In 2006, when a close friend was starting a mortgage company, Daniel Chookaszian decided to join in. He learned how to originate and source mortgages and found the process of working with like-minded, hardworking people to be exhilarating. Prior to the mortgage industry, Chookaszian worked in sales and production at his father’s screen printing company. He also volunteered as a chaplain for disabled veterans for over a decade. Through all these experiences, he has learned how to build relationships and consistently deliver results, skills that work well in the mortgage industry.

In 2019, the Illinois Mortgage Bankers Association recognized Chookaszian with its Best Mortgage Loan Officer for Large Bank award. As a direct line inside Chase for his clients, he stands out from other lenders, because he provides access to Private Client benefits and relationship pricing, low down payment DreaMaker products, as well as jumbo products and lending in all 50 states. Additionally, his ability to teach and educate clients helps him succeed, as he excels at making complex things simple and easy to understand.

At Chase, Chookaszian can provide a guarantee to close a purchase loan in 21 days. This is possible only because of the technical excellence and dedication of his team. He uses his experience to structure loans properly from the beginning so all can go smoothly, though he also wants his clients to understand the entire closing process. He provides a tailored overview of the steps and costs for each person at the beginning of the loan, and they value that. A comment he often hears is, “Dan, I feel like I finally understand — this makes sense to me now.”

Outside of work, Chookaszian prioritizes family. His most significant personal accomplishment is being able to support his wife in her new career after the several years she spent caring for their children full time. He is extremely proud of her and enjoys seeing her thrive. Chookaszian has also recorded albums with his father in their band, Abel’s Offering.