I moved to Atlanta when the Braves were chasing their first of 14 consecutive titles. It was an exciting time and I planned to originate loans in Atlanta for a couple of years, marry my college sweetheart, and then move back to Tennessee to work in the family business. Well, the Braves did go to the World Series that year, and I did marry my college sweetheart. However, my short term plan to be a mortgage banker turned into a lifetime career! I never made it back to Tennessee. The family business was eventually sold, and I have now served nearly 20 years in the mortgage profession.
Throughout my journey, I have had the good fortune to have my life shaped by some amazing people. My grandparents taught me some of my best life lessons at a young age. My grandmother wanted to be sure her grandson grew up to be a gentleman. She continually worked on my manners and emphasized how treating people was the golden rule; “treat others as you would want to be treated.” My grandfather was a cheerful optimist. Together they have taught me the importance of approaching everyday with a positive and thankful attitude. “Attitude determines altitude.”
Since moving to Atlanta, my life has soared. I have a wonderful family,and many fine people have continued to invest in me as a professional, a person, a parent, and a Christian. One saying my grandfather frequently said was, “always remember where you came from and who helped you get where you are today.”
I am thankful for all the relationships and learnings I have realized in my first and only profession. I have managed to help over 10,000 home owners purchase or refinance real estate; and I am truly appreciative of the opportunity my clients have given me to build my career and provide for my family. I am committed to be in this industry for at least another 20 years!
My hope is that each and every person I have had the privilege to serve has felt my optimistic attitude and gentlemanly demeanor. It is my goal to honor those who have invested and influenced me and those who I have come in contact with by giving my very best in attitude, effort, and treatment. My intention is for three words to describe me in any role, situation, or title: “winner,” “optimist,” and “gentleman.”