Danielle “Dani” Courtemanche, Loan Officer and Branch Manager of the Reading, Massachusetts office, was June’s Employee of the Month at NewFed Mortgage this year. We sat down with her to talk a bit about her journey in the mortgage industry, her success here at NewFed, and that one time she tried out for American Idol!
How She Got Here
Dani’s first gig in the housing industry was in Real Estate in 2013. Here, she started to learn about the mortgage side of the business and quickly realized that it was something she’d be interested in pursuing. Dani’s sister worked in mortgage at the time, and her company was looking to hire a loan opener. In 2017, Dani took the leap, applied for the position, and got the job that eventually grew into a processing role.
It didn’t take long for Dani to realize that her passion and skillset were better suited for a Sales role. Dani moved into an LOA position where she met Eric Portnoy, Team Lead. When Eric joined the NewFed team in 2018, Dani shortly followed, excitedly looking to advance her career with a familiar team.
Over the last five years, her growth has been notable, and she’s proven to be an invaluable team member.
What Keeps Dani Motivated
The industry fascinates her, and the experience of helping her clients is second to none – “like hitting one good golf ball,” in her words. As a people person, Dani finds it extremely rewarding to “vibe with borrowers” and she particularly loves working with first-time homebuyers so that she can be a financial literacy resource.
One of her favorite success stories to date: A client was living in a small one-bedroom apartment with her daughter and several grandchildren. She had a messy financial situation including a previous foreclosure. Dani was able to work with her and in record time, this client was able to upgrade from that tight living situation to a multi-bedroom house with a pool! “It was an incredible turnaround for such a deserving woman,” shared Dani.
“Dani goes the extra mile with her clients and gets a certain glow whenever she can help. She was meant for this,” added her boss and one of NewFed’s VP Regional Sales Managers, Eric Portnoy.
Dani Behind the Scenes
What three words would you used to describe yourself?
“This is tough. I’d say quirky, hilarious, and caring.”
What are your hobbies and/or talents?
“I love singing, and I’m actually really good at it! I also love knitting, gardening, and spending time with my kids.”
What’s the last book you read?
“I’ve been on a big Stephen King kick!”
What’s something we should know about you?
“I mentioned that I’m good at singing – I actually tried out for American Idol years ago. I always wanted to be a singer and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to audition. In another life…”
Loan Officer & Branch Manager Information
Danielle is licensed in Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire & Rhode Island. If you’re interested in working with her, check out her page. NMLS #1805721. 32 Lincoln St, Reading, MA 01867. Branch NMLS #1792693. Corporate NMLS #1881. Please visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org for additional licensing information. Equal Housing Lender.
