Jonathan P. Harris Sr. / President CEO / Sr. Mortgage Originator NMLS*19222*

Jonathan Harris, originally from Mt. Vernon, New York, has lived in the Baltimore Washington Metropolitan Area since 1986. He is a loving husband and father of 4.

He attended Bowie State University for both Undergraduate and Graduate studies, graduating with a BA in Business Administration in 1991 and a MA in Administrative Management / Finance in 1994.

After obtaining years of valuable managerial experience, working in financial services for companies such as Banc One and American General Finances, Inc., Mr. Harris founded 1st Step Financial Services, Inc. in 1997, a Mortgage Brokerage, currently based out of Largo, MD.

Mr. Harris has worked as a licensed Realtor since 2003 and has worked as an active real estate investor since 1994. His years of experience in financial services and real estate, has proven to be a successful mix. As a result, Mr. Harris has received numerous awards and accolades and he is held in high regard among his peers within the local business community.

With 13 years of Accounting experience, he was approved to sit for his CPA Certification in 2013 after meeting all of the requirements for candidacy. His philanthropic work, for the past 5 years, has been mostly in the areas of finance and accounting with CSI.

Jeremiah Abu-Bakr / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2612862*

Jeremiah Abu-Bakr is a Loan Originator at 1st Step Financial, dedicated to helping clients navigate the home loan process with clarity and confidence. The company’s mission to provide expert guidance with integrity and care aligns seamlessly with Jeremiah’s own professional values. With a focus on personalized service and transparent communication, he works closely with each borrower to find the right financing solution for their goals.  Whether working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or refinancing, Jeremiah is excited to continue helping people take confident steps toward homeownership and financial stability.

Cornelia Baines / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2558976*

Cornelia Baines is a Loan Originator at 1st Step Financial, dedicated to helping clients navigate the home loan process with clarity and confidence. The company’s mission to provide expert guidance with integrity and care aligns seamlessly with Cornelia’s own professional values. With a focus on personalized service and transparent communication, she works closely with each borrower to find the right financing solution for their goals.  Whether working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or refinancing, Cornelia is excited to continue helping people take confident steps toward homeownership and financial stability.

Ian Baylor / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2124836*

Ian Baylor is a Loan Originator at 1st Step Financial, dedicated to helping clients navigate the home loan process with clarity and confidence. The company’s mission to provide expert guidance with integrity and care aligns seamlessly with Ian’s own professional values. With a focus on personalized service and transparent communication, he works closely with each borrower to find the right financing solution for their goals.  Whether working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or refinancing, Ian is excited to continue helping people take confident steps toward homeownership and financial stability.

Delilah Calvert / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2333649*

Chemine Coleman / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2575165*

Chemine Coleman is proud to be dual licensed as a Mortgage Loan Orginator here at 1st Step Financial and a Real Estate Agent with Own Real Estate , where the mission is to help clients BUY with confidence and SELL with success. Chemine works with brokers that uphold a reputation of top producing agents built from a foundation of strong work ethics, support, and extensive training. She is genuine, passionate, and focused on helping others achieve their dreams and goals in real estate. Our clients are the top priority and the goal is to make every transaction a smooth and pleasurable experience throughout the buying or selling process. We pride ourselves in providing outstanding quality customer service in every working relationship to gain trust, referrals, and repeat business. Contact Chemine for All your real estate needs.

Ola Fakinlede / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*1948555*

Ola Fakinlede is a Loan Originator at 1st Step Financial, dedicated to helping clients navigate the home loan process with clarity and confidence. The company’s mission to provide expert guidance with integrity and care aligns seamlessly with Ola’s own professional values. With a focus on personalized service and transparent communication, he works closely with each borrower to find the right financing solution for their goals.  Whether working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or refinancing, Ola is excited to continue helping people take confident steps toward homeownership and financial stability.

Stefan Fields / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2152214*

Stefan Fields is a Loan Originator at 1st Step Financial, dedicated to helping clients navigate the home loan process with clarity and confidence. The company’s mission to provide expert guidance with integrity and care aligns seamlessly with Stefan’s own professional values. With a focus on personalized service and transparent communication, he works closely with each borrower to find the right financing solution for their goals.  Whether working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or refinancing, Stefan is excited to continue helping people take confident steps toward homeownership and financial stability.

