Meet Kelley Walker, who built a career helping first-time home buyers

Kelley Walker entered the workforce during the Great Recession in 2008, which made finding a job challenging, to say the least. But she had qualities that set her apart: grit and a work ethic honed by working her way through college.

While a career in banking had not been on her radar in college, she applied for a job as a loan processor at a community bank and was delighted when she got it.

“I really liked the work and I did well, so I’m so glad I stuck with it.”

She advanced quickly, becoming a mortgage loan officer in 2014, and found that building strong relationships with clients was key—and that helping first-time homebuyers felt like more of a mission than a job.

“It’s gratifying because buying a home is perhaps your greatest investment, but it can also be overwhelming for first-time buyers, and emotions can run high with buyers,” said Kelley. “I go the extra mile to get solid pre-approvals,” said Kelley. “That builds trust, and from there it’s all about getting to closing and keeping my clients happy.”

She works closely with a nonprofit that provides low-to-moderate income buyers with services like financial counseling and down payment assistance. When buyers are ready to apply for a mortgage, she guides them on topics like debt-to-income ratio and other aspects of creditworthiness that can impact mortgage approval and loan terms.

Once buyers are pre-approved and ready to start shopping, Kelley talks them through the practical side of buying a home—which goes beyond curb appeal.

“I talk them through what their payment might be each month and what they can afford,” said Kelley. “That first home is a steppingstone. Getting into the market is the most important thing.”

Looking back, Kelley says that while banking wasn’t on her roadmap early on, Banner has been a great partner on her career and life journey.

“It’s been a good fit because Banner’s values align so much with my own,” said Kelley. “My passion for helping people get into their own homes is supported by the number of client-focused loans and programs we have at Banner.”

Today, Kelley is a top producer, but she says success is all about balance. As a mom to two young children, flexibility from her employer is everything. 

“I’m a hands-on mom and I work a hybrid schedule, and Banner is supportive of that. I really have the best of both worlds.”