KNOXVILLE, TN — Mortgage Investors Group (MIG), one of Tennessee’s premier independent mortgage banks, and Realty Executives Associates, the market-leading real estate brokerage in East Tennessee and one of the nation’s top 50 brokerages in the United States, today announced the formation of Riverbend Mortgage, a landmark joint venture built to fundamentally change how East Tennessee families buy homes.This is not a referral arrangement. It is a jointly owned company, purpose-built to close the gap between real estate and mortgage services that has long created friction, confusion, and delays for homebuyers. Buyers will have access to a coordinated team of real estate and lending professionals operating with shared accountability from search to close, creating a more streamlined experience.Together, MIG and Realty Executives Associates bring decades of experience serving East Tennessee homeowners, combining MIG’s in-house mortgage platform with Realty Executives Associates’ network of more than 1,000 real estate professionals. MIG originates more than $1.5 billion in residential mortgage loans annually, while Realty Executives Associates supports more than $4 billion in annual real estate transactions. The joint venture reflects the operational strength, market credibility, and local expertise both organizations believe are necessary to deliver a more connected homebuying experience.
“The homebuying process breaks down too often at the intersection of real estate and mortgage services,” said Tonya Strobel, Chief Growth Officer and Affiliated Partnership Manager at Mortgage Investors Group. “This joint venture was created to close that gap by aligning both sides of the transaction around a shared commitment to the buyer experience. That level of coordination changes how buyers move through the process.”
The venture arrives at a critical inflection point for East Tennessee housing. Population growth, sustained demand, and intensifying affordability pressures are creating urgency for buyers who need expert guidance, faster decisions, and fewer surprises throughout the transaction process.
“This partnership represents an investment in the future of homebuying in East Tennessee,” said Anna Beltran, CEO at Mortgage Investors Group. “Consumers want a process that feels more connected, responsive, and efficient. By bringing together trusted local mortgage and real estate expertise through this joint venture, we’re positioned to deliver a better overall experience while continuing to serve our communities with the personalized approach that has defined both organizations for decades.”
Both organizations will maintain their independent brands and operations while Riverbend functions as a standalone company focused on delivering a more integrated homebuying experience.
“Real estate is deeply local, and so are the relationships that drive successful home buying experiences,” said Justin Bailey, CEO at Realty Executives Associates. “This partnership brings together two organizations that understand the East Tennessee market and share a commitment to helping buyers navigate one of the most important financial decisions of their lives with greater confidence and clarity.”
Riverbend represents a long-term commitment from both organizations to invest in the future of homeownership across East Tennessee. By combining local leadership, operational expertise, and a shared focus on the buyer experience, MIG and Realty Executives Associates aim to create a more modern and connected path to homeownership for the communities they serve.
About Mortgage Investors GroupMortgage Investors Group (MIG) is a leading independent mortgage banker headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee. Founded in 1989, MIG has built a reputation for helping individuals and families achieve homeownership through personalized guidance, in-house underwriting, and a strong focus on purchase lending. With operations across Tennessee and beyond, MIG combines local decision-making with the resources and technology needed to deliver a consistent and reliable lending experience.About Realty Executives AssociatesRealty Executives Associates is East Tennessee’s largest real estate brokerage in both market share and agent representation, serving homebuyers and sellers across the region for nearly 50 years. Through its network of experienced real estate professionals, the company provides comprehensive residential real estate services while maintaining a strong commitment to local expertise, community involvement, and client-focused service.
Media ContactKelsey Deel, VP of MarketingMortgage Investors Group865-691-8910[email protected]www.migonline.com
