“We believe that we’re helping to build futures, one home at a time,” says Jacob Oakley, senior home lending advisor at Chase Home Lending. “This [belief] reflects our dedication to providing exceptional, personalized service and building long-term relationships with our clients and REALTOR® partners.”

 

Jacob, who has a background in accounting and finance, worked in various areas of banking and investments within the company [CFB(U1] [CT2] before settling on mortgage lending, thanks in part to the mentorship he’s received from the mortgage industry leaders at Chase, more than three years ago.

 

“I want top-producing REALTORS® to know that partnering with Chase Home Lending means aligning with a great organization,” says Jacob. “We offer competitive rates, an array of products, and a dedicated team that supports REALTORS® and their clients every step of the way.”

 

Over the years of its history, Chase has become one of the go-to lenders, thanks to its commitment to support real estate professionals and their unique position in the transaction process. Like other lenders, Chase offers clients a full suite of competitive-rate mortgages for first-time home buyers, second-home buyers, and investors, as well as loan refinancing. “But we are more than a lending institution,” stresses Jacob. For REALTORS®, Chase offers services like comprehensive training programs, market insights, and other resources to help agents succeed, alongside their buyer clients.

 

“Our focus is on building lasting relationships and ensuring that both REALTORS® and their clients have the best possible experience in the home-buying journey,” says Jacob.

 

Overcoming challenges is something that Jacob has faced since the day he was born. Immediately after his birth, Jacob suffered an intraventricular brain hemorrhage. He was given a less than 10 percent chance to live, and if he survived, doctors believed he would most likely have severe and permanent cognitive or physical impairments. The fact that Jacob is alive and perfectly healthy has contributed to his positive outlook.

 

“I remind myself of the gift that each and every day is—it is why they call it the present—and I do my best to not let any of them go to waste,” Jacob says.

 

One way Jacob maximizes his contributions to his clients every day is by leveraging the latest technologies and processes to streamline transactions. He notes that digital applications, automated underwriting, and online tools have revolutionized the mortgage industry, and he preaches the value of these resources to all of his partners, especially in times of market volatility.

 

“A lot of clients are experiencing their first cycle of a higher-rate environment with relatively lower inventory than in years past,” says Jacob. “We are helping them navigate the current competitive market through our Homebuyer Advantage Program, which involves completing a fully documented underwrite on the client, prior to finding a home, to solidify their strength as a buyer in a multiple-offer situation.” The addition of these and other resources has made the mortgage process more efficient and client friendly.

 

A focus on excellence and discipline is a big driving force for Jacob, both professionally and personally. When not serving clients, you’ll likely find this professional natural bodybuilder at Quads Gym, powering through a weightlifting set. Natural bodybuilding has helped him develop resilience in all facets of life and work.

 

“Although this sport is highly predicated on appearance, it actually requires an unwavering amount of emotional and psychological growth,” he explains. “I find beauty in pain, and I push my physical limits and maintain a disciplined and healthy lifestyle to continuously improve year-over-year.” 

This focused discipline, efficiency, and drive to be the best version of himself carry over into how Jacob approaches his business and everyday life.

 

“I believe that your ability to stay centered in high-stress situations is invaluable, so I aim to provide a sense of calm and security for my clients by being there for them 24/7,” Jacob says, providing an example of his discipline and perspective.

 

Looking forward, Jacob is confident that Chase will continue to develop unique tools and techniques for supporting REALTORS® and their clients. Overall, he’s satisfied with the path he’s chosen and only sees potential for growth.

 

“I chose the home lending industry because of my unwavering passion for helping people achieve their homeownership dreams,” says Jacob. “The wealth created from real estate can be passed down from generation to generation.”

 

“The most fulfilling aspect of my work is the joy I see on clients’ faces when they achieve their dream of homeownership, especially first-time home buyers,” he adds. “Playing a crucial role by educating and guiding clients to such a significant milestone is incredibly rewarding.”