Are you looking for a local mortgage lender in Reading, Massachusetts?
We’ve got you covered here at NewFed Mortgage. Get to know our Reading team below and reach out anytime! We’re here to help with mortgages for every stage of your life.™ Branch NMLS #1792693
Danielle began her career in mortgage in 2017 and has been with NewFed Mortgage for over 5 years. Danielle was July 2023’s Employee of the Month – check out her full article here.
What do you like about what you do best?
I LOVE helping first-time home buyers navigate the purchase process. There is so much joy in a first-time home purchase; just remembering how amazing and exciting it felt to buy my home and to help someone achieve that goal for themselves is such an honor (especially when they didn’t think it could happen for them). The ability to provide for my family by doing something that doesn’t feel like work is what I like about what I do best.
Eric Portnoy, Eastern Regional Sales Manager, NMLS #20766
Eric began his career in mortgage in 1997 and has been with NewFed Mortgage for over 5 years. Eric was December 2023’s Employee of the Month – check out his full article here.
What continues to motivate you, Eric?
Two things deeply motivate me in my work. First, there’s the incredible sense of family with my Sales staff. Knowing my team relies on me to achieve their goals in this challenging market fuels me to try to always be my best. Second, I feel a profound gratitude to Brian D’Amico, who took a chance on me during one of the most difficult times of my life. Brian’s trust instilled a strong sense of loyalty and a desire to consistently go above and beyond for this company.
What brought you to the city/town where our office is located?
Reading is centrally located between where I live and grew up (my referral base). Mr. D’Amico had a property that he and Brian totally renovated for my team.
What (if any) local community organizations are you affiliated with?
What’s a cause that you are passionate about?
I’m deeply involved with two recovery programs, Chelsea House and Redemption House. The work, therapy, and opportunities they provide for people in short-term and long-term recovery are truly phenomenal.
How, when & why did you get started in the mortgage industry?
I am proud to say that I have dedicated the past 20 years to working as a loan officer. It has been an incredible journey, and the fact that I can help others fills me with joy.
Why NewFed? How long have you been here?
I have been a Senior Loan officer here 5 years. I have to say, NewFed Mortgage has been amazing! It’s a family-oriented and great company.
What’s the last book you read or podcast you listened to?
Unravelling the Son-In-Law podcast!
Describe an interesting hobby or pastime that you have.
I enjoy exercising a lot in the mornings. What makes my heart full of love is being with my kids and bringing them to the park or for a walk.
What’s a cause that you are passionate about?
Advising the Hispanic community about mortgages!
What are some of your favorite local spots to visit?
Capital Grill Restaurant, Encore Casino
How, when & why did you get started in the mortgage industry?
I got started about 24 years ago. I started my career in banking, which was a good transition to mortgage. I thought I could make a difference in my community. When I started, there were very few Hispanic loan officers – no representation at the time.
Why NewFed? How long have you been here?
I’ve known Brian for a long time. He asked me to join his team several times before I decided to move to NewFed. Back then, NewFed was not the right size for my business. Six years ago, NewFed expanded its programs and increased its capabilities. Finally, it was the perfect combination of size and programs with a great work atmosphere.
What has been your most rewarding experience working with a client?
I have been doing mortgages for a very long time and have had many rewarding experiences over the years. I like making a difference in my community; I work primarily with minorities and do my best to cater to the Hispanic community. We are underrepresented in the financial sector, and I want to help my community grow and acquire wealth to be part of the American dream. In my opinion, real estate is one of the best ways to do that.
What do you like about what you do best?
The joy I see on my client’ faces when they purchase their first home, and knowing I did my best to help them get there.
What’s the last book you read or podcast you listened to?
I don’t read as much as I used to, maybe 5 books per year. The last book I read was Killer of the Flower Moon, by David Grann. I like nonfiction books based on true stories because it was something that really happened. After I read the book, I saw the movie – I like the book better!
Describe an interesting hobby or pastime that you have.
I enjoy traveling to different countries & enjoying different cultures. I also like sky shooting and range shooting. I’m a big foodie and I love Salsa dancing with my spouse.
What (if any) local community organizations are you affiliated with?