Amar Greene / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2650703*

With 18 years of experience in the staffing industry, Amar Greene has become a trusted expert in talent acquisition and workforce solutions. Throughout his career, Amar has successfully navigated the ever-evolving landscape of staffing, building strong relationships with both clients and candidates. His deep understanding of various industries allows him to match the right talent with the right opportunities, ensuring long-term success for all parties involved.

Amar’s approach to staffing is driven by a commitment to excellence and a passion for helping businesses grow by identifying top talent. Over the years, he has gained extensive knowledge in recruitment, team building, and strategic workforce planning, allowing him to deliver results that make a significant impact.

Whether working with startups or established enterprises, Amar is dedicated to providing exceptional service, cultivating a positive candidate experience, and ensuring client satisfaction. His expertise, combined with a personal touch, has earned him a reputation as a leader in the staffing sector.

Charles Heyward / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2568268*

Born in Atlanta, GA, and raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia, PA, Charles is a self-described 'country boy with a city boy flare'. Growing up, he was always involved with extracurricular activities through school and church. After graduating from Harriton High School in Rosemont, PA, he would graduate from Howard university school of business with a degree in business finance. In addition to being very passionate about helping others, his biggest joy in life is being the father of four outstanding young gentlemen. A member of Omega PSI PHI Fraternity, Inc and Benderson Memorial Lodge #3 (AASRM), his hobbies include training dogs, martial arts, and volunteering with various youth programs and organizations.

Charles is a former wall street stock broker who spent his first years out of college working with Goldman Sachs, SLK as a specialist trading clerk on the floor of the New York stock exchange. After several years he decided to move his talent for investing away from the institutional side and dedicated his life to helping individuals and small businesses create wealth and financial success. Moving to UBS, PaineWebber as a financial advisor was a natural step, however, the passion for the equities market had faded. Already highly interested in real estate, he began investing, and wholesaling residential property in 2002, quickly moved to gain his real estate agent's license, and quickly became a top producer in the first office he joined. Since that time, Charles has "Helped make dreams a reality, one home at a time.

David Ingram / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2331026*

David Ingram a Loan Originator at 1st Step Financial, dedicated to helping clients navigate the home loan process with clarity and confidence. The company’s mission to provide expert guidance with integrity and care aligns seamlessly with David’s own professional values. With a focus on personalized service and transparent communication, he works closely with each borrower to find the right financing solution for their goals.  Whether working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or refinancing, David is excited to continue helping people take confident steps toward homeownership and financial stability.

Jay Johnson / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*293259*

Jay Johnson is a seasoned Licensed Real Estate Broker and Mortgage Broker with over 20 years of experience in the industry. A graduate of the College of William and Mary, Jay holds a degree in Sociology with a minor in Finance, which has provided him with a strong foundation in understanding both human behavior and financial strategies.

Throughout his career, Jay has established a reputation for his professionalism, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and unwavering dedication to his clients. As a published author, investor, and mentor, he combines his extensive knowledge with a hands-on approach to guiding clients through complex real estate and mortgage transactions. His roles include negotiator, consultant, and transaction coordinator, ensuring every detail is meticulously handled from start to finish.

Jay is known for his calming and approachable demeanor, making even the most challenging situations feel manageable. With excellent communication skills and a commitment to advocating for his clients, Jay fights for the best possible outcome, always striving to exceed expectations. Whether you're buying, selling, or navigating the mortgage process, Jay is the trusted professional you need by your side

Shaina Mowatt / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2271823*

Shaina Mowatt is a dual-licensed real estate professional--Realtor with EXIT Deluxe Realty Group and Mortgage Loan Originator with 1st Step Financial Services. With a heart for educating and a deep understanding of both real estate and financing, Shaina is dedicated to "Building your legacy, one home at a time." Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, or investing, Shaina is here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to take the first step? Let's build your legacy together.

Melvin Pannell / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2108133*

Melivn Pannell is a Loan Originator at 1st Step Financial, dedicated to helping clients navigate the home loan process with clarity and confidence. The company’s mission to provide expert guidance with integrity and care aligns seamlessly with Melvin’s own professional values. With a focus on personalized service and transparent communication, he works closely with each borrower to find the right financing solution for their goals.  Whether working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or refinancing, Melvin is excited to continue helping people take confident steps toward homeownership and financial stability.

Nikki Patterson / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2512793*

Nikki Patterson is a Loan Originator at 1st Step Financial, dedicated to helping clients navigate the home loan process with clarity and confidence. The company’s mission to provide expert guidance with integrity and care aligns seamlessly with Nikki's professional values. With a focus on personalized service and transparent communication, she works closely with each borrower to find the right financing solution for their goals.  Whether working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or refinancing, Nikki is excited to continue helping people take confident steps toward homeownership and financial stability.

