Employee Profile: Ross Mortgage Branch Manager Tony Abate
To help you learn more about the career opportunities available at Ross Mortgage, we’re kicking off a new employee profile series featuring some of our talented team members. This week, we introduce you to Tony Abate, a new member of the Ross Mortgage team and this year’s “Quick Start” award recipient.
With more than 24 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Tony Abate decided to take his career to the next level by joining the Ross Mortgage team as a branch manager and loan originator one year ago. Today, Tony shares how he has advanced his career, why he decided to join the Ross Mortgage team and what he enjoys most about his role.
Q: Why did you choose to join the Ross Mortgage lending team?
A: Ross Mortgage has all of the right loan products for borrowers. In addition, we have some of the best and most experienced people in the critical support functions. The processing, underwriting and closing teams are some of the best in the business! The whole organization from top to bottom share a genuine concern for customers, and everyone comes to work each day wanting to do the best job that they possibly can.
Q: In terms of career opportunities, what sets Ross apart from other employers?
A: This is a company that makes it very easy to hold your head up high and tell customers and business partners who you work for. The company reputation is wonderful, and real estate agents and title companies consistently say, “I’m glad that Ross Mortgage is handling this transaction.”
Q: What is your favorite part of your job?
A: My favorite part of the job is the very beginning and the very end of a transaction. At the start of a transaction, counseling buyers and showing them options is very rewarding. The home buying process can be quite daunting. To be able to tell a potential buyer “yes, you can do this” is a great feeling. At the end of the transaction, attending the closing is a wonderful experience. All of the hard work is over and there is nothing better than seeing the smile on a buyer’s face when they are handed the keys to their new home.
Q: As a loan officer, what are some of your best-kept career secrets?
A: My best-kept secrets are really not secret, as this business is really not “rocket science.” As a lender, you need to be a very clear communicator. You have to stay current with the changing landscape of the industry. And, you have to be able to effectively collaborate with real estate agents so that a transaction can be structured in the best interest of the client.
Q: What can other lending professionals do to be more successful in their careers?
A: As an industry, I think we are viewed as uncommunicative, so we need to over deliver in this area. Calls and emails must be returned quickly. Go out of your way to provide updates when one is not expected, and do not be afraid to discuss difficult information. Most people can deal with bad news, if a resolution can be structured. However, frustrations rise quickly when the parties involved in a transaction hear nothing from the lender.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is considering a career in mortgage lending?
A: Mortgage lending is a great career and can be very rewarding both personally and professionally. To really excel, spend some time with a real estate professional and see how they spend their day. They are the ultimate “air traffic controller” in a purchase transaction. When we understand their challenges, we can better know how to run our side of the business.
Thank you for letting us feature you, Tony! We’re glad you’re here and appreciate the value you add to our team.
At Ross Mortgage Corporation, we’re all about helping our loan officers expand their knowledge, enhance their reputation and excel at what they do best—providing exceptional customer service to the clients they serve.
If you’re interested in learning more about our career opportunities, please visit our website or send us a message with your interest.
