Mortgage originator Eric Martin has provided mortgage advice and solutions to homebuyers, homeowners and real estate professionals across Chicagoland for 17 years. Over the course of his career, he has helped a vast array of borrowers obtain purchase or refinance loans. Martin is senior vice president of residential lending and a top-producing originator at Draper and Kramer Mortgage’s River North branch in Chicago.

For Martin, the recipe for success is simple. “You have to be accountable and be the point person for both the client and their agent as they navigate the homebuying process,” he says. “This includes being available at all hours and responding quickly when needed.” Martin also prides himself on thoroughly educating his clients and proactively eliminating stress during the loan process. “This helps provide a comfort level that allows the buyers and agents to focus on the most important part of the transaction: finding their perfect property.”

Martin works with clients and professionals across the Greater Chicago region. “Over the years, my areas of focus have become a balanced mix of first-time condo buyers in the city and returning clients as they move up to their single-family homes in the burbs,” he says. His clients praise him for making the lending process straightforward through his calm, informative and methodical approach. Most of his borrowers are referred to him by satisfied past clients and his extensive network of real estate professionals.

Outside of his professional life, Martin enjoys spending time with his wife, children and friends. He loves being outdoors and being involved with his children’s activities as they try out new sports and hobbies.

As Martin continues to elevate his business, he has no shortage of inspiration and drive. “Being able to offer a service that relieves stress and provides tangible value to people is what motivates me,” he says. “I’m always looking forward to the next problem to solve and the next person to help.”