Photo by Shawn Cahan
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In 2015, Sean Curhan made the pivotal decision to acquire Cornerstone First Mortgage, a small operation with one branch licensed in two states. Fast forward to today, Cornerstone Mortgage has grown exponentially to over 60 branches in 48 states and nearly 350 loan officers. This incredible growth is a testament to Sean Curhan's visionary leadership and commitment to excellence in the mortgage industry. Sean's unique position as both an owner and an active loan officer (closing over $100 million in loans last year) is a testament to his dedication and drive to the company's incredible success. Such a dual role is rare in the mortgage industry, especially for a company the size of Cornerstone.
Thriving through industry challenges
In an industry that has faced significant challenges over the past few years, Sean's hands-on approach and strategic foresight have helped Cornerstone weather the adversity. The mortgage sector has been grappling with rising interest rates and tightening monetary policy, creating a tough environment for many lenders. As a result, many competitors have struggled to maintain loan officer numbers and productivity levels. However, Cornerstone has not only weathered these storms, it has thrived. The company's number of loan officers doubled last year and is on track to double again this year. On June 10, Cornerstone hit the milestone of 300 loan officers, with 104 new additions this year alone. This rapid increase in headcount coincides with a 105% increase in productivity from January to May 2024, reflecting the company's strong expansion and operational efficiency.
Key factors driving growth
Several key factors have contributed to Cornerstone Mortgage's impressive growth while many of its competitors have struggled. One key factor is the company's niche products, such as non-qualified mortgages (non-QMs) that are underwritten in-house by multiple investors. This product diversity attracts a wide range of clients and loan officers looking for innovative solutions. Additionally, Sean's leadership style, which combines strategic oversight with active involvement in loan origination, plays a key role. His deep understanding of the market and unwavering commitment to the company's success have created a culture of excellence and agility. Unlike many competitors with less-engaged leadership teams and cumbersome management hierarchies, Cornerstone's lean, responsive structure attracts top talent from across the country.
Commitment to operational excellence
Cornerstone Mortgage's commitment to operational excellence has also been a key driver of growth. The company continues to hire operational staff to accommodate the growing volume of business, ensuring efficient processing times and superior quality of service. This commitment to maintaining high operational standards makes Cornerstone an attractive destination for loan officers who are frustrated with uncooperative leadership and bureaucratic management at other companies. Additionally, the development of new technology and marketing techniques plays a key role in Cornerstone's success. The company invests in cutting-edge technology solutions and innovative marketing strategies to give it an edge in a competitive marketplace. These advancements not only streamline operations but also improve the overall experience for customers and loan officers.
Looking ahead, Cornerstone Mortgage is poised to continue its impressive growth trajectory. With an expansion to 400 loan officers and a production goal of $1.8 billion by the end of the year, the company is poised to set new standards in the industry. For those interested in joining a dynamic, fast-growing company, Cornerstone First Mortgage offers numerous career opportunities. To learn more about available positions and the company's unique culture, visit Cornerstone First Mortgage Careers. Under the visionary leadership of Sean Kahan, Cornerstone First Mortgage has transformed from a single branch into a national powerhouse. With a relentless focus on growth, innovation and operational excellence, Cornerstone is well on its way to achieving its ambitious goals and setting new benchmarks in the mortgage industry.