I’m Willie Smith — a husband, father of three boys, coach, and mortgage advisor with nearly three decades of experience helping families make smart, confident moves in real estate.
My specialty is VA loans. It’s a deep passion and a calling — serving those who’ve served us. But that’s not where my work stops. I help first-time buyers, seasoned homeowners, self-employed clients, and retirees find the right loan for their life and goals. Whether it’s FHA, jumbo, renovation, or a strategy to rebuild credit, I bring clarity to every conversation.
I started my career at places like Bank of America, Countrywide, and SunTrust, where I learned what to do — and what to do better. Now, I bring that experience to every client I serve, with personal guidance, proven systems, and a team that knows how to get it done right.
My approach is simple: be real, stay ready, and deliver results. I’m not here to sell. I’m here to serve — with excellence, empathy, and a plan that makes you feel empowered from start to keys.
If you’re looking for a lender who treats you like family and shows up like a pro, let’s talk.
I am so well pleased with this company! I have used The Willie Smith Team to purchase 3 properties…I am speechless! They respond immediately, answer questions transparently, and they have the KNOWLEDGE to get you to the closing table! Many people are hesitant to work their finances with a diversified financial company-bump that ignorance and hire people who can get you to the finish line! They are amazing, accurate, professional, wise and strategically work your customized plan to benefit YOU! Will forever use Willie Smith and team in every deal - these are my “money guys” and I don’t make a move without consulting them first. Don’t miss out - call them NOW!
P K
It was great experience they definitely worked with me!!! Bravo Zulu
Tony B
I absolutely love Mr willie Smith and his team. They went above and beyond in helping me every step of the way. If anyone ever needs help they are the team to go to!
Bunnie P
Awesome company to do business with. Entire process went smoothly. His employees are caring and professional at all times
charles h
Awesome team to work with, they get the job done! A great, smooth, stress free, very detailed, and communication is excellent. Contact the Willie Smith team for all your home buying needs!
levi p
I worked with Willie Smith and his team on a transaction and they were very efficient, knowledgeable, and fun to work with! My customer was very happy with the outcome of their transaction!
Cindy Lee, J
The Willie Smith Team is phenomenal! They really set the mark for others to strive towards. Honest and filled with integrity, this team deserves more than 5 stars!!!
Willie J
Great team!!! Buying a home is like a second home and brings a lot of stress at points. Their support made me feel confident they had my back!! Thank you!!
Danielle S
I had the pleasure of working with Willie Smith and his lending team on a recent transaction, and they were absolutely exceptional from beginning to end. Their communication was consistent and clear, and they were always a step ahead when it came to documentation, timelines, and keeping all parties informed. Willie’s knowledge of lending programs and his ability to guide buyers through the process with confidence and ease made a huge difference. His team was equally impressive, responsive, professional, and genuinely committed to helping the client succeed. As a Realtor, it's invaluable to have a lending partner like Willie who makes the financing process smooth and stress-free. I look forward to many more successful closings together!
Keisha H
5 🌟 if I could give more I would! I just closed on my home with Willie's team. I am new in the area from Palm Beach and my agent gave me the contact info to Willie. From the start, they're on it and it's straightforward! Yes, we as clients have to do our part and when we do- it is seamless! They worked with me and for me. Skarelli is knowledgeable, professional, she will tell you want you need minus the fluff, and when I did as she advised on what I needed to do..it was boots to the ground. Dotty will follow-up and check off where the file stands and made sure I was on track. Willie will swoop in and glue it all together! They're amazing. All my referrals will go to this team. My closing from signing a contract to my closing date was about a 3 week turn-around- and it happened with no delays or misunderstandings. If you need a broker don't hesitate to contact them. They're a broker/ lender wrapped in one; one stop shop! Im so appreciative for them all thst I was able to turn MY keys in the door of my new home in Jacksonville. Thanks to the Willie Smith team
S M
I would like to say thanks to the Willie Smith Team, especially Dotty and Skarelli for helping to make my dream of home ownership a reality. They were very thorough, understanding, and accommodating. They helped to make difficult situations easy. I would recommend this team of capable individuals to everyone seeking to own a home.
