How did you get started in your career? 

I started out in 1978 working for a company that provided financing for home improvement companies.  They also did mobile home financing…what an education THAT was!!!

Has there been someone along the way that you credit with helping you to get where you are? And why?  

There have been many that have help throughout my 40 year career in the mortgage business.  Two stand out.  The guy from US Bank who had the faith and courage to hire me as a manager and move me to Colorado from Ohio in 1981.  Those were “wild” times in the mortgage business…selling adjustable rate mortgages at 14% or helping a buyer find an assumable mortgage (at 10% or less) and then create an 18 to 21% second to help them get into a home!  My other standout mentor got me involved in builder business by helping me become a condo financing “expert” at Countrywide in the late 90’s and early 2000’s.  That experience really helped me understand the difference in lending for new construction compared to existing homes.

What do you love about the home building industry? 

I grew up in the home building industry…my father’s company built custom homes and I learned a lot about what makes a well-built home in the summers I worked for him.  I loved seeing the project go from dirt to owner moving in and everything it took to get there.  

Tell us three things about yourself that people do not know!

1. I’m an absolute car “nut”…particularly Mustangs!
2. I’m a die-hard Ohio State Buckeyes fan
3. I’m terrible at golf (but apparently love frustration)

Anything else you would like to share? 

It’s been a thrill becoming more involved in the HBA over the past few months and the opportunities my involvement brings.  There are so many great people that really help support the industry and make you feel good about doing it.  I look forward to serving on the AMC to help others to see what the HBA can offer.