Deliberate about your loan. Relaxed about everything else.

Louisiana's statewide mortgage brokerage, from our porch on Bayou Teche to all 64 parishes.

Our second home on Bayou Teche, Franklin, Louisiana.

Statewide. Deliberately.

I'm Bernard Guste. I've been putting mortgages together for more than twenty years, and I run Borrow Louisiana from two places: New Orleans, where I started and where my office is, and Franklin, our second home on historic Bayou Teche. I'm licensed across Louisiana (and in Georgia), and I work every parish in between, from Slidell to Shreveport and Ruston to Grand Isle. Most of my work is helping people get the loan that actually fits: a Rural Development loan with nothing down for a family in Ponchatoula, a construction loan for a couple building in Youngsville, a DSCR loan on a double in Mid-City. The common thread is that I'd rather spend an extra hour on the structure up front than have you find out about a problem the week before closing. Deliberate about the loan, relaxed about everything else.

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Why Borrow Louisiana

Statewide, and we mean it
Licensed and working in all 64 parishes. The small towns are not an afterthought; one of them is home.
Rural Development is a specialty, not a checkbox
Most of Louisiana is in a USDA-eligible area. We know where the lines fall and how household income really counts.
More options than a bank
As a broker with Nexa Lending we place loans with a wide range of wholesale lenders, which means the structure gets built around you, not around one lender's box.
One person, start to finish
You'll deal with Bernard, by phone, text, video, or across the kitchen table. No call center, no shared lead.
Twenty years of files that were supposed to be hard
Self-employed borrowers, asset-based qualifying, condos, second homes, investors. That depth is why the ordinary files close quietly.

Unlock Your Dream Home with Expert Mortgage Solutions

At Bernard Guste - Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #79676, we're dedicated to making your homeownership dreams a reality. With over two decades of experience in finance and mortgage lending, we've helped countless families and individuals secure the perfect mortgage for their needs.


Our deep roots in the Greater New Orleans area, combined with access to more than 270 lenders, allow us to offer you competitive rates and tailored solutions that fit your unique financial situation. As a locally owned and veteran-operated business, we understand the nuances of the Louisiana housing market and the challenges faced by diverse borrowers.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, self-employed entrepreneur, or looking to refinance, our team is committed to providing fast pre-approvals, transparent communication, and loan estimates within 24 hours. We pride ourselves on our expertise in navigating complex financial scenarios.


We offer self-employed borrower solutions and divorce-related mortgage planning. Let us put our local knowledge and extensive network to work for you, ensuring a smooth path to homeownership in the vibrant communities of New Orleans and beyond. Contact us today and let us help navigate your housing market, and assist with your financial options.

Why Choose Bernard Guste - Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #79676

  • Competitive Rates
  • Access to Over 270 Lenders
  • Over 20 Years in Finance and Mortgage Lending
  • Loan Estimates Within 24 Hours
  • Local Knowledge of Louisiana Housing Programs
  • Fast Pre-Approvals and Transparent Communication
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Here's what our satisfied customers are saying...

At Bernard Guste - Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #79676, we take pride in providing exceptional mortgage lending services to our customers. We would be grateful if you could share your thoughts about our business with others. Your feedback helps us improve and helps others make informed decisions. Please take a moment to leave a review of Bernard Guste - Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #79676 and let others know what you think.

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ASK US

FAQ's

  • What types of mortgage loans do you offer?

    We offer a variety of mortgage options, including conventional loans, FHA, VA and USDA Rural Development loans, jumbo loans, DSCR and investor loans, and refinancing solutions. As a statewide Louisiana broker, we help you find the right loan that fits your financial situation and homeownership goals.

  • How long does the mortgage application process take?

    The timeline varies depending on the loan type and complexity, but most applications are processed within 30 to 45 days. Bernard keeps you updated at every step for a smooth experience.

  • Do you work with first-time homebuyers?

    Absolutely! We specialize in helping first-time homebuyers understand the process, from pre-approval to closing. We can also guide you on down payment assistance programs, zero-down Rural Development loans, and first-time buyer incentives.

  • How do I get pre-approved for a mortgage?

    Getting pre-approved is simple. You provide your financial information, such as income, assets, and credit history, and we review it to give you a pre-approval letter. A solid pre-approval from a statewide Louisiana broker can strengthen your position when making an offer on a home.

  • Are your mortgage rates competitive?

    Yes, we work hard to offer competitive rates based on current market conditions. Our experts will explain the difference between fixed and adjustable rates so you can make an informed choice.

  • Can I apply for a mortgage online?

    Yes! We offer a secure online application process that allows you to start your mortgage journey from home, anywhere in Louisiana. Even online, you're working directly with Bernard, who is ready to answer your questions.

  • What makes your mortgage services different from other lenders?

    We combine personalized service with expert knowledge. You deal with one person, Bernard, from first call to closing, and as a broker with Nexa Lending we can place your loan with the lender whose program actually fits, rather than forcing you into one bank's box.

  • Do you offer refinancing options?

    Yes, we provide refinancing solutions to help you reduce your monthly payment, lower your interest rate, or access equity in your home. Our experts evaluate your situation to recommend the best refinancing strategy.

  • What fees should I expect during the mortgage process?

    Mortgage fees may include appraisal fees, origination fees, title insurance, and closing costs. We provide a detailed estimate upfront so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Our team works closely with you to ensure there are no surprises and to help you feel confident and informed throughout the process.

  • How can I get started with your mortgage services?

    The first step is to reach out by phone, text, email, or our online form. Bernard will schedule a conversation, review your financial goals, and guide you through pre-approval so you can confidently start your homebuying journey, anywhere in Louisiana.

  • Can you help me if I have a unique financial situation?

    Absolutely! Our team understands that every client’s financial situation is different. Whether you’re self-employed, have non-traditional income, or are navigating past credit challenges, our mortgage lenders can guide you through options tailored to your needs. We take the time to explore every opportunity so you can achieve your homeownership goals with confidence.

  • Do you work outside New Orleans?

    Yes, every parish. Borrow Louisiana is a statewide brokerage based in New Orleans, where Bernard's office is. A lot of the work happens from our second home in Franklin, a sugar cane town of about 6,000 on Bayou Teche in St. Mary Parish. From Slidell to Shreveport and Ruston to Grand Isle, we work the small towns with the same care as the big cities, because we spend half our time in one.

  • How do I find out if my town is Rural Development eligible?

    About two out of three Louisianans live at an address that qualifies for a zero-down USDA Rural Development loan, and most have never been told. The only ineligible areas are the cores of New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Shreveport, Monroe, Alexandria and Ruston. Eligibility depends on your exact address, so visit our Service Areas page to see the map and check an address in about a minute.

Locally Trusted

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Licensed and Insured

Bernard Guste, mortgage loan originator, Borrow Louisiana

Bernard Guste, Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS 79676

Borrow Louisiana, powered by Nexa Lending

New Orleans based. Louisiana focused. Serving all 64 parishes.

Call or text (504) 214-8402

Every parish, every region. Find yours.

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