Joel Gardner

Mortgage Sales Manager | Senior Vice President

NMLS #: 1090818

600 Luckie Drive, Birmingham, AL 35223

Joel Gardner | SouthState Mortgage

About Joel Gardner

Joel Gardner is an accomplished professional with an impressive track record in the mortgage industry, currently serving as the Senior Vice President and Mortgage Sales Manager at SouthState Bank in Birmingham, Alabama. Joel's journey in the world of finance began after graduating from Hampton University in 2011 with a degree in Business Administration. Boasting a wealth of experience amounting to 11 years in the mortgage sector, Joel has established himself as a trusted expert in facilitating the dreams of aspiring homeowners. Joel's expertise extends to a diverse range of clients, with a particular focus on assisting first-time homebuyers and individuals exploring renovation and construction loans. In addition to his role in loan origination, Joel assumes the responsibility of overseeing the Birmingham market for the mortgage division, playing a pivotal role in the growth and success of the local market. As an active member of various professional organizations, Joel is affiliated with the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), the Birmingham Urban League, the Hampton Alumni Association, and the Rotaract Club of Birmingham. His commitment to community service is further underscored by his role as a Board Member of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority and active involvement in the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and the Woodland Park Church of Christ. Joel's dedication to community development and excellence in the mortgage industry has not gone unnoticed. He received acclaim from The Birmingham Times in September 2018 and November 2023 and was recognized by the Alabama Housing Authority as a Leading Lender in March 2021. The Birmingham Business Journal also acknowledged Joel as one of the Rising Stars in Real Estate in September 2018. Beyond his professional achievements, Joel finds joy in helping customers achieve their homeownership goals, volunteering in the community, and pursuing personal interests. An avid Anime enthusiast, Joel also enjoys spending quality time with his beloved chocolate lab, Toussaint. As a sports enthusiast, he proudly cheers for the Crimson Tide and the Dallas Cowboys, reflecting his passion for both collegiate and professional football. Joel Gardner stands as a dynamic professional whose expertise, community engagement, and commitment to excellence continue to make a lasting impact in the mortgage industry and the Birmingham community at large.
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Individual and family homebuyers assistance funding

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First-Time Buyer Resources

  • Resources for first-time homebuyers
  • Tips for improving your credit score
  • Get information on pre-qualifying
  • Learn about the loan process
  • Find a checklist of information you'll need to gather
  • Learn about Down Payment Assistance programs
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Recent Reviews

5 stars
Google   •   SouthState Bank
05/09/2026
Joel Gardner was nothing short of amazing! His customer service was a 10 out of 10. The way he communicated with me through the entire process was something I’ve never experience at any other company, which is why I chose SouthState Bank. Joel Gardner and Latoya Gresham are the dynamic duo. Keep up the great work !
5 stars
Google   •   SouthState Bank
04/19/2026
Joel and his entire team at SouthState Bank made this entire process so smooth. I am extremely grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and care from beginning to end. I can’t say thank you enough to them!
5 stars
Google   •   SouthState Bank
11/23/2025
Joel and his assistant Latoya was great though out the entire process

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