Closing $73 million in loans in 2020 alone, Archie Vetter epitomizes the mortgage lending industry’s very best. With 18 years of experience and a 14-year streak as the recipient of Midwest Lending’s highest award in sales, Vetter, executive vice president of mortgage lending, specializes in jumbo, conventional, FHA, VA and renovation loans in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and Florida.

Joining the industry fresh out of Eastern Illinois University, Vetter was recruited by Wilmington Finance as an account executive before transitioning into a loan officer position. “I actually went to school to become a teacher, but my brother-in-law was working for a lender as a processor and inspired me to join him,” he explains. “I ultimately learned the trade through complete immersion.”

Citing his adaptability and accessibility as fundamental to achieving his best year yet, Vetter prides himself on maintaining open lines of communication and customizing each loan to best fit the client’s financial portfolio. “Without a question, my knowledge of this business and process-driven approach are what help me rise above the competition,” he insists. “The bottom line is that I make myself available and am always respectful of my client.”

Due to his longevity and reputation, Vetter sees 85% of his business come from past clients, referrals and new-business Realtors.

In 2021, to celebrate the return to normalcy, Vetter was able to take his family on vacation — an experience he views as his greatest personal accomplishment of the year. In addition to spending time with his loved ones, he enjoys playing softball, watching sports and learning how to golf.