Portfolio Lending

Flexible Financing When Your Situation Is Unique

Portage Bank is a community lender that keeps certain loans in-house rather than selling them on the secondary market. That means we set our own terms, evaluate each borrower individually, and can serve clients who may not qualify for conventional loans offered by Fannie Mae, FHA, or the VA.

Equal Housing Lender - Member FDIC

NMLS #1831756

A person in a blue suit using a smartphone while working on a laptop at a wooden desk with small house models and a potted plant. In the background, there are shelves with binders.

What Is Portfolio Lending?

Most mortgages in the United States are sold after closing to investors on the secondary market, which means they must meet strict “conforming” standards for credit scores, debt ratios, and property types. Portfolio loans are different: Portage Bank originates and holds them directly, which allows us to evaluate your full financial picture rather than relying on a rigid checklist.

We offer portfolio loans for primary residences, second homes, investment properties, and lots. Examples include:

  • Construction loans

  • Bridge loans, allowing you to purchase a new home before selling your existing one

  • Loans for non-warrantable condominiums

  • Financing for 1-4 unit properties or complex property types that fall outside conventional guidelines

  • Other short-term or situational needs that would otherwise prevent you from obtaining traditional financing

With local underwriting, we know our markets and can work with you to make sound financial decisions.

Portfolio Loan Benefits

  • Flexible terms tailored to your individual situation, including customizable rates and repayment structure.

  • Case-by-case underwriting that looks at your complete financial picture, not just a score.

  • Faster approval in many cases, since decisions are made locally without going through secondary market investors.

  • Access to a wider range of property types and loan scenarios than conventional products allow.

  • Local decision-making with direct access to your Portage loan officer

Note: Portfolio loans typically carry somewhat higher interest rates than conforming mortgages, reflecting the additional flexibility and lender-held risk. Your rate will depend on creditworthiness, loan amount, term, and property type.

Let’s Talk About How Portage Can Help

Every portfolio loan starts with a conversation. Reach out to one of our loan officers to discuss your situation today.

A diverse group of four professionals sitting at a table, engaged in a discussion or meeting, with a modern building with large glass windows reflected in the background.

Benefits of choosing Portage

Customization

We work with you to tailor loans to your specific needs and budget.

Ease

Our competitive rates, variety of options, and helpful approach make getting the right loan easy.

Relationships

We’re here to build a lasting partnership and find the best way to help you reach your goals.

Disclosures:

  • All loans subject to credit approval. Rates, terms, and conditions subject to change. Member FDIC - [NMLS #1831756]
  • All rates are subject to change without notice and depend on creditworthiness, loan amount, term, and other factors. Contact a loan officer for a personalized rate quote.
  • We are committed to fair lending. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
  • Loan officers are licensed federally by NMLS (#1831756). Visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org for more information.
  • Portfolio loans are bank lending products only. 
  • You have the right to receive a copy of any appraisal used in connection with your loan application.