Additions support growth in reverse lending and custom loan solutions
Rate Companies and its joint venture, Guaranteed Rate Affinity (GRA), have expanded their mortgage leadership by bringing on seasoned professionals to strengthen both their loan origination and reverse mortgage teams.
Mike Buffler, who has over 13 years of experience in entertainment banking, has joined Rate as a loan originator. Buffler’s background includes advising athletes and musicians on how to incorporate real estate financing into long-term wealth strategies.
“Unlike traditional banks that often offer a limited range of products, my goal is to provide access to a wide variety of mortgage solutions tailored to each client's unique circumstances,” said Buffler.
“It is fulfilling to see an athlete retire or a musician return from touring, knowing they are returning to a home financed not out of necessity, but as part of a well-considered, strategic plan—one that ensures their financial future is built on a solid foundation.”
Buffler will offer access to Rate’s broader portfolio of loan products for clients nationwide.
Meanwhile, Dino Guadagnino has been appointed regional vice president of reverse mortgages at Guaranteed Rate Affinity, a move that expands GRA’s presence in the reverse lending market.
Guadagnino has 22 years of mortgage experience and has worked specifically in the reverse mortgage sector since 2003. He also has a background in accounting.
His role will involve overseeing GRA’s reverse mortgage expansion, including training loan officers, supporting reverse for purchase transactions, and increasing education efforts directed at agents, loan officers, and senior borrowers.
“We’re pleased to welcome Dino to the Guaranteed Rate Affinity family,” Frank Ciardelli, senior vice president of sales performance at GRA, said in a media release. “His knowledge and leadership in reverse lending will be a game changer. Dino’s presence will help grow this business line, expand our offering, and provide seniors with the education and options they deserve.”
Guaranteed Rate Affinity is a joint venture between Guaranteed Rate, Inc. and Anywhere Integrated Services, which owns real estate brokerage and relocation subsidiaries, including brands such as Coldwell Banker. GRA originates and markets mortgage lending services to Anywhere’s network and has funded over $100 billion in loans since its launch.
Guaranteed Rate holds a 50.1% ownership stake in GRA, while Anywhere owns 49.9%. Reverse mortgage products are not available in all areas and vary by state.
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