With over two decades of experience in mortgage lending, John Noldan has seen the unpredictability of the business firsthand. “It gives me an advantage of knowing what works and doesn’t, especially during these times,” he explains.

Noldan actually acquired a lot of his best lending skills in the service industry. “I was bartending in college and was a political science major. I was interested in getting into politics so I could help people,” he recalls. “A friend introduced me to the mortgage business, and I realized I could help people that way, as well.”

Bartending taught Noldan how to communicate with customers and get to know people personally rather than just professionally. “I’m a big advocate of becoming friends with clients and referral partners,” he shares.

Communication and availability are the main ingredients in Noldan’s successes as an originator. He says there’s nothing worse than the unknown when it comes to getting a loan processed, so quick and honest communication with clients is key.

“I’m proud to have stayed in the game in this competitive, multiple-offer environment,” Noldan says, citing his knowledge of the market and loan programs, reputation and hands-on approach to running his business as the main reasons he’s still on top after 22 years in the industry.

Noldan was voted Best in Business by the Illinois Mortgage Banking Association in 2015 and has earned either the President’s or Chairman’s Club award at Guaranteed Rate every year since 2011. He’s also been a Scotsman Guide Award winner for the past 14 consecutive years.

Guaranteed Rate, Inc. is a private corporation organized under the laws of the state of Delaware. It has no affiliation with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Agriculture or any other government agency.