Preferred VA Loan Lenders
Not every lender understands VA loans. These are mortgage professionals Barrett has worked with on closed deals and trusts to handle VA appraisals, military income, and PCS timelines correctly. No referral fees — just lenders who get it done right.
VA Loan Expertise
Every lender here has closed dozens of VA loans — not just one or two. They know the process cold.
Military Income Fluent
LES, BAH, flight pay, disability income, combat pay — these lenders know how to document and qualify military income.
No Referral Fees
Barrett receives zero compensation from these lenders. Recommendations are based on performance, not kickbacks.
Meet the Lenders
Christian Gardner
Senior Loan Officer · CMG Home Loans
4902 Eisenhower Blvd Suite 235, Tampa, FL 33634
NMLS# 1639012 · CMG Home Loans NMLS# 1820
Apply with ChristianChristian Gardner brings a uniquely diverse background to mortgage lending — a USF Finance graduate who studied political science at Cambridge's Selwyn College, worked as a forensic accountant, and even commercially fished offshore. That problem-solving range translates directly to getting loans closed when other lenders can't. Christian is certified and federally licensed for VA, FHA, conventional, bank statement, foreign national, and HECM purchase loans. Based in Tampa, he's known for pulling loans through the system rather than waiting for something good to happen.
Paul George
Loan Advisor · Simplified Mortgage
106 Hadley Drive, Sanford, FL 32771
NMLS# 2145669 · Simplified Mortgage NMLS# 2157599
Apply with PaulPaul George is a Tampa Bay-based Loan Advisor with Simplified Mortgage who brings a straightforward approach to VA and conventional lending — clear communication, competitive rates, and a process that lives up to his company's name. He works closely with Barrett on military and veteran transactions, understanding the unique documentation and timeline requirements VA buyers face.
Rich Reynolds
Producing Branch Manager · Highland Mortgage
3903 Northdale Blvd Suites 210E & 270E, Tampa, FL 33624
NMLS# 450982 · Highland Mortgage NMLS# 1969375
Apply with RichRich Reynolds is a seasoned mortgage professional with a distinguished career spanning two decades in the Tampa Bay area. A third-generation Auburn University graduate and Brandon High School alumnus, Rich brings deep local market knowledge and a family legacy in real estate — his mother, Mary Reynolds, was a top real estate agent in Brandon for over 40 years. As Producing Branch Manager at Highland Mortgage, Rich provides personalized mortgage solutions with the integrity and dedication that comes from a lifetime in the industry.
Tammy Acker
Mortgage Loan Originator · United Community Bank
5426 Bay Center Drive, Tampa, FL 33609
NMLS# 324771 · United Community Bank NMLS# 421841
Apply with TammyTammy Acker is a highly experienced Mortgage Consultant with over three decades of expertise in the mortgage industry. A native of Florida, Tammy has developed a deep understanding of the local real estate market and is committed to helping clients achieve their homeownership dreams. Known for her results-driven approach and creative problem-solving, Tammy navigates complex financing situations with ease. Her expertise covers VA loans, construction financing, jumbo, portfolio, physician, conventional, and affordable financing. Outside of work, Tammy serves as a Goodwill Suncoast Ambassador and is active with the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce.
Questions About Preferred Lenders
- Why does Barrett recommend specific lenders?
- These are lenders Barrett has worked with on closed transactions and trusts to handle VA loans correctly. VA purchases have unique requirements — military income documentation, VA appraisal processes, and PCS timeline coordination — that not every lender handles well. These lenders do.
- Am I required to use one of these lenders?
- No. You can use any VA-approved lender you choose. Barrett recommends these professionals because they consistently deliver smooth VA closings, but the choice is always yours.
- Do these lenders specialize in VA loans?
- Yes. Every lender on this page has significant experience with VA loans specifically — not just conventional mortgages. They understand COE documentation, VA appraisal requirements, funding fee calculations, and how to underwrite military income including BAH, flight pay, and disability compensation.
- Does Barrett receive a referral fee from these lenders?
- No. Barrett does not receive referral fees, kickbacks, or compensation of any kind from lenders. These recommendations are based solely on performance and client experience. RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act) prohibits referral fees between real estate agents and lenders.