Michelle Shabestari

Mortgage Planner
NMLS ID 418724

I first met Michelle back in high school when  I was at the awkward age of 15.  She was friends with some of my friends, so I actually had the privilege of hanging out with her a couple times.  I remember how nice she was and how she had a gift that made everyone around her feel comfortable.  At an age when many kids were only friendly to a select few, it was refreshing to meet someone who treated everyone kindly.

Michelle is a Mortgage Planner on our team.  Before joining City Creek, she spent many years working as a loan officer for a large national bank where she excelled and achieved many customer service rewards.  Over the years I heard great things about her from other real estate professionals, so I always had in my mind that someday she would be a great fit on our team.

One day I reached out to Michelle and asked if she would be interested in learning about City Creek Mortgage.  She came in and right from the beginning blended beautifully with our team.  At that moment, I knew she was meant to be a part of our City Creek Family.

Troy Norris

Mortgage Planner
NMLS ID 315301

Having a strong understanding of numbers is a critical skill for a Mortgage Planner.  That’s why Troy’s day job of being a high school math teacher makes him the perfect candidate for our After Hours Sales Team. 

 Having two careers is something Troy has maintained for the past 18 years.  When I learned of his skills and work schedule, I knew he would be the perfect fit to serve our clients and partners after hours and weekends. That is a time slot very few local lenders staff, but one that is in high demand for borrowers who are unable to make phone calls or meet during the day. 

 Upon meeting Troy, I immediately realized that he has a strong competitive side.  Typically wearing something representing the University of Utah, he is clearly a loyal fan.  He was raised in a competitive sports driven family and carried that passion into adulthood.  He also coaches Jr. High baseball as well as basketball and follows many high school sports programs.  If you ever need to speak with a Mortgage Planner after hours, or just want to chat about “The game”, Troy is your guy! 

Katie Pickens

Mortgage Planner
NMLS ID 1467204

Sometimes the right person comes along when you aren’t even looking. This was the case when Katie came into the City Creek Family. Although we weren’t looking to grow our team at the time, my gut instinct told me to say “Yes!”

After working for a high-cost mortgage team that catered to the needs of real estate agents at the expense of consumers, our consumer-focused model appealed to Katie’s moral compass. For several years, she didn’t realize there were companies that cared more for the client than they did for the referrals they received from real estate agents. Once she learned about City Creek Mortgage, she was highly motivated to make the move.

Katie is truly a rare breed. She genuinely connects with people in a way that develops instant trust. After spending a few minutes talking to her, you know you are in exceptional hands. She lives out our core values at the highest level and will always do what is best for our clients.

I’m thankful that Katie came into City Creek Mortgage when she did. She was an instant fit within our team, creating a connection faster than I’ve seen any person before her.

Pete Kawamura

Mortgage Planner
NMLS ID 314940

Pete’s history with City Creek Mortgage runs deep. We first met Pete through his wife, who was my loan processor many years back. At the time, Pete was a loan officer with a small company. He ended up coming on board our team and stayed for several years. When we transitioned the structure of our team in 2012, he ended up leaving for a few years. However, we are grateful to have him back!

In addition to his impeccable attention to detail, one of my favorite things about Pete is that he is an amazing guitar player. We’ve had team parties where Pete has entertained us with his skill and knowledge of every 1980’s rock song in the books. Just give him the name of a song, and I’m almost certain he’ll be able to play it for you.

Another one of my favorite things about Pete is his ability to make people laugh. He has a wicked sense of humor. The kicker is, sometimes you don’t even realize he’s being funny at the time. Then when you’re thinking about the conversation you had with him earlier in the day, you suddenly get the joke.  Best thing ever is getting a good laugh even hours after talking with Pete. It’s like a gift that keeps on giving.

Julz Turley

Mortgage Planner
NMLS ID 15890085

Julz is a part of our Missouri team. She lives near a gorgeous lake that sits between St. Louis and Kansas City, called Lake of the Ozarks. Tobi and I spent a couple days on the lake and fell in love with its beauty and fun. It was a lake experience unlike any other that we have ever had. I can only imagine how cool it would be to have that experience most every day.

