Pioneering Gadsden Dreams on the Coosa- Your Hometown Mortgage Quote Starts Here!

As local natives who call the Coosa/Cove Lake peninsula home,  Rod and Susan Morris (with family &  associates) built First Equity right here in historic downtown Gadsden. From riverfront refinances to statewide moves, we're Gadsden Alabama's award-winning lender fueling your next chapter.

Quick quotes for VA zero-down, Jumbo Lakeview loans, or bank statement options-no out of state hassle.



 Gadsden Mortgage Quotes: Pioneering Home Loans from the Heart of Alabama

As Gadsden natives and founders Rod and Susan Morris, we built First Equity right here at 315 Broad Street in our historic downtown—Alabama's award-winning pioneer mortgage lender specializing in customized solutions that fit your life and location. From Coosa River retreats to Gulf Shore dreams, our local expertise covers it all: Whether you're eyeing a lakeside retreat on Lake Gadsden or a game-day condo in Tuscaloosa's vibrant college town, we're just a call away at 256-NEW-LOAN (purchases) or 256-REFI-PRO (refinances). Get your fast, free Gadsden mortgage quote today and let's write your next chapter in  your Alabama story.

  • Purchase Loans: From Conventional and VA to Jumbo financing for high-value homes, we secure low rates and flexible terms to make your dream property a reality.
  • Refinance Options: Streamline your current mortgage or tap equity with cash-out refinances, second mortgages, and HELOCs—ideal for consolidating debt or funding renovations. View Equity Solutions
  • Specialized Programs: Bank statement loans for self-employed pros, 1099 mortgages for gig workers, and investor DSCR loans for rental portfolios. We even handle Non-QM options when traditional paths don't fit.
  • FHA Expertise: As a licensed lender we still broker all FHA loans and we connect you to the best FHA rates without the hassle, ensuring down payments as low as 3.5% for qualifying buyers...Zero down with our Down Payment assistance for Alabama borrowers.

Our process is straightforward: Pre-qualify online/by phone in minutes, lock in rates with no hidden fees, and close in as little as 21-30 days from completed application. We're proud to be among leaders in loan volume across Alabama, closing deals from the Gulf Coast to the Tennessee border. Jumbo's are a specialty and we work tirelessly for top options/rates for these luxury clients. VA loans remain our favorite...closed our 1st VA loan in 1992.

Why Choose First Equity as Your Gadsden Mortgage Lending Partner?

In a sea of faceless national lenders, First Equity Home Loan Inc. shines as Alabama's trusted local powerhouse—headquartered in the historic heart of Gadsden. Our founder honed his craft closing those early deals across Etowah-Cherokee-Marshall Counties back in 1985 at Coosa Federal, before teaming up with his soon-to-be wife Susan to launch a firm built on deep-rooted Alabama determination and local support. What started as trailblazing mortgage solutions for everyday Alabamians has evolved into innovative, statewide expertise that outpaces the giants—tailored for everything from Gadsden's affordable gems to the sizzling coastal markets like Gulf Shores and booming Huntsville area, where our client list continues to grow.

We once maintained branches across North Alabama in the mid '90s through 2023, bringing our service straight to doorsteps in booming areas like Huntsville and Birmingham, or "laid back" Ft. Payne. But in this digital age? We've streamlined even smarter: no need for scattered offices when we can deliver rocket-fast approvals, real-time tracking, and e-signatures right to your phone—anywhere from the Tennessee Valley to the Wiregrass. It's Alabama convenience at its finest, powering seamless closings for first-time buyers in Rainbow City or equity unlocks for long-time owners in Hokes Bluff.

Alabama's Growth Story:  

5-Year Surges and Job Booms Fueling Relocation Over the past five years, Alabama's home values have climbed a steady 36% statewide—from $172,000 in 2020 to $234,000 today—drawing relocators chasing stability and upside. al.com In hot markets like Huntsville (up 42%), Birmingham (33%), and Montgomery (40%), this appreciation pairs with explosive job growth, creating prime opportunities for quick mortgage quotes before rates shift. Huntsville leads with 30,000+ new roles projected through 2030 in aerospace, defense, and tech—think expansions at Toyota (350 jobs) and Raytheon (185 jobs) luring pros from afar. Birmingham's urban revival adds hundreds in healthcare and logistics, while Montgomery's $1.1B investments yield 500+ annual jobs in manufacturing and government—ideal for families eyeing historic charm with career momentum. We're ready to see hometown Gadsden booming again!

From Southside-Whorton's Bend riverfront jewels to these high-octane hubs, First Equity's statewide savvy means tailored mortgage quotes that fit your move—VA options for Gadsden-Anniston vets, competitive refi's for all Alabama neighbors, or fast pre-approvals for self-employed self starters.  Click 256-NEW-LOAN for purchases or 256-REFI-PRO for equity plays—your pioneer partner in Alabama's bright horizon.  

Ready to see why we're the #1 pick for Alabama home loans? 

Here's what sets us apart as your go-to Alabama mortgage pro's:

Benefit

How We Deliver

Statewide Coverage

Lender Licensed to serve all 67 counties— from Foley to Florence—with dedicated loan officers who know  Alabama's market inside out.

Competitive Edge

As both broker and lender, we shop multiple sources for the lowest rates while funding most  loans ourselves for speed and simplicity...savings.

Proven Track Record

Nearly 40 years helping families throughout our state, we are a Gadsden home grown Award winning Alabama lender, independent, with a 98% client satisfaction rate.

