Primis Mortgage CEO John Owens Named A 2026 HousingWire Vanguard
Recognition honors Owens’ leadership, vision and impact on the mortgage industry
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Primis Mortgage President and CEO John Owens has been named a 2026 HousingWire Vanguard, recognizing his leadership, vision and impact on the mortgage industry.
The HousingWire Vanguards award honors C-suite executives and senior leaders whose vision and business impact are helping move the mortgage, real estate and homebuilding industries forward.
For more than three decades, Owens has built and led successful mortgage organizations by combining entrepreneurial vision with a people-first leadership philosophy. He founded Ameritrust Companies in 1995 and led the organization through its successful sale in 2015. He later founded SeaTrust Mortgage in 2020 and guided it through its acquisition by Primis Bank in 2022. Owens is also the author of The Corporate Cure, a business leadership book focused on building healthier, higher-performing organizations.
Under Owens’ leadership, Primis Mortgage has expanded its national reach, strengthened its operational infrastructure and invested in technology and artificial intelligence to create a more efficient, scalable mortgage platform. Since the 2022 acquisition, the company has achieved approximately 236% workforce growth and 254% growth in its loan officer team while expanding its lending footprint to 45 states and the District of Columbia.
“This recognition reflects the effort, trust and passion of the entire Primis Mortgage team,” said Owens. “Our growth has never been about becoming bigger for the sake of being bigger. It is about building a company where talented people can thrive, customers truly come first, and creative leadership and innovative thinking lead to new and better solutions. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and even more excited about what we are building next.”
Owens has placed culture at the center of Primis Mortgage’s growth strategy, emphasizing customer obsession, high trust, integrity, passion and personal and professional growth.
“John has a rare ability to connect a bold, long-term vision with the people and practical decisions needed to bring it to life,” said Pam Jenkins, Chief Operating Officer of Primis Mortgage. “He challenges us to think differently, operate with discipline and never lose sight of the culture behind our results. This recognition is incredibly well deserved.”
Pam Jenkins of Primis Mortgage Named to HousingWire’s 2026 Insiders List
HousingWire recognizes Primis Mortgage chief operating officer among housing industry’s top operational leaders
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Primis Mortgage announced today that Chief Operating Officer Pam Jenkins has been named to HousingWire’s 2026 Insiders list, which recognizes the housing industry’s most impactful operational leaders.
Now in its 11th year, the HousingWire Insiders award honors professionals whose leadership, expertise and execution drive meaningful results behind the scenes across mortgage lending, real estate, technology and finance. HousingWire selected 85 industry leaders for its 2026 class based on the significance of their contributions, their leadership in execution and their measurable impact on their organizations and the broader housing industry.
As chief operating officer of Primis Mortgage, Jenkins oversees operational strategy and execution across the organization, helping ensure an efficient, scalable and customer-focused mortgage experience. Her leadership has strengthened collaboration across teams, enhanced operational effectiveness and supported the company’s ability to deliver consistent results in an evolving market.
John Owens, CEO of Primis Mortgage, said Jenkins’ recognition is a reflection of the impact she has on the company and throughout the mortgage industry.
“Pam is truly one of the best in the business. Her leadership, operational expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence have helped shape Primis Mortgage into the company it is today. We are incredibly proud to see her recognized by HousingWire, and we’re lucky to have an all-star like her on our team.”
HousingWire described its Insiders honorees as trusted problem-solvers, strategic operators and collaborative leaders whose work helps transform organizational goals into measurable outcomes. Jenkins’ recognition reflects her role in helping drive operational performance while supporting Primis Mortgage’s continued growth and commitment to service excellence.
The HousingWire Insiders award is one of the mortgage industry’s premier recognitions for operational leadership, highlighting professionals whose behind-the-scenes contributions help their organizations innovate, grow and better serve customers.
The complete list of HousingWire’s 2026 Insiders is available at HousingWire.com.
Primis Mortgage Welcomes Five Strategic Hires to Support Continued Growth
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Primis Mortgage is proud to announce the addition of five outstanding professionals whose expertise will further strengthen the company’s growing platform: Ava Lunenfeld, Mitzi Hutchens, Joy Outten, Ashley Warren and Jessica Thompson.