Cleopatra A
Again, the Willie Smith team did an exceptional job working with my buyer with purchasing a new home. If you want the best lender in Jacksonville, I highly recommend them for all your mortgage needs.
Donald S
I feel truly fortunate to have worked with Mr. Willie and his incredible team on my home loan. Their patience, expertise, and unwavering support made the entire process stress-free. I never once felt alone—they took the time to answer every question and provided invaluable guidance every step of the way. Their professionalism and dedication made all the difference!
Jawid S
I had an excellent experience working with Willie Smith Mortgage Company. Their team was supportive, responsive, and accessible throughout the entire home loan process. Thanks to their professionalism and dedication, my closing was smooth and pleasant. I am truly grateful for their expertise and commitment, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome!
Jawid S
I had a great experience working with the Willie Smith Team during my closing process. They were professional, responsive, and kept me informed every step of the way. Communication was top-notch—any questions I had were answered quickly and clearly, which really helped ease the stress of the process. I truly appreciate their hard work and dedication. Highly recommend!
Kimberly G
Willie and his team were very professional!
Quality Living A
Willie and his team provide excellent service from. Beginning to the end and even after closing. The team is very helpful and knowledgeable. They were always on top of things and helped to make sure we got to the finish line.
Mr. M
I love the Willie Smith Team!! This is my second home purchased utilizing their services. Skavelli and Dotty are angels. Both ladies maintained constant communication with me whether it was via call, text or email. They made the whole process run smoothly from beginning to the end by keeping me on track. I highly recommend them to anyone looking to purchase a home. You can’t go wrong with this team.
Equilla S
The service from the entire team was truly outstanding. Their communication was clear, timely, and consistent every step of the way, which made the entire process smooth and stress-free. I felt well-supported throughout, and it’s clear they genuinely care about delivering a great experience. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a team that is professional, responsive, and easy to work with.
Lori N
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐The Willie Smith Team was outstanding to work with throughout my buyer’s home purchase! As a real estate professional, it’s refreshing to partner with a lending team that’s not only responsive and knowledgeable but also truly cares about the client’s experience. They kept everyone informed, hit every deadline, and made sure the process was smooth from pre-approval to closing. If you're looking for a dependable and professional lender in Jacksonville, I highly recommend The Willie Smith Team!
Trevan D
This was not my first home, however they took care of me as if it were. Complete transparency and care. I recommend this group to anyone who is in the market to buy and/or sell a home. They will work with you from the beginning to the end. Thank you!!!
Diana “DeeDee” K
This has been one of the best experiences I have encountered. Your entire team was awesome. I highly recommend your services to anyone looking to buy a new home. Thank you!
Diana “DeeDee” K
The Willie Smith team was a pleasure to work with and provides the best superior service. Easy to work with and very detailed from start to finish. I would highly recommend them for your mortgage needs.
Donald S
Mr Willie Smith and his team worked wonders for me. I was in safe hands with their entire team. They kept us up-to-date on the entire process & answered all of our questions in a quick & timely manner. They definitely helped put my nerves at ease. I would definitely work with them again if I had the chance & would also recommend their team to anybody who is looking for a group of trustworthy & hardworking mortgage lenders at your side.
Chantelle V
Willie Smith and his team are the best. I have worked with them several times and each time they go over and above to make sure I’m informed and my goals are met. Anyone who needs an experienced Lender, I encourage them to use Willie Smith at Preferred Rate!
LeAndra S
Top notch customer service! Very professionalism and timely! Dotty was very sensitive to our requests and delivered! My client was blessed to have her!
Joketra H
Willie Smith is the best in the business! He and his team continuously go above and beyond for their customers AND real estate partners. I can't count how many times they have helped someone purchase a home, that didn't think it was possible! He is passionate about the dream of homeownership and helping people to realize their dream. I can't say enough about this team, he has made my job as a realtor SO MUCH easier. If you are looking to purchase a home call Willie Smith, if you are a realtor and looking for a good place to refer your clients CALL WILLIE SMITH! I highly recommend this TEAM!
The RE Agent 007 Tammy B
Great Team Great Company. I am Blessed to have encountered there services and would recommend them to everyone.
