BARRETT HENRY | THE NOW TEAM
Mortgage Lenders
Find the right lender, lock in the best rate, and close with confidence.
Why Your Lender Matters as Much as Your Home
Choosing the right mortgage lender can save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. Interest rates, closing costs, lender fees, and communication quality vary dramatically from one company to the next. A lender who is slow to respond or sloppy with paperwork can cost you the home you want — especially in a competitive market where sellers expect fast, clean closings.
With 23+ years of real estate experience, Barrett Henry has worked with every type of lender and knows which ones deliver. He connects buyers with mortgage professionals who have proven track records for competitive rates, responsive communication, and on-time closings. Call (813) 733-7907 for a personalized lender referral based on your specific situation.
What Types of Mortgage Lenders Are There?
Banks
Traditional banks offer mortgage products alongside checking, savings, and other financial services. They tend to have strict underwriting guidelines but may offer rate discounts to existing customers. Best for buyers who want an all-in-one banking relationship.
Credit Unions
Member-owned credit unions often provide lower interest rates and reduced closing costs compared to large banks. Membership requirements vary, but many Tampa Bay credit unions are open to anyone who lives or works in the area. Worth exploring if you qualify.
Mortgage Brokers
Brokers shop your loan across multiple wholesale lenders to find the best rate and terms for your situation. They do not lend their own money. This comparison shopping can save you thousands over the life of the loan, especially if your profile does not fit a single lender's sweet spot.
Direct Lenders
Companies that originate and fund mortgages using their own capital. Direct lenders control the entire process from application to closing, which can mean faster underwriting and fewer surprises. Many of the lenders Barrett refers buyers to fall into this category.
Which Loan Program Is Right for You?
Each loan program has different requirements and benefits. Here is a quick comparison to help you start the conversation with your lender.
| Loan Type | Min. Down Payment | Credit Score | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | 3% | 620+ | No upfront mortgage insurance with 20% down. Flexible terms from 10 to 30 years. |
| FHA | 3.5% | 580+ | Government-backed with lower credit requirements. Popular with first-time buyers. |
| VA | 0% | No minimum (most lenders want 620+) | Zero down payment for eligible veterans and active-duty service members. No PMI. |
| USDA | 0% | 640+ | Zero down payment in eligible rural and suburban areas. Income limits apply. |
| Jumbo | 10-20% | 700+ | For loan amounts exceeding conforming limits. Requires strong credit and reserves. |
| DSCR | 20-25% | Varies | Investor loans qualified by property cash flow, not personal income. No W-2s or tax returns required. |
How Do You Choose the Right Mortgage Lender?
Start by getting quotes from at least two or three lenders. Compare the Loan Estimate documents side by side — not just the interest rate, but the full picture: origination fees, discount points, third-party charges, and estimated closing costs. A lender with a slightly higher rate but lower fees may actually cost you less.
Beyond the numbers, pay attention to responsiveness. Does the loan officer return calls the same day? Do they explain things clearly without industry jargon? Are they available on evenings and weekends when deals happen? In Tampa Bay's competitive market, a slow lender can torpedo an otherwise solid offer.
Ask about their average time from application to clear-to-close. Most lenders should be able to close a purchase loan in 30 days or less. If they are quoting 45 to 60 days, that is a red flag — and it may make your offer less attractive to sellers.
Finally, ask your REALTOR for recommendations. Barrett has closed hundreds of transactions and knows which lenders perform consistently. His referrals are based on results, not commissions.
What Should You Bring to Pre-Approval?
Getting pre-approved before you start house hunting gives you a clear budget, strengthens your offer, and speeds up closing. Here is what most lenders will ask for on day one.
- ✓Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- ✓Social Security number for credit check authorization
- ✓Pay stubs from the last 30 days
- ✓W-2s and/or 1099s from the past two years
- ✓Federal tax returns from the past two years
- ✓Bank statements from the last two to three months (all pages)
- ✓Proof of any additional income (rental income, alimony, disability, etc.)
