go out of his way to help his customers. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs a mortgage lender.
Pedro M
I absolutely loved working with John and his team. They quickly got me and my husband approved for a home loan. John was amazing and paired us with the best realtor and we were able to find our dream home super fast.
Liz S
John was extremely helpful throughout the process. His team was amazing to work with. Everyone was very hands on and knowledgeable. John communicated with me very well and went above and beyond to make sure I had the best rates possible.
Kerris N
John and his team was very informative and supportive throughout my entire home purchasing journey. John gave prompt updates and commucated both verbally and electronically. I was a 1st time buyer and he and his team showed patience in answering my questions and theye gained my trust and comfort.
Z S
John was very informative and patient when explaining every detail I needed in my journey of seeking my 1st home. I'm looking forward in working with him until my closing date
Z S
It's was a wonderful experience of doing this a second time it was a little but john walked us through the whole way. I love the way things got handle and he made it so easy.
farrah b
John was an incredible loan officer for my last purchase. He is extremely knowledgeable, and would answer any question I had very quickly. Highly recommend him for a calm, thorough process.
Tracy K
John did an amazing job at helping me get my house ! I kept running into road blocks with lenders and he took my application and made magic out of it! Thank you so much for all you do to help people!
Dai J
John made our home-buying process seamless and stress-free. He went above and beyond to ensure we understood every step and felt confident in our decisions. Professional, knowledgeable, and always available, we highly recommend him to anyone looking for a great lender! Thank you John !
Kelsey P
John and his team were very knowledgeable as well as very professional about everything during the process from start to end.
Shorty L E
John R and Dorothy jumped in the nick of time after a previous lender failed through! They are creative lender who works with the clients specific needs. A plus!
Carmen Ferrell W
I was throughly impressed with how easy John made the loan process go. No anxiety and no headache as from the accepted contract to the closing table, there weren’t any hiccups. I truly value John and his team for making purchasing a home very simple and easy. Thank you guys!
Dante C
It was just great my hat off to you sir many more thanks and may God bless you and yours you the man
William T
Thank you !!
Ashley T
It was such an effortless process working with John and his support staff. Dorothy was especially helpful in ensuring that we had everything necessary for our complete loan application. During the process, John contacted us about some new options with better rates so we were able to make an informed decision to select the best mortgage for our first time home buying needs. Thank you so much for your hard work and excellent communication! We are so happy in our new home!
Lana M
John and his team were great, they answered all our questions and were with my wife and I every step of the process of purchasing our home. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
Parker M
With American Pacific Mortgage, you have the best choice if you are having trouble getting a loan from other lenders. However, the downside is that bad credit loans are usually more expensive. By not disclosing the costs of their loans up front, American Pacific Mortgage does little to allay these fears. For me, this is the best of the best for getting your dream home fast. Guys, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Michaelle J
Thank you! For the great customer service.
Glory M
John and Dorothy are absolutely amazing! Our mortgage was a particularly difficult one to obtain. We almost gave up, but they were so encouraging, informative, and patient with everything that was going on that we just kept pushing through. I truly feel like any other loan officer would have thrown in the towel well before the finish line. But, not only are they amazing at what they do, but they genuinely care about their clients. I could feel their empathy and they were so thoughtful in how they approached each obstacle that came our way. I feel BLESSED to have been able to work with this team!
Kirsten B
I was referred to John Ruiz by my realtor. She told me he was one of the best, and she was not wrong. He gave me a call one evening to discuss my budget, plans etc. My husband could hear our conversation, and whispered "Man, that guys really smart." I strongly recommend contacting John Ruiz if you're looking for a home. Buying a house can be nerve-wracking; especially if you're a first time buyer like myself. John will be there every step of the way to answer any question, and clear up any confusion you may have. It was a pleasure working with him and his team.
TylerVargo
Smooth experience nice and helpful I would recommend John to everybody
Noel A
Great that I was able to close on time John and Becky helped me every step of the way I’m definitely pleased with the service I was given would highly recommend their services to anyone thanks again for your help in finding me a home!
Terry P
John was very informal made process smooth I would recommend him to everybody
Noel A
Fantastic communication throughout the entire process and very smooth transaction/closing.
Danielle M
I'm so glad I found John. Very attentive and helped me with any questions I had. Always in a great mood. Thank you for making the process easy.