Craig S Campbell J
Let me start by saying Willie Smith, Skarelli, and Dotty were AMAZING!!!! I was reassured over and over again as my anxiety was through the roof. The communication with the team was outstanding every step of the way during my homebuying process which made my experience very easy. When they tell you not to worry, they mean it! I would recommend this team 100 times over. I am forever grateful. Thank you for everything!
Renayle
I would highly recommend the Willie Smith team to anyone looking to purchase a new home, but especially a first time homebuyer like myself. The Smith team was very thorough and supportive as they led me through the process. The team helped me get my financial situation together so that I could qualify for a loan and helped me secure down payment assistance. They were very patient with all of my questions and concerns. They have certainly earned my trust and I look forward to the opportunity to work with them again in the future.
Authentic E
Mr Willie has been a great teammate to work with for experience in applying for a New Home Loan. It was long road but the team was very good at getting the job done for my family as well as finding the perfect home for my family. I have no regrets and I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with Mr Willie teams. The team was very good at making sure the job is completed in time for the closing date. My husband and I would like to do a final Shoutout for Mr Willie for being there for me when I needed it Thank You. We will continue to spread the word about your work and how your company has done for us in our experience with our New Home ….. We give them 10 over 10
Momof S
There were a few bumps in the road, but Stacie(realtor) and The Willie Smith team worked extra hard to get us in our home. Thank you.
Yanic S
It was a pleasure working with Willie and his team. Appreciate all the support from beginning to end, great experience.
Ayub A
Willie Smith’s team was amazing and made my experience so wonderful! I was helped by Skeralli and she was extremely helpful and professional. I’ll recommend them to everyone anyday!
Pathik N
My experience with Willie Smith and his team Skarelli and Dotty were exceptionally outstanding. They took the time to get to know me and understand what my needs were, and made it happen.Whenever I had questions and concerns, Skarelli and Dotty were always available. I appreciate them so much.
Carolyn W
Excellent service from. offer submission to closing. Doty was incredible. She followed up just like she said she would.
Cindy J
Mr. Willie Smith and his entire team go beyond their duty, from the first moment and throughout the process they are attentive to every detail, giving you the assurance that everything will turn out well. Thank you for your patience, your hard work and for giving us the happiness of having a home.
AliciaP
Mr. Willie Smith and his entire team go beyond their duty, from the first moment and throughout the process they are attentive to every detail, giving you the assurance that everything will turn out well. Thank you for your patience, your hard work and for giving us the happiness of having a home.
AliciaP
Willie and the Hamilton group team were outstanding. My home buying process was a success. The team used the most up to date technology to keep me informed, I was able to do everything from my touch phone. Communication was far beyond outstanding each team member I interacted with ensured before we ended the conversation that I knew the next step in the process. I left the closing table very happy! Thank you team.
gilbert
Willie and the Hamilton group team were outstanding. My home buying process was a success. The team used the most up to date technology to keep me informed, I was able to do everything from my touch phone. Communication was far beyond outstanding each team member I interacted with ensured before we ended the conversation that I knew the next step in the process. I left the closing table very happy! Thank you team.
gilbert
From the beginning to the end, Willie, Skarelli and team were amazing. These guys know there stuff. Being a first time home buyer, they made the process extremely easy.
KarenPadillas
From the beginning to the end, Willie, Skarelli and team were amazing. These guys know there stuff. Being a first time home buyer, they made the process extremely easy.
KarenPadillas
This was my first time going through the home buying process and Willie and Skarelli were tremendously helpful in explaining everything and making the process as easy and painless as possible
Lucas P
This was my first time going through the home buying process and Willie and Skarelli were tremendously helpful in explaining everything and making the process as easy and painless as possible
Lucas P
Willie and his team exceeded my expectation they provided updates on each step of the loan process. If there's an urgent document needed they contact me and give me reminder of whats needed so my closing will not be delayed. It only took them 16 days to process my mortgage from the time the seller accepted my offer to the time i closed on the house. Only one word to describe this team AMAZING !!!
rhanthony2000
Wonderful team! They assisted with every step of the way & always made sure to keep us educated on the home buying process. Would recommend them 10000%!! Thank you Willie Smith Team!
Natalie N
They made the entire home-buying experience seamless and stress-free. Communication was excellent and they were always easy to get in touch with. They also have the best rates.
