By this July, mortgage originator Kevin Braude had originated more home financing than in any other year in his career. However, his proudest professional achievement was more personal. “This past year, I worked with two of my past clients’ children,” he says. “I had assisted both of their parents in buying their first homes, and now I’m helping the next generation. That’s something I truly enjoy.”
Over the course of his 20-year career, Braude has provided home financing to thousands of clients throughout Chicagoland and from coast to coast. Since 2010, he has been a vice president of residential lending at Draper and Kramer Mortgage’s Northbrook branch, and he has been a consistent member of the firm’s President’s Club for top-producing originators.
“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 mortgage process. Thanks to his enthusiastic network of clients and professional partners, 100% of Braude’s business comes from referrals.
When not working with clients, Braude is busy with other endeavors. He has served at several area not-for-profit organizations, including leadership roles at the Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, Northbrook Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Congregation Beth Shalom and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago. When not spending time with his wife at their Northbrook home, he can often be found on the golf course.
Looking ahead, Braude sees a changing real estate landscape that reflects the challenges of COVID-19 and the opportunities around record-low interest rates. “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.”
