For more than 24 years, mortgage professional Craig Achtzehn has helped people navigate the home financing process with discipline, clarity and care. His path to the lending industry began unexpectedly in 2000, when a mortgage company owner Achtzehn met while standing up in a wedding recruited him into the business. “That unexpected connection opened the door to what’s become a long and rewarding career,” he says.
Today, as the area sales manager for The Money Store in Chicago, Achtzehn serves homebuyers, homeowners and professional partners throughout Chicagoland and beyond. Licensed in 21 states, he works with a wide range of clients, including military veterans, first-time buyers and real estate investors. With his background in military leadership and an MBA focused in finance, Achtzehn pairs technical knowledge with a practical, people-first approach. He has been recognized as one of the nation’s top-producing mortgage originators by industry publications Scotsman Guide and Mortgage Executive Magazine.
Achtzehn’s customer service philosophy is proactive, precise and personal. “I believe in treating others the way I’d want to be treated,” he says. “My goal is to simplify the process, communicate early and often, and keep things moving efficiently.” He stresses that he works directly with every client and stays actively involved with their loans from start to finish.
Known for his expertise and reliability, Achtzehn has built his business largely through referrals from past clients, real estate agents, attorneys, CPAs and financial advisors. “Every transaction matters,” he insists. “Whether it’s a $100,000 condo or a $2 million home, I bring the same attention, urgency and care.”
Outside of lending, Achtzehn supports veteran-focused nonprofits and participates in church-led community projects.
