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$12,536 My First Year Salary - before taxes

By
Mortgage and Lending with Value Shield Financial Services

Many people have asked me over the years about what college I went to in becoming a mortgage broker or as a wholesale account executive.  My answer is always the same.  I learned on the job as a processor and I made $12,536 in my first year on my W-2 before taxes.  I found it very tough living on such a small wage, but I wouldn't trade that year for anything because that was were I learned the business.  I actually fell in love with it.  I have always been good with numbers, solving problems, and loved talking with people.  That year I realized that the mortgage industry was right for me and I was determined that my 2nd year was going to be better than the first - and it was. 

I find these stories to be interesting as it gives us a chance to reflect on why we choose to continue in the real estate and mortgage industry during these tough times.  I remember this story and it makes me realize that I really couldnt imagine doing anything else. 

Please comment and subscribe.

Greg Hampton
Re/Max Around The Mountains - Blue Ridge, GA
North Georgia Mountain Property,Blue Rid

I have worked for other people and I have worked for my self. I pray that I never have to get a job.

May 21, 2008 12:49 AM
Chad Wille
Value Shield Financial Services - Windermere, FL

Greg... thanks for the comment.  I hear you there. 

May 21, 2008 12:53 AM
Valerie Osterhoudt
Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - Cromwell, CT
ABR, Cromwell, CT Real Estate ~ 860.883.8889

Chad.. Very honest post... people that read this blog will get a better understanding of who you are... that you someone that they should be working with.

With this, I am going to subscribe to your blog, to see what else you have to say.  Have a great day.

May 21, 2008 12:57 AM
Chad Wille
Value Shield Financial Services - Windermere, FL

Valerie... Thanks for such a pleasant comment.  It is really appreciate.  I hope you enjoy the blog. 

May 21, 2008 01:03 AM
Chip Jefferson
Advanced Building LLC - Lexington, SC

Jobs often lead you to find a career and a passion. I started out selling mobile homes in 1986. That interested me on the construction end and as a by product i learned consumer financing. I made 40K in 1986 in my first 4 months. Never looked back. I truly love what I do!

May 21, 2008 02:41 AM
Chad Wille
Value Shield Financial Services - Windermere, FL

Thanks Chip for commenting.  Glad to hear that I am not the only person who enjoys what they do!

May 21, 2008 03:00 AM
Benjamin Smith
Apex Appraisals & Consulting - Powder Springs, GA
Atlanta Area Appraiser

By the title of the post, I first thought you might have been an appraiser. Those are quite common numbers for an appraiser's first year. The few lucky ones might break 20 or 30k but that seems par for the course. My first year was horrible but at least I had the support of my wife, which as an IT professional, could handle the bills on her own. I really enjoy the profession as well. I guess my natural attraction has been a love of architecture.

May 21, 2008 07:51 AM
Chad Wille
Value Shield Financial Services - Windermere, FL

Dear Benjamin... my wife also helped me through that year.  Her mother also helped by letting us stay with her.  Good luck up in Atlanta and thanks for the post.

 

May 21, 2008 09:08 AM
Don Draughn - Mortgage Professional
High Point, NC

I knew the first time I sat across the table from a client and saw the relief on their face when they realized I could accomplish what they needed to accomplish that I was in the right place.  That was over 6 years ago and I have not regreted a single day of it.

May 22, 2008 04:29 AM
Chad Wille
Value Shield Financial Services - Windermere, FL

I remember my first deal too.  I think that is going to be my next post.  Thanks for commenting.

May 22, 2008 04:30 AM