Laura Waites - NMLS 2223806 - Allied Mortgage

10/01/2026

06/27/2026

I recently had the opportunity to enjoy a loaded tea at the park with Madison Deas while our kids played. Madison is the wife of Tylor Deas, owner of North Florida Hydroseeding LLC, and I have to admit—I didn't know much about hydroseeding before our conversation!

One of the first questions I asked was how they got started in the business. Madison laughed as she shared that it all began when Tylor started watching videos online. Those videos sparked an interest, and they quickly realized that no one around the Lake City area was offering hydroseeding at the time. Before long, Tylor found hydroseeding equipment for sale in Tampa. The seller didn't just sell him the equipment—he became a mentor and friend who is still a part of their journey today.

I also asked what has been their most effective form of marketing over the past five years. While social media has certainly helped, Madison said their website has been their biggest asset. Having a simple quote request form and descriptions of the different services they offer makes it easy for customers to understand their options and make contact.

When I asked who their typical customers are, Madison said it's truly a mix of everyone—homeowners, builders, and commercial clients. Their busiest season is during the fall and winter, but they stay busy throughout the summer as well.

If you're a homeowner looking to freshen up your yard before selling, just purchased a home that needs a little TLC, or you're a builder needing professional ground cover solutions, North Florida Hydroseeding LLC is worth a call. In addition to hydroseeding, they also offer erosion control, sod installation, straw, mulch, and several other landscaping services.

One of my favorite parts of being a mortgage loan originator is getting to meet and learn from other local business owners. Every conversation reminds me how many hardworking entrepreneurs help make our community such a great place to live and work.

06/12/2026

Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down for a loaded tea with Dalton Knight, owner and operator of Optimum Site Prep, I always enjoy learning about local business owners and hearing the stories behind what they do.
I asked Dalton how he got started in the site prep business. Dalton shared that operating heavy equipment has been a part of his life for as long as he can remember. What started as the idea of a side business eventually grew into a full-time operation. Through hard work, experience, and a passion for the industry, Optimum Site Prep has continued to grow.
What types of projects make up most of your work? Dalton explained that a large portion of his work involves land clearing and site preparation for new construction projects, including homes, barns, and other structures. In addition to site prep, he also handles storm cleanup and demolition projects. When asked what he enjoys most, his answer came quickly—demolitions. There's something especially satisfying about transforming a site and helping prepare it for what's next.
What has been your most rewarding project so far? For Dalton, the most rewarding part of the business is helping people. He recently completed a project for a local farm that involved locating, excavating, and repairing an irrigation system. Seeing the direct impact of his work and knowing it helped support a local farming operation made the project especially meaningful. As someone who values and supports our farming community, I could certainly appreciate that.
Whether you're preparing land for new construction, clearing property, cleaning up after a storm, or demolishing an old structure, Dalton has the experience and equipment to help get the job done.
And while we're talking about building projects, it's worth mentioning that I don't just help clients with mortgage loans for home purchases—I also offer construction loan financing solutions for those looking to build from the ground up.✨
This was a great conversation, and I'm grateful Dalton took the time to share his story. I look forward to having coffee or a loaded tea with more local business owners and sharing their journeys in future conversations.

06/04/2026

Thinking about buying a home or refinancing?

Whether you're just getting started or ready to move forward, I'm here to help make the mortgage process as smooth and stress-free as possible. My goal is to provide clear communication, timely updates, efficient approvals, and a seamless closing experience from start to finish.
If you have questions about financing, loan options, pre-approval, or the homebuying process, don't hesitate to reach out. I'd be happy to guide you through your options and help you take the next step with confidence.

06/03/2026

home sweet home 🏠🪴🗝️

03/25/2026

I recently had the opportunity to get a loaded tea with Amber, the owner and baker of Ambie’s Sweet Treats .
I’ll share how some of our conversation went!
What inspired you to start Ambie’s Sweet Treats and how has it grown since you first began?
- I originally started Ambie’s Sweet Treats out of a love for baking and wanting to create something special for friends and family. It quickly turned into something more once people started requesting orders and sharing my work. Since then, it’s grown through word of mouth, social media, and repeat customers. What started as a small side passion and has turned into a business I’m really proud of, and I’m constantly learning and improving with every order.

What would your dream set up look like if you could design it from scratch ?
- My dream setup would be a dedicated baking space with plenty of room to decorate comfortably bright, clean, and organized. I’d love a storefront eventually where people can walk in, see displays of decorated cookies, and pick up treats and maybe add a few food and drink options! A space that feels welcoming, and offers a variety of different options!

Do you have any goals for your business this year?
- This year, I’d love to continue growing my customer base and really focus on consistency with orders and content. I want to refine my skills, expand my menu/options, and hopefully start booking further in advance. Long term, I’d love to work toward having a more permanent setup or even a storefront.

My personal favorite is her chocolate chip cookies and the cookies & cream decorated cookies! If you are looking for custom gifts for clients—like closing gifts or event treats, Amber is worth calling! She is responsive and ensures quality everytime!

03/10/2026

This 938 square feet Mobile / Manufactured home has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It is located at 7591 NW 167th Pl, Trenton, FL.

02/20/2026

With my coffee challenge in full swing, I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Karly Jones - Realtor at Mann Real Estate , for a great conversation about her journey into real estate and her passion for our community.
What brought you into real estate?
Karly’s path into real estate is a natural extension of who she is. While working as a server at Our Place, she connected with Todd Mann of Mann Realty, who encouraged her to consider a career in the industry. Having known Karly for years, I can say this: when she sets her mind to something, she gives it her all.
Her background as a first responder and in law enforcement speaks volumes about her commitment to serving others. She genuinely enjoys being involved in the community and always puts people first — qualities that translate seamlessly into real estate.
What’s been keeping you most busy lately?
Karly shared that she’s been focused on learning every aspect of the business. From contracts to closings, she’s taking the time to understand all the ins and outs of real estate. She’s not afraid of hard work and is fully committed to building a strong foundation for long-term success.
What excites you most about the future of real estate in Lake City?
She believes that growth brings opportunity — not just for real estate, but for the entire community. New developments mean new families, new businesses, and continued progress for the area as a whole.
It was great catching up with Karly over coffee and hearing her enthusiasm for both real estate and the community she serves. I have no doubt she’ll continue to make a positive impact wherever her career takes her.