Serving Gainesville, Orlando, Alachua County, Orange County, and Central Florida

From Gainesville's university community to Orlando's fast-growing neighborhoods, Central Florida draws buyers from everywhere — students becoming first-time buyers, healthcare professionals joining the region's hospital systems, and families relocating for opportunity. I'm Daren Ellington, Senior Loan Officer with North Star Mortgage Network, and I help them all finance the move with confidence.

I've called Central Florida home for more than 30 years, and I'm a double Gator — I earned my bachelor's in business administration from the University of Florida in 2003 and my law degree from UF's Levin College of Law in 2012. I started in the mortgage industry in 2003 and joined North Star Mortgage Network in 2009, so I bring more than two decades of lending experience plus a legal education to every contract, disclosure, and closing my clients face.

I work with first-time buyers, relocating professionals, and investors across Conventional, FHA, VA, and specialty programs. As part of an independent brokerage, I compare multiple lenders to find the fit for your situation — not a single bank's menu.

Away from work, I'm passionate about food, Gator football, DIY projects, and time with my wife and our two kids.

Why clients choose Daren Ellington:

• 20+ years in mortgage lending — with North Star since 2009
• University of Florida grad twice over, with deep Gainesville and Orlando roots
• A law-school-trained eye on your contracts and disclosures
• Multiple lenders and competitive rates through North Star Mortgage Network

Buying in Gainesville or Orlando? Ask Me a Question or Apply Now today.

Gainesville & Orlando Mortgage FAQs

Are there doctor loans for physicians in Gainesville and Orlando?

Yes — physician programs offer low down payments without mortgage insurance for eligible doctors, residents, and some other medical professionals, useful near UF Health and Orlando's hospital systems.

Can UF students or recent grads buy a home in Gainesville?

Often yes — with qualifying income (including a signed job offer in some cases), first-time buyer programs make Gainesville's price points attainable.

How do relocation buyers get a mortgage before moving to Orlando?

You can be pre-approved using your new employment offer in many cases, so you can shop confidently before the move.

Is buying a rental near the University of Florida a good investment?

Gainesville's student and staff population creates steady rental demand; DSCR and conventional investor loans both work for these purchases.

What down payment do I need in Orange or Alachua County?

FHA starts at 3.5%, Conventional at 3% for qualified first-time buyers, and VA offers 100% financing for eligible veterans.

What credit score do I need to buy in Gainesville or Orlando?

Many programs start around 580–620, subject to credit approval. A soft pre-qualification shows your options first.

Daren Ellington NMLS #323643 | North Star Mortgage Network, Inc. NMLS #356789