Jack v
John Ruiz was amazing, always available to answer my text, email and calls. I had many questions as a first time homebuyer and he showed patience and professionalism as he answered every one. I would definitely recommend working with John, he will look at ALL of your options to get you into the home you want!
Melissa Q
I was more than pleased with my experience with John and Dorothy. Responsive and available. Not to mention helpful. They made my experience enjoyable. I will use them again.
Sheila P
John is great!!! He is very knowledgeable and patient. He really looked out for me during the entire home buying process.
Bryan N
I want to thank John Ruiz, Dorothy and all at Prefferred Rate! We are so happy to have had them here helping us along the way. As first time homeowners,they made our dream a reality! THANK YOU PREFFERED RATE AND THANK YOU JOHN RUIZ! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!TINA.....WE DID IT!P.s..wish I could give you a million stars because that's what you all are!
Tina T
John is truly a miracle worker. If it weren't for him and his persistence I would be homeless. I cannot thank him enough for everything he did to get me into my new home in record time. He has a client for life and all of my referrals. He is outstanding.
Cat M
John and team made a tough transition very easy. We would recommend them to anyone.
Kim M
We had a difficult transaction. John & Dorothy were excellent at communication, setting proper expectations and getting the job done. We will definitely recommend anyone work with him.
user2731004
I had a lot of questions in regard to the housing market and steps to take with my situation specifically and John was super helpful. This is the type of person you want working with you on future endeavors.
Nicholas C
John made it as easy as possible with the move. Made moving very easy
8 M
How do I begin to express the professionalism of John. If you are in need of a Broker who will talk you through, explain in detail and have patience at the same time, John Ruiz is the person you are looking for. He made sure we understood the process, that we were okay the entire time of the process and answered each and every question we had during the process. We are so happy and pleased he was there to assist in purchasing our home.
Leticia B
It was an absolute pleasure working with John and his team!! They are all so kind and supportive! I am grateful for the extraordinary work they did in helping with the VA loan. I always felt comforted knowing they were expeditiously working towards getting me through every hurdle. I will continue to recommend John to all my family and friends!!
Daisy R
They made my home purchase go very smoothly. I would and will recommend them in the future.
John B
John is an amazing, awesome loan officer. He made our dream home come true. He understands our financial situation and find best way to make sure we get approved. He made sure he updates us on every step of the way. He was very patience with us in explaining every detail of the loan. He told us everything we needed to do, and we follow his lead. From the preapproval process to closing took us less than 4 weeks which is amazing. I will definitely recommend him to anyone.
jacob j
I was introduced to mr John from a coworker and when I first started the home buying process it was a little overwhelming and talk to John and he step me into what I needed to do to get my credit right what I need to pay to get qualified I did what needed to be done and now I can say I am a first time home buyer’s
Alexandria N
Mr.John is the best lender ever, he is professional lender for all properties you guys needed, nice man and also he did all the great job to make you got the new house! trust him it’s work!
Johan A
So kind and very transparent. Very easy to work with on my first home purchase! I felt like I gained a friend also through this entire experience. John is so personable!
brianna s
I couldn’t have asked for a better mortgage loan officer. John truly went above and beyond to make sure my home buying experience was smooth and organized! He is the most patience lender, who truly takes the time to answer all of your questions no matter what time is day it! He goes above and beyond for his clients!! Being a first time home buyer, I didn’t have any experience and was very nervous about the process. John was there every step of the way encouraging me to ask questions when needed and taking the time to explain every detail of the process to me! He was honestly a blessing to me!! I wasn’t sure I was ready to even purchase a home when I went to John and now I currently own the most perfect home for me!! Anyone would be lucky to have John as their lender!! I highly recommend him!!
Nicki
John Ruiz from Preferred Rate was amazing to work with! I walked into the process with no experience, not knowing if I was going to buy or end up renting! Thanks to the help of John I just closed on the most perfect home for me!! He truly works at all hours of the day to make sure his clients are taken care of! He went above and beyond during my loan approval process and helped answer all of my questions along the way! John Ruiz is the absolute best and I highly recommend him!! Anyone would be lucky to have the opportunity to work with John!! An overall wonderful experience!!!