The new core team members expand the company’s capabilities across capital markets, construction lending, servicing and strategic lending solutions, reflecting Primis Mortgage’s continued investment in the talent and infrastructure needed to support its next level of growth.
Ava Lunenfeld joins the Capital Markets team as an important strategic addition to strengthen the company's ability to support the broader organization and continue building for what comes next.
Mitzi Hutchens, Director of Construction Lending, brings focused expertise to Primis Mortgage’s growing construction lending platform. She has already played an active role in the successful implementation of the company’s FHA One-Time Close construction program.
As Senior Construction Lending Specialist, Joy Outten adds specialized knowledge and experience to the company’s expanding construction lending team.
Ashley Warren joins as Director of Loan Fulfillment and will help advance the company’s servicing capabilities as Primis Mortgage continues to develop a scalable infrastructure for future growth.
Jessica Thompson joins as Director of Strategic Lending Solutions, bringing extensive specialty and non-QM lending knowledge that will help expand the solutions available to Primis Mortgage’s sales teams and customers.
“We are incredibly excited to grow our team with such exceptional talent,” said John Owens, President and CEO of Primis Mortgage. “Mitzi, Joy, Ashley and Jessica each bring specialized knowledge, valuable experience and a fresh perspective to areas that are essential to our future. Ava's diverse skill set and analytical acumen will be instrumental to the impact of our Capital Markets team on overall company success. All five will be strong elements in the foundation of taking Primis Mortgage to the next level, helping us expand our capabilities while continuing to deliver the service and innovative solutions our teams and customers expect. Just as importantly, we cannot wait to support their individual growth and see the impact they will make across our organization.”
“These additions represent an important investment in the strength and scalability of our operations,” said Pam Jenkins, Chief Operating Officer of Primis Mortgage. “Each of these professionals brings industry insight that complements our existing team and supports where we are headed as a company. We are thrilled to welcome them to Primis Mortgage and look forward to building what comes next together.”
These new additions reinforce Primis Mortgage’s belief that sustainable growth begins with talented people who bring complementary expertise, a commitment to excellence and a shared commitment to improve the customer experience.
Primis Mortgage's Jackie Wampler Named Scotsman Guide's Top-Ranked Female Veteran Originator
WILMINGTON, N.C. — Primis Mortgage is proud to announce that Jackie Wampler has been named the highest-ranked female veteran mortgage originator by Scotsman Guide. Wampler ranked No. 8 nationally on the 2026 Top Veterans Originators list, producing $116,206,195 in loan volume across 346 closed loans.
A proud U.S. Army veteran, Wampler has built her reputation on helping homebuyers navigate the mortgage process with confidence while delivering exceptional results for her clients and business partners.
“Service, integrity and unwavering commitment to helping families achieve homeownership mark the foundation of Jackie’s career,” said Chris Blevins, national sales director for Primis Mortgage. “This recognition is an incredible accomplishment and a reflection of the trust her clients and team place in her every day.”
Her national ranking places her among an elite group of veteran originators and makes her the top-ranked woman on the list for the second consecutive year
“Jackie is a force in this industry, and this recognition is incredibly well deserved,” said John Owens, Primis Mortgage CEO. “As she continues to set the bar for what it means to serve families in our communities, we couldn’t be prouder to have her representing Primis Mortgage.”
Wampler’s accomplishment is a testament not only to her dedication and expertise, but also to the people-first culture that continues to drive success across Primis Mortgage.
Primis Mortgage Celebrates Four Loan Officers Among 2026 Scotsman Guide Top Women Originators
Wilmington, N.C. – Primis Mortgage is proud to announce that four of its loan officers have been recognized in the 2026 Scotsman Guide Top Women Originators rankings. This annual list honors high-performing women in the mortgage industry based on production volumes from the previous year.
The Primis Mortgage honorees include:
- Jackie Wampler (NC) — Rank #70 | $116,206,195 total volume | 346 closed loans
- Kristin Stark (TN) — Rank #474 | $52,084,714 total volume | 140 closed loans
- Amy Rockett-Rickman (TN) — Rank #847 | $38,783,389 total volume | 122 closed loans
- Belinda Arender (TN) — Rank #984 | $36,244,524 total volume | 89 closed loans
These women represent a commitment to excellence and driving results by consistently guiding clients through one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.
