Guaranteed Rate

Shimmy Braun is friend first, salesman second, and as senior vice president of mortgage lending at Guaranteed Rate, he opts for a gentle, client-oriented approach. “My expertise is in creating customers for life,” he says. “I do that by listening and educating them on the process as opposed to pushing them in a certain direction and making decisions on their behalf.”

Working with clients including first-time buyers, repeat customers, investors, borrowers seeking FHA loans or instant pre-approval and those looking to refinance their mortgage, Braun is eager to help people accomplish their dreams, even if that means working on weekends.

Starting with Guaranteed Rate 18 years ago, Braun has maintained the same team for more than a decade, providing borrowers with an array of familiar faces upon their return. “Working with Guaranteed Rate for so long allows me both the experience and knowledge to care for a customer quickly and efficiently,” he says, adding that his loyalty has also resulted in a comprehensive understanding of the company’s infrastructure and growth.

Prior to joining the residential mortgage business, Braun went to college to become a rabbi. Although he ultimately went into real estate instead, his rabbinical training is something of an asset. “My analytical education in studying Jewish law helped in the technical aspects of this industry,” he says.

Braun has been named the No. 1 loan officer in the state and No. 1 gay loan officer in the country by Scotsman Guide. He is an active supporter of addiction and recovery organizations as well as LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS-related charities.

Braun is a devoted father of four children and proud owner of two dogs. “My children are the loves of my life and inspire me every day to work as hard as I can and be the best role model that I can be,” he says.