Today we’d like to introduce you to Demetrius Lockett.
Demetrius, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I went to Morehouse College to become a Psychologist and instead ended up making dreams come true.’
As a graduate of Morehouse College, I went to work for Caterpillar Financial as a Marketing Rep. It paid well and was very challenging but it just didn’t make me feel complete at the end of the day.
Later in the year I was approached to work in the Mortgage Business by one of my mentors. As he explained the job it sounded perfect except it was 100% commission. So, I had a decision to make, either quit my nice office paying job in Corporate America or go to work in an industry I knew nothing about and hope to make money doing it.
I not only made money but more importantly was able to change families lives and zip codes. As I celebrate my 25th year in the business I look forward to teaching many more and increasing minority home ownership.
One of the greatest things my team was able to create as an outreach is The Rena Carter Foundation.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It’s been challenging being self-employed.
The roughest time was during the crash of 2008, during that time nobody was lending money and most folks were unemployed. This was a great time of reflection and getting to know myself better. I believe all things happen for a reason so I am grateful for both the smooth and the less than smooth.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Southeast Mortgage – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I am a Mortgage Loan Originator. My name in the industry is ” The Mortgage Educator”. I am known for working with first time home buyers and for teaching people how to purchase a home in less than 12 months. One of the things I enjoy the most is leading folks through the home buying process in a way that is understandable and not so scary.
It was clear that I was uniquely made for this position because of how easily it comes to me. My ministry is serving people I just happen to do it through home ownership. One of the things that sets me apart is I know first-hand what it’s like to have a dream and not know where to start and not sure if anybody was willing to help you. I put a human face and touch on a business that can be very sterile and cold.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Recently started a nonprofit, The Rena Carter Foundation, created to teach young people skills and tools to better navigate through the financial tool. Also, working on a module to teach first time homebuyer step by step what to do to become home buyer ready.
Since the pandemic I have increased my visibility and assistance with first responders making sure they get information and community support.
Contact Info:
- Address: 280 Interstate N. Parkway
Suite 300
Atlanta, GA 30339 - Website: www.SoutheastMortgage.com/DemetriusLockett
- Phone: 4043967445
- Email: themortgageeducator@gmail.com
- Instagram: themortgageeducator
- Facebook: Themortgageeducator
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