Although he works across the full spectrum of residential lending as vice president of mortgage lending at New American Funding, Kevin Z. Braude places much of his focus on the jumbo and luxury markets. Over the years, he has developed a specialty in finding the right lending solutions for high-net-worth clients whose financial profiles don’t always fit the standard mold.

Before starting his award-winning career in the mortgage industry 23 years ago, Braude owned and operated Braude Jewelry Corp. In that role, he oversaw all aspects of the successful retail chain’s operations while honing his expertise in financial strategy and investment planning. “The experience gave me a strong foundation in managing complex transactions and understanding client needs — skills that translated seamlessly into real estate lending,” he says.

Braude got into lending after refinancing his home while rates were dropping in 2001. “During that process, I struck up a conversation with my loan officer about my background and what I was planning to do next,” he recalls. “She surprised me by suggesting I shadow her for a day to see what the mortgage world was all about. With my experience in sales, finance and running a business — not to mention a strong network already in place — it clicked almost immediately. I saw the potential and knew I could bring real value to people navigating major financial decisions.”

Braude has a genuine passion for guiding people through one of the most significant financial decisions they’ll ever make. “I understand the weight of it, and I take that responsibility seriously, offering guidance with clarity, strategy and a good amount of empathy,” he shares. This commitment to making complex financial decisions understandable and stress-free continues to earn him repeat and referral business.

Dedicated to giving back to his community, Braude is a former president and current executive board member of the Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.