I'm Garrett Potz, a senior loan officer with Affinity Home Lending in Woodstock. I came up through the credit union world, where the whole job was looking after people's financial lives, and I've carried that with me into every loan I do.
I've loved lending for as long as I've been doing it. I've been doing it since 2007.
I spent the early part of my career in credit unions, eventually serving as an AVP running a mortgage department. Credit unions are built on a member-focused culture, and that shaped how I see this work: my job isn't to sell you a loan, it's to leave your financial life better than I found it.
But there's one day that really set me on this path. In 2010, I bought my first home. I'd already been pre-approved at my bank — and then I walked into the builder's lender's office, where they quietly slid me into an FHA product just to "match" the conventional rate I already had. The whole process felt like the person across the desk wasn't working for me at all.
I decided I wanted to be the lender I wish I'd met that day.
So in 2018, I started originating on my own, to help clients the way I always believed it should be done: honestly, in their corner, with their whole financial picture in mind. Today I specialize in financing for self employed borrowers and business owners. These are the people traditional banks too often turn away, and I bring that same credit union mindset to every file I touch.
I learned firsthand what it feels like when a lender isn't really working for you. As a broker, my loyalty is to you. Not to one bank's shelf of products.
My credit union roots taught me to look past the transaction. I want the loan to fit your life and leave you better off. Not just get you to the closing table.
I explain every option and every cost in language that actually makes sense. I'll tell you the truth even when it isn't what you were hoping to hear.
I don't just work here. My family lives here, and I'm invested in it on and off the clock. The relationships I build coaching and volunteering are the same ones that make me a better advocate for my clients.
Leading the defense for a local youth team, teaching effort, accountability, and how to compete the right way.
Coaching youth travel ball, building skills, discipline, and teamwork on and off the field.
Active in the Chamber of Commerce, supporting small-business owners and local economic growth.
One honest conversation, no pressure. Tell me about your situation and I'll tell you straight whether I can help, and how.
Call or Text Me Today