From her start in banking in 1998 to becoming a loan processor and licensed loan advisor at Homestead, Mel’s enthusiasm for helping people achieve their homeownership dreams shines through. She shares how a friend’s tip led her to take a chance on an opportunity in the secondary market, and how that leap of faith turned into a career she truly loves.
Q: How did you get started in your career, and what led you to Homestead?
A: I began working in banking shortly after graduating high school and starting college in January of 1998. I knew right away it was the career for me. After a few years as a teller, I moved into loan processing. When my husband and I relocated to the St. Louis area, I worked for a local bank handling commercial loan processing. Less than a year later, a friend told me about an opening at Homestead that she thought would be perfect for me. I decided to take a chance, even though I had never worked in the secondary market before. I had confidence I could do the job, and I’m forever grateful for the opportunity. I absolutely love what I do.
Q: What’s your favorite memory or proudest moment since joining the Homestead family as the Processor in 2016?
A: It’s hard to choose just one because there have been so many. But my favorite moments are always when I get to tell someone their loan is cleared to close—especially first-time homebuyers. Their excitement is contagious, and when they send heartfelt thank-you messages, it reminds me why I do what I do. This business can be challenging, but those moments make it all worth it.
Q: What is the best advice received in your career?
A: Jayson Hardie, our CEO and Managing Partner, once told me, “We work to live, not live to work.” It really stuck with me. In this line of work, it’s easy to get consumed by the job. But as much as we love what we do, it’s important to take care of ourselves. When you do that, you become a better employee—and a better spouse, daughter, mom, sister, or friend.
Q: What’s something unique about our company culture that stands out to you?
A: At Homestead, we know how to work hard, but we also know how to have fun. The relationships here are so strong that I consider my coworkers to be family. The owners are approachable and always available when you need advice or just someone to listen.
Q: If you could give advice to someone considering joining Homestead, what would it be?
A: This is the best company I’ve ever worked for! Don’t pass up the opportunity to become a part of the Homestead family.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer anxiously awaiting that “clear to close” message or a peer considering a career with Homestead, Mel’s story is proof that passion and perseverance pay off. Her dedication to each borrower, and her commitment to her career, self-care, and fun in the workplace reminds us why we do what we do.