After seven years in the mortgage industry, Annmarie Edwards recently took a leap of faith and transitioned from retail lender to owner of a mortgage brokerage firm.

“It was a decision that would allow me to be in control of my own destiny, to be my own boss, and to build a business that aligns with my values and goals,” explains Edwards, CEO & founder of AVE Mortgage. “It has been an emotional and rewarding journey, but I am excited for what the future holds and look forward to helping even more people achieve their dream of homeownership.”

The move allows Edwards to better serve clients and provide them with a more personalized and comprehensive mortgage experience. She is now able to find the perfect mortgage to suit their unique needs and situations, rather than being limited to the products offered by a single lender.

Edwards’ business is based primarily on referrals, as well as relationships she developed by attending broker open houses and networking with the agents in attendance. “This method has proven to be extremely effective in growing my business, as clients trust the recommendations of their peers and agents they know and trust,” she says.

A member of the Mortgage Bankers Association, the Association of Independent Mortgage Experts, the National Association of Mortgage Brokers and the Osterville Business and Professional Association, Edwards has won numerous awards for originating a high volume of loans. A dedicated volunteer, she lends her time and talents to WE CAN, Calmer Choice, the Osterville Business and Professional Association, and West Village Elementary School.

Outside of work, she enjoys boxing, tennis and collecting sea glass. But the time she treasures most is when she’s making memories with her children, playing board games, going on adventures or just spending time together.