It’s official… we’re turning 25!
As we mark this incredible milestone, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the journey that brought us here.
Since opening our doors, we’ve navigated changing economies, shifting regulations, and evolving technologies — all while staying focused on one firm goal: helping people achieve the dream of homeownership.
A Mission That Matters
From financial stability to community connection, the long-term benefits of homeownership are clear. That’s why our dedicated loan originators, support staff, and business partners work tirelessly each day — knowing that a home can change someone’s life.
Built to Last: An Award-Winning Legacy
Over the years, we’ve grown into a company we’re proud of — earning industry awards, setting national benchmarks, and building a workplace culture that’s second to none.
Our Company Recognition Includes:
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Mortgage Executive Magazine – Top 50 Mortgage Companies in America
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Scotsman Guide – Top Mortgage Lenders
Our Loan Originators Have Earned:
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Mortgage Executive Magazine – Top 1% Mortgage Originators in America
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Scotsman Guide – Top Originators, Emerging Stars, Top Women Originators
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National Mortgage News – Top Producers
And none of this would be possible without our exceptional operations team — another defining part of our success. Twice, they have been honored by OnConferences as a “Top 10 Operations Team” — an award given to the most elite operations teams spanning various industries, and within companies across the nation.
Embracing Innovation
At Waterstone Mortgage, we continually invest in the future. From our proprietary platform, Element, to digital mortgage tools that streamline the process, our commitment to innovation has been recognized by ICE Mortgage Technology (formerly Ellie Mae) several times.
Leading with Heart
We’re also incredibly proud of our leadership team — a group that not only guides our business forward but also champions our culture and people.
Recent leadership awards include:
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Rich Tucker, COO – OnConferences’ Top 10 COO (2025), HousingWire’s Insiders (2020)
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Stephanie Ziebell, CLO – OnConferences’ Top 10 Corporate Counsel (2025), Milwaukee Business Journal’s C-Suite Stars: Top Corporate Counsel (2021)
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Elizabeth Spragg, Chief People & Administrative Officer – Milwaukee Business Journal HR Awards (2020)
Our Roots: A Collaborative Culture
Our employees are among the best in the business, and we enjoy an inclusive, close-knit culture that enables us to have fun, be creative, and take pride in the important work we do each day.
A 2025 internal survey of our team members showed that they value our welcoming, collaborative atmosphere — which makes Waterstone Mortgage an exceptional workplace. They used the following words to describe our company culture: welcoming, fast-paced, fun, appreciative, energetic, supportive, helpful, engaging, collaborative, flexible, inclusive, comfortable, and innovative.
In our employee survey, one team member summarized it perfectly:
“The company’s stability and commitment to excellence give me confidence in the long-term vision, making it a place where I feel valued and motivated to stay.”
And another had this to say:
“The company values its employees providing the tools and resources needed to succeed while also encouraging innovation and continuous improvement.”
Recognized as a Great Place to Work
Because of our strong culture and commitment to people, we’ve earned numerous workplace accolades, including:
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Scotsman Guide – Top Workplaces
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National Mortgage Professional – Most Loved Mortgage Employers
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Mortgage Executive Magazine – 50 Best Companies to Work For
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Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – Top Workplaces
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Milwaukee Business Journal – Best Places to Work
We know that the professional and personal success of our team members is the first step toward creating a strong company — allowing us to better serve our customers, reach our long-term goals, and sustain a healthy, thriving company for many years to come.
Cheers to the Next 25+ Years!
While the real estate and mortgage industries will continue to change and evolve, our reputation as a strong, secure lender will remain the same over the years.
We’re honored to play a crucial role in the homebuying process for many individuals and families around the nation. Working with repeat customers — and seeing our customers’ children grow up and purchase their first homes — makes us proud of the work we do.
We’ll be here, working hard, finding the best mortgage solutions, and helping families come home… for the next 25 years and beyond.
Thank you for being part of our journey!