Jahkari S
Excellent communication, quick turnaround (We were able to close a week early!), friendly & professional. Highly recommend this team for your home buying needs! Thank you Skarelli and Dotty!
Dana L
Going through hell and high water, Willie and his team made sure to keep us updated every step of the way. Make sure we understood everything happening and were so time efficient! We greatly appreciate them and everyone who made this so easy! We are so thankful for Dotty to be more than happy to explain anything and everything to us! They told us they would make the house of our dreams come true… and they did!
Chloe S
The Willie Smith team made our home buying journey truly amazing !!!! Even when I wanted to quit they stayed positive and kept encouraging us !!! Service truly was above our expectations. Thank you so much guys YOU ROCK !!!
Dana H
Beyond grateful for the Willie Team staff! Dotty and Skarelli are a powerhouse team when it comes to receiving documents, explaining regulations, and guiding throughout the entire process. We have both purchased and refinanced our home through the Willie Team and cannot be more at ease knowing that our home is secure and that we are genuinely cared for!
Vicky Z
Where do I start? The Willie Smith team is hands down AMAZING!! I am a real estate agent who have done a few deal with them. Every time the customer service has been beyond exceptional!! Not only are my buyers pleased with their expertise but I learn so much from this team!! They don’t just hand out pre approval, they make sure you get to the closing table holding your hand every step of the way!! Mr. Willie, Skarelli, and Mrs. Dotty I am very grateful to have such excellent professionals on my side! ❤️
Jerika W
Willie Smith and his team did a fantastic job, as usual, getting my customer to the closing table on time. The process was incredibly smooth for my first-time home buyer. Willie, Skarelli, and Dotty, thank you again for making another one of my customers' dreams of homeownership come true.
Kim D
“Working with Willie Smith and his team was an outstanding experience. From start to finish, they guided me through every step of the homebuying process with patience, expertise, and clear communication. Their hard work and dedication made what felt overwhelming at first surprisingly easy, and I’m genuinely grateful for everything they did to make my home purchase possible.”
Dana W
I had the best experience with The Willie Smith Team. They were with us every step of the way and they were very supportive it felt like they were fully committed to getting us in our house. Dotty and Skarelli were amazing to work with and they kept us informed about the process from beginning to end.
Dana W
The Willie Smith Team is always professional, in every stage of the lending process. I would highly recommend them for a smooth process, in your real estate transactions.
Charles K
Truly the best part of our homebuying process. They made everything seamless, excellent communication, and explained every aspect of the process. Willie's support and willingness to step in when needed, Skarelli's constant communication and care, and Dotty's warmth and precision on the back end kept our deal in great shape the entire way. No surprises at any point. I'd recommend to anyone looking to buy a home!
Lance D
The best willie team skarelli, Dotty they were very helpful. they answer all my questions. I recommend them to everybody. !!!
John V
Great team of professionals providing outstanding customer service. Mr. Smith and his team are very knowledgeable, they keep you informed during every step of the loan process. They take the time to answer all of your questions covering any concerns that you may have.
Chester S
Everything was great, thank you
Edilina H
Working with Willie Smith was a great experience from start to finish. He made the homebuying process smooth, easy to understand, and stress-free. His communication was always clear and timely, and he made sure I felt confident every step of the way. I highly recommend him to anyone looking to purchase a home! 🏡✨
Mya J
Loan Programs
A stunning craftsman-style home featuring a welcoming porch, modern design, and the 1% Home Loan Program.
1% Home Loan Program
Featured
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Conventional Loans
Featured
A welcoming living room with a fireplace, wall-mounted TV, and elegant decor, ideal for relaxing and entertaining in a cozy home setting.
Down Payment Assistance (DPA)
Featured
A smiling couple during a home renovation project, standing on stairs with construction supplies around them.
Home Renovation
A charming two-story house featuring a spacious front porch, large windows, and a well-maintained lawn, ideal for HELOC loan considerations.
HELOC Loans
Explore jumbo loan options for financing high-value homes like this beautiful property.
Jumbo Loans
Charming blue home surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for those seeking low down payment loan solutions.
Low Down Payment Loans
Learn how temporary buydowns can lower your mortgage payments during the initial years of homeownership.
