Taking the first step toward obtaining a loan or mortgage can be an overwhelming experience. That’s why the team at First Financial Associates has made it easy. Our caring and trusting professionals are eager to put you at ease and answer your questions.
We understand that the financial industry can be an intimidating experience and we are here to simplify things for you. Our qualified staff cuts through the industry lingo and offers easy explanations as we find the most creative loan to meet your needs. We’ve been trained to take the time to review your credit history and clear up whatever is needed in order to obtain the best rates and create a tailor-made loan that works for you.
Valarie Nussbaum
Founder
Valarie grew up in St. Petersburg, graduating from Lakewood High and the University of Florida with a degree in Political Science (though she dreamed of becoming a pilot!). Valarie’s extensive career in banking began as a Branch Manager for NCNB (now Bank of America). She soon moved into Commercial Lending where she spent five years before founding First Financial Associates. She is a licensed mortgage broker and real estate salesperson.
In 1999, Valarie founded First Financial Associates, joining forces with Rhonda Andersen in 2004. Their goal is to focus on the needs of individuals – people – looking to finance a home. While there are banks on every street corner, Valarie recognizes the need for personalized programs that people can really relate to. Valarie also appreciates the value of community service and has served on numerous charitable organizations including the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, Leadership Pinellas, Leadership Tampa Bay, Leadership St. Petersburg, The Environmental Development Commission and the Board of Adjustment.
Personal Statement:
"I formed First Financial Associates in 1999 with the desire to assist people and businesses in securing financing that enables them to achieve their dreams. Over the years, our business has grown right along with the success of the clients we serve. I am pleased to have merged forces with Rhonda Andersen, bringing what we consider to be the most responsible and caring lending services to the Tampa Bay area."
Rhonda Andersen
CEO
A graduate from DeVry in Chicago, Rhonda specialized in financial planning and started in the mortgage business after getting her series 6 and 63. Knowing that the right home loan is a key to anyone’s financial future, she became more dedicated to the mortgage industry. She ran Zenith Financial Services in St. Petersburg for five years, merging her successful business with First Financial Associates to create the ultimate powerhouse: a full-service mortgage company.
Laurie Harris
President
Laurie, a third-generation St. Petersburg native, graduated from Shorecrest Preparatory School and Florida State University with a degree in Business and Marketing. Laurie started her banking career in 1988 at C&S Bank (now Bank of America) in branch management, retail and commercial lending, and mortgage origination. Laurie is the founder of Sushi Rock Grill and a licensed Florida mortgage broker. She was a member of St. Pete Junior League, Club Masquerade and is a “Loaned Exec.” to the United Way.
Joan Walker
Branch Manager and Loan Specialist
A graduate of Vassar College, Joan lived in the New York City area for 17 years. With more than 25 years of experience in the realty industry, Joan is currently a realtor with Frank T. Hurley Associates in Pass-a-Grille. In addition, Joan is a licensed mortgage broker and brings more than 15 years of experience to the First Financial Associates team.
Mary Caulfield
Vice President of Sales & Marketing
Mary offers more than 16 years of experience in marketing and sales as a licensed agent. Mary plays a key role in educating our clients about our services, making them feel comfortable about their decisions. Her reassuring manner is appealing to everyone she deals with. Mary is also key at recruiting new customers on a larger scale.
Abigail Haen
Vice President of Operations
A native of Kansas City, Abigail started her career in mortgage processing in 2004 after moving to St. Petersburg. With her knowledge of processing, her incredible experience dealing with lenders and realtors, and her attention to her clients’ needs, Abby is a crucial part of the First Financial operations team. An added bonus to our clients: Abby is a licensed notary in the state of Florida.
Tracey Barry
Loan Specialist
Tracey was born in New York City but has resided in Pinellas County since 1977. She left her accounting job of 7 years to learn all she could about the mortgage industry as she felt she had an opportunity to help the community. Coming into this business in 1997 learning compliance and processing she advanced to a licensed mortgage broker in 2002. What is important to her is integrity, customer service and doing her best to apply her extensive knowledge to fulfill her customers dreams. Tracey is also a notary, and a member of the Elks Lodge and American Legion.
