Mortgage Network Inc., one of the largest independent mortgage lenders in the eastern U.S. and celebrating its 30th anniversary in business this year, has opened a new branch in Newport News, Va., its first in the state. Rhonda D'Bene, a 30-year veteran of the residential mortgage business and a Virginia native, will manage the office, the company announced in a release.
D’Bene, who grew up in Newport News, has been originating mortgage loans for the past four decades. She comes to Mortgage Network from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, where she worked for the past 28 years.
"We are really excited to open our first branch in Virginia and hope this will be the first of many," Mortgage Network Executive Vice President Brian Koss said in the release. "We're also fortunate to have a person with Rhonda's vast experience and local real estate knowledge to lead it."
D'Bene said she was attracted to join Mortgage Network by its strong reputation for customer service, its many loan options to offer borrowers, and the company's team-oriented culture.
"Those looking to buy a home or refinance their mortgage can expect a stress-free mortgage process as we will be there to assist them every step of the way," she said. “Home prices in the Newport News area are well below the national average, which means homebuyers can buy a lot more house for the money than in other places.
“Still, prospective buyers need to be prepared when they make a bid on a property,” D’Bene added. "Your offer will be taken a lot more seriously by the seller if you already have financing in place.”