Q&A with Sonny Davila (Davila Group)

Sonny Davila is a mortgage loan officer responsible for assisting his clients to research home loans and navigate the application, approval and closing process. He recommends fixed and variable loan options to his clients and explain terms, review risks for loan options based on client credit and ensure that his clients fully understand the entire loan process.

What sort of purpose do you feel in your job and/or why do you believe your line of work is important and meaningful?

My purpose is to exceed my clients’ expectations. I do my best to go above and beyond educating my clients on financial decisions regarding their home. The trust and relationships I have with my clients are extremely important and I value each one of them.

What is the most exciting part of your day-to-day work?

Each day brings something new in this industry. The mortgage rates can change in an instant, government guidelines change, and people’s circumstances can change. Knowledge is power, I always do my best to be one step ahead and ensure that I am aware of the changes that occur so that I can provide alternatives for any situation for my clients.

What do you think the future of your industry looks like, let's say in 15 years? What impact will it be making? How will it be different from what you do now?

Similar to many industries, the mortgage industry continues to evolve into the digital age. More and more can be done electronically by world wide web. Even as this happens, there will always be the need for personal communication and nurturing for our clients, especially first time homebuyer’s.

When did you decide you wanted to enter this field? What steps did you take to make that decision a reality?

I had a good friend in the business, and I went to work for him. I am a very fast learner and have always wanted to be my own boss, so I took all that I had learned, and I opened my own office. I have been in this industry for over 20 years now!

For any students, age 12-18 who thinks your job sounds interesting, what advice would you give them to help them learn/train/explore your field?

First off, you must know how to talk to people. Networking is very important for building client relationships and building trust. Interning at a mortgage or real estate office is a great way to start.

Are there any organizations, communities, or movements that create synergy between you and others in your field, here in the city of Long Beach?

Again, networking is key and very important for building client relationships and building trust. Realtors, financial planners, and attorneys are the best partners in our industry.

What makes Long Beach a great place to live and work as it relates to your industry?

I have lived in Long Beach since I was 3 years old, and it’s been my home for over 45 years. It’s where my wife and I have chosen to raise our children. Long Beach is a wonderful city that has such a variety of culture, history, beaches, great schools, and especially welcoming and warm communities.