“We’re incredibly proud to see Jackie, Kristin, Amy, and Belinda among the top originators in the country,” said John Owens, CEO of Primis Mortgage. “Their expertise and dedication embody what it means to put the customer first and build trust in the communities they serve.”
This recognition reinforces the strength of Primis Mortgage’s team and its continued focus on supporting high-performing professionals to help their clients find their next place to call home.
“Jackie, Kristin, Amy, and Belinda each bring a unique drive, discipline, and passion to their work,” said Chris Blevins, national sales director at Primis Mortgage. “We’re honored to celebrate their achievements and can’t wait to see the positive impact they’ll continue to have on their communities.”
Primis Mortgage remains committed to empowering its loan officers with the tools, support, and culture they need to succeed, all while delivering an exceptional mortgage experience every step of the homeownership journey.
Primis Mortgage Promotes Nick Owens to Managing Director of Capital Markets
WILMINGTON, N.C. — Primis Mortgage today announced the promotion of Nick Owens to managing director of capital markets, recognizing his continued leadership and impact on the company’s growth and performance.
Owens has been a key contributor to the success of the capital markets team since joining the company in 2022 and has played an integral role in supporting Primis Mortgage’s sales efforts through insightful market analysis, strategic execution and strong collaboration across the organization. In his new role, he will continue working closely with the executive leadership team to support the company’s capital markets strategy and long-term growth initiatives.
Nick joined the Primis Mortgage team in 2022 as a capital markets analyst. Before entering the mortgage industry, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Information Technology from Virginia Tech, where he served as the Hokies’ starting shortstop and team captain. He most recently served as a Project Manager at CO‑OP Financial Services, supporting enterprise delivery initiatives through change governance and cross-functional project leadership prior to joining Primis.
“Nick continues to raise the bar,” said Chris Blevins, national sales director at Primis Mortgage. “His understanding of the markets, ability to communicate clearly with our sales teams, and commitment to supporting our loan officers make a real difference every day. This is a very well-deserved promotion.”
Owens’ advancement reflects Primis Mortgage’s ongoing investment in leadership development and its commitment to recognizing internal talent that drives results.
“Nick’s growth within our mortgage company is exactly what we strive for as an organization,” said Dennis Zember, CEO of Primis Bank. “We believe in empowering leaders who bring energy, accountability and a forward-thinking mindset to their roles. Nick has consistently demonstrated those qualities, and we’re excited to see his impact continue in this expanded leadership role.”
Primis Mortgage continues to build momentum by investing in people, technology and leadership to support its mission of delivering a better mortgage experience for customers and partners.
Primis Mortgage Strengthens Its National Footprint with the Addition of Bobby Shull
Round Rock, T.X. – Primis Mortgage is excited to announce Bobby Shull as its new divisional sales leader for the central region, marking another impactful step in the company’s nationwide footprint. With over two decades of mortgage industry experience, Shull brings a powerful combination of leadership, recruiting, and team-building expertise.
Throughout his career, Shull has led multi-branch organizations, coached loan officers at every stage of the process, and built teams known for high production, collaborative culture, and strong accountability. His reputation as a leader who blends strategic growth with a people-first mindset has made him a trusted mentor.
“Bobby is exactly the kind of leader we need to elevate our company to the next level,” said Chris Blevins, national sales director at Primis Mortgage. “His unique ability to spot opportunity, develop talent, and create an environment where team members and customers thrive will set us up for long-term success.”
For Shull, having the opportunity to help build high-performing teams with a company focused on innovation was a no-brainer.
“Primis is committed to providing their team with the support, tools, and guidance they need to succeed, and that’s what really drew me in,” said Shull. “This company’s customer-obsessed mentality aligns with how I like to approach this business. I’m thrilled to help grow a sustainable environment for not only loan officers, but also the families they serve.”
“Bobby really embodies the spirit of leadership we value at Primis,” said John Owens, Primis Mortgage CEO. “His track record, integrity, and people-centric approach match perfectly with our mission. We’re proud to welcome him and confident he will play a pivotal role in driving our growth.”
Primis Mortgage looks forward to continuing to strengthen its national presence in the central region, now with Shull at the helm.
