Brian Cavanaugh is a sales manager with the Mortgage Network, Inc. working in Boston.

What was your first job in the realty industry? I was putting in 1003s/mortgage applications for a few senior loan officers working at Wells Fargo Home Mortgage in 2002. Not fun. But I learned how to take a correct and thorough mortgage application; that’s for sure.

Where did you grow up? Springfield, Mass. 413!

Growing up, what did you want to be? A Boston Bruin! Just like Ray Bourque. But I ended up a salesman – pretty similar to a Bruin I think.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? A walk, a run, some light cooking…or just hanging with my family. This can be a very stressful business at times.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? John F. Kennedy. Polarizing figure who did so much for our country. Roots from Mass.

Where is your favorite place to hang out? At home. But I also love the Cape! My family and I have been going down there for as long as I can remember. My parents live down there now full-time. What a great feeling it is getting over that bridge!

What do you love most about the industry? When people buy a home, it’s likely to be one of the top three biggest events in their lives. The emails/phone calls/text messages I get after their closing is awesome. Helping families and friends get into their dream homes is my favorite part about the industry.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I am available 24/7 on my cell phone. I’m 100 percent honest from the first minute we speak; communication is key in the industry.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? When I speak with clients who are trying get pre-qualified and are, for whatever reason, unable to at that specific time. That’s a tough conversation. Understanding the guidelines/regulations can be overwhelming at times.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Anywhere/anytime. I once met a new client in line at Home Depot buying paint.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? I love it when families, friends, referral partners come back to me numerous times with mortgage financing needs. BUT… my wife Tatiana and our two beautiful children Charlie and Wes are far and away my greatest accomplishment!

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? American Sniper was a tear jerker. I must have been one of the few people at the theater that was completely unaware of the ending. Took me by surprise and made me think about some of the challenges we face in our own borders.

What is your favorite restaurant? Toro and the 9’s; it’s the best deal in town.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Boston? Wow. So many. Love the Boston Public Library. I also tend to like the similar pieces of architecture in certain neighborhoods. By far my favorites are Beacon Hill and the gas light district of Charlestown.

What kind of car do you drive? Dodge Durango. I just picked up a 2015 with bucket seats a few weeks back!

Smartphone or paper? BOTH! Love the Smartphone but the legal pad on my desk keeps me in business. (Ask my wife – when I leave the notepad at home, she takes a picture of it with her smart phone and texts it to me!)

What is your favorite city after Boston? Chicago.

What is your advice for someone new to the industry? Be honest and up front with everyone – borrowers, brokers, attorneys. Communication! And pick up the phone.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Trulia. Guess who the No. 1 recommended mortgage professional in Greater Boston is!

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? @dianaolick, @hackswithhaggs, @curbedboston.
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