Skip to content
customcolor_logo_transparent_background(trimmed)

Competitive rates, savvy advice, creative expertise. 

We love a good mortgage puzzle.

We’re Exception Lending — a licensed, independent mortgage broker that actually loves a tricky loan.

Whether you're buying, refinancing, or navigating a not-so-straightforward situation, we’ve got the tools (and the attitude) to help. We specialize in complex scenarios, serve all of California (especially the Bay Area + Wine Country), and can finance non-owner occupied properties in most states.

 

home_hero_image (37)

Mortgages Made for Real Life

From unconventional income to creative financing, our specialty and traditional loan options are designed for real life — not just perfect paperwork.

6

 Specialty Mortgages 
+ NonQM Loans 

For self-employed borrowers, real estate investors, ITIN, or borrowers without traditional income.

Qualify without tax returns--by using bank statements, P&L statement, 1099, rental income only, or divide eligible assets by as few as 60 months.

 Bridge Loans + Private Money 

Buy a new home before you sell your current home--with as little as $0 down.

Use both your current property and the new property as collateral to maximize leverage.

Cross collateral loans can also be used to acquire new investment properties quickly--then replace with longer-term financing when ready.

home_hero_image (35)
picture of two men holding a cute dog, in front of a luxury home

 Jumbo + conventional loans 

These more traditional agency and jumbo loan products are ideal for well-qualified borrowers who can provide traditional documentation.

We offer competitive rates--and can often match other lenders' pricing--with client confidentiality and fast closing for time-sensitive purchases.

Jackie Cuneo (she/her)

Meet the Face Behind Exception Lending.

With over 15 years of experience in mortgage origination and 20+ years of supporting clients through real estate transactions, Jackie brings a sharp, strategic mindset to every financing scenario—whether it’s a traditional loan, a complex refinance, or a private money solution. She’s not just here to get the deal done—she’s here to help clients build long-term wealth through smart, big-picture real estate moves.

As a 100% woman- and LGBTQ-owned business, Jackie is proud to serve clients from all walks of life—especially those often overlooked by the mainstream lending world. She provides guidance with care, creativity, and deep expertise.

A former board member of the nation’s first LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, Jackie continues to advocate for equitable, inclusive access to homeownership and investment opportunities.

Jackie holds a California Real Estate Broker's License and Mortgage Originator License, and has helped hundreds of clients buy and refinance all types of properties since 2005. 

home_hero_image (57)

Connect with Jackie