Where did you grow up? Holden, MA, which is part of the Wachusett region of Worcester County.
What was your most interesting job before going into lending? My previous job, for 15 years prior to getting licensed as a mortgage loan officer, I helped local businesses put together TV advertising campaigns. Pretty cool to see the behind-the-scenes action. That marketing experience certainly has helped me fast-track my success in the mortgage business.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? If the opportunity allows I will get outside to get some sun (preferably by a beach or pool), otherwise I’m always making sure to get my workouts in to keep my body and mind healthy.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Mike Tyson. I admired his tenacity when he was the dominant heavyweight champ, however, what would be the most interesting part of meeting him would be to hear about his experiences of being on the top of the world to hitting rock bottom and how it’s shaped him into the peaceful guy he is today. Life is all about experiences and he’s one person that rode a roller coaster of experiences.
Where is Boston’s best-kept secret? For me being an old-school sneaker fan I’d go with the low profile store called Bodega. Hardcore sneaker fans may know about it, but for the casual sneaker shopper you could walk past this store and not even know they had the collection of sneakers they have for sale inside.
What do you love most about the industry? How many people get to be a part of so many other’s biggest dream, which is owning a place to call their own. We have that honor and it feels great to know we play a part in making it happen.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Making sure no “surprises” arise during the loan process that could cause any issue with loan approval. This is mitigated by ensuring we keep an open line of communication throughout the entire loan process with all parties involved.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately? I tune into mainly motivational videos/interviews to learn habits of those far more successful than me to gain insights on ways to improve myself.
What’s your favorite meal in Boston? I love a good filet so I’d probably choose the 10 oz. Center Cut Filet Mignon from Davio’s.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Boston? It would have to be the new addition to Boston’s skyline – Boston University’s Center for Computing & Data Sciences building. It’s so unique looking as if the stories of the building were a stack of books staggered on top of each other.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job? Where do I start? You definitely experience some odd things in this business. I’ll go with the time a guy submitted a photo he took of himself in the mirror as his “form of photo ID” for his pre-approval.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you? I’d have to share my experience as a Game Show Contestant. I did earn a nice payday as one the very first contestants on FOX’s “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?” back in 2007. I walked away with a check for $100K.
What’s your favorite vacation spot and why? So far I’d have to say the Bahamas (Atlantis). Beautiful weather every day with beautiful beaches that weren’t overcrowded. Very relaxing.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the lending industry? Find a reliable mentor, be disciplined and patient.
What are your social media handles?
Instagram: @loanswithlarry @lcrettig
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LarryLoanOfficer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thee.rettigs/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larryrettig