A legacy of helping individuals and families get into their dream homes is part of how Wintrust Mortgage loan originator Johnny Jozwiak got his start in the business eight years ago. Well versed in a variety of loan programs and solutions, Jozwiak embraces the way his career has allowed him to bond with his father, Joe, while bringing the drive and compassion his mother — who works in commercial and real estate law — is known for.

We’ve never worked on a team together,” he says of his parents. “But I like to think I bring the groundwork they built in me of their unique approaches to serving others.” In particular, Jozwiak works with many first-time buyers, as well as those who have not purchased a home in years and are now navigating a different world. “I’m able to step back and see the world through fresh eyes with each first-time home buyer,” he says.

“I make sure clients understand the details of what’s taking place,” he says. “I know that is time consuming, but educating clients and building relationships up front avoids bumps down the road.” And in 2020, Jozwiak managed his largest pipeline ever. By earlier this year, he was able to hire his own assistant and begin assembling what he hopes will become a team he is able to build from the ground up. “Borrowers want to understand the process, and we’re going to make sure that our clients look back and say we made this easy for them.”

With a signature approach of honesty and understanding that builds real connections and a consistent referral list from the real estate agents he works with, Jozwiak looks at the long game.

“Building lifelong relationships with customers means understanding their needs and their family dynamic,” he says. “I’ve worked on thousands of mortgages, and I’m just getting started.”