Mortgage Specialist

Description

To apply for this role, upload your (1) resume and (2) cover letter. The role will be filled as soon as we find the right candidate.

Company Description

In 1990, a small group of dedicated volunteers with a desire to eliminate substandard housing in our community founded San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity. Thanks to our supporters, more than 200 local and international families have been able to build or repair their own homes here in Los Angeles’ San Gabriel Valley and beyond. Through the years, we have maintained our unrelenting determination to help families in need by offering a hand up, not a handout. Through donations, shopping at our ReStores, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability, and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves.

Job Location:

800 West Chestnut Ave., Monrovia, CA 91016

Job Specifications:

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Report to:

Director of Programs

Pay Rate:

$26.00 per hour to $29.00 per hour, DOQ

Benefits:

Health insurance, vision & dental insurance, life insurance, 403(b) company match, and paid time off

Job Summary

The Mortgage Specialist plays a key role in the administration of San Gabriel Valley (SGV) Habitat for Humanity’s Housing Programs by overseeing the eligibility process from application to closing. This position involves reviewing and processing homeowner applications, underwriting loans, and finalizing documentation for loans, including home sales, with a focus on ensuring eligibility and meeting program requirements. The Mortgage Specialist will collaborate closely with the Director of Programs, external partners, and internal teams to support the construction pipeline and ensure the timely delivery of affordable housing to the community.

This role is essential in maintaining the flow of qualified applicants and working with them to navigate the complex processes of home repairs, new home construction, Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) projects, and rebuilding efforts, particularly in response to the Eaton Fire. The ideal candidate will be well-versed in lending standards, financial eligibility assessments, and compliance with industry regulations. They will also be able to work directly with applicants and guide them through the application, eligibility and program processes. 

Essential Job Duties

Review and Process Applications
Review homeowner applications for eligibility, ensuring all applicants meet the financial and program requirements for home repairs, new construction, ADUs, and rebuilding efforts after disasters. Assist clients throughout the application process, ensuring a seamless experience.

Pipeline Management
Maintain an adequate pipeline of qualified homebuyers and homeowners, aligning the flow of applications with construction schedules and program demands. Present new opportunities for applicants at community information sessions and act as a resource for those inquiring about our Programs. 

Loan Qualification and Underwriting
Qualify borrowers from the initial application through to requalification and underwriting at the point of sale. Oversee all aspects of the loan process, ensuring compliance with underwriting guidelines, affordability standards, and varying program policies.

Compliance and Regulatory Adherence
Ensure that all loan activities comply with QLO (Qualified Loan Officer) requirements, fair housing regulations, underwriting guidelines, and other relevant standards. Regularly review and update processes to maintain compliance with evolving industry regulations.

Collaboration with External Partners
Manage relationships with third-party lenders, title companies, banks, property management firms, appraisers, attorneys, and other external partners. Coordinate the review and processing of loans, ensuring timely communication and alignment with the homeownership timeline.

Loan Disclosures and Escrow Coordination
Provide loan estimates, disclosures, and other required documents to homebuyers. Work closely with escrow officers to ensure the smooth transition from loan approval to closing, including finalizing home sale paperwork.

Document Management and Closing Process
Oversee the creation and review of loan documents, ensuring that all closing documents are accurate and compliant with internal policies and regulatory requirements. Ensure timely completion of all necessary steps to close loans.

Collaboration with Internal Teams
Work closely with the Real Estate Development, Finance, and Construction teams to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of affordable housing opportunities. Assist in the alignment of loan approvals with upcoming or ongoing construction projects.

Record Keeping and Documentation
Maintain accurate and organized records of all loan files and related documentation. Ensure that files are complete, compliant, and updated throughout the loan process. Implement and follow best practices for document management and retention.

Industry Knowledge and Best Practices
Stay current on industry lending standards, housing finance trends, and changes to regulations. Continuously improve processes and contribute to the development of best practices within the organization.

Is committed to San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity’s mission to eliminate substandard housing and make affordable housing a matter of conscience and action 

Requirements

Education

• College degree or equivalent professional experience.

Experience

• Proven experience in managing and prioritizing multiple tasks or projects with varying levels of urgency.
• Previous experience in the mortgage industry, with roles such as junior underwriter, processor, underwriter, or loan officer.

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of the current housing market, particularly within affordable housing, and the challenges faced in this sector.
• Experience in housing counseling is a plus.

Skills

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and cultural competency skills.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and databases (such as Salesforce, Homekeeper, or similar systems).

Abilities

• Ability to acquire and maintain required certifications for mortgage loan originators, including QLO/MPAR and completion of NMLS online courses.
• Ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive and protected information at all times.
• Ability to travel locally for client visits, community presentations, and outreach events.
• Second language skills preferred but not required. 

Commitment

This position requires a passion for affordable housing and a deep commitment to the mission of San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity. The Mortgage Specialist will be a key member of the team, ensuring that our services reach those in need while maintaining high standards of excellence and service.

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; and nothing in this herein restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.  

SGV Habitat for Humanity actively seeks and welcomes applications from candidates with exceptional qualifications. SGV Habitat for Humanity is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider all qualified individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans, regardless of race, religion, age, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetics, gender identity, or any other legally protected characteristic. SGV Habitat for Humanity will not inquire about a job applicant's criminal conviction history prior to making a conditional offer of employment.

Salary : $26 - $29