Primis Mortgage Welcomes Mike Jones as New Chief Technology Officer
AUSTIN, T.X. – Primis Mortgage is proud to announce the addition of Mike Jones as its new chief technology officer. Bringing over 39 years of experience driving technology strategy and innovation in financial services, his new role marks a significant step in strengthening Primis Mortgage’s digital experience for customers and team members nationwide.
Jones is known for his solutions-oriented approach and his ability to lead in fast-paced environments while maintaining a big picture perspective. Throughout his career, he has developed and managed cutting-edge technology programs, led high-performing teams, and built reliable platforms that support rapid growth and long-term value.
“Technology continues to be a major differentiating factor in the mortgage industry, and I’m excited for Mike’s expertise to accelerate our technology innovation,” said John Owens, Primis Mortgage CEO. “His extensive leadership, vision, and background will help us deliver faster, smarter, and more secure results.”
For Jones, joining Primis Mortgage meant an opportunity to build on a customer-obsessed culture, driven by forward-thinking leadership.
“Primis Mortgage isn’t letting technology take a back seat; they’re committed to using it as a true driver of growth and excellence,” said Jones. “I’m thrilled to join this incredible team, continue evolving our digital experience, and help create solutions to make the mortgage process simpler, safer, and more effective for all the families we serve.”
With their newest addition, Primis Mortgage looks forward to expanding its digital footprint and strengthening operations.
Primis Mortgage Welcomes Recruiting Powerhouse Chad Royle to Drive Expansion in Colorado
DENVER, Colo. – Primis Mortgage is thrilled to announce the addition of its newest market leader, Chad Royle, a seasoned financial services executive with over 25 years of multistate mortgage and retail banking leadership experience. Marking an important milestone in growing Primis Mortgage’s national footprint, he will lead the company's expansion into Colorado and surrounding western markets.
Royle brings a unique combination of data-driven leadership, recruiting expertise, and strategic insight. Over the course of his career, he has guided top-tier mortgage managers and originators across multiple regions, earning a reputation for his efficiency, wealth of knowledge, and people-first leadership.
“Chad is exactly the kind of leader you want when expanding into a new market,” said Chris Blevins, National Sales Director at Primis Mortgage. “He brings an unmatched passion for recruiting, developing, and inspiring mortgage professionals. Colorado represents a tremendous growth opportunity for us, and we’re confident that Chad’s experience and energy will set us up for long-term success.”
For Royle, the opportunity to build and grow a new region was the perfect fit.
“Primis Mortgage is doing things differently, and that’s what drew me in,” Royle said. “This organization is serious about empowering team members, supporting their efforts, and working together to deliver exceptional results for customers. I’m thrilled to help Primis Mortgage expand, and I can’t wait to begin assembling a team that reflects the strength and vision of this company.”
With Royle at the helm, Primis Mortgage looks forward to establishing a strong presence in the Midwest and the West, built on top-tier talent, innovative technology, and a customer-first mentality.
Primis Mortgage Honors 2025 NMBA Award Recipients from the Tennessee Region
NASHVILLE, T.N. — Primis Mortgage is thrilled to celebrate its Tennessee loan officers recognized at the 2025 Nashville Mortgage Banker Association (NMBA) Awards Gala. These annual awards honor exceptional mortgage professionals whose dedication to service and production elevate both their clients and the industry.
The NMBA recognizes top performers across four award levels:
Silver: $12,000,000 - $19,999,999
Gold: $20,000,000 - $49,999,999
Platinum: $50,000,000 - $74,999,999
Diamond: $75,000,000+
This year, Primis Mortgage is proud to announce the following Tennessee region honorees:
Platinum recipients: Amy Rockett Rickman and Kaleb Swayze
Gold recipients: Austin Swayze, Belinda Arender, Bryan Johnson, Bryan Nale, and Mike Runion
Silver recipients: Jody Locke, Amber Morrissey, Tiffany Mason, and Kyle Koone
“These outstanding individuals represent the heart, discipline, and dedication that define us as an organization,” said Belinda Arender, SVP senior market leader. “Their impact goes far beyond production; they serve as trusted advisors to their communities and advocates for homeownership."
“Our Tennessee team continues to raise the bar for what’s possible when passion and expertise come together,” added Chris Blevins, national sales director. “Each of these honorees has demonstrated tremendous drive, commitment to their clients, and willingness to overcome obstacles and deliver results.”