I am a Free Mason. I belong to MVGC, LUMA, and Latidos the Amore. I sponsor several nonprofit organizations every year!
What are some of your favorite local spots to visit?
I love going to sporting events like the Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins. I also enjoy going to the Rockport Music Festival. I like to go to Broadway shows, the Ballets, & the Boston Symphony. I also enjoy Salsa Dancing with my spouse like Havana Club, and Ryles as well. And I can’t pass up fine dining around Boston and surrounding areas.
Delmy Ramirez, Loan Officer Assistant
How, when & why did you get started in the mortgage industry?
In 2018, I embarked on a path to obtain a Loan Officer license with the aspiration of contributing meaningfully to the mortgage sector. Despite my earnest efforts, I encountered challenges with the licensure examination, ultimately falling short of passing the test. This setback, however, did not deter my enthusiasm or determination to continue to look for an opportunity within the industry.
Why NewFed? How long have you been here?
In 2020, I commenced my journey as a Loan Officer Assistant, marking the beginning of my active participation in the mortgage industry. This role not only provided me with invaluable insights but also equipped me with practical skills essential for navigating the complexities of mortgage transactions. New Fed Gave me the opportunity that I was looking for.
In the aftermath of this disappointment, I chose to explore alternative avenues to gain experience and expertise. Recognizing the significance of hands-on involvement, I actively sought opportunities within the field, knocking on numerous doors in pursuit of a suitable role. Despite facing rejections and setbacks, I remained resolute in my quest for professional growth and development.
What has been your most rewarding experience working with a client?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is the opportunity to connect with clients on a personal level. Oftentimes, beyond the transactional aspect of securing a mortgage, I have had the privilege of gaining insight into their lives, including their hopes, fears, and dreams. Listening to their stories and understanding their unique perspectives has been both inspiring and enlightening, fostering a deeper sense of empathy and understanding.
Describe an interesting hobby or pastime that you have.
Ever since I can remember, painting has been a source of tranquility and inspiration for me. I also love to run.
What’s a cause that you are passionate about?
Help Hispanics who do not speak English.
How, when & why did you get started in the mortgage industry?
I joined NewFed as an intern in June 2019. I was studying Finance & Real Estate, and looking for a summer internship. I had a mutual connection with Brian. He offered me the job and I haven’t looked back since.
Why NewFed? How long have you been here?
In my time at NewFed, I’ve gone from an intern while still in school to full-time and worked in post-closing, closing, processing, finance & accounting, and now sales as an LO. NewFed is made special by its people, and the Reading office is like family. Everyone is willing to offer a helping hand, and colleagues are involved in each other’s lives outside of work. As a newer LO, there is so much to learn, and I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without help from Eric and Dani, who make themselves available 24/7/365.
Describe an interesting hobby or pastime that you have.
I like to spend time outdoors, camping, hiking, and fishing.
What’s a cause that you are passionate about?
I support the Alzheimer’s Association because it is close to me personally.
What are some of your favorite local spots to visit?
Daily Harvest Café and Nick’s Roast Beef near our Danvers office, & Bangkok Spice and Swissbakers in Reading.
Why NewFed? How long have you been here?
I have only been at NewFed for about six months, but the people here are so welcoming and helpful. I couldn’t ask for better place to work for.
What brought you to the city/town where our office is located?
I called a local realtor when I was looking for work after getting licensed as an LO, he connected me with Mike Bornstein. Mike connected me with Eric and here we are now!
What (if any) local community organizations are you affiliated with
Something I really enjoy doing is coaching lacrosse. For the past 3 years, I have been the assistant coach at my old high school, Dracut High. I love giving back to the kids and helping them succeed!
What is one of your favorite local spots to visit?
Swissbakers, right next door to our Reading office!
How, when & why did you get started in the mortgage industry?
I first started investing in real estate in 2014 and fell in love with the mortgage industry! I decided to become a loan officer to help others buy real estate and grow real wealth.
Why NewFed? How long have you been here?
I used NewFed to finance my first piece of real estate back in 2014 and then many times after, including refinances. So why not be a loan officer for the company I trust with my own financing needs? It was a no-brainer!
What continues to motivate you? What do you like about what you do best?