Julz and Andrea have been friends for a long time. So, when Andrea told her that she was planning on joining the City Creek Team, Julz didn’t hesitate to follow. The two of them work closely together and truly have a wonderful relationship.

In truth, at least at the time of this writing, I have never met Julz face to face. We are planning on have her come to Salt Lake City to visit. But so far, my interactions with her have only been over the phone.  She seems to be a sincere and genuine person, who takes pride in her work. I look forward to getting to know her better in the months to come.

Andrea Barnes

Mortgage Planner
NMLS ID 342913 Branch ID 1775302

My first introduction to Andrea was at a coaching retreat we both attended in Costa Rica. We quickly became friends. At some point during that week, I made an entry in my journal stating that one day Andrea would be a part of our City Creek Family. It went on to describe the friendships she would share with Tobi and the other female leaders at City Creek. A few years later, this became a reality. Once again proving the power of a vision and having a written plan.

One day, I received a call from Andrea. She said that she had been thinking a lot recently and concluded that she belonged at City Creek Mortgage. Since she lives in Missouri, and we weren’t even licensed there at the time, my brain had to quickly formulate a plan. I told her that Tobi and I would love to come visit her and talk through how we could make this happen. After spending a few days there, we fell in love with the area and moved quickly to get our first branch in Missouri open.

When you meet Andrea, you can’t help but adore her. There is a trust that she builds quickly with people, where you just know that she will not let you down. Her strong work ethic and sincere concern for her clients is clear. I’m grateful for her friendship and beyond excited to see my written vision come to life.

Adriane Graff

Loan Officer Assistant

Branch ID 1775302

When Tobi and I first traveled to Missouri to discuss opening a branch, Andrea introduced me to Adriane. After spending a few minutes talking as a group, I pulled Andrea aside and told her that Adriane is a keeper and someone we would love to have on the City Creek Team. Andrea looked back and me with a smile and said, “I figured you’d say that.” From that moment, it was decided. She’s coming on board!

When Adriane and Andrea flew to Salt Lake City to meet our team, I had the privilege of spending a few days getting to know Adriane better. I find her to be one of the most sincere, talented and kind people I have ever met. She has a quiet strength to her that shows as humble confidence. She exemplifies what we look for in a team member at City Creek Mortgage.

Taiya Nah

Executive Assistant to Mike
NMLS ID 1563361

Taiya is unique soul.  The two words that best describe Taiya are Loyalty and Family.  In addition to having a wonderful family, she has been adopted into a couple of the families here at City Creek; mine included.  Not only is she my assistant and a big part of both our sales and marketing teams, she is like a daughter to me.

Sometimes the greatest lessons and experiences happen when times are the hardest.  I will never forget the day when our team was dealing with how to respond to a major slowdown that happened in our industry.  The topic came up of how at least 75% of mortgage companies were laying off employees in reaction to the decrease in business.  After the meeting, Taiya came up to me and said, “Please don’t ever lay me off.  I promise, I will work for you for free.  You don’t need to pay me if you can’t afford to.”  I’m not sure that she will ever understand how powerful those words were to me.  To hear someone so committed to a vision that they want to be a part of it regardless of personal reward is special gift.

Jordan Lopez

Mortgage Planner
NMLS ID 1445333

If you know Jordan, you know just how cool of a person he is. He’s sharp, hungry for growth and determined to succeed. All incredible skills I look for in an employee.

Jordan was raised up in the mortgage industry. His mom is a dear friend of City Creek Mortgage, and a true legend in this industry. Growing up, he couldn’t help but learn the ins and outs of mortgage loans. By the time he became an adult, the transition into the industry was the natural next step for him. When it came time, his mom suggested he work for the best mortgage company in Utah, City Creek Mortgage. The rest is history.

As the years have passed, Jordan has been working his way up in the mortgage industry. He is now a mortgage planner and is doing an exceptional job. Our clients love working with Jordan. He is passionate about helping people and committed to ensuring that each client has an exceptional experience.