Kia Smith / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2664751*

Kia Smith is a Loan Originator at 1st Step Financial, dedicated to helping clients navigate the home loan process with clarity and confidence. The company’s mission to provide expert guidance with integrity and care aligns seamlessly with Kia’s own professional values. With a focus on personalized service and transparent communication, she works closely with each borrower to find the right financing solution for their goals.  Whether working with first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, or refinancing, Kia is excited to continue helping people take confident steps toward homeownership and financial stability.

Teila Thorne / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*1950159*

In 2006, I embarked on my real estate journey as a savvy investor, utilizing my keen insights to navigate the market and secure profitable ventures. Over the years, I honed my skills and in 2013, seamlessly transitioned into the role of a licensed real estate agent, propelled by a fervent desire to assist clients in achieving their property ownership dreams. Recognizing the importance of providing comprehensive solutions, I expanded my expertise by also becoming a licensed mortgage loan officer, ensuring my clients received tailored financial guidance alongside my real estate services.

As I continued to build upon my successes and industry knowledge, I proudly ascended to the role of a broker in 2022, solidifying my position as a trusted leader in the field. My unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, coupled with my in-depth understanding of market dynamics, distinguishes me within the industry. With a proven track record of excellence spanning over a decade, I am proud to have facilitated over 50 million dollars in sales volume. I remain dedicated to redefining the standards of service and integrity in both the real estate and mortgage sectors, ensuring my clients receive nothing but the best in their property transactions.

Chau Tran / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2607277*

With a diverse background that blends over seven years in ministry, a real estate license, and a decade of experience in the nail salon industry, I bring a unique perspective to the role of loan originator. My ministry experience has honed my ability to connect with clients on a personal level, understanding their needs and guiding them through challenging decisions. Coupled with my real estate knowledge, I offer valuable insights into property financing, ensuring clients feel confident and supported throughout the loan process. My extensive experience in customer service has equipped me with strong communication and relationship-building skills, making me a trusted partner for all your lending needs.

Jovanta Verdun / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2260338*

My name is Jovanta Verdun and I am a licensed Mortgage Loan Officer in Virginia, Licensed Realtor and Mentor.

Starting my career I didn't have the best of luck getting deals , My first few months weren't exactly what I expected. I learned through what I didn't do and what I could improve on. I Tried multiple avenues until I found the right path for myself to take and have been prospering since. Along the way I had a great mentor Mark Price who taught me so much and only asked in return "I pay it forward for the next generation of realtors."  Present day I've had the pleasure of Mentoring 4 mentees and intend to spread my book of knowledge to so many more ambitious starting Realtors & Lenders.

I personally don't think there is any secret key to success in this business. Everyone's path will be different but us finding yours and emphasizing it over time will be my goal. Becoming a successful realtor can be one of the most satisfying feelings in the world. I hope to hear from you soon so we can get you started!

Jamel Wilmore / Mortgage Originator NMLS*2125691*

I'm an expert Mortgage Loan Originator with 1stStep Financial Services. Serving all of the DMV providing home-buyers Realtors with professional, responsive and attentive mortgage services. 

Want a Loan Officer who'll really listen to what you want in a loan? Need an LO who knows how to effectively navigate your loan process to closing? My goal is to assist my community with starting andprotecting generational wealth.

It is more than a loan to me, we are working together tosecure your family's future. Give me a call! I'm eager to help and would love to talk to you.

Kevin Wilmore / Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS*2235012*

Recently "retired" from the Johns Hopkins University/Applied Physics Laboratory, after 29.5 years of service. I have a 36.5 year background in Systems Engineering for Navy Combat Systems, Weapons Control Systems (WCSs) and Sensor/Radar Integration. My experience includes being an Assistant Program Manager (3.5 years), the Sea-Based X-band radar (SBX) Software Lead (5 years), SBX Systems Engineering Lead (2 years), SBX Subject Matter Expert (12 years), leading major weapon system development/testing efforts (20+ years).

I've embarked on a new career path as a Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator (NMLS #2235012), with 1st Step Financial. So if you're in the market to purchase a home or need to refinance your current mortgage, please contact me. 1st Step Financial provides an array of mortgage loan products tailored to our clients unique needs and desires.

I'm also a Commissioned Maryland Notary Public, and a Licensed/Certified Notary Loan Signing Agent.