How do I get started?

Simple — call or message us for a free consultation. We'll review your goals, run the numbers, and map out your best path forward. No pressure, no obligation.

Do you only serve Fort Lauderdale?

We're based in Fort Lauderdale and specialize in South Florida, but we're licensed to lend across Florida and multiple states. Local expertise, broad reach.

What types of borrowers do you work with?

We help first-time buyers, veterans, self-employed professionals, real estate investors, and everyone in between. If a bank has turned you down or quoted you a rate you don't love, call us first.

What makes Stairway Mortgage different from a bank?

As an independent Fort Lauderdale mortgage broker, we work for you — not a bank. We shop your loan across dozens of lenders to find the best rate and terms for your situation. Banks can only offer their own products. We offer hundreds.

Who is the best Mortgage Broker in Fort Lauderdale?

Stairway Mortgage — Jim Blackburn Team, powered by NEXA Mortgage — is Fort Lauderdale's premier independent mortgage broker. With over $350M funded and 7 consecutive years as a Scotsman Guide Top Producer, we shop hundreds of loan programs across dozens of lenders to get you the best rate and terms. Whether you're buying, refinancing, or investing, we work for you — not a bank.

Fix and Flips. Construction.
Wholesale Partnerships.
Bigger Profits.

Need an approval letter today? Check out our Same Day Approval Service

Where can I find discounted, off-market deals before they hit MLS?

Absolutely — you're asking the right questions, and that's exactly how smart investors start winning.

Can I roll reno costs into the loan—even for major value-add deals?

Yes you can—and that’s how savvy buyers turn fixer-uppers into instant equity machines.

How can I team up with partners, lenders, or even syndications to go bigger?

Yes you can—and that’s exactly how smart buyers turn fixer-uppers into instant equity.

Should I be building a capital fund—or joining one that’s already moving?

Both work—but joining one in motion gets you compounding faster.

Teamwork + Strategy = Scale

At this level, your biggest limitations are usually:

Partner Capital Made Simple

Standardize JV terms, centralize docs, and raise partner capital fast—with clear waterfalls and protections.

Grow with Equity Rollovers

Roll gains into bigger deals via 1031s or recapitalizations—compounding without pausing momentum.

Scale with the Right People

Build a bench—acquisitions, operations, management, lenders—so execution scales as quickly as deal flow.

We Help Active Investors

Fund fix & flips, gut rehabs, and value-add multi-units
Access off-market property lists and wholesale deals
Secure bridge loans and interest-only options to stay liquid
Partner with builders, wholesalers, designers, and lenders
Structure JVs or funds to scale without overleveraging

This isn’t cookie-cutter.

It’s deal-by-deal, person-to-person, results-focused financing.

Looking for Off-Market Deals?

Click Below to Find a Wholesaler Near You

Start building smarter, right where you live.

Typical Active Investor Loan Programs

Each loan program has its own requirements.

Run the Numbers Before You Apply

Try out a purchase loan calculator below.

Active Investor Case Studies

Discover how people are using these loan programs right now.

DSCR Loan: Realtor buys property without income verification
Fix and Flip Loan: General Contractor Transforms Distressed Property into Profitable Investment in 90 Days
Portfolio Loan: Business Owner Acquires Mixed-Use Property Rejected by Traditional Lenders
Jumbo Construction Loan: Surgeon Builds Multi-Generational Custom Estate with Flexible Draw Schedule
Asset Based Loan: Investment Banker Buys Luxury Waterfront Home Using Portfolio Assets
Build to Rent Loan: Real Estate Investor Constructs Custom Single-Family Rental Portfolio
Build-to-Sell Loan: Real Estate Developer Constructs Profitable Spec Homes for Quick Resale

Download our free Active Investor’s Guide

Scaling your portfolio isn’t just about buying more properties — it’s about buying smarter. Whether you’re leveraging equity, using strategic financing, or targeting cash flow, this guide helps active investors grow with purpose, precision, and confidence.

100% Client Satisfaction

Real Comments, Real People

Hear From Some Past Clients of Our Founder

Karena Clarke - via Google Realtor - FLORIDA

Jim is absolutely phenomenal! Extremely knowledgeable and patient in explaining the process every step of the way. Jim gives all parties a peace of mind throughout the entire transaction. One of the best in the industry hands down!"

Bruce O'Donoghue via Facebook CEO at On Street Media - FLORIDA

We had a great experience working Jim Blackburn and his staff this past summer. We had a lot of details that needed attention and he made it all seem easy. And a great communicator staying in touch on a constant basis. Enjoying our new home now. Very blessed to have worked with him.

Marvin Feliz - via Google General Manager at Beacon Mobility - FLORIDA

The experience I had with Jim's team was great. They were always available to help and communicative throughout the entire home-buying process. They worked efficiently to ensure no time was wasted, especially in such a tough market like Miami. They were able to offer me a great rate and provide peace of mind through their transparency. I’d definitely recommend Jim and his team. A huge “Thank You” to them!

Johanna Becket - via Google Retired Investor - FLORIDA

I had a wonderful experience with Olga and Jim Blackburn. They were professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. I found the perfect condominium, got a great mortgage and home insurance within weeks. We are now friends and my financial advisors. I highly recommend the Jim Blackburn Team!

Dayana Ruiz - via Facebook MLO at Columbus Capital Lending, LLC. - FLORIDA

They worked with me on the purchase process. Their knowledge helped me to choose the option that was most convenient. From the beginning they explained the process. Thanks Jim!

Jeremy Bell - via Google Attorney - FLORIDA

Jim and his team were a pleasure to work with. Where real estate transactions are concerned, the deals that I have worked on with Jim have gone very smoothly. I would definitely recommend him to buyers!

Discover Your Financial Goals

Scaling a portfolio takes more than hustle — it takes intention, structure, and the right team.

Get clear on your financial goals and start building your strategy with intention.

Fix and Flips. Construction.
Wholesale Partnerships.
Bigger Profits.

Where can I find discounted, off-market deals before they hit MLS?

Can I roll reno costs into the loan—even for major value-add deals?

How can I team up with partners, lenders, or even syndications to go bigger?