Dan Meister Shares What It Takes To Be a Top Loan Officer At Ross Mortgage
To help you learn more about the career opportunities available at Ross Mortgage, we’re continuing our employee profile series featuring some of our talented team members. This week, we introduce you to Dan Meister, an experienced member of our Brighton, MI branch.
Q: How many years of experience do you have in the mortgage industry?
I began working in the industry in 1995. Since then, I have been able to gain experience in nearly every stage of the mortgage process.
Q: How did you advance your career? What motivational factors, goals and/or opportunities helped you get where you are today?
I spent many years managing teams of loan processors and loan officers before realizing that I missed dealing with clients directly–being able to take a family from the beginning of their home buying journey to the end, and seeing them move into the house I helped them buy. It’s important to know where your talent lies and what will be most rewarding to you in your work experience.
Q: What are some of your most notable career accomplishments as a loan officer?
I don’t track my sales numbers. Instead, I focus on client satisfaction. How did I interact with my clients this week, this month, this year? How smoothly did my loans go? I feel most accomplished when I’m able to put someone in a home who might have been rejected at other companies for minor reasons. Sometimes, I’m able to clarify a question or issue just by communicating with all parties involved in the transaction, which is something loan officers at many mortgage companies won’t take the time to do.
Q: Why did you choose to join the Ross Mortgage lending team?
Ross has a sterling reputation for integrity in an industry that isn’t necessarily known for that quality. Lending is difficult these days, but the systems and processes that are in place at Ross, as well as the people who run them, are honest, efficient, and forward thinking in terms of technology and standards.
Q: In terms of career opportunities, what sets Ross apart from other employers?
Ross Mortgage offers many continuing education and training opportunities for their employees. And, they really focus on making sure their employees are true professionals in their roles. Like all lending institutions, our loan officers are required to be licensed.
Q: What is your favorite part of your job?
Sitting at the closing table and hearing clients talk about their plans for their new home. I try to attend my closings so that I can emphasize to people that I’m available to help answer questions even after the loan is done.
Q: What can other lending professionals do to be more successful in their careers?
Listen to people and understand their goals for home ownership instead of just focusing on the sale. Always be willing to take the time to make sure all the client’s needs are addressed at every step of the process. Get a license and get educated–know your business. And be honest, always!
