Putting a Home Buying Plan Into Place with Kaelen Cavalli of the KD Team

Interview by Heather Anderson

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions a person can make, and for many, the process can feel overwhelming before they even take the first step. That’s where Kaelen Cavalli and the KD Team at Alameda Mortgage Corporation step in. With a strong emphasis on relationships over transactions, Kaelen and her team work closely with homebuyers—whether they’re just starting to think about buying, in the process of getting pre-approved, or even several years away from making a move.

When should someone reach out to a lender?

A lot of people wait until they feel "ready" to buy a home before talking to a lender, but it’s actually beneficial to reach out sooner rather than later. If you're even thinking about homeownership—whether that’s with a partner, on your own, or just daydreaming about it—the first step should be talking to a lender. Since pre-approval consultations are complimentary, there’s no downside to starting the conversation early.

Many clients assume they need to hit a certain savings goal or credit score before reaching out, but that’s not always the case. The key is understanding what you're working toward, so there’s a clear financial plan in place. Some clients work with the KD Team for years before making a purchase, ensuring that when the time comes, they're in the best possible position to buy.

What does the pre-approval process look like?

The process is straightforward and designed to set buyers up for success:

  1. Introductory Call: A conversation to understand goals, financial situation, and long-term plans.

  2. Application & Documentation: Clients complete an application, submit financial documents, and can opt for either a soft or hard credit pull.

  3. Personalized Consultation: The team reviews qualifications, discusses market trends, and provides a market analysis to show how home values have performed in a client's desired area.

The goal is to ensure that when clients start actively looking for homes, they feel confident and prepared. Avoiding surprises during the process is key to a smooth and stress-free experience.

What if someone knows they’re not ready to buy for a few years?

Even if homeownership is years away, it’s still a good idea to connect with a lender. The process remains similar, but with a longer-term plan in place. If there's a specific price range in mind, the KD Team helps outline what it will take to get there, whether that involves increasing income, saving a certain amount, or improving credit.

The team also provides tools for credit improvement, offering insights on actionable steps that can help increase scores before buying. Even if purchasing is a few years out, having a roadmap makes a big difference.

What are some misconceptions about self-employed buyers?

Many self-employed homebuyers assume that getting a loan will be difficult, but there are several options available. One of the biggest challenges is that tax filings play a crucial role in loan eligibility, and some self-employed individuals aren’t aware of how deductions and income reporting impact their qualifications.

There are multiple loan options tailored to self-employed buyers, including:

  • Bank Statement Loans: Averaging business deposits over time instead of relying on tax returns.

  • Asset Depletion Loans: Using assets as supplemental income.

  • Non-Traditional Loan Programs: Flexible financing solutions for those with unique income structures.

The KD Team helps self-employed buyers understand their options and find the best path forward.

Can you share a unique home-buying story?

One of our clients recently made an offer on a highly sought-after home in Concord, CA. Knowing the listing agent anticipated multiple offers—many likely above asking price—we collaborated closely with the buyer and their agent to craft a competitive, strategic offer. In the end, there were 12 offers. While ours wasn’t the highest in price, we stood out with strong terms, including a 12-day close and no contingencies. That’s what ultimately secured the home for our client.

What types of loan programs are available in 2025?

There are several loan options to fit different buyer needs:

  • FHA Loans: 3.5% down with more flexible credit requirements.

  • Conventional Loans: As little as 3% down for first-time buyers.

  • VA Loans: No down payment for eligible veterans and active military.

  • Investment Property Loans: Designed for buyers looking to rent or flip homes.

A particularly popular option right now is the temporary buydown program. This allows buyers to lower their mortgage interest rate for the first few years, reducing initial monthly payments. The seller provides a credit to help cover the cost of the buydown, making homeownership more affordable upfront.

What should someone consider when buying an investment property?

Investment property purchases are approached differently than primary homes. Instead of focusing on personal preferences, buyers need to evaluate what will attract renters and whether the mortgage will generate positive cash flow. The KD Team helps clients analyze these factors to ensure smart investment decisions.

Can you assist buyers outside of California?

Yes! The KD Team is licensed in 12 states and has access to a network of loan officers across 40 states. If they’re not personally licensed in a particular state, they collaborate with trusted partners to maintain a seamless client experience.

What’s the best way for someone to start working with you?

The best first step is reaching out for an initial call. Whether someone is ready to buy now or just wants to understand their options, having that conversation provides clarity on the next steps.

Thinking about homeownership?

You can also find her on The M List, The Mamahood’s searchable database of mom-recommended resources, or connect and collaborate with her inside The Club membership for women founders.

Heather Anderson