My family is my biggest motivation! My husband and I can provide for our family using passive income from real estate, and helping other families get into the real estate world makes me happy!
What’s the last book you read or podcast you listened to?
Unstoppable Prosperity by Charles Payne
Describe an interesting hobby or pastime that you have.
I love fishing, dancing, cooking for my family, and I love to clean (I know, strange hobby)!
What’s a cause that you are passionate about?
Tunnels to Towers for supporting the families of American Heroes – Fallen First Responders and Wounded Veterans. St. Jude as well, because families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food. They lead the way treating and defeating childhood cancer.
Christine Seremet, Processor
Christine has been in the mortgage industry for about 20 years and has been with NewFed Mortgage for over 5 of those. Christine was November 2023’s Employee of the Month – check out her full article here.
“One thing I love about NewFed is that it’s not a big corporation, and we are not just a number here. I love how everyone knows each other and how down-to-earth everyone is. Everyone sticks together to maintain the same goal of being a successful company. Brian is a great guy to work for!”
Maria Cicerone, Underwriter
How, when & why did you get started in the mortgage industry?
My start in the mortgage industry – now over 25 years ago – was really by chance. After graduating from high school in 1989, I started working as a teller in a local bank in Everett, MA. After a few months, I moved to customer service and eventually the loan department as a loan servicing rep. A loan work-out specialist I worked with was leaving the bank and going to a mortgage company in Boston – I was asked to follow. At that time, I had been with the bank for 7 years and was ready for a change, so I made the move and took a position underwriting debt consolidation and home improvement loans until the company closed in 1999.
Once again, one of the managers from that company asked me to follow her to a different mortgage company, and I did. I started as a closer, moved on to processing, and eventually landed in underwriting. I really enjoy the challenge of analyzing credit and financial documentation and making tough decisions.
Why NewFed? How long have you been here?
I came to NewFed with Eric and most of the Reading group after Sage Bank merged with Salem Five over five years ago. After meeting with Brian D’Amico, I knew this would be a perfect fit. Brian’s laid-back, down-to-earth personality and vision for his company made me realize this was where I wanted to be. I’m forever grateful to Brian for this opportunity!
What has been your most rewarding experience working with a client? Share a success story.
As someone who immigrated to the United States, with my family, in search of the American dream, working as an underwriter has allowed me to help others realize a piece of that dream and that is very rewarding.
Meghan O'Brien, Processor
How, when & why did you get started in the mortgage industry?
Twenty-five years ago, I met a guy who worked for Alternative Lending Capital, a mortgage broker in the office building I was working in at the time, and he convinced me to give it a shot.
Why NewFed? How long have you been here?
I came to NewFed a little under 5 years ago because some of the best people I know in the business were here.
What do you like about what you do best?
I love the customer service aspect and helping people through one of the most stressful purchases they’ll make.
What (if any) local community organizations are you affiliated with?
Burlington High School Athletic Boosters. I’m passionate about youth sports!
Stephanie Tanga, Closer
How, when & why did you get started in the mortgage industry?
I started working in the mortgage industry in 2010, doing administrative tasks. Then, I received the opportunity to assist in working at the lock desk and then transitioned into funding, closing, and post-closing. I was initially presented with a permanent role working in the closing department as a funder and then transitioned into a full-time closing position. It was a fast transition, but I adapted quickly, and I’ve enjoyed learning and growing in my role within the closing department and still look to learn more as my journey continues in the closing department.
Why NewFed? How long have you been here?
I decided to join NewFed after being introduced to Brian D’Amico by Al Petrilli. Brian’s down-to-earth personality, visions for the growth of his company, and admiration for his employees and management team really resonated with me. I am very grateful to Brian for granting me the opportunity to be a part of the team.
Describe an interesting hobby or pastime that you have.
Having two small kids can make it challenging to find time for myself. In my spare time, I really enjoy focusing on movement, whether it be outdoor walks, yoga, or being challenged by a Peloton cycling or strength class. Implementing mental/physical activity daily helps put me in a positive mindset to start my day.
More Pictures of the Reading, MA Team
NewFed Mortgage Corp’s Reading Branch NMLS #1792693
