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 13 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 also bringing the drive and compassion that 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 of their unique approaches to serving others that they built within me.” In particular, Jozwiak works with many first-time buyers, as well as those who have not purchased a home in years and are navigating a different real estate landscape than the one they remember. He empathizes with both. “I’m able to step back and see the world through fresh eyes with each homebuyer,” he remarks.

When it comes to educating borrowers about the process they are about to undertake, Jozwiak ensures clients understand the details of what is taking place. “Educating clients and building relationships up front avoids bumps down the road,” he explains. “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.” This approach has been instrumental to his success, leading him to earn a spot in Wintrust’s President’s Circle for the last two years — five years ahead of his personal goal.

With a signature approach of honesty and understanding that builds 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.”