Hidden Gems: Meet Phil Clay

Today we’d like to introduce you to Phil Clay.

Hi Phil, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
After graduating from the University of California, Davis I started my career for a medical device startup company in Carlsbad. After growing my marketing career for three years, I realized that my true passion was investing in long-distance real estate and finding creative ways to finance these properties.

After three years of working as a marketing manager, I decided to make the transition into the mortgage industry. I think the majority of my success came from being knowledgeable, transparent and direct about the products I offer to my clients. I always do what’s best for my clientele and this has helped me grow a referral network. I achieved the top 1% loan originators in the nation, funding over $50,000,000 in loan volume in 2021. In 2022 I decided to open my own mortgage branch that I plan to grow into the future.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Some transactions are more difficult than others, but I enjoy everything about it. A large portion of my clients have been denied by other lenders in the past, and a lot of times are skeptical about if they can really get approved for a mortgage. I enjoy finding creative ways to help someone obtain their dream home or first investment property.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I started my own mortgage branch at E Mortgage Capital, Inc. because it provides me with the flexibility to deliver competitive rates and unconventional loan products that might not be possible for the majority of mortgage lenders to provide for their clientele. In addition to my knowledge in mortgage loans and investment properties, I always put YOU first. I am available 7 days a week, morning, afternoon, or evening. I keep my clients informed during the entire process and if we hit any bumps in the road I will find a way to move past those bumps and fund your loan. What really makes my job so rewarding is stories like this (below). I’m so happy to have the opportunity to make a positive impact in people’s lives.

Review from previous client:
“I was having zero luck finding a lender in Chicago that will approve me and I faced countless rejections. As a Geographer, sometimes I knew more about the background of the housing industry then the banking officials. This all put me in a hard position where lenders were very cautious in dealing with me or didn’t want to deal with me at all. As an adjunct teacher and since I work for various community colleges, my income had to be understood from the perspective that part-time workers at schools have various schedules and pay periods. Phil understood my position right away. Where other lenders would keep me in the dark about the process or simply not reply at all, Phil would answer every question I asked and had no problem giving me an insider’s look at the real estate industry. Any confusion and hiccups in the process were promptly addressed.

He maintains contact even after the loan approval and continues to patiently answer any questions I may have. I can honestly say he has top-notch knowledge of the industry and is highly recommended as an honest lender who really wants to help folks in difficult times. My father passed away and left me the house but without me being on the loan/title, I could not make any decisions regarding the house other than making the mortgage payments since 2019. He was really a lifesaver for my wife, disabled mom, and me.”

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
There are a lot of dishonest mortgage companies. Do not let their company culture corrupt your personal values. Do what you think is best for a client, not what the company wants.

Pricing can vary A LOT when it comes to choosing a lender. Choose a lender who has competitive pricing and is willing to show you the ropes.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.philclay.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philclay/