- ✓Documentation of debts: car loans, student loans, credit cards, child support
- ✓Gift letter if using gifted funds for the down payment
- ✓Divorce decree or separation agreement, if applicable
Self-employed? You may also need a profit and loss statement and business tax returns. Ask your lender for their specific checklist.
Need a Lender Referral?
Barrett connects buyers with mortgage professionals who close on time, communicate clearly, and fight for the best rates. No kickbacks, no conflicts of interest — just trusted referrals from 23+ years of real estate experience.
How Does Barrett's Lender Network Work?
Over 23+ years in real estate, Barrett Henry has built relationships with mortgage professionals across every loan category — conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, construction, and investor DSCR loans. These are not paid partnerships. Barrett does not receive referral fees, kickbacks, or any form of compensation from the lenders he recommends.
When you ask Barrett for a lender referral, he matches you with a mortgage professional based on your specific needs. A first-time buyer with a 620 credit score has very different needs than a real estate investor purchasing a multi-unit property. Barrett considers your loan type, timeline, financial complexity, and communication preferences before making a recommendation.
Every lender in Barrett's network has earned their spot through consistent performance: competitive rates, clear communication, and a track record of closing on time. If a lender drops the ball on a transaction, they lose their spot. It is that simple.
Tampa Bay Mortgage Lender Directory
24 lenders across our 8-county service area. Google ratings shown are current and subject to change.
Barrett Recommends
Rich Reynolds - Highland Mortgage
Tampa, FL
A Tampa lender Barrett personally recommends, with a reputation among agents for closing on time and with no surprises. More than 15 years in the business and a go-to for buyers who want a lender that delivers.
Christian Gardner - CMG Home Loans
Tampa, FL
A Tampa CMG Home Loans officer Barrett personally recommends for steady communication and follow-through, even on long, cross-country relocations. Keeps clients confident through the process and closes cleanly.
Paul George - Simplified Mortgage
Tampa, FL
A Tampa-area loan officer with Simplified Mortgage, personally recommended by Barrett for buyers who want straightforward, hands-on guidance through financing.
Hillsborough County
14 Days To Close
Tampa, FL
One of the most-reviewed mortgage teams in the bay area, built around fast closings and clear, patient guidance. First-time buyers praise how they break down costs and percentages until everything makes sense.
The Orlicki Group
Tampa, FL
A Tampa team realtors and buyers pick for competitive rates, transparency, and quick execution. Strong communication, a smooth document system, and honest second opinions when you are rate shopping.
Bliss Mortgage LLC
Tampa, FL
A five-star Tampa broker known for educating first-time and condo buyers before they ever make an offer. Fast pre-approvals, constant communication with all parties, and a website that walks you through the process.
Jim Gaffney - Union Home Mortgage
Valrico, FL
A Valrico-based lender realtors trust to get deals to the closing table smoothly. A responsive team with strong attention to detail and clear communication at every step.
Wholesale Mortgages LLC
Brandon, FL
A Brandon mortgage broker praised for stepping in fast when other lenders stall, sometimes closing in days. Efficient, professional, and experienced with FHA and first-time buyer loans.
Pinellas County
DDA Mortgage
Largo, FL
A Largo broker that guides buyers from shopping and pre-approval all the way to closing with honesty and detail. Responsive and knowledgeable, and comfortable with first-time buyers and investment properties alike.
Clearwater Mortgage
Clearwater, FL
A Clearwater team that makes first-time buying feel manageable, with friendly, efficient service from pre-approval to close. Buyers highlight fast turnaround and steady support through every obstacle.
McCaughan Home Lending
Clearwater, FL
A Clearwater lender (powered by Lower) known for organized, thorough, and responsive service. An easy-to-use loan app keeps you informed, and no detail gets overlooked on the way to a timely close.
Pasco County
My Easy Mortgage
Wesley Chapel, FL
A Wesley Chapel broker with hundreds of five-star reviews across purchases and refinances. Attentive, patient service that handles curveballs like roof or insurance issues without missing a beat.
Polk County
Neighborhood Loans - Lakeland
Lakeland, FL
A high-volume Lakeland lender realtors rave about for proactive communication and getting deals done. A dedicated team that helps buyers who were turned down elsewhere find a path to closing.
