How long have you been in the mortgage business and what inspired you to get into it?
I entered the mortgage business in 1990. My sister was a Processor at a small brokerage and the owner needed more Loan Officer's. Also, my Mom was a real estate agent so all the cards were lining up for me to enter the industry. To me, this one of the best jobs a person can have. The harder and smarter you work the more opportunities present themselves.
Who is your typical customer and what questions do they typically have?
My typical customer is everyone. I do loans for Physicians and then the next call is an Electrician. Most of them ask the same question, "what do you need from me to tell me if I qualify?"
What specific steps do you use to help your customers find the best home loan for them?
It starts with asking them their long-term goals. Do you they plan to live here long? Do they have children? A lot of these questions will help me guide them in the right direction.
How long have you been in the mortgage business? What awards have you won?
25 Years in the business. I have won Top Producer awards consistently since my 3rd or 4th year in the business. I am proud to be a member of Guaranteed Rate's President's Club.
What advice would you give new or first time home buyers?
I would tell them to buy a home that is within their means. After going through the great Recession we all learned that less is more. You will be fine with a home that is a touch smaller or doesn't have a shower in the basement.
What resources could you recommend that borrowers use to learn more about the mortgage process and how to ensure a successful home closing?
The most important resource is partnering with the right Loan Officer. Working with an individual like myself who has an established team is critical.
What provides you with the most satisfaction in your job as a Loan Officer?
Being a Loan Officer allows me to see people reach their dream of having their own home. So often people come to me with a credit issue, or a divorce and they feel they will have to rent for the rest of their life. When I can help them through a tough time and then they have that special day when they close and get the keys to the house it is extremely rewarding for me personally.
Tell us something that makes you unique or something wacky, yet interesting about you?
Not many people know this but I was in a rock band called Rubygrass. We won the Battle of The Bands in 1998 in Chicago and we were on the radio with a song called Fireflies. It was popular for a couple of years and I had the opportunity to perform in front of thousands of people quite often.