Client-Centric Innovation

Evolved with the industry—from unregulated origins to today's tech-driven tools like instant online quotes, secure smart device doc exchange, and mobile closings.

Community Commitment

Alabama-born and bred, we've sponsored events/teams and coached local youth teams, building lasting relationships that span generations.

Don't settle for cookie-cutter financing. Our evolution from pioneering Gadsden broker to also mortgage banker-lender means you're backed by experience and success, not just promises.

Alabama's Hottest Markets: Where Opportunity Meets Momentum 

Alabama's real estate scene is firing on all cylinders, with tech hubs, historic revivals, and capital-city booms drawing relocators from coast to coast. Whether you're eyeing a sleek Huntsville high-rise or a Birmingham bungalow, these top growth spots boast median sales over $250k, sizzling YoY appreciation, and brisk activity—perfect for locking in low-rate loans before prices climb higher. (Data as of mid-2025; sources: ACRE, Zillow, Redfin )
Market
Median Sale Price
YoY Growth
Sales Snapshot
Why It's Hot for Buyers
Huntsville
$338,000
+2.6% (metro avg. $427k)
1,200+ homes sold Q2; days on market ~35
Aerospace/tech boom fuels demand—ideal for young pros relocating for NASA gigs or defense jobs. Median up amid 2.8% projected 2026 growth.
Birmingham
$325,000
+10.9%
800+ monthly sales; inventory up 11%
Urban renaissance with diverse economy—great for families tapping healthcare/education hubs. Fastest urban appreciation in the state.
Montgomery
$280,000
+3.8% (9th fastest nationally)
500+ homes sold monthly; +14.8% price surge
Capital-city stability with military/gov't ties—prime for first-timers or refinancers eyeing historic charm at value prices.

Ready to Launch Your Alabama Home Journey?

Whether you're buying, refinancing, or investing, MTGQuote.com -powered by First Equity Home Loan, Inc., is here to guide every step. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation—let's turn your vision into keys in hand. Call 256-NEW-LOAN now or Apply Online. Stay local!

First Equity Home Loan, Inc. | NMLS #204659 |  Equal Housing Opportunity

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What our clients say about us!

I wanted a bill consolidation loan to payoff high rate credit card debt. We had no idea our property had appreciated enough to payoff our car as well. Our refinance saved us 830 dollars monthly for our family budget. Thank you!

Trey was a pleasure to work with as an agent! He was very proficient and worked hard for us to close on time! Even calmed me down the week before closing when I was having a breakdown. Can't wait to have another deal with him!

I bought my home in Florence with no down payment required. We've said goodbye to rent and have a wonderful home to raise our family. Thanks to Susan and Trey for a wonderful experience. We're so excited.

I had the pleasure of working with Susan Morris and I'm proud t say I am 100 % satisfied. She made the process fast and easy. If I ever had any questions she would answer them quickly and it was my first time buying a home and she took very good care of me, and if I ever didn't understand something she would explain in detail. I would highly recommend her to anyone.

I'm a repeat VA client with Rod and Susan's firm. They've handled multiple moves for me with superior service. Susan's VA experience shines. Sincere thanks again.

Our condo purchase in Gulf Shores couldn't have gone better. From assistance finding a realtor, multiple insurance quotes, and scheduling with a nearby closing agent... we are thrilled and looking forward to our next DSCR mortgage for rental units with Amber's team at first equity.

As a Real Estate Agent, I'm always looking for awesome lenders for my clients. Amber and her team are very knowledgeable with all loan products and work their magic to get loans closed quickly and seamless. Communication is top notch, Love the mortgage team there!!

The best knowledgeable people and professional. Would recommend 12/10

Long time friend of Trey's and glad he helped me buy my 1st home. He understands the home lending process well and matched my specific needs with the perfect loan options. He'll always be my mortgage guy and I'll recommend him to anyone. He's been working on Broad since before he started driving.

Had a pre-approval from a national firm but ran into snags. A realtor friend put me in touch with Susan and things moved fast from there. Fast approval and great closing, I bought with zero-down and wouldn't recommend anyone but First Equity for a VA loan in Alabama. 

I have known Rod since we were kids. When I bought my home I wouldn’t have used anyone else. Rod treats every customer like family. He gives sound knowledgeable advice and works hard for his clients. Special thanks to Laura for all of her help making sure everything went smoothly start to finish.
Met Rod years ago with his First Equity racing team and was excited to let his firm handle my home purchase. Fast approval... and I was certain I had the best lending option for my personal goals. It was a simple home buying process.

As the owner of Central Alabama Title in Hoover for decades, I closed most of Rod and Susan's loans from their early days until my retirement. We're lifelong friend...like family. I recommend them to anyone seeking a mortgage in Alabama. They served the entire state back in the day and we closed loans wherever needed. Great firm!

1st met Rod around 1985 before he opened his firm...actually booked he and Susan's honeymoon to Paradise Island. He helped me on a few occasions, always dropping the rate and getting the cash out I was seeking. I'm not surprised his firm is doing well. Long time friend and customer.

WWOOOOWW this team is Phenomenal. They are the top in the industry at helping clients finance dream homes, property investments, and refinancing. Anna, Laura, Amber and Amber, Kimberly, Jenn, Susan and I'm sure I'm missing someone, are all wonderful! These women are the best of the best.  I can't say enough great things about them. A+ everytime!!

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