Kim Osborne has worn many hats in her mortgage career, starting as a funder at just 21 and working her way through nearly every stage of the loan process. In 2017, encouraged by her sister and inspired by the team she met at Homestead, Kim joined as a Transaction Coordinator and she hasn’t looked back since. For her, the role isn’t just about processing loans, it’s about guiding families toward homeownership, solving complex “puzzles,” and building lasting friendships along the way. In this Q&A, Kim shares her proudest moments, the lessons that shaped her career, and why Homestead feels more like family than work.
Q: How did you get started in your career, and what led you to Homestead?
A: I started in the mortgage industry as a funder in an accounting department when I was just 21 years old. From there, I moved into post-closing, then worked as a closer. Later, I earned my mortgage license in Illinois and Missouri and tried my hand as a loan officer. While I enjoyed that, I felt more at home in operations, so I transitioned into processing.
About a year into processing for another company, my sister Janet, who worked at Homestead at the time, encouraged me to interview with JR Obrecht’s team in Illinois, which was close to where I live. I was hesitant at first, but decided to go ahead with the meeting. The moment I interviewed with JR, Jayson, and Melanie, everything just clicked. I joined their team and never looked back! I truly feel I work with the best group of people, and the friendships we’ve built mean so much.
Q: What’s your favorite memory or proudest moment since joining the Homestead family as a Transaction Coordinator in 2017?
A: It’s hard to choose just one favorite memory because I’ve had so many rewarding moments here with my team. But my proudest experiences come from helping borrowers improve their credit and financial standing so they can qualify for a loan. When necessary, our team takes the time to coach our customers on how to handle their assets to improve their credit scores. Watching someone go from not being able to qualify to becoming a homeowner after all their hard work is priceless. Knowing I played a part in that journey makes me proud every time. I’ve grown so much at Homestead and love that I can now look at a loan and know how to solve the “puzzle” to make it work.
Q: What is the best advice you received during your time here?
A: The best advice I’ve received is not to take things so personally. Buying a home can be stressful, and when borrowers are upset, it’s rarely about you. Showing compassion and keeping a smile makes all the difference. I’ve also applied that advice with coworkers, learning to be more patient and understanding in the moment. It’s helped me build strong work relationships and even stronger friendships here.
Q: How would you describe the culture at Homestead, and what makes it different from other places you’ve worked?
A: For me, the culture at Homestead feels like family. The company truly cares about supporting you in balancing work and life at home. When I had an unexpected pregnancy that led to complications and my daughter being born two months early, Homestead was incredibly supportive. They gave me the time I needed while my daughter was in the NICU and through her first year of appointments.
I’ll never forget how understanding they were and how they made it possible for me to focus on both my family and my career without having to choose between the two. That kind of support is rare, and I’m so grateful for it.
Q: If you could give advice to someone considering joining Homestead, what would it be?
A: My advice is simple—do it! Homestead gives you all the tools you need to succeed, and the people here are always willing to help. The managers are approachable, the team is full of experts who share their knowledge, and the culture is genuinely supportive.
If you’re looking for a career, not just a job, Homestead is the place. It feels like family, and I can honestly say I’ve never loved a job as much as I do this one. I plan to stay until retirement if they’ll have me!
Kim’s story is proof that when you are part of a team that values both personal and professional growth, the impact goes far beyond the office. From helping borrowers improve their credit to celebrating her own career milestones, she has found fulfillment in every step of her journey. Supported through life’s challenges and celebrated in its victories, Kim has built a career and community she truly loves.