Women are powerful agents of change, and though diversity and gender equality have made progress, women continue to be vastly under-represented in decision-making in business, and the mortgage industry. That’s why it’s important that Nationwide Mortgage Bankers has committed to placing even more women in leadership roles. For the month of March, we interviewed five female leaders at NMB in order to dive into their journey and honor our women in leadership.
Week four of our celebration of women in leadership continues with branch manager Sandra Schanks.
Who are your role models or people who have influenced you most throughout your life or career?
My mother. She taught me a great work ethic. She always helped people around her and was always looking to make things better for others.
When you aren’t working, what would your friends/family find you doing?
I enjoy spending time with my kids, and family, and getting together with my friends; along with a glass of wine.
Which NMB core value connects with you the most and why?
I think all of the core values are great but the one that resonates with me most is Customers Matter and We Do. We need to take care of the community that continuously gives me referrals. “We do” also resonates because I have come through on my end. All loans I put through close.
What is something that not many people know about you, something that can’t be found in your bio online, something that people can’t google about you?
I like to binge on different Netflix series.
What do you find most fulfilling about your work?
Educating borrowers throughout the process and their satisfaction and gratefulness after they close.
How long have you been in the mortgage industry?
I have been in the industry for 20-plus years.
How and why did you decide to get into this industry?
The mortgage industry came knocking on my door at the right time. I love people and numbers and it fit right in with what I love to do.
What are some key factors that have played a role in your development through your company, your career, and your industry?
Key factors in my development through my company is technology, NMB cares about giving us the best when it comes to that.
What sets NMB apart from other lenders?
Management is key to me. Our leaders have been so supportive, there is nothing I need that they will not support me with. I have an incredible team, they help foster my growth, they say that I am their number one supporter, but they are my number one supporter, and they are invested in my success.
What sets you apart from others in your similar position?
Being a veteran in this industry, my knowledge of underwriting, and my understanding of the process of purchasing a home from A to Z. I have worked in all departments from opening to processing, underwriting, closing, and now sales.
How are agents impacted by the support you and NMB can offer?
They are impacted by my knowledge because they know that when I commit myself to close a deal that comes to me, it will be closed.
If there is one thing you could tell someone if they were considering making a move to NMB, what would it be?
I’m being repetitive but it’s the support that the company gives all of their employees. They treat their employees like family.
What NMB technology or program do you use to generate business?
Blend.
How do you source new clients and business?
Much of my business comes from referrals.
Do you specialize in any specific loan product?
All conforming loan products are Knowledgeable, straight forward, and transparent.
If your clients could describe you in one – three words, what would they say?
I don’t have just one client story, many of my clients have been so grateful and I often receive gift baskets or cards reflecting their experience with me. This influences me to go above and beyond.
Do you have anybody you work with that you’d like to give a shout-out to?
Everyone I have worked with on the operations side has been amazing. They are always there to help answer any questions when needed. Everyone has supported me and I’d like to give a special heartfelt thank you to Mary.
