Mortgage Loan Originator

Summary of Job Responsibilities:

Under general supervision, but in line with established policies and procedures, the originator interviews mortgage loan applicants, explains the different loan programs available and their requirements, obtains pertinent financial and loan information, and conducts a preliminary analysis to determine if the application meets established minimum criteria. Calls on Realtors, builders and other potential customers to promote Citizens mortgage loan products. Counsels mortgage customers, suggesting solutions and making recommendations for the borrower to be able to obtain a mortgage. Prepares the loan for loan decision and forwards it to the appropriate authority for loan approval. Performs any combination of the duties outlined below. Accountable for complying with all Bank Secrecy Act and Anti Money Laundering regulations, bank policies and procedures.

Essential Job Duties:

1. Performs business development functions, including but not limited to, calls and presentations to Realtors, builders, businesses, potential customers, joining local mortgage related associations, clubs, etc. to encourage them to refer mortgage applicants to Citizens Bank.
2. The majority of time will be spent originating mortgage loans, interviewing borrowers, explaining the different financing and mortgage programs and the requirements on the products that are available through the Bank. Obtains pertinent financial and loan information from the customer. Analyzes the customer's financial posture to determine if it meets minimum loan criteria established by the Bank. Prepares presentation for loan approval to Loan Committee, if required.
3. Responds to inquiries from customers; explains loan procedures and provides technical assistance; answers questions concerning loan rates, terms and related matters.
4. Cross-sells Bank services. Explains various accounts, loans and other services available.
5. Counsels mortgage loan customers seeking solutions to financial and housing needs.
6. Informs the customer of the outcome of the preliminary financial analysis and, if acceptable, indicates that the loan will require further processing before it can be recommended for final approval. If unacceptable, explains the alternatives, if any, to restructure the loan to meet lending criteria. Forwards approved applications to mortgage processors for further processing, i.e., documentation, employment verifications, appraisals, etc. Periodically checks on the status of the application to insure prompt processing.
7. Will assist mortgage loan processor with answers to questions or guidance pertaining to mortgage files. If needed, will interact with title companies, surveyors, investors, FNMA, Rural Housing, etc. to get obtain guideline information to qualify mortgage applicants.
8. Attends loan closings on purchase transactions with buyers, sellers, real estate agents, builders, title companies and others. Verifies the accuracy of the loan closing proceedings and documentation to ensure an unencumbered first lien position for the Bank.
9. Ensures the protection of the Bank's interests in matters of adequate documentation, adherence to Bank policy, and the various laws and regulations applicable to mortgage loan originations, as well as exercise sound credit decisions/recommendations.
10. Performs other miscellaneous job duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities Required:

1. A high level of interpersonal skills to conduct productive interview sessions with loan applicants and to resolve any problems or discrepancies in data.
2. A thorough understanding of the requirements and features of the loan programs and services offered by the Bank and the ability to relate them to potential customers and in business development calls.
3. The analytical ability to conduct an analysis of an applicant's credit status and recommend alternatives where the analysis reveals insufficient financial posture.
4. The ability to speak, read and write English and to perform complex loan calculations.
5. Must be able to operate Windows Based PC and loan processor PC programs. Must be able to operate copiers, facsimile machine, 10-key calculators, scientific calculator and other related office equipment.
6. Minimal typing skills required.
7. Must be able to legally operate a motor vehicle as travel is required to various sites to meet with borrowers, realtors, builders, etc. Minimal overnight travel may be required.
8. Be supportive of the Bank's vision/mission/core values, goals and employee training programs.
9. Be knowledgeable of all mortgage lending regulations/laws and how to apply it to keep the bank in compliance with federal requirements.

Minimum Level of Performance and Training Normally Required:

1. A high school diploma or equivalent and related real estate finance courses and/or experience to be knowledgeable and deal effectively with people.
2. Two or three years of progressively more responsible experience in mortgage loan originating and mortgage loan processing functions. Must be able and eligible to originate all types of mortgage products including, but not limited to, FHA, Rural Development, Conventional, Non-Conventional, etc. as required by the Bank.
3. Good interpersonal skills to represent the department/Bank to customers and others. Must have a positive team work attitude toward internal and external customers and to represent the bank in a professional businesslike manner in all situations.

Working Conditions:

1. Generally good. Some exposure to adverse conditions when making business development calls or meeting with customers outside the Bank.
2. Work schedule will need to be flexible to adjust to department's/Bank's strategic plan/staffing needs.