Auburn, California's
Local Mortgage Experts
MARCUS JOHNSON
Owner/Mortgage Broker
Marcus Johnson is a Placer County native and the driving force behind Broker Direct Lending. With more than 23 years in wholesale mortgage lending, Marcus has built a reputation as one of Northern California’s most trusted mortgage brokers. In 2017, he launched Broker Direct Lending to simplify the home loan process with faster closings, competitive wholesale rates, and a transparent approach that puts clients first.
Known in the community as both a mortgage guru and a neighbor who cares, Marcus helps families across Auburn, Grass Valley, Nevada City, and the greater Sierra Foothills secure the right home loan without the runaround. He takes pride in supporting local homebuyers and homeowners while delivering the kind of personal service that big banks can’t match.
When he’s not working with clients, Marcus can often be found enjoying the outdoors — whether it’s panning for gold, off-roading, rock hounding, or just relaxing at home with his wife Melissa and their dog, Andre. As a proud father of three and “Papa” to two young boys, Marcus believes life is all about family, faith, and community. Those same values drive the way he approaches every client relationship.
Local expertise. Wholesale rates. 5-star service.
MELISSA JOHNSON
Owner/Business Development
Melissa Johnson is the Business Development Director and co-owner of Broker Direct Lending, where she blends decades of experience in marketing, project management, and business development with a true love for her community. Her career began with Fat’s Restaurants, where she managed large-scale marketing initiatives and multi-million-dollar construction projects. She later spent more than 10 years at Holden Law Group, helping the firm double in size while launching its HR consulting department to serve businesses throughout California.
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Melissa is a proud Leadership Auburn graduate (Class of 2022) and an active Placer County Master Gardener. Outside of work, she is a passionate endurance athlete, having completed more than 60 ultramarathons—including eight 100-milers, with three Western States 100 finishes and the Wasatch 100. She also serves as Course Director for Canyons Endurance Runs, works on the Western States 100 Course Marking Team, and volunteers as an Aid Station Captain for NorCal Ultras.
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When she isn’t working with clients or training on the trails, Melissa enjoys life in Auburn with Marcus and their dog, Andre. Together they share a love for the outdoors—whether it’s panning for gold, off-roading, tending the garden, or simply enjoying the Sierra Foothills they call home.
WELCOME
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Why Homebuyers & Agents Choose
Broker Direct Lending
5-Star Mortgage Broker Reviews from California Homebuyers
Arieus M.
"Very professional and trustworthy. Glad I was able to work with them—I bought my first home thanks to their help."
Chris K.
"Marcus was extremely helpful when we decided to refinance. Very easy to get ahold of and willing to answer any and all questions."
Amber M.
"As a first-time homebuyer, I feel incredibly lucky to have been referred to Marcus and his team. From start to finish, they were nothing short of exceptional."
Miranda H.
"We recently purchased our first home & couldn’t have done it without Marcus’s help! He kept us informed every step of the way—it was amazing."
We’re Broker Direct Lending — your neighbors and your mortgage experts. Led by Marcus and Melissa Johnson, our Auburn-based team has been helping Placer County and surrounding communities get better deals through wholesale home loan solutions for over 20 years. We guide you from application to closing, making the process clear, quick, and stress-free. Whether you’re buying a new home or refinancing your current one, we shop top lenders to secure the best rate and terms for you — not the bank. Let’s get you home faster.
Buying or refinancing in Southern California?
Meet Nathan, our Orange, CA mortgage expert.
VA Loans
Zero-down financing for eligible veterans and active service members.
Jumbo Loans
High-value financing for luxury or
higher-priced homes.
USDA Loans
Zero-down loans for eligible rural homebuyers.
Refinancing
Lower your rate, change your term, or tap into
home equity.