Now with 19 years in the mortgage industry, Matthew Ewald is a top-producing and highly referred mortgage originator. As a vice president of residential lending at Draper and Kramer Mortgage’s Downers Grove branch, he works with clients and partners throughout the Chicago area and the nation. Industry publications Scotsman Guide and Mortgage Executive Magazine recognize him among the top mortgage originators in the nation.

Working almost entirely on a referral basis, Ewald often serves borrowers throughout their lives as homeowners. “The first time I interact with clients is usually when they are first-time homebuyers,” he says. “Then, as they go through life, I handle their move-up purchases or help them branch out into owning multiple properties.” Though he serves clients primarily in his home market of Chicagoland, 27% of his transactions are out of state, including relocations and second home purchases.

Ewald follows a proven strategy for providing a positive and reliable home financing experience. “Strong communication and well-managed expectations are two big parts of making sure things go as smoothly as possible,” he says. “If all parties know what is needed, then it’s never a surprise when things arise.” Ewald is committed to informing and guiding his clients throughout the mortgage process. This means providing expert advice, thorough explanations and consistent follow-ups to ensure terms come back as expected or better and loans close on time.

Over the past couple of years, Ewald’s proudest professional accomplishment has been maintaining his high service levels through the record demand for home financing during the pandemic. “It was a very busy time, but I’m fortunate enough to work with one of the best support teams in the business,” he says. “I couldn’t do what I do without them.”

Now, as home-financing transactions shift from refinances to purchases, Ewald looks forward to managing the added complexities and parties of homebuying deals to ensure successful, on-time closings.