Jeff Hammel
VP | Branch Manager
NMLS: 162437 | GA: 63725 | KY: MC382803 | OH: MLO-OH.162437
Helping homebuyers move faster with clear guidance, smart options, and a simpler path to closing.
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99.04%
Customer Satisfaction Score.
Awards
10
Years of helping homeowners like you.
Proudly serving Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin
A Bit About Me
With more than 32 years of mortgage lending experience, I’ve built my career around helping clients make confident decisions about home financing. As a VP Branch Manager and licensed Mortgage Loan Originator with Ruoff Mortgage, I bring experience, accessibility, and a problem-solving approach to every loan. My clients and real estate partners know they can count on me for honest advice, clear communication, and a team committed to making the mortgage process as smooth as possible. Outside of work, I’ve been married for 31 years, love golfing, and most of all, love being “Papa” to my two grandchildren.
Awards & Achievements
Top Mortgage Lenders
The Scotsman Guide’s list of Top Mortgage Lenders, a ranking of the nation’s top-producing mortgage companies.
President's Club
Awarded to loan officers who consistently exceed volume targets and deliver exceptional client satisfaction scores across all closed transactions.
Meet our happy homeowners***
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Loans Designed to Meet Your Individual Needs
Personalized mortgage solutions that fit your unique needs, because we understand that one size doesn't fit all.
Frequently Asked, Frequently Answered
Starting with clear, direct answers to the questions that matter most to your future.
After you receive your pre-approval letter, you’ll have an idea of current rates based on your qualifications. However, your rate isn’t officially locked until you choose to lock it in – and that lock is only valid for a set number of days. I’ll help you monitor the market and decide the best time to lock your rate with confidence.
A mortgage calculator gives you a clearer picture of what you can afford by estimating your monthly payment based on home price, down payment, interest rate, and more. It’s a great starting point to help you plan your budget and feel more prepared as you begin your home search.
Refinancing with Ruoff Mortgage is a straightforward process designed to help you meet your financial goals – whether that’s lowering your monthly payment, shortening your loan term, or accessing cash from your home’s equity. I’ll guide you through your options and help you decide if refinancing makes sense for you.
Your mortgage rate directly affects your monthly payment. A lower rate can mean a lower payment and less interest paid over time, while a higher rate can increase your monthly cost. Even small changes in your rate can make a big difference, so I’ll help you understand how it impacts your overall budget.
A VA loan is a government-backed loan that allows eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain military families to purchase a home with no down payment and competitive interest rates. It’s designed to make homeownership more accessible for those who have served, and I’ll help you take full advantage of those benefits.
A fixed-rate mortgage keeps your interest rate, principal, and interest payment the same for the life of the loan. This consistency makes budgeting easier and provides long-term peace of mind, especially if you plan to stay in your home for many years.
The credit score required to buy a home differs based on the type of loan you’re applying for. But in general, the higher your score is, the easier it will be to get a great mortgage loan and a better interest rate.
You will generally need to provide proof of income (pay stubs, W-2s), two months of bank statements, tax returns (if self-employed), and a photo ID. These documents verify your financial standing for pre-approval.
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My Latest Blogs
Have Home Prices Grown or Have Fort Wayne, IN Homes Grown, Too?
Oct 12, 2026
When you look at the numbers side by side, it’s natural to wonder whether today’s higher prices reflect bigger homes or simply the cost of the same square footage. The question “have home prices grown or have Fort Wayne, IN homes grown, too?” comes up often in conversations with first-time buyers and move-up families alike.
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Are Rates Too High Fort Wayne, IN?
Oct 8, 2026
Many homebuyers are asking this exact question right now, and it’s a fair one. With rates having shifted recently, it’s natural to pause and wonder if waiting makes more sense. After more than three decades helping families here, I’ve learned that the decision isn’t just about today’s number—it’s about your full picture and long-term goals.
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Cash-Out Refinance: When It Makes Sense for Debt Consolidation and Home Improvements
Jun 24, 2026
Cash-Out Refinance: When It Makes Sense for Debt Consolidation and Home Improvements
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Experience the Ruoff Advantage
At Ruoff Mortgage, customer satisfaction is at the core of everything we do. We are the experts, so you don't have to be.*