Chicago loan officer Paul Kusnierek says no matter the issue, he will face it—hands-on and head-on.

Prior to entering the real estate industry, Kusnierek worked in construction and then as a loan officer assistant. It was during this time he realized the joys of working with clients and grew a passion for helping people achieve one of the biggest accomplishments of their lives. “The joy I hear in people’s voices, and the clients who I’ve seen and heard shed tears from disbelief, have been some of the most remarkable moments in my life,” he says. “Being a young LO at the time and seeing the impact I was able to make is what truly grew my passion for the business and pushes me every day.”

When starting out in the real estate business, Kusnierek had the opportunity to work under a top 1 percent producer. “Starting from completely nothing, I learned the basics of all products, how to structure loans, how to market myself, interact with clients, started networking, and eventually, I built my own business,” he says.

Kusnierek originated $40 million in total lifetime over the past three years, with $20 million of these leads fully under his own name. He was named the Rookie of the Year for loanDepot in 2021 for the Park Ridge Branch in recognition of his accomplishments.

The key to Kusnierek’s success is communication and creativity. He’s always available to answer questions, loves to make sure his clients feel comfortable and at ease and never turns away a challenge. His clients know he has their back no matter what.

When not at work, Kusnierek spends time volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, traveling to new places and staying active.