Celia Garcia

Mortgage Planner Assistant

Some people are naturally driven to improve.  Celia happens to fit this perfectly.  She was actually introduced to City Creek Mortgage through a temp-to-hire program.  At the time, we needed extra help but weren’t ready to commit to adding another permanent member to our team.  I contacted an agency who told me I needed to meet Celia.  Within a day, she was at our office ready to work. 

Within a few days, she came to me and asked about training programs to help her better understand the mortgage industry.  At first, I played it off a bit, thinking she couldn’t be serious.  She wasn’t even a City Creek employee.  However, within a few weeks, I realized that she was completely serious.  

When the need for her temporary position ended, she was heartbroken.  She continued to reach out to me, letting me know that having a career at City Creek Mortgage was on her vision board.  How could I ignore this?  I knew that we needed to have her.  

Celia now supports our Mortgage Planners, and has ambitions of being trained as a Mortgage Planner herself.  I smile every time I see her, knowing how hard she fought for her position.  This level of grit is rare and something that makes her an incredibly valuable team member. 

Celeste Carter

Mortgage Coordinator

Tory Diddens

AUS Specialist

There is something about the young generation that makes many of them unique. From my experience, many of them have strong work ethics, a sense of loyalty and a love for people that shines through in their personalities. Tory fits this mold perfectly.

Tory and Taiya have been close friends since they were in Jr. High School. Knowing how challenging it is to live up to Taiya’s professional expectations, when she suggested we hire Tory the decision was immediately made. Looking back, I can’t think of any other employee who has learned the industry and excelled in their position more quickly than she has. Tory is truly one of a kind and someone I’m grateful every day to have on the team.

Cheyanne Milliner

Sales Assistant

I was introduced to Cheyanne by Rail, a City Creek Mortgage employee.  He brought Cheyanne as a guest to a concert in a suite sponsored by our company.  After a ten-minute conversation, I pulled Rail aside and let him know how impressed I was with her.  Since I knew it was a bit early for me to ask if she wanted a job, I just turned to her and told her to let me know if she was ever in the market to change careers.  A number of months later, she joined our team.

Cheyanne is extremely coachable and loves to learn.  Having no prior mortgage experience, she has quickly developed the knowledge needed to execute a challenging role in this industry.  I have found this to be a consistent trait in team members that we’ve hired in her age bracket.  With her strong work ethic, I look forward to seeing how she will develop within City Creek Mortgage. 

Ashley Milne

Submission Specialist

I was first introduced to Ashley while attending a promotion for Alexis Carter’s Husband, Kelly.  He works for the Salt Lake Fire Department, and was being promoted to Battalion Chief.  Of course, the other BC’s were in attendance, along with their significant others.  Sitting not too far from me was Ashley and her fiancé, Chris.  When Alexis introduced me to Ashley, I was immediately impressed.  She was warm, friendly and was an excellent communicator.  So, when a few months down the road Alexis suggested we bring her in to join our team, I immediately gave my approval.

Since Alexis is as good as they come, working on her team requires people to be at the top of their game.  Ashley immediately gained our respect when she showed her attention to detail and ability to learn quickly.  It has been mentioned to me on several occasions that Ashley was the fastest on-boarding process we have experienced as a company.  As you can imagine, that is quite the accomplishment.

City Creek is truly filled with exceptional people, and Ashley is one of them.  I’m grateful to have her on our team.

Jessica Campbell

Loan Processing Specialist

When you put out there that your mission is to be the most Trusted, Respected and Loved mortgage company in Utah, the universe seems to put people in your path that perfectly fit into the vision. Jessica fits this mold perfectly. Having her on our team makes us stronger. Her gift of connection brings our clients into our tribe and makes them Raving Fans. She cares deeply for others and fights to ensure that our clients have an exceptional mortgage experience.

Although before working for City Creek Mortgage I had never met Jessica, we found that we have many common connections. In fact, her closest friend was once my assistant many years back. Given how much I love and adore her best friend, the connection helped me to know the type of person Jessica is. Now that I know her better, my initial assumption was spot on. She’s an amazing girl!

Bailee Beck

Loan Processing Specialist

One of my favorite parts of working with my team is the interconnection members have with one another. Bailee worked along side one of my key employees when they both worked for another local lender. I would often hear stories of the “Legendary” Bailee, and how some day she needed to be a part of our family. So, when the opportunity presented itself, it was an astounding, YES! Although I had never met her before she started working for us, I felt as if we had been friends for years.

