Lake Region Bank is proud to have a Minnesota Housing 2021 Gold Level loan officer on our home loan team. Take a moment to get to know Lake Region Bank mortgage loan originator Tracy Lundy and discover her advice for home buyers.
Tracy, how long have you been a mortgage loan originator at Lake Region Bank?
TL: I’ve worked as a mortgage loan originator at Lake Region Bank for 11 years. I just celebrated my work anniversary in September. Prior to joining the Lake Region Bank mortgage team, I spent 13 years as a mortgage loan officer in the Willmar area. I’ve worked with homeowners in Willmar and across Central Minnesota.
What types of people do you work with at Lake Region Bank?
TL: I work with all sorts of home buyers and homeowners, from first-time home buyers to investors to people renovating their existing homes. I’ve helped people refinance their mortgages and purchase their vacation homes. After 24 years in the industry, I’ve seen it all and done it all!
What do you like most about working with Lake Region Bank mortgage customers?
TL: I absolutely love educating home buyers and guiding them through the process. I especially like to help first-time home buyers. I get to educate them on the home buying process and what to expect during the home loan process. It’s fun to help people realize their dreams!
What is one piece of advice you’d give someone looking to finance their home purchase?
TL: Be prepared to share some personal financial information, and start the process early. I often encounter customers who are unprepared to share their incomes and work histories with me so I can complete their loan applications. Collecting this information is a normal part of the loan process because it helps lenders decide if and how much they will lend to you.
I encourage people who are buying a home in the next year or so to reach out to me now. This gives you time to prepare for the big investment you’re making. I can even run your credit report for you so you can work on any trouble spots before you apply for a home loan.
One last thing—get preapproved! Many Realtors send me referrals for buyers who have no idea what they can afford. A preapproval letter helps buyers focus their home searches and makes them more appealing to sellers.
Minnesota Housing has named you a Gold Level loan officer. How did you earn that honor?
TL: This distinction is based on the number of loans written through Minnesota Housing, a state agency promoting home ownership. What many people don’t know is that Minnesota Housing offers several great loan products, including the Minnesota Fix Up Fund for home renovations and an incredible program that provides down payment and closing cost loans for buyers. I’ve taken advantage of these programs for my customers, which has earned me the Gold Level distinction. At the end of the day, it means I’m looking out for the best interests of my customers and helping them make their home purchase.
Giving back to the community is an important value at Lake Region Bank. How are you involved in your community?
TL: I just finished up a year as the Chief Volunteer Officer of the board of directors at the Kandiyohi Area Family YMCA. I’ve been involved with the Y off and on for the last 15 years. I’m also a diplomat on the chamber’s diplomat committee and have served on the Music Matters fundraiser committee for our schools. I’m also the drummer in my church’s praise band!
When you’re not writing home loans, what do you like to do for fun?
My family and I love taking our boat out on the lake and spending time outdoors. I also like to golf, but I don’t get out on the course as often as I’d like. I always have a knitting project (or several!) going, too. Tracy Lundy is just one member of Lake Region Bank’s mortgage lending team. To work with Tracy, reach out to Lake Region Bank today. You can also reach her directly at 320-214-3025.
