Thomas Lavallee

Senior Vice President of Mortgage Lending
Guaranteed Rate

With nearly three decades in the mortgage industry, Thomas Lavallee has seen it all. An industry leader, he was recognized as Scotsman Guide’s No. 1 loan officer in the U.S. in 2010 for loans closed, while other industry leaders like National Mortgage News and Mortgage Executive Magazine have showcased him as a top mortgage producer multiple times.

Lavallee was drawn to the mortgage industry because it leverages his communication and problem-solving skills, in addition to his finance degree. He knew the profession required one to be task-oriented and a self-starter, two of his strongest characteristics. Still, Lavallee recognized the importance of having the right people around him to ensure success. “I knew from experience that success requires building a really great, motivated team,” he says. “I’m lucky to have the best team in the industry, including some people who have been with me for more than 20 years!” In addition, he points out the importance of building relationships with Realtors and clients. “Those relations are critical, and they can last a lifetime.”

Lavallee’s clients include Chicagoland residents and people who live across the country. Guaranteed Rate, he says, provides a unique platform that enables him to service a wide range of mortgage transactions. “The company’s model creates a fantastic environment for loan officers to thrive, and it’s allowed me to enjoy significantly increased exposure in the mortgage marketplace,” he explains. Lavallee’s goal is always to ensure the lending experience is simple, quick, and stress-free, which he achieves by making himself available to clients 24/7 and updating them at least weekly. His team also supports those efforts. “I get feedback from clients, Realtors, and attorneys about how great my team is, and that’s because each of us communicates extremely well. That’s key in an important transaction like buying or refinancing a home.”

Throughout his years in the profession, Lavallee has played an integral role in thousands of loan scenarios, real estate transactions, and appraisals. Also, as a graduate of Northern Illinois University, he truly enjoys his role as the preferred lender for the Northern Illinois University Alumni Association.

In his off hours, Lavallee enjoys wine collecting and yoga, but he continues to place his clients’ needs first and foremost each and every day. He credits his family and friends for their encouragement and motivation in this demanding career, including their willingness to refer people to him. “That just reinforces the confidence they have in me, and that means a lot.”

Thanks to MILA for letting us use their beautiful location for our photo shoots.