- Becoming A Mortgage Broker
- Building The Business
- Brandon Colker: Real Estate Investor
- Family
- Book
- Legacy
Becoming A Mortgage Broker
Brandon Colker has built a career as a mortgage broker. He started with a mix of curiosity, determination, and guidance from a few key individuals who saw his potential early on. Born in Detroit, Brandon grew up surrounded by family members who emphasized the importance of hard work and financial independence. He often credits his grandfather, William Colker, for inspiring his interest in the housing market. “He always told me, ‘Owning property isn’t just about having a home—it’s about building a future,’” Brandon recalls. Those words stuck with him and became a cornerstone of his career ambitions.
After earning a degree in finance from a Wayne State University, Brandon initially struggled to find his footing. A brief stint in banking left him dissatisfied; the job lacked the personal connections he craved. One day, a friend introduced him to Michael Stanton, founder of a boutique mortgage brokerage. Michael offered Brandon a junior position at Stanton & Co., and it proved to be a transformative experience.
Michael Stanton was more than just a boss; he was a mentor. A veteran in the industry, Michael had a reputation for transparency and putting clients first. “Michael taught me the art of listening,” Brandon says. “He always emphasized that every client’s story is unique, and our job is to help them write the next chapter.”
Another significant influence in Brandon’s early career was Sarah Linwood, an ambitious colleague who had recently joined Stanton & Co. Sarah was known for her innovative approach to business, particularly her use of technology to streamline processes and reach clients in new ways. She encouraged Brandon to think outside the box, teaching him how to use digital tools to analyze market trends and identify opportunities.
With guidance from Michael and Sarah, Brandon quickly developed a reputation as a hardworking and empathetic professional. He excelled at building relationships, earning the trust of clients who appreciated his honesty and dedication. By his third year, Brandon was managing his own portfolio and consistently exceeding performance targets.
In 2013, armed with experience and a growing network, Brandon launched his own firm: Colker Lending Group. His company specialized in customized mortgage solutions, catering to everyone from first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors. The transition wasn’t without challenges, but Brandon’s commitment to his clients and innovative marketing strategies soon set his firm apart.
Looking back, Colker credits much of his success to those early mentors. “Michael and Sarah shaped the foundation of my career,” he says. “They taught me to combine traditional values with modern methods, and that balance has been my formula for success.”
Building The Business
Building Colker Lending Group into a trusted brand required more than expertise; it demanded creativity and relentless effort. Here are 10 strategies Brandon has used to market his business effectively:
1. Client Education Seminars: Brandon hosts free seminars for first-time homebuyers, offering practical advice and answering questions. These events have not only attracted new clients but also positioned him as a trusted resource in the community.
2. Social Media Campaigns: Leveraging platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn, Brandon shares success stories, mortgage tips, and market updates, keeping his audience engaged.
3. Referral Incentive Programs: Clients who refer friends or family receive perks, such as discounted fees or gift cards, encouraging word-of-mouth growth.
4. Collaborations with Realtors: Brandon partners with real estate agents to provide co-branded marketing materials, fostering mutually beneficial relationships.
5. Custom Video Content: His short, informative videos break down complex mortgage concepts, making them accessible to a wider audience.
6. Community Sponsorships: From youth sports teams to local festivals, Brandon supports community events to increase brand visibility.
7. Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Investing in a robust SEO strategy ensures that Colker Lending Group ranks highly in online searches, attracting clients actively seeking mortgage services.
8. Personalized Follow-Ups: Brandon ensures every client receives a handwritten thank-you note and periodic check-ins, reinforcing long-term relationships.
9. Podcasting: His podcast, *Mortgage Myths Debunked*, educates listeners on the industry while subtly promoting his services.
10. Seasonal Promotions: During peak buying seasons, Brandon offers special rates or incentives, driving business during critical times of the year.
These strategies reflect Brandon’s innovative mindset and his ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the market.
Brandon Colker: Real Estate Investor
Outside of his mortgage brokerage, Brandon Colker has developed a deep passion for real estate investment. Over the past decade, he has bought, renovated, and sold numerous properties, turning his personal interest into a profitable side venture.
Brandon’s investment strategy focuses on undervalued properties with untapped potential. “I’ve always loved the idea of taking something overlooked and transforming it into something extraordinary,” he says. Whether it’s a dated suburban home or a neglected urban property, Brandon thrives on the challenge of restoration and reinvention.
One of his most memorable projects involved a historic Victorian home in need of serious repairs. While others saw an overwhelming undertaking, Brandon saw an opportunity to preserve a piece of history. Over the course of 18 months, he worked tirelessly with contractors, designers, and preservation experts to bring the property back to life. The result was a stunning blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
Brandon’s love for real estate extends beyond flipping properties. He’s an avid student of architecture and often spends weekends touring neighborhoods, analyzing market trends, and exploring new investment opportunities. “Real estate isn’t just a career for me—it’s a lifestyle,” he says.
Brandon also enjoys sharing his knowledge with others. He often mentors aspiring investors, teaching them how to identify opportunities, navigate challenges, and maximize returns. “Seeing someone else succeed because of something I’ve taught them is incredibly rewarding,” he says.
Family
Despite his busy professional life, Brandon Colker prioritizes his family above all else. He and his wife, Emily, have been married for 15 years and share a close partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. Together, they are raising three children: Jacob, 12; Lily, 8; and Emma, 5.
Brandon describes fatherhood as his most important role. “Being a dad teaches you patience, resilience, and unconditional love,” he says. He is deeply involved in his children’s lives, from coaching Jacob’s soccer team to attending Lily’s violin recitals and building LEGO creations with Emma.
Family weekends are a cherished tradition in the Colker household. Whether it’s hiking, movie nights, or Sunday barbecues, Brandon ensures that these moments are sacred. “No matter how hectic life gets, family time is non-negotiable,” he says.
Emily, who works as a school counselor, shares Brandon’s commitment to fostering a strong, supportive home environment. Together, they instill values of kindness, perseverance, and financial responsibility in their children. “We want them to grow up with the tools they need to succeed, not just professionally but as compassionate, well-rounded individuals,” Brandon says.
The Colker family also loves to travel, exploring destinations that offer both adventure and cultural enrichment. Recent trips have included a visit to Yellowstone National Park and a tour of historic landmarks in Washington, D.C.
Book
In addition to his full time business, Brandon is an active blogger and writer. His book “How To Make Big Bucks From Big Blogs” explores blogging for passive income, emphasizing branding, consistency, trust, monetization, and expanding opportunities, offering practical advice to turn passion into profit effectively.
Legacy
Brandon Colker’s journey from a curious young man to a successful mortgage broker and real estate investor is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Through his work at Colker Lending Group, his passion for real estate, and his devotion to his family, Brandon has built a life that reflects his core values.
“My goal has always been to make a positive impact,” Brandon says. “Whether it’s helping a family buy their first home, transforming a property, or teaching my kids about life, that’s what drives me every day.”
As he continues to grow his business and explore new opportunities, Brandon remains focused on what matters most: building a legacy of trust, excellence, and compassion.