If you were to ask each of the seven Benchmark Mortgage Loan Officers what is most important about their work in the multifaceted, competitive lending industry, you would hear the same word time and again—relationships. Relationship-based businesses embrace the principle that solid, enduring connections with customers, partners, and employees are the key to long-term success, and the Benchmark team believes when people come first, everyone wins.

 

Lubbock’s locally managed mortgage branch of Benchmark Mortgage provides superior service and ensures that all parties to a real estate transaction have a positive experience. Branch Manager Cindi Lea, a mortgage professional for 31 years, shares, “Our goal is to advise our clients about how to align the right home loan to match their financial goals. We help them choose from a wide array of loan products, educate them on those products, and assist them to make decisions that are in line with their financial needs.” 

 

What sets the company apart? “Decades of industry experience with strong, trusted relationships,” Cindi expresses. “We have a proven track record of closing loans quickly and efficiently, ensuring our clients receive exceptional service and timely results.”

Loan Officer Brooke Borchardt, who has worked in the industry for 24 years, does not hesitate to mention relationships when she speaks of the joy she finds in her career. “Even though it is a business, I try to learn about each of my families and build a lasting friendship or relationship with each of them,” she explains. “Watching my families getting the keys to their new house at closing is a big deal.” 

 

Branch Manager Christine Covington, a 22-year industry veteran and top 1% loan officer in the nation for the past six years, continually strives to do her best for clients. “My focus is on finding the right loan program for all clients and coaching them to make the right decisions so they can qualify for better options.” Nothing makes her happier than working with REALTORS® to achieve client success.

 

Part of Benchmark’s client-success equation is customizing lending solutions. For example, the company specializes in serving military and first responders, offering tailored loan solutions and understanding their unique challenges. “As experts in VA loans, we are committed to fast, smooth transactions that honor the service and sacrifice of these essential community members,” Cindi shares. Christine adds, “Benchmark is proud to be the No. 1 VA lender in Lubbock and the No. 22 VA lender in the nation. Through our annual Boot Shoot event, we've raised millions of dollars for veteran charities and even founded our own 501(c)(3) organization to provide scholarships to the Brain Treatment Center for Veterans. Our commitment to serving those who have served our country is at the heart of what we do.” To further assist homebuyers, the team leverages 3-2-1 buydown programs (with rates as low as 3.625), community lending with special-rate programs in specific locations, and down-payment assistance programs.

 

Loan Officer Brittany Rangel, also in the top 1% of originators in the nation, graduated college to become a teacher and never imagined she would be "teaching" people through purchasing their first home, investment properties, and second homes. Now, she can’t imagine doing anything else. “God has given me an opportunity to create relationships by helping and guiding people, which I take very seriously,” says the girl who leaves sparkle and joy with everyone she encounters. “Helping people make their dreams come true will never get old.” 

 

Loan Officer Cody Hedges shares Brittany’s sentiment. The former firefighter is always eager to assist and never too busy to take a call. “I work with many first-time homebuyers and love guiding them through the process in a way that makes sense to someone who has not purchased a home,” he comments. “I handle each client with the care they deserve.”

 

Building relationships comes naturally for Loan Officer and Operations Manager Amanda Luna, who has loved real estate since high school when she worked at a local title company. After 25 years in the field, Amanda’s passion shines bright. “I love helping people with their home loan process, answering questions, and especially seeing customers get the keys to their new home,” she smiles. Her passion extends to her work family. “I love the people I work with and love spending time with them outside of work, too. I work with some fun and funny people.”

 

No day is like another in the mortgage space. “Each customer has a different story, wants, and needs,” Loan Officer Dorinda Sherwood remarks. “We get to lead and solve problems daily, which keeps us on our toes and learning the business that continues to evolve.” Dorinda hopes people remember her as someone who positively impacted people's lives. 

 

Cindi hopes people remember Benchmark as a company that delivers on promises, including timely closings, clear communication, and reliable pre-approvals. “Benchmark Mortgage provides expertise in navigating complex transactions and building strong relationships,” she emphasizes. “We provide a seamless, trustworthy experience for our REALTORS® and clients, and we do it with passion and heart.” 

 

Indeed, when people come first, everyone wins.

  

NMLS# 424401

806-535-8009

 

NMLS# 793354

806-548-6284

 

NMLS# 809445  

806-702-0022

 

NMLS# 1281003   

806-474-3600

 

NMLS# 335841  P) 806-790-5554

 

NMLS# 1699524   

806-445-5344

 

NMLS# 335851  

806-543-0943