1st Florida Lending — When Banks Say No! We Say Yes!
Florida's Top-Rated Direct Mortgage Lender48 + loan programs with 112 lending solutions We are A+ Rated with Better Business Bureau 4.8★ Google rated with 100's of reviews CALL OR TEXT US AT 407-300-2558
Florida Direct Mortgage Lender Since 2007 — Now Expanded to California

Find the Right Mortgage From 48+ Core Loan Programs with 112 Lending Solutions

When Banks Say No, We Say Yes!®
~60 seconds No obligation No credit check to start
Licensed mortgage lenders in Florida and California
48+ Loan Programs
112 lending solutions
4.8★ Google
Based on 100's of reviews
A+ BBB Rated
Accredited Business
Since 2007
Direct lender · FL & CA

Choose Your Path

Where Are You In Your Journey?

Two clear starting points — we'll route you to the right team from there.

I'm Buying or Refinancing

Get a same-day pre-approval letter from a licensed loan officer. No credit pull to start.

Still Comparing Loan Options?

Not sure which program fits? Try using Lending Match Pro™ and let us fit you to the right loan.

Carlos Matos, CEO & Founder of 1st Florida Lending

About 1st Florida Lending

A Direct Lender Who Actually Listens

Since 2007, we've built our reputation on public education, trust, and personal guidance — helping borrowers across Florida and California find the right financing across 48+ core loan programs and 112 lending solutions.

"At 1st Florida Lending, we believe every borrower deserves more than a competitive rate — you deserve a direct lender who actually listens. As a top-rated Direct Mortgage Lender since 2007 serving borrowers from Florida to California, we combine deep expertise, flexible programs, and genuine personal guidance to help you secure the right financing with confidence."
Carlos MatosCEO & Founder / 1st Florida Lending

Learn Before You Borrow

MORTGAGE RESOURCE HIGHLIGHTS

Educational tools and guides to help you make confident mortgage decisions.

Browse calculators, checklists, and 48+ educational guides curated by our team — everything you need to understand loan programs, closing costs, and the path from application to closing.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or comparing refinance options, our resource library breaks down the mortgage process in plain English so you can move forward with clarity.

Mortgage Fundamentals

Plain-English guides to loan types, terms, and the mortgage process.

Loan Calculators

Estimate payments, affordability, and what closing costs really look like.

Document Checklists

Know exactly what to gather before you apply — organized by program.

Credit & Down Payment Guidance

How credit scores, DTI, and down payment assistance shape your options.

Google Reviews

What Our Clients Are Saying Now on Google

4.8based on 100's of Google reviews

"As the buyer's agent, I had the pleasure of working with Jose while he handled the financing for my clients. His communication was outstanding from start to finish, and he consistently kept both my clients and me informed throughout the process. Jose's professionalism, responsiveness, and dedication helped create a stress-free experience for my clients. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a lender who genuinely cares about their clients and gets the job done."

Tiffany Steck

a month ago · via Google

"Working with Carlos Matos is always a pleasure. He guided me through the entire process with patience, professionalism, and genuine care. Carlos took the time to thoroughly explain all my options, answered every question, and secured me an incredible rate that saved me thousands. If you're in Central Florida and need a mortgage or refinance, look no further than 1st Florida Lending. Hands down the best experience I've ever had with a lender!"

Anna Prince

7 months ago · via Google

"Carlos was incredible to work with. This was one of the most difficult deals I've had as a new home sale agent, and after multiple lenders were unable to get the buyer qualified, Carlos stepped in and made it happen. His communication, persistence, and problem-solving were outstanding throughout the entire process. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a lender who truly knows how to get deals done."

Paul Kurpiewski

4 months ago · via Google

"I can't say enough good things about my experience with 1st Florida Lending! From start to finish, the process was smooth, professional, and stress-free. A huge thank you to Carlos Matos and Jose for going above and beyond. Thanks to their help, I was able to close on my mortgage with confidence and peace of mind. If you're looking for a team that truly cares and delivers outstanding service, I highly recommend 1st Florida Lending!"

Alvaro Terron

7 months ago · via Google

"I just closed on my third home and my go-to people are Carlos, Jose and Mari at 1st Florida Lending. I've continued to use their services again and again. I cannot express the excellence in their work and making sure you have the best chance at getting the right loan. Very honest and they will do everything in their power to do what's in your best interest. I highly recommend their services."

Lilly Gonzalez

4 months ago · via Google

"Huge shoutout to Jose, the lender I worked with on my latest closing! Communication is everything in a real estate transaction, and Jose was phenomenal from start to finish. He stayed on top of every step of the process, kept everyone informed, and made sure our buyer got to the closing table smoothly. I definitely recommend Jose to anyone looking to purchase a home!"

Marlene Peralta

a month ago · via Google

"We cannot say enough good things about our experience with 1st Florida Lending and Jose Peñaherrera. His knowledge of mortgage lending was impressive, and he always took the time to explain our options. What stood out most was his dedication, responsiveness, and professionalism. Thanks to his hard work and expertise, we successfully closed on our dream home without any issues. Five stars all the way!"

Amber Wiemer

a month ago · via Google

"Being self employed doesn't make it easy to secure a mortgage. Carlos made it happen. He was very professional and personable. I would highly recommend. Thank you Carlos!"

Kevin Benner

3 months ago · via Google

"Carlos and his team were fantastic to work with. Great communication, and the whole time I felt assured that they would get the job done. Just closed a deal with them and I will definitely be working with them again. I highly recommend them!"

Gabriel Galvez

3 months ago · via Google

"I highly recommend 1st Florida Lending. From the very first moment, they helped me get approved and closed in less than two weeks. Mari provided excellent service, always attentive to every detail and keeping me updated on my loan application every day. Carlos also provided excellent service, explaining the steps involved and always offering the best options. I will definitely contact them again in the future."

Carolina Parada

7 months ago · via Google