Kara Ralston
Gaston,SC
Summary
Accomplished professional with 40+ years & extensive experience in mortgage processes from Origination to final docs. Notable for implementing effective workflow strategies that drive efficiency and reduce costs while maintaining high-quality standards.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Mortgage Production Manager
South Carolina Housing Finance & Development Authority
Columbia, SC
10.2023 - Current
- Oversee production of daily incoming loan files/ schedules to ensure timely project completion to purchase.
- Streamlined workflows, enhancing operational efficiency across single family housing development.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify process improvements and implement best practices.
- Trained and mentored team members on best practices in production techniques and safety protocols.
- Analyzed workflow processes to identify areas for efficiency improvements and cost reductions and increased overall productivity in department.
- Developed training materials for onboarding new employees in operational procedures including cross training for team members.
- Processing the Repurchase of delinquent loans per agency guidelines.
- Assisting in implementation of new procedures and guideline generation
- Monthly and Annual EPMS reviews
- Implemented quality control measures to enhance product consistency and reduce defects.
Mortgage Loan Underwriter
Mortgage Investor Group
Knoxville, TN
04.2021 - 06.2023
- Evaluated mortgage applications for compliance with investor guidelines and regulatory requirements.
- FHA DE 3 P714, VA -not delegated, USDA, CONV-Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac.
- Analyzed borrower creditworthiness through comprehensive review of financial documents and credit reports.
- Collaborated with loan officers to resolve discrepancies and ensure accurate documentation for underwriting decisions.
- Approved or denied loan applications based on risk assessment and adherence to lending policies.
- Conducted detailed reviews Title Commitments & appraisal reports to verify property valuations align with loan amounts requested.
- Effectively managed high volume workload to ensure timely completion of all assigned tasks while maintaining a focus on quality.
- Maintained a deep understanding of various loan products available.
- Conducted comprehensive credit analyses to determine borrower eligibility and minimize default risks.
- Contributed to team success through active participation in training sessions.
- Continuously updated knowledge of industry trends and changing regulations to inform sound decision making.
Sr. Mortgage Loan Processor
Texas Lending/ Aspire Financial Group
Dallas, TX
02.2013 - 03.2021
- Processed complex mortgage applications, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and company policies. High Volume- 50-80 pipeline for loan officers & branches thru multiple states.
- FHA/VA/USDA/CONV-Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac-
- AUS/ LP/ GUS expert
- Collaborated with underwriting teams to resolve issues and expedite loan approvals effectively.
- Reviewed documentation for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to lending guidelines prior to submission.
- Mentored junior processors, enhancing team proficiency in processing workflows and software utilization.
- Reviewed financial statements and contacted institutions and customers to clarify details.
- Delivered exceptional results under tight deadlines while maintaining a high standard of quality control throughout each stage of the loan process.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced loan processing times while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Analyzed borrower financial information to determine eligibility and recommend appropriate loan options.
- Developed strong relationships with clients, real estate agents, and other stakeholders to streamline communication throughout the loan process.
- Reduced turnaround time for mortgage approvals through effective communication with underwriters and loan officers.
- Stayed informed of the latest industry trends, sharing insights with team members to inform strategic planning and operational improvements.
Mortgage Loan Processor
Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC
Jenks, OK
07.2010 - 02.2013
- Process mortgage applications efficiently to ensure timely approvals and closings. High Volume
- FHA/VA/USDA/CONV- Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac
- AUS/LP/GUS expert
- Train junior processors on best practices and software tools for mortgage processing.
- Maintain comprehensive knowledge of industry regulations to ensure compliance in all transactions.
- Collaborated with Loan Officers to provide timely, accurate service for clients throughout entire mortgage process.
- Review financial documents for accuracy and compliance with lending guidelines.
- Collaborate with underwriting teams to resolve issues and expedite loan processing.
- Communicate effectively with clients to gather necessary documentation and updates.
Education
High School Diploma -
William Allen High School
Allentown, PANo Degree - Accounting And Finance/ 8 Credits Left For Assoc
University of Phoeniz
AZCertified - Integrated Nutritional Health
INN
AZ2018
Skills
- Production planning
- Operations management
- Staff management
- Production scheduling
- Staff scheduling
- Production oversight
- Quality assurance
- Performance evaluation
- Workflow optimization
- Training skills
Accomplishments
- Train/ supervise 8 production staff- Post Closing/ Purchase/ Final Docs .
- Increased overall productivity and quality by implementing training programs designed to increase performance levels.
- Collaborated with team members in the operation/ efficiency in function of Document Custodian software
Certification
- Certified Integrated Nutritional Health Coach
- Direct Endorsement Underwriter - FHA- DE P714
- South Carolina Notary
- MERS Asst. Secretary
Timeline
Mortgage Production Manager
South Carolina Housing Finance & Development Authority
10.2023 - Current
Mortgage Loan Underwriter
Mortgage Investor Group
04.2021 - 06.2023
Sr. Mortgage Loan Processor
Texas Lending/ Aspire Financial Group
02.2013 - 03.2021
Mortgage Loan Processor
Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC
07.2010 - 02.2013
High School Diploma -
William Allen High School
No Degree - Accounting And Finance/ 8 Credits Left For Assoc
University of Phoeniz
Certified - Integrated Nutritional Health
INN