🏡 About Neal Bailes
• Founder & President of Real Estate Finance Group (REFG), established in June 2001 .
• Over 25 years of residential lending experience, with 10+ in executive roles overseeing business development, loan origination, team recruitment, and operations.
• Began in 1996 at National City Mortgage, topping Southeast production charts for four consecutive years; honored by Mortgage Bankers Association in 1998 for nearly $20 million in originations.
• Joined Wells Fargo by 2000, earning the “Dominator Award” for achieving the highest loan volume in Knoxville’s history in his third month.
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đź“Š Professional Highlights
• As REFG’s CEO, Neal has personally closed over $1 billion in mortgage loans.
• Recognized as a top 1% UWM producer nationally and among the Top 20 purchase producers in Tennessee in both 2022 and 2023.
• Specializes in a wide range of programs: Conventional Loans, Jumbo & Super‑Jumbo, Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac, VA, FHA, construction and commercial loans, DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) investor loans, and private banking options.
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🌟 Business Philosophy & Reputation
• REFG is built on core values: integrity, honesty, and long-term relationships.
• The firm operates primarily by referral and emphasizes “no junk fees”—a lower-cost model focused on client trust.
• Drew praise from Expertise.com as Best Knoxville Mortgage Lender, as well as Platinum Rating for broker services.
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🗣️ Client Testimonials
Clients describe Neal as professional, responsive, knowledgeable, and someone who “goes above and beyond.” Here are a few examples:
“Neal helped us purchase our first home… made us feel secure and ready to buy.”
“Neal always responded … even on weekends and evenings.”
“I have done about 5 mortgages using him… I highly recommend him.”
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đź’Ľ Other Ventures
• Founder of Zeus Capital Investments (since 2022), managing real estate assets and liquid investment portfolios in the Knoxville area.
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đź“Ť Contact Information
• Office Address: 4707 Papermill Dr, Suite 102, Knoxville, TN 37909
• Phone: 865‑584‑1584 ext. 226
• Email: nbailes@refg1.com
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Bottom line:
Neal Bailes is a highly experienced and well-regarded mortgage broker in East Tennessee. With decades of industry leadership, a personal commitment to integrity, and a track record of helping clients and referral partners, he’s a respected local mortgage expert.
