Elena Boland

a top producer for the past three years with Wholesale Mortgage Services, Elena Boland knows what it takes to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Her story is one of family, hard work and the relentless pursuit of her dreams. Boland is a prime believer that brokers bring a greater sense of connection to their community as local mortgage experts and are inherent parts of the communities they serve.  
What interested you in starting a career in the mortgage industry? 
I first joined the wholesale mortgage industry because I was interested in the opportunity to work for a family first company. I truly got to see how Wholesale Mortgage changed lives and jumped at the chance to join the industry.  
What’s a career highlight you’re most proud of? 
I’m proud of bringing more women from my local community into the industry year after year and watching their growth.  
What’s unique about your business? 
My business is unique because we take a look at every client’s life plans, not just the numbers. Each client is treated like a member of the family and they stay that way throughout the entire loan process.  
What’s the biggest obstacle you’ve faced in your career? 
Work & homelife balance is a big challenge and obstacle for me. I’m expected in society to be home 24/7 for all of my children’s activities, conferences and sporting events while earning the money to raise them and keeping my career on an accelerated path.  
What is your business philosophy? 
My philosophy is to treat all clients as if they live next door to you.  
What are the biggest challenges facing mortgage brokers & what’s your advice for overcoming them? 
One of the biggest challenges with being in the mortgage industry is the former stigma that came with the word “Broker”, though it should be gone! Brokers bring a greater connection to their community and should feel comfortable reinforcing that we live here, our kids go to school here and our world revolves around the place we live. Be proud to be a part of the community you serve.  
If you could change one thing about the mortgage industry righ As t now, what would it be? 
If I could change anything, it would be the perception of VA offers to sellers. They view their offers as inferior, being the most disruptive untruth I’ve witnessed in my career.  
How do you see the mortgage industry evolving in the future? 
I see savvy buyers reading into the old banking system, doing research and finding out that the broker is a better model for the consumer.  
Why do you believe that brokers are better for consumers? 
I believe that brokers are better because we have the opportunity to pivot, keep control and provide more loan products to consumers.  
If you could go back to your first day in the industry, what advice would you give yourself? 
Be you. The phone rang because of you, so show up.