Valerie Franklin | Your Local Lender & Renovation Specialist
Valerie Franklin is a Mortgage Loan Officer and Renovation Specialist with Guild Mortgage in Martinsburg, West Virginia, serving homebuyers and homeowners throughout West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. A West Virginia native and longtime Eastern Panhandle resident, Valerie brings more than a decade of mortgage experience, local knowledge, and a personalized approach to home financing.
For Valerie, a mortgage starts with understanding the person behind the application—their goals, concerns, and financial circumstances. Her clients consistently describe her as patient, knowledgeable, responsive, and willing to go the extra mile. As client Ally H. shared in a Google review, “There was zero judgment in the process”—a reflection of the welcoming approach Valerie brings to every conversation.
Valerie specializes in helping first-time homebuyers navigate the path to homeownership. She explains mortgage options, credit considerations, down payments, and closing costs in clear, practical terms, giving buyers room to ask questions and make informed decisions. First-time buyer Katie C. praised her “patience, understanding and knowledge,” while Nicholas C. highlighted her willingness to answer every question and respond promptly.
An expert in down payment assistance programs, Valerie helps buyers explore options including the West Virginia Housing Development Fund’s Homeownership and Movin’ Up programs. She guides clients through eligibility requirements and available assistance, helping them understand how these resources may fit into their homebuying plans.
As a Renovation Specialist, Valerie helps buyers see possibilities in homes that need a little—or a lot—of love. She helps clients explore financing that combines a home purchase or refinance with eligible improvements, including FHA 203(k) and conventional renovation options. Whether the goal is necessary repairs, an updated kitchen, or a more functional living space, she helps borrowers understand the financing process.
Valerie doesn’t shy away from complicated financial situations. She works with clients who have self-employment income, investment or rental income, multiple income sources, limited or no established credit, or credit challenges. She takes time to understand the full picture, explore available options, and explain practical next steps—even when buying a home requires additional preparation. Client Mark R. described a particularly complex transaction involving income that was not entirely W-2 based, writing, “She masterfully guided us through every hurdle.”
Her mortgage expertise also includes conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans, move-up purchases, and refinancing. Clients value her attention to detail and ability to explain alternatives. Stacey G. described her as “professional, direct, reliable, knowledgeable,” while refinance client Laura S. called her “unbelievably efficient, knowledgeable, and professional.” For Valerie, earning that trust means communicating clearly and keeping clients and their real estate agents informed throughout the transaction.
Based in Martinsburg, Valerie serves communities throughout West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Her service area includes—but is not limited to—Berkeley and Jefferson counties and Eastern Panhandle communities such as Martinsburg, Inwood, Hedgesville, Spring Mills, Falling Waters, Charles Town, and Harpers Ferry; Winchester, Berryville, and Leesburg, Virginia; Hagerstown, Frederick, and Brunswick, Maryland; and Greencastle and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Whether clients are putting down roots nearby, relocating, or exploring homes beyond these communities within her four-state service area, Valerie helps them navigate their financing options.
As a Homes for Heroes affiliate, proud Army mom, and mother of two teachers, Valerie’s appreciation for those who serve is deeply personal. She sees the dedication and sacrifices of military families and educators within her own family. Valerie proudly supports military families and veterans, helping them explore VA home loan options and available Homes for Heroes benefits. She also helps teachers, healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMS professionals explore the program’s benefits as they pursue their homeownership goals.
Valerie’s goal is to build relationships that last beyond closing. Returning client Nicole R. shared, “This is my second time using her and I highly recommend her!” Whether clients are purchasing their first home, making their next move, or revisiting their mortgage years later, Valerie strives to remain a trusted resource.
Outside of lending, Valerie is a mother of four who enjoys art, travel, plants, and discovering new experiences. Her “Own What Matters” philosophy reflects her belief that homeownership should support the people, priorities, and everyday moments that make life meaningful.
Whether you’re buying your first home, considering a property that needs renovation, exploring down payment assistance, navigating complicated income, or reviewing refinance options, connect with Valerie to discuss your next steps.
