About Us

Benton Mortgage was originally formed in 1991 under the name Champion Capital Corp. When the name was sold to Key Bank in 2000, Champion Capital was renamed Benton Mortgage.

Jean Gallagher has been in finance for over 26 years. From Wall Street to real estate development and finance, her broad range of experience enables her to understand many areas of economics and lending.

Because those in the entertainment community often have very specific needs and limited time, Benton Mortgage's long association with this industry has enabled them to cater to these needs. Over 50% of the company's clients are involved in entertainment, from the gofers and gaffers to studio heads. You'll be treated like a star no matter who you are.

But we also know all Californian's aren't involved in the entertainment industry. California is the most diverse state in the country with standout industries from high-tech to wine production.

With the rapid and ever-changing profile of the mortgage lending climate, having an expert in your corner is a must. With her range and years of experience, Jean's lending contacts are second to none. This translates not only to savings for her clients, but support and straight talk without the sales "pitch". Wouldn't it be refreshing to have a mortgage professional tell you to stay with your current loan if it will save you money?

The goal of Benton Mortgage is to respond to the needs of their clients in this quickly and dramatically changing market. They will continue to do so, staying abreast of the constantly changing laws and lending guidelines in order to lead their clients' to the best solutions.

Thomas Gallagher has been the Managing Partner of Benton Mortgage since 2003. He is an expert in FHA and HARP refinances and keeps updated on new loan products by FHA, FNMA, Freddie Mac or Banking Institutions as soon as they become available. 

New loan products are constantly being rolled out as lenders try different loan solutions to fit today's market. It is necessary to have someone on the forefront keeping current with the new products and how they can benefit our clients.

Thomas grew up in Los Angeles, where his family has been involved in real estate and finance since 1982. After attending music school and working as a recording engineer throughout his twenties, Thomas pursued a real estate license and joined the family businesses, Benton Mortgage and Entertainment Mortgage. There, Thomas originally created a niche helping musicians and artists obtain financing as first-time home buyers.

As time passed, Thomas broadened his reach throughout California to help guide home buyers in all walks of life, as they wind their way through the home financing process. In addition, his expertise on the newest loan products gives his clients the edge when refinancing.

Thomas also maintains insurance licenses, and operates a thriving business, 24-7 Mobile Notary Services. He lives in West Los Angeles with his wife Rebecca and cat, Momma Kitty. He is expecting his first child in the spring.