Loan Officer Spotlight: Chris Wharton

At First Ohio Home Finance, we know that choosing a lender is an important, personal decision. Our team of loan officers are skilled in providing personalized mortgage solutions while providing 5-star service to our customers. We want to give you the opportunity to get to know our amazing team! Chris Wharton is featured in this loan Officer Spotlight. Chris has been a loan officer with First Ohio Home Finance for the last year and a half. Here’s a little snapshot from our interview with Chris for this week’s Loan Officer Spotlight.

Q: What inspired you to become a mortgage loan officer?

A: For the first 12 years of my career I was in the operational side of mortgage lending. I saw the successes and failures of my peers and felt that I could draw on the positives and pitfalls and combine this with my industry knowledge and work ethic to become a more valuable asset to my company and the clients I serve.

Q: What is your favorite part about being a loan officer?

A: Flexibility. I work many hours, but thanks to technology I don’t always have to be tied to my office chair. Combined with a great support staff I’m now able to fit in what I might not have in the past.

Q: What interests you about the mortgage business/industry?

A: Helping assist in home ownership.  Too many folks think it is not an option for them. – not true.  If you want it you can achieve it. Set a budget, set a credit score goal and start today.

Q: How do you ensure excellent customer service for your clients?

A: Know your programs, know your guidelines and if you don’t know to ask.  I’m in my 13th year of mortgage lending and I’m still learning. Saying no can be tough, but saying it up front can save everyone time and money.  AND a no doesn’t have to be a forever no. The path to correcting your course starts with the first step. Start today.

Q: Tell about a success story when working with a past client

A: A recent situation was a client that first contacted me roughly one year ago.  His credit wasn’t quite where it needed to be to obtain a loan. I offered written guidance as to how he could improve his scores.  Eight months later he contacts me out of the blue and we pull new credit. He followed all my advice and his score improved over 100 points.  It was a great feeling to know not only was he going to qualify – he was going to get outstanding terms.

Q: What is your advice to first-time homebuyers?

A: Save as much as you can, get your credit score as high as possible and don’t overextend yourself on your first home.  Homeownership certainly is a dream for many Americans – however, being house poor is no dream. Live within your means.

Q: How would people describe you?

A: Hardworking, responsive, trustworthy, loyal

Q: What’s your favorite quote?

A: ‘Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today’ – B Franklin  – & – ‘So you’re telling me there’s a chance’ – Dumb & Dumber

Q: What do you like to do when you’re not working?

A: Family time.  My wife and I have a 3yr old son and we enjoy every minute we can together.  Travel, eat good food and enjoy new experiences.

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: Hockey, Golf, Riding ATV’s, Being outside and active.

If you’re ready to buy a home or refinance, contact Chris or any of our amazing loan officers to get started!