Today we’d like to introduce you to Delaney Bravo.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started in mortgages in 2015. I was attending school full-time for my Marketing degree and wanted to transition from Hospitality to an office job, and was hired as a receptionist with PrimeLending’s Jacksonville branch.
One thing I have always believed is that hard work beats talent, and I made it my mission to hustle and show that I was more than the “Young, college girl” and prove to my branch manager that I was serious about soaking in as much knowledge as possible! I graduated with my B.S. in Digital Marketing in 2016 and had been promoted from receptionist to a Loan Officer Assistant, to the Executive Assistant for one of the top Loan Officers nationwide.
In 2017, I moved into my first role as a Loan Officer. Our team was moving to a different company and there was a Loan Officer opening. After assisting loan officers for a few years, I knew my true passion lay in helping deserving families into homes and that my ultimate career goal was to be a Loan Officer. I approached my boss and stated my case on why I would love the opportunity for the new position and would prove to her that I was able to handle it. I was beyond excited when my boss said yes!
Since 2018, I have been a licensed loan officer and helped thousands of families. I am beyond grateful for the clients and referral partners that trust me time and time again. I was in the top 1% of loan officers nationwide in 2018 and 2019. I have grown a team of my own and made it our mission to make mortgages easier, faster, and more affordable. In August 2020, I transitioned my team from the retail side of mortgages to a Top, Local Mortgage Brokerage: First Coast Mortgage Funding.
I didn’t think I could fall in love with mortgages more but being a mortgage broker has reignited my passion for helping others as I am able to provide better options, lower rates, and quicker service to my clients and referral partners!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Every story has its bumps, but I feel like my road is more like a roller coaster! For me, being a loan officer is much more than just “selling” a loan to a family or asking a real estate agent to work together. I am very analytical and like to know how every cog in the machine works, and the mortgage industry has A LOT of cogs! Mortgage guidelines are constantly being adjusted and updated, so I am a huge proponent of knowing all the wacky guidelines nuances to ensure I am the best advocate for my clients.
A home is typically the most expensive purchase a family will make and being the one responsible for walking a family through the process comes with a lot of pressure, but also an even bigger reward when I get pictures from clients of their children in their new rooms or dog laying in the backyard they never thought they would have!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a loan officer with First Coast Mortgage Funding, a local mortgage brokerage.
Being in the top 1% nationwide, I have seen so many scenarios and been able to develop the ability to become an expert in mortgage guidelines and seamlessly navigate each unique family’s needs by providing creative options.
When I have asked my referral partners why they choose to refer my team to their clients, the answer is typically communication, connection, and knowledge. Mortgages can be overwhelming and complicated, but they do not have to be. I tell all my clients that I am here every step of the way and promise to not only communicate but explain each step and ensure they are comfortable throughout the process.
I also like to break down the stereotype that “mortgage lenders” are similar to the banker in “Deal or no Deal.” Cold, short, and non-personable. Mortgages are the exact opposite, extremely personal, and I want each family or agent I work with to feel my team’s passion and be confident in their choice to trust my team
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Jacksonville is a super unique city and I absolutely love it here! I love all the different pockets of Jacksonville and the different “vibes” within our city. From the stunning historic homes in Riverside to the laid-back feel of Jax Beach, I wouldn’t change a thing, except one thing!
The sheer size of Jacksonville in comparison to other cities (land-wise) is daunting! When living here, you don’t realize that a 45-minute drive is not typically within the same “city” in most areas!
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www,firstcoastmortgagefunding.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaxmortgagemama/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaxmortgagemama
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcaWdmqGm_I6xSCzBM03ZFQ
