Few successful professionals can say they got their start before their junior year in high school. But that is precisely the story of Joel Asbury, Vice President of Operations and Senior Loan Officer at Winterwood Mortgage Group in Central Indiana. As a teenager, Joel, who grew up surrounded by the real estate industry, was hired as an intern by Jim Landwerlen, President of Winterwood Mortgage Group of Greenwood. And shortly after finishing college in 2010 with a technology and management degree and business marketing experience, Joel came aboard full time with Winterwood.

“I worked my way up from a junior data manager to learning the business as a Processor, and eventually overseeing Company marketing. That experience taught me more about the industry than anything.” A licensed loan officer since 2013, Joel has helped hundreds of homeowners finance their homes while also helping Winterwood streamline operations. Those efforts were recognized with his 2016 promotion to Senior Vice President of Operations. “It was an honor to be recognized for my efforts, but I do what I do for the betterment of everyone involved,” Joel explains, “It’s not about the recognition, but about the results.”

Looking back, Joel sees he was destined to work in the industry. “My dad was a REALTOR® and CFO of one of the largest real estate companies in Central Indiana. As a kid, I’d go to work with him on the weekends, but never thought that experience would lead to where I am today.” Although his degree could have sent him into the media or telecom industries, the real estate industry beckoned. “I was set up to be put in the place I am, helping others.” Having entered mortgages with an open-minded view of current regulations and requirements on borrowers and lenders, Joel offers an unhindered approach to every transaction and client engagement.

Relationships, he says, require communication and education. “I quickly pick up on things from the client and know what they’re going to need to do or provide ahead of time as opposed to waiting for an underwriter to explain a rule or request more information,” he says. This approach helps push things through, ensuring deadlines are met and closings happen on-time. His dedication to teamwork and communication allow him, his borrowers and their REALTORS® alike to succeed. Real estate agents appreciate his attentive service.

“I had some clients who were recently married and buying their first house,” he explains; the couple’s agent was a big name in Indianapolis. “After we buzzed through their transaction, the agent said, ‘You’ve done such a good job for me, I’d like to send you some referrals.’” Joel was honored, but not just because of the new business that will come his way. “It was enough that I was glad to help with the transaction and help my client buy their first house. It went as smoothly as possible and garnered a relationship.” Building trust and confidence during each relationship is Joel’s goal. The referrals will come, but they are never the priority. “As my boss says, ‘You’re only as good as your last loan!’”

Not surprisingly, Joel’s favorite part of the mortgage business is the people, including borrowers, REALTORS®, and the team at Winterwood Mortgage Group. The company offers traditional mortgage products plus special services such as the mortgage credit certificate (MCC) that effectively lowers a borrower’s interest rate. As Company needs continue to evolve, Joel is the guy making decisions and executing when called upon. “I’ve learned how mortgage companies should work with others to make things as easy as possible and I’ve taught some of this within our own company,” he says. Having moved up from data processor to VP in less than seven years, Joel plans to continue more of the same, helping more people buy homes and empowering the Winterwood team to increase productivity.

Meanwhile, Joel and his wife enjoy traveling and staying active in their community, where they regularly participate in outreach programs through their church. “I’m also involved with a community foundation through the MIBOR REALTOR® Association (of Metropolitan Indianapolis), which spruces up a veterans’ or otherwise disabled community member’s home every year and raises money for families in need during the holidays.” With a passion for community and teamwork, the takeaway for Joel in both career and life is that “None of us is ever in this alone.”

To learn more about Joel Asbury, visit winterwood.net/joel-asbury-app,email jasbury@winterwood.net or call 317.215.6687