When I was a nineteen-year-old college student, I had to get a full-time job to help cover the costs of the Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, home I share with my mom.  That's when I started working for a Chicago real estate investor."

Two years later, at 21, he earned his Real Estate Managing Broker’s license and opened his own brokerage. During his senior year of college, he sold 12 homes as a listing agent.

While his business was based primarily in Illinois, his future wife and he spent their summers in Wisconsin.  “Katelyn and I met and became friends in Lake Geneva when we were 15,” Richard says, “but we didn’t get together until our twenties.  Lake Geneva is a very special place to us both.  We got married there.”

That's what precipitated the shift of his business from Illinois to Wisconsin, as well as the move from Realtor to Lender. "I wanted to spend less time having to be physically present for showings and open houses on weekends, and have more time with my family.  Don’t get me wrong: my weekends are just as packed as the next busy lender, but my schedule is on my time."

He continues, "Frankly, I am mortgage lender because I wanted to be able to focus on business in both states, and lending allows me to do just that."

"Mortgage lenders aren't doctors," he notes, "but we do provide a valuable service that makes a big impact on people’s lives and their financial futures."

Richard's team at Preferred Rate prides themselves on closing loans. "If you put your trust in us, we won't let you down." Richard was in the top 3 of lenders for units in 2021 for Walworth County.

"Our pre-approvals are as good as cash offers," says Richard. "And we pride ourselves on keeping everyone informed and up to date throughout the entire transaction."

"It is important that Realtors understand that the mortgage is a bridge to their paycheck after going under contract," he says. "You much trust the lender’s ability to get the loan closed any time you are working with a buyer or accepting an offer on behalf of your seller."

"I am a true partner," he notes. "If I am fortunate to have the opportunity to help you or your clients, you will find me and my team a valuable asset to your business."

To contact Richard, call 630-337-5764 or check out his website at preferredrate.com/loan-officer/rich-honquest.