Mike Mufarreh, a mortgage banker with BMO Harris Bank, was named Best Loan Producer for Large Bank by the Illinois Mortgage Bankers Association. Photo Credit BMO Harris Bank.
The Illinois Mortgage Bankers Association (IMBA) held its annual Best in the Business Awards Sept. 26 at the Hyatt Lodge in Oak Brook. More than 250 attendees celebrated the night’s 13 award winners, one of whom was BMO Harris Bank’s Mike Mufarreh.
Mufarreh was named Best Loan Producer for Large Bank, an honor recognizing the work of the Hinsdale-based loan originator. According to a press release, the eight-year industry professional closed $80 million in property loans last year.
“With nearly a decade in the mortgage industry, Mike has proven himself as a leading expert in the field and one that understands the complexities of the mortgage process,” Kevin Christopher, head of U.S. mortgage sales for BMO Harris Bank, said in a press release. “This award is a testament to the success he has achieved and the exceptional service he brings to his clients. He is an asset to BMO Harris’ mortgage business and this recognition is well deserved.”
In order to be nominated for an award, a nominee must have at least one year of industry experience and must be employed with one of the 160-plus IMBA member companies. Candidates can be nominated only by a fellow employee or colleague. Those nominating someone are asked to write a short response detailing why the person deserves the award, citing any notable accomplishments.
A team of IMBA directors reviews all nominations and ultimately chooses the winners. Members of the Best in the Business Awards Committee are not eligible for nomination.
The other award winners include Mary Morstadt of Standard Bank & Trust, Star Leadership Award; Pete Monachello of Standard Bank & Trust, Best Loan Producer for Community Bank; Joe Caltabiano of Guaranteed Rate, Best Loan Producer Non-Bank Mortgage Banker; Tom Meneses of Standard Bank & Trust, Best CRA Loan Officer; Julie Zambon of Inland Home Mortgage, Best Loan Processor; Cookie Stronsky-Ryle of Inland Home Mortgage, Best Loan Underwriter; Aimee Koerner of Guaranteed Rate, Best Loan Closer; Joe Logan of Chicago Title Insurance, Best Title Insurance Accounnt Representative; Joe Doyle of United Guaranty, Best Mortgage Insurance Account Representative; Betsy Green of Attorneys’ Title Guaranty Fund, Best Operational Support Staff; TJ McCarthy of TJ McCarthy & Associates, Best Residential Mortgage Appraiser; and David Robles of First American Title Insurance, Best Title Company Closer.