Guardian Angel: James Reed Uses His Experience as a Military Veteran to Save Financial Lives With Mortgages

There are a few things we are suckers for over here at CandysDirt.com… gorgeous houses and gorgeous men. Especially those who have served in the military! Let me put it this way: I will not be needing my hormones for a few weeks after this interview with Guardian Mortgage Guardian Angel James Reed! Guess what folks, he is as hot on the inside as he is out: a total family man with old-fashioned integrity who has saved lives and even jumped out of airplanes! Now he’s saving financial lives every day as he helps home buyers navigate the crazy world of mortgages. James, you can “roger that” with us anyday!

How did you get into the mortgage industry?

After retiring from the military, I wanted a career that I could still be proud of. Helping people actualize the dream of homeownership is definitely in line with that desire. Doing it for a company with a high emphasis on ethics and doing what is right is a dream come true.

How has your 20 years of military experience transitioned into your everyday civilian life?

Boy…that is a tough question. Since I started at Guardian, I have not been asked to jump out of any airplanes or hold a life raft above my head for hours on end. Our team-building exercises are way different, that’s for sure!

Honestly, after 20 years, it is difficult to break some habits. I still stand up when my boss walks into the room. I know that he finds humor in that. I don’t complain when I have to work through lunch, and I say “roger that” more than I should. However, many people enjoy that I always show up on time, but I still have difficulty choosing what to wear each day.

How do you approach each new loan/customer you work with?

I remember that I have a duty to serve the people. I also approach each transaction as a mission. Additionally, the attention to detail and promptness that I learned from the military provides my clients with a clean and predictable experience throughout the entire process.

What trends are you seeing in the housing industry these days?

The home buying process from home search to closing has changed so dramatically since many of us purchased our last homes. The constant changes have made it more important than ever to find a quality real estate agent and a mortgage advisor that you can trust.

What do you enjoy most about your volunteering, involvement with youth sports and community activities?

Team sports if taught correctly can be a microcosm of life. I enjoy knowing that with each victory and each loss I am helping the young people of my community to be equipped for life.

What drives you to do what you do every day?

My family. I must ensure that even though I don’t put on a uniform anymore, they still look at me as their hero. I admit that it is a difficult task. My 12-year-old boys are impressed more by camouflage and combat boots than a laptop and a strong working knowledge of Mortgage Backed Securities.

What is the best piece of advice you share with new Loan Officers beginning their careers?

Gain as much education as you can at the beginning and continue to be a student of your profession. Knowledge and integrity are the two most valuable commodities that you have in this job and never sacrifice either. It may be slow-going in the beginning but it will pay off in the end.