About Us
As a local Florida mortgage company, we have the flexibility to underwrite using common sense underwriting giving us the flexibility and efficiency unavailable to traditional mortgage brokers or local banks. Unlike many “online mortgage companies” who focus is primarily on rate and high pressure sales, our seasoned mortgage professionals will help educate you on the best available loan programs for your specific situation, structure your loan customized to your needs, find the best rates available at the lowest fees, and we provide local customer support and service that is second to none.
As consummate mortgage professionals, all 1st Florida Mortgage employees are committed to providing excellent customer service throughout the entire loan process. We fully understand that buying a home can be a stressful process, but it doesn’t have to be. To this end, we offer a streamlined process that is supported by the industry’s best mortgage technology to make the entire process as stress free as possible.
Buying or Refinancing?
We've got you covered.
1st Florida Mortgage is a direct lender in Florida, offering competitive rates, low fees, and a streamlined loan process. Whether you’re buying a home or refinancing, we deliver fast, reliable service tailored to your individual needs.
Why Choose Us? It's Our People
James Hair - Senior Loan Officer
James Hair is a seasoned finance professional with 10 years of experience in consumer finance, banking, and mortgage lending. A native of Brownfield, East Baton Rouge, he earned his finance degree from Mississippi Delta, where he was active in student government and served as a campus ambassador.
James has held leadership roles, including Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager at Regions Bank in Baton Rouge. As a certified Mortgage Loan Originator and underwriter, he is passionate about promoting financial wellness through seminars on credit, budgeting, and more. Committed to his Louisiana roots, James is dedicated to empowering his community to achieve homeownership.
Shawn Dulac - Senior Loan Officer
Shawn Dulac is a skilled mortgage professional, licensed to assist clients in Maine, Texas, and Florida. He holds a degree with a double major in French and Secondary Education, which reflects his dedication to learning and teaching. For seven years, Shawn worked as a high school teacher, where he developed strong communication and relationship-building skills that now enhance his ability to guide clients through the mortgage process.
Outside of work, Shawn values quality time with his family. He enjoys camping, traveling, and spending time outdoors, creating cherished memories with loved ones. His love for nature and adventure reflects his well-rounded approach to life and work. Shawn’s commitment to his clients and his dedication to their financial success make him a trusted partner in the journey to homeownership.
Roman Balley - Production Manager
Roman Balley is a highly accomplished mortgage professional with 18 years of experience in the mortgage industry. As the Production Manager, he is dedicated to equipping his team with the best tools, resources, and products, as well as ensuring they have the time and support needed to deliver an exceptional experience to their clients and business partners.
Roman places the utmost importance on customer service and communication, striving to make the loan application and entire loan process as straightforward, transparent, and stress-free as possible. His commitment to excellence ensures that every client receives personalized care and attention throughout their journey to homeownership.
Ryan Collins - Branch Manager
Ryan Collins, graduated from Texas Tech University in 1997 and has over 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Ryan is a valued member of the marketing team at 1st Florida Mortgage. He thrives on collaborating with various teams and departments, bringing creativity and versatility to his role.
Ryan is passionate about marketing and user interface design, focusing on making the loan process seamless and stress-free for clients. In his free time, he enjoys golf, camping, and cheering on his favorite college football teams.
Ramaj Balley - President
As a 30 year veteran of the industry, Ramaj oversees sales, operations and production. He is committed to creating an efficient and transparent home loan process by leveraging the industry’s most innovative technologies to provide hassle free home loan solutions to our borrowers.
Ramaj has served in a variety of senior leadership roles across many mortgage companies, including, Chief Strategy Officer, National Director and Sr. Vice President. He is a 20 year member of the Mortgage Banker’s Association and his currently pursuing his Executive Certified Mortgage Banker (CBM) designation. Ramaj is a father of three and has been married to his wife for over 35 years. He is also a recent grandfather.
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Have Questions? Speak with a Home Loan Specialist!