In addition to production achievements, the NMBA also recognized excellence in leadership, education, and community impact through the following specialty awards:
Rising Star – Tiffany Mason
Recognizes an emerging professional with a minimum of two years of production at their current company.
Pillar Award – Jenni Pflanzer
Honors outstanding operational excellence and a consistent commitment to supporting organizational success.
Keystone Award – Jenn Otto
Celebrates dedication to education, professional growth, and a strong passion for community outreach.
Leadership also shared their appreciation for the tremendous hard work demonstrated by all of this year’s honorees towards elevating the company’s mission and culture.
“These recognitions reflect the incredible talent and dedication we are fortunate to have in our Tennessee region,” said John Owens, CEO of Primis Mortgage. “This group constantly embodies our mission to do better and always put our customers first. We’re very grateful for the impact they have on both our company and the communities they serve.”
Primis Mortgage congratulates all the award recipients for their remarkable service and production this past year and thanks them for their leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to helping families nationwide.
Primis Mortgage Surges 45% in Year‑Over‑Year Growth, Expands National Footprint into Five New States
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Primis Mortgage announced today that it achieved a 45% year‑over‑year increase in lending volume in 2025—its strongest performance in company history—and expanded its national presence by adding teammates in five new states.
“This was a landmark year for Primis Mortgage,” said Chris Blevins, national sales director. “Our team is stacked with all‑stars who show up for our clients every single day. The growth we saw in 2025 is a direct result of their creativity, grit and commitment to excellence. As we head into 2026, we’re doubling down on innovative products and actively recruiting the next wave of top performers to join our winning roster.”
While loan officers drive the front‑line momentum, Primis leaders credit the company’s operational backbone for powering its record performance.
“Our back‑office team is the engine of this entire operation,” said Primis Mortgage CEO John Owens. “They got it done—day in and day out—ensuring every file was handled quickly, accurately and with care. Our success is built on their expertise and relentless dedication.”
With strong year‑over‑year growth and a broader national footprint, Primis Mortgage is entering 2026 with significant momentum and a renewed commitment to delivering smarter, faster and more personal mortgage solutions to borrowers across the country.
Primis Mortgage Expands Tennessee Presence with Veteran Loan Officer Amy Rockett.
With more than 30 years of mortgage experience, Amy Rockett joins the award-winning Primis Mortgage team in Middle Tennessee as a Senior Loan Officer, bringing dedication and expertise to every client she serves. For Amy, it’s never just about closing loans—it’s about building lasting relationships rooted in trust and care. She’s helped over 10,000 homeowners achieve their goals, guiding them through every step of the process. Previously with Movement Mortgage, Amy is a seven-time President’s Club recipient, a Gold Award of Excellence honoree from the Nashville Mortgage Bankers Association, and ranked among Scotsman Guide’s Top Women Originators.
“Amy is an incredible addition to our team,” said Belinda Arender, Tennessee Regional Manager. “Her experience and passion for people take our commitment to the next level.”
Primis Mortgage Continues to Expand its Top-Tier Talent with the Addition of Ashleigh Fletcher
Primis Mortgage continues to expand its top-tier talent with the addition of Ashleigh Fletcher, a seasoned Senior Loan Officer in the Austin, Texas market.
With over 20 years of mortgage experience, Ashleigh has built a reputation for delivering expert guidance, exceptional client service, and tailored solutions for every homebuyer. Previously a Senior Loan Officer at CMG Financial since 2017, she consistently ranked among the top originators in her market. Recognized by National Mortgage Professional Magazine as one of the best military lenders and originators, a multi-year Five Star Award winner for outstanding client service, and ranked in the top 1% of mortgage originators nationwide by Mortgage Executive Magazine in 2022, Ashleigh combines industry expertise with a client-focused approach. Boasting a near-perfect Google review rating, she is praised for her knowledge, professionalism, and efficiency.
For top producers looking to take their careers to the next level, visit primismortgage.com/careers to learn more.
David Betbadal Named 2025 Best Mortgage Professional in Dallas
DALLAS, Texas — Primis Mortgage is proud to announce that David Betbadal has been named one of Dallas’ 2025 Best Mortgage Professionals for the ninth consecutive year by D Magazine.