Temporary Buydowns
Supporting veterans and families with VA home loan options and resources.
VA Loans
Two workers in safety helmets working on a construction site, focusing on woodwork and project progress.
Construction Financing
Happy couple discussing FHA loan options at home.
FHA Loans
A contemporary two-story home with a spacious garage, perfect for real estate bridge loans and investment opportunities.
Bridge Loans
Aerial view of a new residential property in a friendly neighborhood.
Community Lending
Beautiful Victorian-style condominiums with intricate details and vibrant colors, perfect for condominium loan options.
Condominium Loans
A nurse smiling while holding a tablet, highlighting loan options for first responders, teachers, and nurses.
First Responders – Nurses – Teacher Loans
A charming manufactured home featuring a spacious porch and lush landscaping, ideal for comfortable living.
Manufactured Home Loans
Elderly couple discussing reverse mortgage benefits using a laptop at home.
Reverse Mortgages
A couple stands outside a new house, symbolizing rural homeownership with USDA loans.
USDA Loans
Comfortable man working on a laptop at home, highlighting flexible bank statement loan options for homebuyers.
Bank Statement Loans
Simplify your home buying process with Preferred Rate's SmartBuy program.
Click n’ Close SmartBuy National DPA
A bright, inviting living room featuring a blue sofa, wooden chairs, and a fireplace with logs, perfect for relaxing or entertaining.
DSCR Loans (Investment Loans)
Featured
Comfortable living room featuring yellow armchairs, a fireplace, and a flat-screen TV, ideal for home improvement financing options.
Expanded Credit Loans
Modern house with landscaped yard and garden.
Expanded Income Loans
A smiling woman using a tablet near a window, representing accessible loan services for foreign nationals.
Loans for Foreign Nationals
Image of a smiling doctor holding a clipboard in a medical office setting. Perfect for promoting medical professional loan services.
Medical Professional Loans
Spacious living room with contemporary furniture and a sleek kitchen setup.
Pathway DPA Program
Beautiful blue house featuring a secure lock program for enhanced home safety.
Secure Lock Program
A woman reviews her home sale options on a tablet in a bright, modern kitchen, highlighting the Seller PreLock Program benefits.
Seller PreLock Program
Refinance With Purpose
Every refinance starts with a goal. Whether you want to lower your payment, shorten your term, or access equity, we’ll build a strategy around what matters most to you.
Consolidate Debt
Simplify what you owe. Use your home’s equity to combine high-interest debt into one payment.
Lower Payments
Improve monthly cash flow. Even a small rate adjustment can create savings over time.
Get Cash Out
Access equity with intention. Turn your home’s value into funds for renovations, education, retirement, or financial goals.
Change to Fixed Rate
Stabilize your payment. Move from a variable rate to predictable payments built for long-term planning.
Refinance VA Loan
Use a VA refinance program to improve your terms, access cash, or reduce your monthly payment.
Discover your home’s value instantly.
Get a personalized home value report powered by real market data. Track equity, explore trends, and stay informed about your property.
Beautiful suburban house at sunset, showcasing a cozy home with a well-maintained lawn and welcoming entrance.
A logo for Preferred Rate featuring a financial graph and a notification about interest rate drops.
We'll watch the market for you
Set your target interest rate and we’ll notify you when it hits. No spam, just smart alerts.
Information and interactive calculators are made available to you as self-help tools for your independent use and are not intended to provide investment advice. We cannot and do not guarantee their applicability or accuracy in regard to your individual circumstances. All examples are hypothetical and are for illustrative purposes.
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How fast can I get pre-approved?
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How fast can I get pre-approved?
Nulla ac nunc in ligula pharetra posuere. Vestibulum aliquam auctor nibh, non facilisis risus dictum at. Vivamus justo lacus, commodo vel congue suscipit, dignissim sit amet eros.
How fast can I get pre-approved?
Nulla ac nunc in ligula pharetra posuere. Vestibulum aliquam auctor nibh, non facilisis risus dictum at. Vivamus justo lacus, commodo vel congue suscipit, dignissim sit amet eros.
How fast can I get pre-approved?
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A contemporary living space with a gray sofa, decorative pillows, hanging pendant lights, and lush green plants, creating a comfortable and stylish en.
