Barry Varshay - The Mortgage Mechanic

Seattle Housing Affordability Analyst

Barry Varshay

The Mortgage Mechanic

Creator of the SHAM Housing Affordability Model. 35 years helping Seattle-area families achieve homeownership. WSHFC-certified instructor training the next generation of mortgage professionals.

35
Years Experience
14
Years Five Star Professional
WSHFC
Certified Instructor
CMPS
Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist

My Approach

After 35 years in the mortgage industry, I've learned that the difference between a stressful home purchase and a smooth one often comes down to understanding—understanding the numbers, understanding the options, and understanding what questions to ask.

That's why I created the SHAM Housing Affordability Model—a framework for measuring true affordability in the Seattle market. National indices don't capture our local reality: our property taxes, our insurance costs, our income distributions. SHAM does. I publish monthly updates at SeattleHousingFacts.com so buyers and professionals can make decisions based on current, local data.

I also believe in giving back to the industry. As a WSHFC-certified instructor, I teach continuing education courses for real estate professionals on mortgage topics, technology, and market analysis. When the professionals around you are well-trained, everyone benefits.

What I Do

🏠

Mortgage Origination

Helping buyers navigate loan options, from conventional to FHA to VA to specialized programs. I focus on finding the right fit, not just the fastest close.

📊

Market Analysis

Publishing the SHAM Housing Affordability Model and Seattle market insights. Data-driven analysis for buyers, sellers, and professionals.

🎓

Professional Education

Teaching WSHFC-approved continuing education courses for real estate professionals. Topics include current mortgage trends and technology in real estate.

🤝

Realtor Partnership

Providing tools like Tour Mode CMA and open house lead capture that help realtors serve their clients better.

Credentials & Recognition

Creator, SHAM Housing Affordability Model

A proprietary framework for measuring true housing affordability in the Seattle metropolitan area, published monthly at SeattleHousingFacts.com.

WSHFC-Certified Instructor

Approved by Washington State Housing Finance Commission to teach continuing education courses for real estate professionals.

Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist (CMPS)

Advanced certification in mortgage planning, financial analysis, and comprehensive loan structuring.

Five Star Professional – 14 Consecutive Years

Recognized annually by Seattle Magazine based on client satisfaction, credentials, and industry standing.

Creator, Mortgage Update Software

Developed mortgage planning software to help clients visualize loan scenarios and make informed decisions.

35 Years Industry Experience

Three and a half decades helping Seattle-area families purchase homes, refinance, and navigate complex lending situations.

My Websites

barryvarshay.com

Educational content, tools for realtors and buyers, blog, and professional resources.

seattlehousingfacts.com

SHAM Housing Affordability Model data, Seattle market analysis, and monthly updates.

Connect With Me

LinkedInYouTubeInstagramFacebook
COMPANY
CMG Home Loans
NMLS#
583050
LOCATION
Seattle, Washington

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you're buying your first home or your fifth, I'm here to help you navigate the process.

Contact Me →
Barry Varshay | The Mortgage Mechanic
CMG Home Loans | NMLS# 583050
© 2026 Barry Varshay. All rights reserved.