Nicki L
The Whole team was awesome!! They helped me threw this process of buying a home. I would absolutely refer them to people.
Taniko B
John was amazingHe and his assistant Dorothy were there every step of the way making it a smooth and easy process with great patienceJohn worked hard to get me the best rate. He also advised me on how I could save thousands of dollars on my mortgage loan.John and Dorothy were always available to answer any questions day or nightThank you John Ruiz !
Martin S
John and his staff was quick to answer any questions and we had our loan handled almost immediately. They were available almost any hour of the day and any day including weekends. They defently care about there clients. I would recommend them to any of my friends or family in a hart beat.
Jason G
John Ruiz and his assistant Dorothy are absolutely expectional! They keep an open line of communication though the entire loan process, answering all of our questions in a very timely manner. We really appreciated how John was able to give us such a clear, easy to understand breakdown of our road to close. John also worked diligently to help us secure rates and find the best options for us. We felt so confident with John and Dorothy every step of the way. We will be recommending them to all our friends and family, and will absolutely use them again if we ever need a loan! Thank you John and Dorothy!
Sara P
It was great Jon answered any ? I had and always got back to me was super great man to deal with thank you Carter Scott
Carter S
Greatest of all time.(G.O.A.T)Above and beyond is his service from A to Z.Bravo John !!!Champs Ruiz !!!
Adewale A
Expert Loan Officer will get the job done!!!
Norm N
John and Dorothy were awesome. They were prompt in answering all my questions and made the home buying process seamless for me. I am now an official first time HOMEOWNER!! I highly recommend John Ruiz!!!
T.D W
Hi! I was very satisfied with everything they did for me. I always going to recommend to anyone. GOD BLESS THEM. Marta Gasquoine
Marta G
John has helped me out with multiple loans over the past 7+ years. He and his team are the absolute best people to work with
CCS312
John helped us get a great mortgage loan with low interest, was easy to work with throughout the whole process, and was flexible with our needs!
Cailin C
John & Dorothy were amazing! They made our process super smooth & easy! I would highly recommend them. Great doing business with them both. My husband and I cannot thank them enough.
Karen E
Thanks to John & Dorothy I was able to buy my first home for my daughter & I. Not only was John patient in explaining the buying process with me but he was dedicated enough to ensure I would be able to purchase the house I fell in love with. I’m truly grateful for their efforts in helping me with my first house purchase!
Nidia E
Outstanding! John advised us on what was needed to make the purchase. All of the info given was accurate and pretty much to the tee.
Gregory E
John was absolutely awesome to work with! He made the entire process smooth. He was always responsive, patient with my questions, and went above and beyond to make sure everything stayed on track. I really appreciated his professionalism and genuine care throughout the process!
Sladjana S
We had a great experience with John and Dorothy at Preferred Rate. They made sure everything went smoothly with our purchase and closing. They were always available to answer any questions. I would highly recommend using them.
Sandra K
John and Dorothy are very versed in this process. We were able to close on this loan while I was on vacation in a different state! They coordinated everything and kept us up-to-date the entire way. I didn’t have to lift a finger except to sign the papers! I have been using this team for plenty of refis and the purchase of a new home. Fantastic service and even better people.
Kim M
John and his team helped me buy my first home and they were so communicative and helpful through the whole process! Honestly bugged him so much but he was so patient the entire time as well as Dorothy she was amazing, definitely owe them the next round at the bar !
Bipin
John Ruiz is the best! Highly recommend him.
Erica H
When I first called John, I didn’t know what to expect but then he immediately showed me why my friends recommended him He was so knowledgeable and willing to answer all my questions. I look forward to getting a house because of himMatthew Mirabella
Matt Mirabella (
Getting my loan for my condo went a whole lot easier and hazel free with John Ruiz and his group, any questions or mixups were quickly answered resolved and answered personally by John.. thank you so much for everything.
Jairo F
John Ruiz and his team has been an outstanding partner in our home purchase and loan process! He is very quick to respond to questions and concerns and has a very positive, warm, and caring approach! We really appreciated his expertise and his help throughout our home purchase!
dbster
Working with our lender on the financing for our properties was an excellent experience from start to finish. They were professional, responsive, and extremely knowledgeable throughout the entire process. Every question we had was answered quickly and clearly, and they made what can often be a complicated process feel smooth and straightforward.We truly appreciated their communication, transparency, and ability to keep everything on track through closing. We would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient lender.
