Draper and Kramer Mortgage Corp.

For over 16 years, mortgage loan officer Craig Achtzehn has been a trusted home financing resource for consumers and professionals across Chicagoland and more than a dozen states. Achtzehn is vice president of residential lending at Draper and Kramer Mortgage Corp.’s River North branch in Chicago and a regular name on Mortgage Executive magazine’s annual Top 1 Percent Mortgage Originators in America list.

“This is a very competitive industry, and I distinguish myself by always being available and always doing my best to deliver a seamless, stress-free loan process,” Achtzehn says. “That is an important value to provide to both my clients and my professional partners.” As an MBA holder and a former Army officer, his business and leadership credentials also help him stand out.

Achtzehn’s mortgage expertise spans a range of loan, property and client types. “From first-time homebuyers to savvy multi-unit investors, I’ve worked with just about every type of borrower,” he says. “I truly love helping people buy their homes.” With glowing reviews from clients praising Achtzehn’s efficiency, accessibility and professionalism, the enthusiasm appears to be mutual. Not surprisingly, the majority of his clients are referred to him by satisfied past borrowers and his network of real estate agents, accountants, financial advisors, builders and attorneys.

When not serving clients, Achtzehn enjoys spending time with his family and serving his community. He resides in suburban Chicagoland with his wife and two children, where he coaches youth basketball. He is also an ambassador to the Folded Flag Foundation, a nonprofit that provides educational scholarships and support grants to the spouses and children of service members who have been killed in action.

With new challenges and opportunities in the mortgage world on the horizon, Achtzehn is excited for what the future holds. “Our industry is competitive and rewarding, and I love being a part of it!” he says.