Dallas’ Best Mortgage Professionals award serves to highlight industry professionals who provide outstanding customer service, market knowledge, and overall satisfaction to their customers. Winners were featured in the September 2025 issue of D Magazine.
“This award means a lot because it comes from the votes of my peers and partners in real estate, lending, and insurance,” said Betbadal. “To my clients, colleagues, and friends who’ve trusted me over the years, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey.”
As a nine-year consecutive winner from 2017 to 2025, Betbadal’s unwavering commitment to his customers and quality service doesn’t go unnoticed.
Primis Mortgage Celebrates the Semi-Retirement of COO Margaret Kronmueller; Welcomes Pam Jenkins as Successor
WILMINGTON, N.C. — After more than 30 years of remarkable success in the mortgage industry, Primis Mortgage is proud to celebrate the semi-retirement of Chief Operating Officer, Margaret Kronmueller.
From the very beginning, Margaret has been a driving force behind Primis Mortgage—helping to build the company’s foundation and elevate it to the high standards it operates at today. Known for her sharp wit, exacting thinking, and tireless dedication, Margaret has left an indelible mark on her colleagues and the customers we serve.
“Margaret’s leadership and unwavering commitment have been nothing short of extraordinary,” said John Owens, Primis Mortgage CEO. “I’m deeply thankful for the opportunity to work alongside her. We are better because of Margaret, and we are all lucky to have had her as part of our team.”
While Margaret is officially retiring from her role as COO, Primis Mortgage is thrilled to share that she will continue supporting the company in an advisory role of Chief Strategy Officer. Her guidance and insight will remain a valued part of the organization.
In her place, Pam Jenkins will be appointed as the new Chief Operating Officer. Currently serving as a Regional Manager, Pam has built a reputation for strategic leadership in loan origination and real estate financing, while fostering a culture of customer obsession that puts client needs first. Before joining Primis Mortgage, Pam was the President of Austin Capital Bank's mortgage division and also held various COO roles in the mortgage industry.
“Primis Mortgage has been more than just a career—it has been a family,” said Margaret Kronmueller. “I’m grateful for the friends and colleagues I’ve had the privilege of working alongside. I leave knowing that Pam will carry this work forward seamlessly, and Primis Mortgage will continue to thrive under her leadership.”
Everyone at Primis would like to congratulate Margaret on a wildly successful career and wish her the best in retirement. Her next chapter promises plenty of new memories, and we will celebrate all she has accomplished and all that lies ahead.
Primis Mortgage Welcomes Pam Jenkins as COO Successor to Margaret Kronmueller
WILMINGTON, N.C. — After more than 30 years of remarkable success in the mortgage industry, Primis Mortgage is proud to celebrate the semi-retirement of Chief Operating Officer, Margaret Kronmueller.
From the very beginning, Margaret has been a driving force behind Primis Mortgage—helping to build the company’s foundation and elevate it to the high standards it operates at today. Known for her sharp wit, exacting thinking, and tireless dedication, Margaret has left an indelible mark on her colleagues and the customers we serve.
“Margaret’s leadership and unwavering commitment have been nothing short of extraordinary,” said John Owens, Primis Mortgage CEO. “I’m deeply thankful for the opportunity to work alongside her. We are better because of Margaret, and we are all lucky to have had her as part of our team.”
While Margaret is officially retiring from her role as COO, Primis Mortgage is thrilled to share that she will continue supporting the company in an advisory role of Chief Strategy Officer. Her guidance and insight will remain a valued part of the organization.
In her place, Pam Jenkins will be appointed as the new Chief Operating Officer. Currently serving as a Regional Manager, Pam has built a reputation for strategic leadership in loan origination and real estate financing, while fostering a culture of customer obsession that puts client needs first. Before joining Primis Mortgage, Pam was the President of Austin Capital Bank’s mortgage division and also held various COO roles in the mortgage industry.
“Primis Mortgage has been more than just a career—it has been a family,” said Margaret Kronmueller. “I’m grateful for the friends and colleagues I’ve had the privilege of working alongside. I leave knowing that Pam will carry this work forward seamlessly, and Primis Mortgage will continue to thrive under her leadership.”