Victor C
Thank you so much for all your help! Everything went perfectly thanks to you. We're really looking forward to working together again on future investments. Thanks once more! Victor & Priscilla
Victor C
John was great, he was very transparent through the entire mortgage process. There was never a time where he wouldn’t pickup the phone and answer any questions I had. He is a great guy and I recommend him to anybody trying to buy a new home.
Dylan W
John Ruiz is a great lender. Him and Dorothy help me and my wife get our first home. Helped with any questions that we needed. I highly recommend him to anyone that needs a lender.
Matthew W
John was always keeping an eye on rates with this volatile environment and provided numerous options to help showcase the different possibilities. He was so helpful and got everything in order by closing date. Recommend using him as he will ensure to get you the best deal on your terms!
Abigail P
John is the absolute best at what he does!!! Very attentive and hard working!! I highly recommend him and this company
TANYA W
Very fast, professional, patient. I'd definitely recommend them anytime. He gets the job done!!! Very happy and appreciative!!
Frank B
So smooth. Every step of the way was made simple and easy to understand. Highly recommend.
Marcy Rene H
Outstanding job the best John and Dorothy thanks you both to make our dream come true we appreciate everything
Hugo De La Rosa J
Excellent communication and very easy to work with. Highly recommended
Jason S
Loan Programs
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FHA Loans
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HELOC Loans
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Home Renovation
Explore jumbo loan options for financing high-value homes like this beautiful property.
Jumbo Loans
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Bank Statement Loans
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Construction Financing
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Manufactured Home Loans
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Condominium Loans
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Medical Professional Loans
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First Responders | Nurses | Teacher Loans
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Community Lending
Learn how temporary buydowns can lower your mortgage payments during the initial years of homeownership.
Temporary Buydowns
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Bridge Loans
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Expanded Income Loans
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Loans for Foreign Nationals
Simplify your home buying process with Preferred Rate's SmartBuy program.
Click n’ Close SmartBuy National DPA
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Expanded Credit Loans
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Reverse Mortgages
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Seller PreLock Program
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Pathway DPA Program
Rhyze HELOC
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Secure Lock Program
Refinance With Purpose
Every refinance starts with a goal. Whether you want to lower your payment, shorten your term, or access equity, we’ll build a strategy around what matters most to you.
Consolidate Debt
Simplify what you owe. Use your home’s equity to combine high-interest debt into one payment.
Lower Payments
Improve monthly cash flow. Even a small rate adjustment can create savings over time.
Get Cash Out
Access equity with intention. Turn your home’s value into funds for renovations, education, retirement, or financial goals.
Change to Fixed Rate
Stabilize your payment. Move from a variable rate to predictable payments built for long-term planning.
Refinance VA Loan
Use a VA refinance program to improve your terms, access cash, or reduce your monthly payment.
Discover your home’s value instantly.
Get a personalized home value report powered by real market data. Track equity, explore trends, and stay informed about your property and mortgage loan.
Beautiful suburban house at sunset, showcasing a cozy home with a well-maintained lawn and welcoming entrance.
A logo for Preferred Rate featuring a financial graph and a notification about interest rate drops.
We'll watch the market for you
Set your target interest rate and we’ll notify you when it hits. No spam, just smart alerts.
Information and interactive calculators are made available to you as self-help tools for your independent use and are not intended to provide investment advice. We cannot and do not guarantee their applicability or accuracy in regard to your individual circumstances. All examples are hypothetical and are for illustrative purposes.
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How fast can I get pre-approved?
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How fast can I get pre-approved?
Nulla ac nunc in ligula pharetra posuere. Vestibulum aliquam auctor nibh, non facilisis risus dictum at. Vivamus justo lacus, commodo vel congue suscipit, dignissim sit amet eros.
How fast can I get pre-approved?
Nulla ac nunc in ligula pharetra posuere. Vestibulum aliquam auctor nibh, non facilisis risus dictum at. Vivamus justo lacus, commodo vel congue suscipit, dignissim sit amet eros.
How fast can I get pre-approved?
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A contemporary living space with a gray sofa, decorative pillows, hanging pendant lights, and lush green plants, creating a comfortable and stylish en.