Bailee certainly lived up to her reputation. She is amazing at her role and has quickly risen as a leader in my eyes. She also has an incredible personality that makes her a lot of fun to work with. I’m grateful to have her a part of our City Creek Family.

Steve Day

Graphic Designer

The creative side of City Creek Mortgage is one of my favorite things we do. Steve is lead designer, and whom is responsible for many of the print design we do. As a man with a big heart, his passion and creativity create artwork that sometimes takes my breath away. He truly has a gift and is one of the most talented designers I have ever met.

If you’re lucky, you’ll earn a pet name while working at City Creek Mortgage. Steve was lovingly given the name, Scuba Steve, by one of the key leaders in our marketing team. If you haven’t seen the movie, Big Daddy, starting Adam Sandler, I’ve included a link to the Scuba Steve part.  Haha!

https://youtu.be/ezem3I7nfqM

Another key skill that makes a designer valuable is their ability to add insight into their work. Many designers just look for direction, not all of them actively contribute to improve ideas. Steve is constantly looking for ways for us to be better and making recommendations as we progress. As a business owner, this means a lot to me. Having collective brain power of many talented people is one of the key traits of success.

John Parker

Media Producer – Tobi

I’ve known John since he was 13 years old. At the time, he was the cute little brother of my then high school girlfriend, who is now my wife. I remember him as the kid with the coolest hair on the block, who always had an entourage of friends surrounding him wherever he went.

As far back as I can remember, John has been involved in film, photography and video. Over the years, he has developed his passion into talents that make him exceptional at what he does. I see within him the pride he takes in his work and the genuine joy it brings him. When you love what you do, it shows.

City Creek Mortgage was one of the first mortgage companies to develop an in-house photography, video and design studio. In the many years since we did, lots of companies have followed. The cool thing is that John was our first studio employee, and the one who essentially started what has become a trend. It’s an honor to work with John. I look forward to seeing what we create in the future.

Jennifer Rassmussen

Loan Processing Specialist

As far as I can remember, there has only been one person in the entire history of City Creek Mortgage that has been hired within a few seconds of meeting them. Jen is this person.

I was referred to Jen by a mutual friend who I trust and adore. She has known Jen for many years and had the privilege of working alongside of her a while back. When I mentioned to my friend that Jen was coming in for an interview, without hesitation, she said to hire her. So, when Jen arrived, I politely shook her hand and told her that this was a formality. She has already been hired. There was a bit of a shocked look on her face. However, then it was like instant trust. With all pressure removed, we were able to enjoy a nice conversation and get to know each other before her first day of work.

I’m grateful for the advice that my friend gave me. Jen is exceptional at what she does, and a great fit for this team.

Shay Booker

Client Care Associate

I’m not sure there is anyone who could say a bad thing about Shay. She makes me smile every time I see her. As one of the most joyful people I know, she has the gift of ‘authentic connection,’ which is one of the core traits we look for at City Creek Mortgage. This gift helps make her an amazing Office Administrator and lover of our clients. She can connect with any personality and brings out the best in people. She has up-leveled our commitment to customer service and has made a huge impact on those who get to work with her each day.

As a friend of Jasmine, we invited Shay to help us on a day our team was feeling overwhelmed. I remember walking into the office and she politely greeted me. Not sure she knew who I was, I remember how impressed I was with her kind demeanor. At that moment, I went back and told Desireè that she needed to hire Shay immediately. The rest, as they say, is history.

Austin Roberts

Team Assistant

When we say that City Creek Mortgage is a family business, we mean it. Austin is my son, and the older of my two kids. Most people say he is the perfect combination of me and his mom, Tobi. He has similar features to both of us (mainly me), Tobi’s social skills, and my personality.

Being the son of two small business owners, Austin’s work history dates back to when he was about 5. He would help stuff envelopes and cut out marketing pieces, and even help with our client events. As an extremely poised communicator, Austin has no problem building relationships. He is a man of high integrity and about the best son a father could ask for.

