For Jay Howald, being a Loan Advisor at Homestead Financial Mortgage is about more than just helping people buy or refinance a home. It is about educating clients, building trust, and finding smart, strategic ways to improve their financial well-being. With a background in finance and banking that spans over 15 years, Jay was drawn to Homestead’s collaborative culture, where every department works together toward one goal: creating the best possible experience for clients. In this Q&A, Jay shares how his approach to lending has evolved, what makes Homestead’s team dynamic so unique, and how the company’s flexibility has helped him balance a fulfilling career with family life.
Q: What do you love most about your role as a Homestead Loan Advisor?
A: What I love most about being a Homestead Loan Advisor is helping clients discover smart, sometimes unexpected ways to save money. Life is unpredictable, and it’s common for financial plans to drift off course due to life events. That’s why I believe every client deserves someone they can trust who can provide strategic advice to help structure their finances in a way that truly benefits them. While big decisions like buying or refinancing a home can feel overwhelming, homeownership can provide lasting security, personal freedom, and a solid financial foundation—when managed wisely.
Q: What is the best advice you received during your time with us?
A: The best advice I have received is to lead with education. Every client is in a unique position, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. It’s important to take the time to educate your clients so they can feel confident in the decisions they are making. That focus on building trust and strong relationships has shaped how I approach every conversation.
Q: How would you describe the culture at Homestead, and what makes it different from other places you’ve worked?
A: Coming from 15 years in finance and banking with large corporations, I found the culture at Homestead incredibly refreshing. In many organizations, it’s common for departments to feel disconnected or even at odds. But at Homestead, it was clear from the start that no one is out of reach or too busy to collaborate.
From my experience, when you put the client’s needs and satisfaction first, the entire organization benefits. In an industry known for high turnover, the long tenure of the employees here says a lot. That kind of consistency doesn’t just happen. It’s a result of leadership and ownership that take pride in building and maintaining a strong culture where we are all on the same team.
Q: Our mission statement is “Making lives better, one home at a time.” How has working at Homestead helped make your life better?
A: Having a family with young kids, Homestead has given me the flexibility to do school drop-offs and pick-ups, which is important to me. At the same time, I still have a local office to go to, which provides the knowledge and resources to quickly solve any issues that arise. Being able to share parenting responsibilities and be present for our kids’ childhoods has made a huge difference for our family. It really does feel like the best of both worlds.
Q: If you could give advice to a loan officer considering joining Homestead, what would it be?
A: To a loan officer considering joining Homestead, I would say go for it. If you are committed to this industry and are looking for a company that values its loan officers and will treat you as a partner rather than an employee, then Homestead is the place for you. They will provide the support you need so you can focus on your clients and building your business.
Jay’s story is a great example of how the right company culture can bring out the best in its people. At Homestead, he has found a place where teamwork, trust, and education come together to create real results for clients and lasting satisfaction for employees. Whether it is helping families find financial stability or balancing his own work and family life, Jay continues to live out Homestead’s mission of making lives better, one home at a time.