Dawn Garrels Headshot

Dawn Garrels

Mortgage Loan Originator

NMLS#: 328038

About Dawn

Proudly serving clients across Florida.

Dawn Garrels – Mortgage Loan Originator : Mortgage Expert : Community Advocate With over 20 years in the mortgage industry, Dawn Garrels is a trusted and experienced, dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve the dream of homeownership. Her career began in 2001 on the packaging and warehousing side of lending, evolving into roles in processing, auditing, and operations — giving her a 360° view of the loan process that few can match. In 2003, Dawn began working closely with one of the top 100 loan originators in the nation, supporting high-volume production and mastering the details that turn complex loans into successful closings. From 2008 to 2011, she served as an internal auditor for a law firm investigating mortgage fraud across South Florida circuit courts — further strengthening her knowledge of compliance and risk. Over the past several years, Dawn has led operations for originators in the top 1% of her company, ensuring every file is handled with precision, care, and speed. Now, she combines her deep operational knowledge with her passion for people — delivering expert guidance and a seamless, stress-free experience for every borrower. Dawn specializes in FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional loans, and takes pride in educating and empowering her clients — whether they’re first-time homebuyers, seasoned homeowners, or investors building wealth through real estate. Her commitment to transparency, communication, and results sets her apart in today’s competitive market.

A proud mother of two and Nona to three, Dawn is also a Law Enforcement Wife to a retired Deputy Sheriff. She serves her community through her church board, the local Lions Club, and supports local Veterans and service members with unwavering dedication. For Dawn, this isn’t just a job — it’s a mission. She doesn’t just close loans — she opens doors. 🏡 Ready to Buy or Refinance? Let’s Make It Happen. Whether it’s your first home, dream home, or investment property, Dawn Garrels is the expert you want by your side — experienced, committed, and ready to guide you home.

Borrower Testimonials

Total Experience Score4.99
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Answered any questions we had and made the process smooth
TaylorOcala, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Great communication great response time and very clear breakdown when questions were asked
Devin LeeDunnellon, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
I was informed on what was happening all the time, and helped me get everything done.
JacquelineOcala, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn and her team were so easy to work with and helped me and my husband more than we could imagine. She made this process for us so smooth and easy. If reccomend her to anyone I know!
Cailynn TOcala, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from write_review
One of the most honest, most amazing intelligent people I know!
Rosalina
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn was hands down what made this experience great I have bought and sold a few homes and this one by far was the smoothest!
JustinDunnellon, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn went above and beyond for my family during the entire process. She made me feel like family. I cannot put into words how great she was.
LauriDunnellon, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Their communication was clear and timely, and they handled every detail with professionalism and efficiency, making the transaction smooth from start to finish.
ShairaDunnellon, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Great communication very professional overall the best I could've asked for
Nicholas LOcala, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Kept me well informed able to text and get answers quickly wish it wasn't going to be sold to another lender
EdwardOcala, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn was great at communicating every step of the way, we had some hurdles but she overcame the problems quickly! I couldn't be more pleased with the process from start to finish
ScottDunnellon, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
From day 1 which mind you was a Sunday right before Christmas the communication was awesome. It didnt matter if it was day or night, and I am in Hawaii so a 5 hour difference from Florida dawn would answer her phone anytime I needed her. I asked so many questions and wanted to know every little detail of the buying process. She never got frustrated...
JoshuaDunnellon, FL
Rating: 4.8 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn was very knowledgeable and explain to us the step by step process . It helps us to understand. She is very helpful and kind.
JaymzOcala, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn worked hard and made it possible and andres was amazing willing to show up for for me at any moment
Travis DCitra, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn Garrels!!!! She exceded ALL of my expectations. She went out of herway to answer all of my concerns even when she was sick and at the hospital! Who else do you know who would this??
Fred BOcala, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn kept us informed and always prepared for the worst case scenario as far as our total payments but she made the best happen! Dawn has an absolute lovely personality which makes the process of buying a home easier when having someone you can joke and feel comfortable with. Thank you Dawn for your help...
TamikaMorriston, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn was always available for questions and to offer advice. Process was fast and smooth.
MatthewCitrus Springs, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
Dawn was amazing!!! She made this all happen and was a dream to work with!!!
ScottOcala, FL
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 from Encompass
My experience with Dawn has been amazing. She went above and beyond to ensure we were able to close as quickly as possible. I will definitely be recommending her to all of my clients.
ScottCitrus Springs, FL