Everyone at Primis would like to congratulate Margaret on a wildly successful career and wish her the best in retirement. Her next chapter promises plenty of new memories, and we will celebrate all she has accomplished and all that lies ahead.
Primis Mortgage Named a Top 25 Lender in Greater Nashville by Nashville Business Journal
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Primis Mortgage is proud to announce it has been ranked #25 on the Nashville Business Journal’s 2024 list of largest residential mortgage lenders by volume in the greater Nashville area. The recognition reflects the growing impact of the Primis Mortgage team in one of the nation’s most competitive housing markets.
Last year, Primis Mortgage closed 379 loans in the Nashville area, generating more than $146 million in local mortgage volume. That strong performance helped the company surpass some of the largest banks in the country—proof that personalized service and streamlined processes matter in a competitive market.
“We’re building something special in Greater Nashville,” said John Owens, Primis Mortgage CEO. “Landing a spot in the top 25 is a big milestone for us—and it’s all thanks to the leadership from Belinda [Arender] and the incredible work of our all-star team of loan officers and support staff. Their grit, service mindset and commitment to doing things the right way have put us on this path. I’m especially proud of how far we’ve come—and excited for where we’re headed.”
This recognition comes as Primis Mortgage continues to expand its presence in the Nashville market. With momentum building and a strong foundation in place, the company is positioned to climb even higher in 2025.
Primis Mortgage Welcomes Top-Ranked Loan Officer Jackie Wampler to Its Team
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Primis Mortgage is proud to announce the addition of Jackie Wampler, one of the most accomplished mortgage professionals in the nation, to its growing team. Recognized as the #1 ranked female veteran loan officer in the United States by Scotsman Guide, Wampler brings an unmatched level of expertise, passion, and dedication to homebuyers across the Carolinas and beyond.
Her 15+ year career in the industry can only be defined by excellence. Wampler has been named one of the top 20 women in mortgage lending, nationwide and currently holds the #4 ranking among all loan officers based in North Carolina (per MMI). Her deep industry knowledge and commitment to customer success align perfectly with Primis Mortgage’s mission to provide innovative solutions tailored to today’s homebuyers.
“Jackie is a true powerhouse in the mortgage game,” said John Owens, CEO of Primis Mortgage. “Her ability to connect with clients, simplify the home financing process, and deliver outstanding results is second to none. She and her team bring incredible value to Primis Mortgage, and we’re thrilled to have them on board.”
For Wampler, the decision to join Primis Mortgage was clear.
“They [Primis Mortgage] are rewriting the rules in a good way,” Wampler said. “Primis Mortgage’s commitment to innovation and putting customers first is impossible to ignore. After many conversations with leadership, I knew this was the right place for me and my team. Together, we’re going to make an even bigger impact, helping every family secure the homes they truly want.”
A decorated professional with a strong track record, Wampler has built her reputation on efficiency, integrity, and a relentless drive for success. With this move, she and her team will continue serving homebuyers with an elevated level of service and resources.
To connect with Jackie Wampler and learn how Primis Mortgage can help you achieve your homeownership goals, visit our website today.
Primis Mortgage Takes Home Plenty of Hardware from 2024 Awards Ceremony
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Primis Mortgage Company’s team based out of Murfreesboro, Tennessee were awarded multiple honors at the 2024 Awards of Excellence Gala hosted by the Nashville Mortgage Bankers Association.
Primis Mortgage’s Regional Market Leader, Belinda Arender, was named Community Lender of the Year for the third year in a row, marking her continued commitment and passion for community lending and education efforts.
“What more could you say about Belinda?” Primis Mortgage National Sales Director Chris Blevins said. “Not only is she an amazing loan officer herself, she does so much for her team and serves as a great inspiration for many here at Primis Mortgage. It’s no surprise why she’s taken home this same award the past few years—nobody goes above and beyond more than the mortgage queen.”
Arender and many other Primis Mortgage loan officers took home awards for their exceptional performance during 2024. These awards are broken into levels based on the individual’s production.
Silver Level ($10,000,000 – $19,999,999): Amy Cantrell, Kyle Koonce and Bryan Nale
Gold Level ($20,000,000 – $49,999,999): Bryan Johnson, Austin Swayze and Kaleb Swayze
Platinum Level ($50,000,000 – $74,999,999): Belinda Arender