Driven by his desire to help people and his natural ability to problem-solve for them, Ryan Palazzola began his career in customer service at age 22. Later, as the owner of two franchise pizza restaurants, he continued to develop the customer-focused skill set that would eventually lead him to the mortgage business. As a senior home lending advisor, he serves the Grosse Point area for Chase.

“Restaurant ownership,” Palazzola remembers, “taught me everything from sales to dealing directly with the public to managing vendors and employees.” Today, as a seasoned loan officer, he uses those leadership skills daily in service to all types of clients, such as first-time buyers and self-employed small-business owners. He is also experienced in the full spectrum of loan types, from jumbo to LMI (low-to-moderate income).

Drawing on his customer-service background, Palazzola begins each client relationship by simply listening. “I let them talk as much as possible and then ask if I can give them advice,” he says. “I generally keep things light and fun, because that is how most people prefer to talk, but when it comes to details, I make sure we are very detailed and focus so messaging isn’t confusing.”

Clients say they appreciate this approach and comment that he breaks down details of the process that other lenders do not. They also commend Palazzola’s honesty and availability; he takes their calls at any hour of any day. Past clients often recommend him to others, and their referrals make up a large part of his business, along with referrals from local agents.

For this 17-year mortgage-industry veteran, residential lending is perfect career fit. “I love helping people and figuring out solutions to problems,” Palazzola says.