After working in banking for nine years, Kelli Smith became interested in the home- buying process, lines of credit and everything encompassing the lending business. Hoping to remain in the same type of environment, she felt ready for a new challenge and wanted to make an impact on her community. “I was drawn to the lending process and absolutely loved learning more about it,” Smith shares. “My passion is getting families into homes. So, one day, I took the leap to commit to mortgage lending as my full-time position.”

A mortgage loan officer with Rate, Smith specializes in VA loans, first-time homebuyers, investors and non-qualified mortgages. With a passion for connecting with clients, she also teaches homebuyer and VA classes six times a month. “I love teaching, so I am able to really connect with first-time homebuyers,” she explains. “I want my clients to feel confident, informed and excited through the entire process of buying a home.” In the industry for seven years, she welcomes new clients through referrals from partners, Realtors, attorneys, CPAs, networking partners and past clients, which she considers the best compliment of all.

As a member of the Rate President’s Club in 2022 and 2024, Smith was named a top 1% loan originator by Scotsman Guide from 2022-2024 and is also a regular volunteer with the nonprofit organization Raising Girls. Recognized for her sincerity, authenticity and transparency, she is always available to her clients by phone and email. “I make it my mission to over communicate and have great authentic conversations with my clients,” she says. “I really love what I do and genuinely care for my clients and their families.”

When not working, Smith enjoys spending her free time cooking, baking and traveling.

Rate, Inc. is a private corporation organized under the laws of the state of Delaware. It has no affiliation with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Agriculture or any other government agency.