Loantrust Mortgage Inc
Lakeland, FL
A Lakeland broker praised for making the process feel like a breeze, often closing in under 30 days. Clear communication and a document process that keeps first-time buyers out of the dark.
Simple Lending Mortgage LLC
Lakeland, FL
A Lakeland team that keeps first-time and out-of-state buyers informed and confident from start to close. Quick to respond and able to pivot fast, even switching loan types days before closing when needed.
Manatee County
JZ Mortgage Services, Inc.
Bradenton, FL
A Bradenton lender realtors and title companies have trusted for years, known for transparency and follow-through. Handles every client with care and stays available when questions come up.
Thurber Financial Group LLC
Bradenton, FL
A Bradenton lender clients trust for honesty, integrity, and meticulous attention to detail. Prompt, professional communication that makes a big financial decision feel manageable.
Sarasota County
Dustin Meshberger (Suncoast Mortgage)
Sarasota, FL
A Sarasota mortgage team first-time buyers recommend for responsive, after-hours service and clear explanations. Smooth process from initial contact to closing, with someone always available to answer questions.
Pathway Mortgage
Sarasota, FL
A Sarasota lender that goes above and beyond to close tough deals, even for out-of-state buyers. Resourceful, responsive, and communicative from pre-approval through the closing table.
Affordable Home Loans
Sarasota, FL
A Sarasota lender realtors endorse for strategy, foresight, and putting the client first. Immediate responses, clear options, and smooth closings, even on complex files.
Hernando County
Supreme Lending - Spring Hill
Spring Hill, FL
A Spring Hill lender praised for friendly, informative service on purchases and refinances. A responsive team that answers every question and moves quickly toward closing.
Suarez Home & Finance Corp.
Spring Hill, FL
A Spring Hill lender that puts nervous first-time buyers at ease with patient, clear guidance. Easy to reach and thorough, with a range of loan and HELOC options.
Citrus County
Citrus Mortgage Associates, LLC
Inverness, FL
A local Inverness broker Citrus County families trust to put clients first and chase the best rate. Diligent, detail-oriented, and available early morning through late night to keep things moving.
American Mortgage Lenders of ALCOVA Mortgage
Crystal River, FL
A Crystal River loan officer known for finding a way when banks say no. Frequent communication, clear explanations, and a smooth process from application to closing.
The NOW Team provides this list as a convenience. We do not endorse, receive compensation from, or steer clients to any lender. You are free to choose any lender. We encourage comparing rates, fees, and terms, and verifying licensing at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mortgage Lenders
How do I know which type of lender is right for me?
It depends on your financial profile and goals. A mortgage broker can shop multiple lenders on your behalf, while a direct lender may close faster. Barrett helps you narrow the field by connecting you with a lender whose strengths match your situation — whether that is a first-time buyer needing FHA flexibility, a veteran qualifying for a VA loan, or an investor using DSCR financing.
Does Barrett receive referral fees or kickbacks from lenders?
No. Barrett does not receive compensation of any kind from the lenders he recommends. His referrals are based entirely on track record, communication, and the lender's ability to close on time. The goal is to put you in the best position at the closing table.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Florida?
Most conventional loans require a minimum 620 credit score. FHA loans allow scores as low as 580 with a 3.5% down payment. VA loans have no official minimum, though most lenders look for 620 or higher. If your score needs work, Barrett can connect you with a credit repair specialist before you apply.
How long does mortgage pre-approval take?
With all documentation ready, many lenders can issue a pre-approval letter within 24 to 48 hours. Some offer same-day pre-approvals for straightforward applications. Getting your documents organized ahead of time — tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements — makes the process significantly faster.
Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?
Absolutely. Pre-approval tells you exactly how much you can afford, strengthens your offer in a competitive market, and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. In Tampa Bay's market, many listing agents will not schedule a showing without a pre-approval letter on file.
Mortgage Guides and Resources
Get a Lender Referral
Tell Barrett about your financing needs and he will connect you with the right mortgage professional for your situation.