Best Mortgage Companies of 2021 – Hawaii Business Magazine
Consider these agents and companies when preparing for your next real estate transaction.
Mike B. Pietsh
President and Chief Operating Officer, Title Guaranty Hawaii
Q: What stands out for you when you look back 125 years?
A: “When I think back to the milestones that Title Guaranty has celebrated over the past 125 years, one of the most salient points is the pace of change,” said Title Guaranty President Mike B. Pietsch. “In the young years of our company; major advancements, growth and technological innovation have come a bit gradually over time. Our business has increased and decreased over cycles and we have responded as best we can to lead and grow despite anticipated obstacles. As Hawai’i’s business grew, we grew with it. An incredible 125 years later, we remain passionate and committed to helping the people of Hawaii make it their home.
Q: Where does TG Hawaii go from here?
A: 2020 has radically changed the game for all of us. As global events accelerated the pace of change, TG has continued to pivot its resources to align with current needs. “I’m really proud of the many operational improvements we’ve made to our workflow over the past 18 months. I have the impression that we are stronger because of this and that our customers have responded positively to the changes. Mike shared. “But more importantly, I’m optimistic about how we’re changing the way we manage and lead our respective internal teams. In these unique times, compassionate leadership seems to be the only path to success. Employees have a lot to juggle with school closings, home office life, and ongoing workflow changes. We are building a foundation of understanding and innovation that will guide us through whatever life has in store for us in the future. “
Hawaii Title Guarantee
17 branches statewide
Visit: tghawaii.com
To pursue: @tg_hawaii
Irish shane
NMLS # 1160004
Mortgage Loan Officer, Loan Deposit
Being born and raised in Hawai’i, Shane Irish has a great understanding of the place he calls “home”. Shane is a graduate of Iolani and Oregon State High School, with degrees in economics and business entrepreneurship. Shane returned home in 2013 where he began his career in finance at Hawaii National Bank, a place he is grateful for as it allowed him to grow and find his strength.
Shane is currently a mortgage loan officer for LoanDepot. He was part of the team that opened their first retail branch in the state. The company has since gone public, partnered with MLB, and named the Miami Marlins Stadium its name. He’s joking, it’s because he joined the company.
Q: What do you attribute your accomplishments to?
A: I love that Gatorade ad, “You take out what you put on.” There are few lines of work where this saying is still true, this is one of them, so I try to put a lot of it. I arrive every day prepared to give a lot of energy and commitment to the real estate agents and clients I work with.
Q: Why do customers like working with you?
A: I think it’s authenticity. Don’t be afraid to show people who you are and then give yourself selflessly to them. And second, that my only goal is to help. When it really starts there, I’m confident to drop the chips any way they can.
Q: How do I stay connected?
A: Every Friday I post the 30-year average fixed rate and the chart on my Instagram @Mortgage_Hawaii. It’s an easy way for subscribers to stay in touch with our mortgage market. I also run in 30-60 sec. informational videos – these can simply turn on the light for a buyer or provide a real estate agent with a nugget that wows their client.
loan deposit
500, boulevard Ala Moana, office 3-400
Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 384-1146
loanDepot.com
Rachel Willis
NMLS # 1844650
Branch Manager, Aligned Mortgage
Rachel Willis, Branch Manager of Aligned Mortgage, was born and raised in Hawai’i and has 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry.
Rachel is a strong advocate for homeownership and has particularly focused on first-time homebuyers and the many specialized programs available to them. Rachel is familiar with all financing programs, although VA and USDA loans are among her favorites. Rachel takes pride in educating Hawaii homebuyers and real estate agents on the value and options of homeownership and regularly teaches for the Honolulu Realtor Council. Rachel brings her dedication, experience and eagerness to service to Aligned Mortgage.
Q: What are your favorite loan programs?
A: My favorite loan programs are VA and USDA hands down. VA is the best product on the market as well as it should be since this program is aimed specifically at those who have served or are serving our country. Like VA, the USDA program offers low interest rates, incredible discounts to help cover closing costs and it’s also 100% financing that allows people to access homeownership.
Q: Is it easier to qualify for the USDA program compared to other loan programs?
A: Yes, it is quite easy to qualify for the USDA program. The minimum we need at Aligned Mortgage is a FICO score of 600. Along with that there are some income requirements such as $ 144,750 for a family of 1-4 and $ 191,050 for a family of 5-8. people on O’ahu, whom you will need to be equal to or less than to qualify.
Q: What makes Aligned Mortgage Hawai’i VA’s # 1 buying lender?
A: Our founder, Tony Dias, a former Marine on duty, has been educating veterans since 2005 – running monthly seminars. These seminars continue today on Zoom. We have educated over 150,000 veterans. We’re also a “no-cost” lender, helping veterans save thousands of dollars on their purchase. We have veterans loan officers who serve other veterans, knowing full well what their needs are. We just have a passion to ensure that everyone who has sworn to defend our country has the opportunity to own a part of it.