Mikaela Roberts

Team Assistant

Mikaela is my daughter, and of course, she has me completely wrapped. Like her brother, she started working for City Creek Mortgage at about 5 years old. She is the perfect combination of me and Tobi. She looks like the female replica of me, but she has her mom’s personality.

Just like her mom, Mikaela is a natural driver. Her ability to take charge and get things done is something that was clear from the time she was a baby. I always knew that she could take care of herself if needed. As her father, that brings me much comfort. I trust Mikaela completely, and know that she will always do what is right.

Mortgage Moki

Team Mascot

Moki is by far the naughtiest member of our team. After losing a dog back in 2003, I found Moki on an available pet website from a pet store in Denver. It was sort of like on-line dating, where you are choosing someone based on a picture and a short bio. However, with this being a pet, once you said yes, it was more than just a date; it was a long-term commitment.

Mortgage Moki, as we have affectionately branded her, has been a part of this team since the summer of 2003. Even with all of our client’s young kids chasing her around the office, and some even pulling her hair, she has never been anything other than the sweetest dog you will ever meet. I never thought I would own a small dog, and after her I likely never will again. However, outside of her sneaky habit of peeing when no one is watching her, she is as perfect a pet as anyone could ask for. She is loved and adored at City Creek, and truly lives a very charmed life.

Weston Critchfield

Strategy Officer

Weston was initially referred to us by a local homebuilder who hired him to create his company website.  I could tell immediately that he has immense talents with videography, photography and website creation.  When he came in to interview, he showed us some of his work.  We knew right then that we were dealing with a true professional artist.

Having Weston has greatly elevated our team.  For example, he has the ability to capture the right moment when it happens.  You see this gift when you watch him take photographs.  Rather than let his finger quickly snap one photo after another, he patiently waits for the perfect moment, snaps the picture and tells you that’s all he needs.  That is a skill that truly separates him from an average photographer.  In addition, he is one of the most knowledgeable technical people I know.  Although I understand very little about his area of expertise, I have great trust in his knowledge and abilities to perform. 

Jamie Norris

Chief Heart Officer
NMLS ID 1036549

Of all of the positions here at City Creek Mortgage, the Chief Heart Officer role is among my favorite and there is no better person to fill this role than Jamie.  Her primary goal is to feed the hearts and souls of our employees and help them to live more fulfilled and enjoyable lives.  Since there is a unique recipe for each team member, this requires a deep connection with each person and the ability to listen, lead and influence them in alignment with his/her desired outcomes.

Jamie embodies the culture of City Creek Mortgage with every fiber of her being.  She is a natural lover of people and brings the best out of every situation.  Her gift of connection is clearly apparent upon first meeting her.  Her competitive nature makes her deeply loyal and committed to whatever she sets out to accomplish.

I consider Jamie to be a close personal friend, trusted advisor and someone who carries out the values and vision of City Creek Mortgage.  She makes us a stronger team and empowers us to grow in healthy and productive way.  She’s a friend to everyone and a person we love and adore.

If you’d like to learn more about Jamie’s personality, it shines through in the videos that she does for City Creek Mortgage.  Like this one:

Jess Hymas

Personal Assistant

Having someone to keep the path clear of most personal responsibilities is something I consider a gift.  Jessica is that to me and my wife, Tobi.  When we first started to search for the right candidate, our Chief Heart Officer sent us a text saying she had the perfect solution.  It was her sister, Jess.  Given that Jamie is one of the most valued people in our lives, that’s all it took.  The job belonged to Jess if she wanted it.

There truly aren’t many people on this planet like Jess.  However, the world needs many more.  Like her sister, she has a huge heart and has an exceptional work ethic.  Given that they come from an incredible family, it’s no surprise.  Whether it be preparing a meal for our team, or helping us get ready for a client event, both their mom and dad are a huge help to City Creek Mortgage.  The entire family is considered part of our tribe.

Jamie’s daughter affectionately calls Jess, Siri.  Although I’m not sure of the history behind this, the name has stuck.  Just know that if you ever hear us talk about Siri, chances are we aren’t referring to our phones.  Rather, we are graciously referring to the one who helps us more than our phones ever could.