Over the course of his 20-year-plus career, Kevin Braude has provided home financing to thousands of clients throughout Chicagoland and the nation. He is a vice president of residential lending at Draper and Kramer Mortgage’s Northbrook branch, and Mortgage Executive Magazine recognizes him among the top 1% of mortgage originators in America based on annual loan volume.

“I really care about the individual borrower,” Braude says. “I have a great ability to listen to the needs of my clients and help them make sound financial decisions when purchasing or refinancing their homes. I am driven to take care of my borrowers not only during the transaction, but well into the future.” In reviews from past clients, borrowers praise his helpfulness, patience and efficiency throughout the process. Thanks to his enthusiastic network of clients and professional partners, 100% of Braude’s business comes from referrals.

Today, homebuyers are facing unique challenges. With higher interest rates and low housing inventory, Braude has the goal of ensuring each of his buyers has their home financing in place before they even make an offer. “We can accomplish this by completing a full underwrite pending only an appraisal,” he says. “This gives my buyers a unique advantage to make a ‘good as cash’ offer, which helps them stand out in multiple-offer situations.”

When not working with clients, Braude can often be found spending time with his wife at their Northbrook home, playing with his rescue puppy (now his branch’s new mascot) or taking to the golf course with clients and friends. He has also served in leadership roles at several area nonprofit organizations.

Looking ahead, Braude sees a challenging but exciting real estate landscape where mortgage borrowers have the potential to see their real estate investments grow at an unprecedented rate. “Navigating this new normal isn’t always easy,” he says, “but I’m looking forward to helping the next generation of homebuyers and homeowners make smart choices.”