JOHN BERGER

John Berger prides himself on taking the “mystery” out of mortgages. “The first thing I always say to my clients is, ‘the mortgage process is not as hard as people might think.’ Once I have completed my initial pre-approval conversation, clients always feel more confident about the mortgage process and taking the next steps toward home ownership,” explains Berger, Branch Manager at Guaranteed Rate. Licensed in Illinois and 12 other states, he has been helping families purchase and refinance their dream homes since 1991. “I take extra time up front and throughout the mortgage process to explain each step—from application to closing,” he says. “I encourage my clients to ask as many questions as possible, so that by the time they walk into the closing, they feel educated and comfortable.” Recognizing that each buyer is different, Berger has the experience to be able to determine exactly what they need. “I have been originating all types of mortgages for my clients, but the most common would be Jumbo, Conventional, FHA, and VA Loans for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties,” says Berger, who spends his free time with his wife, their two kids, and dogs Gordy and Gus. “I entered the mortgage profession because it was the perfect combination of business, finance, and sales. And that, coupled with the fact that I am able to help so many individuals realize their dream of owning their first home or simply saving them thousands of dollars from a refinance, makes this profession worthwhile.”