Taking a hands-on approach with every client, Rusty O’Dowd has closed over a billion dollars in business and is proud to have personally originated each of those loans. “I work with every client, taking the loan from start to finish,” he explains. “It’s important to me that I always take the time to understand my clients’ needs and fully explain the pros and cons of their various options.”
Before his 22-year career in lending, O’Dowd began working as a Massachusetts state police officer at the age of 20. His CPA, who also worked as a mortgage originator, introduced him to the mortgage industry. “I worked both jobs for seven years before retiring from the police force and focusing solely on lending,” he shares. “My CPA ended up hiring me in my first role at First Horizon Home Loans.”
Today, O’Dowd is a senior vice president of mortgage lending at Rate. His business is entirely based on referrals, which proves that his approach resonates with clients and real estate professionals. “Every day gives me a sense of pride to see my exceptional team,” he says. “Together, we make the loan process seem easy and hassle-free for all of my clients.”
The only originator on his team and a member of Rate’s President’s Club, O’Dowd has been recognized among the top 1% of originators in the United States by Mortgage Executive Magazine and Scotsman Guide.
Outside of work, O’Dowd enjoys spending time with his three daughters and grandchildren.
Rate, Inc. is a private corporation organized under the laws of the state of Delaware. It has no affiliation with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Agriculture or any other government agency.

