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January 2024 » thefivestar.com 15 January 2024 M O V E R S & S H A K E R S providing top-notch support for our sales professionals." In her new position, Harpe will serve as an advocate, working closely with mortgage loan officers to increase their sales of new home construction loans. By facilitating communication, resolving any issues that arise, and educating stakehold- ers, Harpe aims to create a seamless and efficient lending experience. "We want MLOs and retail branches to feel confident and supported in their construction lending efforts," Harpe said. "My role is to ensure they have the tools and resources needed to navigate the complexities of construction lending and expand their connections with builders." Harpe's expertise extends beyond traditional one-time and two-time close construction loans, encompassing financing for manufactured and modular homes, major renovations, barndomini- ums, metal-framed homes, and custom homes. "Melony's unique background in construction lending positions Planet to continue providing innovative and sustainable mortgage solutions," Bosley added. "We anticipate not only enhanced support for our Mortgage Loan Officers and retail branches but also a significant upswing in construction loan volume in the coming year. Melony is a key asset to the Planet Home Lending team, propelling us toward even greater success in 2024. Earlier this year, Planet Home Lending announced the asset acquisition of retail lender Platinum Home Mort- gage Corporation. In the deal, Planet Home acquired the majority of Platinum Home's origination staff, including more than 20 branch offices in strategic loca- tions throughout the United States. WATERSTONE MORTGAGE NAMES NEW DIRECTOR OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING Pewaukee, