Six months ago, we welcomed Brenda Stahlschmidt to our team, and it’s been a pleasure having her on board as a trusted underwriter. At Homestead Financial Mortgage, we believe in more than just business transactions—we prioritize our people, regularly checking in to ensure they feel supported, valued, and set up for success. What sets us apart as a mortgage lender isn’t just our expertise but our commitment to fostering a collaborative, client-focused culture. We recently caught up with Brenda to hear about her experience so far, what she’s learned, and any advice she has for those navigating the mortgage industry.
Q: How has your experience so far compared to your expectations?
A: Working at Homestead has far exceeded any expectations I had. Changing companies in this industry is always a big decision, and it can be nerve-wracking to step into something new. However, from day one, the leadership and underwriting team at Homestead made the transition seamless and reassuring. Their support, guidance, and unwavering commitment to excellence have reaffirmed that this move was not just the right one—it was truly a prayer answered. I have felt welcomed, empowered, and motivated in ways I never expected, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Q: What’s been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your first six months here?
A: The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is just how much trust, experience, and knowledge are valued here at Homestead. Unlike other places where mistakes can feel like setbacks, here, they are seen as opportunities for growth. Leadership works with you, not against you, to resolve any issues and ensure you come out of the experience stronger. This culture of support has not only given me confidence in my role but also encouraged me to take ownership of my work without fear. It’s incredibly refreshing to be in an environment where learning and improvement are prioritized over perfection.
Q: How would you describe the culture at Homestead, and what makes it different from other places you’ve worked?
A: The culture at Homestead is built on a true team mentality. There’s a sense of camaraderie here that is rare to find. My team is not only highly knowledgeable and professional but also incredibly supportive and—funny! It had been a long time since I had a full-out belly laugh at work, and now, I find myself smiling and laughing often. That kind of positive energy is contagious, and it makes a world of difference in the workplace.
Q: Can you share a memorable experience or success story that made you feel you truly belong here?
A: One moment that really stood out to me was when I was asked for my opinion on the company’s process flow. It wasn’t just a casual question—it was a genuine invitation to contribute and be heard. My input was valued, and I could see that my perspective mattered. It’s incredibly rewarding to work for a company that actively seeks out feedback and continuously strives for improvement.
Q: If you could advise someone considering joining Homestead, what would you say to them?
A: Make the change—you won’t regret it. At Homestead, you are not just another number; you are recognized, heard, and supported. The leadership here wants you to succeed, and they provide the resources, mentorship, and encouragement to help you achieve your goals. If you are looking for a place where your contributions matter, where growth is encouraged, and where you can truly thrive, then Homestead is the place to be.
At Homestead Financial Mortgage, we believe that making lives better isn’t just about helping people achieve homeownership—it’s also about supporting and uplifting our employees. Just as we guide our clients through life-changing milestones, we are equally committed to creating an environment where our team feels valued, supported, and set up for success. When our employees thrive, they are able to make an even greater impact on the lives of the families we serve.