Kedrick McDuffie is a seasoned mortgage industry professional with over two decades of experience in helping individuals achieve homeownership. Starting his career at a young age, Kedrick founded his own mortgage company at 27, demonstrating early his leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. Currently managing Noble Home Mortgage, he is known for his deep commitment to client service and community involvement. Kedrick’s work ethic and dedication stem from his Christian faith and a background in sports, which instilled in him the values of teamwork and resilience. Beyond his professional endeavors, he actively participates in his church and contributes to various philanthropic efforts, including leadership and mental health awareness initiatives. Kedrick’s approach to business is deeply influenced by his belief in integrity, education, and the power of relationships, making him a respected and influential figure in the mortgage industry.
How did you get started in this business?
I got into the mortgage industry over 20 years ago, driven by the desire to help people achieve the dream of homeownership. My journey began shortly after college, where I had developed a strong foundation in marketing and business principles. I saw an opportunity in the mortgage sector to make a significant impact, and I was drawn to the challenge.
How do you make money?
As a manager at Noble Home Mortgage and previously owning my own mortgage company, my income primarily comes from closing loans. We earn a commission on each mortgage we successfully process, which varies depending on the loan size and terms. Our goal is to provide such excellent service that clients return and refer others, creating a sustainable business model.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
It took about two years to become truly profitable. The early days involved a lot of groundwork, establishing relationships, and building a reputation for reliability and integrity. These investments took time to pay off, but they were crucial for long-term success.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work?
Certainly, there were moments of doubt, especially when faced with the ups and downs of the economy and changes in the housing market. Starting a business at 27 was challenging, but my faith and determination kept me focused on the long-term vision.
How did you get your first customer?
My first customer came from a referral. I had spent a significant amount of time networking and making connections within the community and among real estate professionals. This initial customer relationship was pivotal and taught me the value of building and maintaining strong professional relationships.
What is one marketing strategy that works well to generate new business?
One effective strategy is hosting and participating in community events and home-buying seminars. These provide a platform to educate potential clients about the mortgage process and establish myself as a knowledgeable and trustworthy professional in the field.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
The toughest decision was to shift more resources towards developing our digital services in response to the changing preferences and expectations of our clients. Balancing this with the personal touch that our clients are used to was a challenging, but necessary, strategy to stay relevant and competitive.
What do you think makes you successful?
My success stems from a strong work ethic, faith, and a genuine commitment to my clients’ best interests. Additionally, my background in sports has instilled a team-oriented approach and resilience, which are crucial in navigating the complexities of the mortgage industry.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
The most satisfying moment was when I successfully navigated the company through the financial crisis without having to lay off any staff or cut back on client services. It underscored the importance of sound financial planning and adaptive business strategies.
What does the future hold for your business?
The future looks promising with a focus on integrating more technology to enhance our services while maintaining the personalized experience our clients expect. I’m also looking at expanding our reach to serve more diverse communities and contribute to broader economic empowerment through homeownership.
What business books have inspired you?
“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey has been particularly inspiring. It offers timeless wisdom on personal and professional effectiveness that has shaped my approach to leadership and service.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to embrace every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. I would stress the importance of patience, persistence, and keeping faith central in both life and business.
Are you willing to be a mentor?
Absolutely. I believe in giving back and sharing the knowledge and experiences I’ve accumulated over the years. Being a mentor not only helps others but also provides me with a fresh perspective and a sense of fulfillment.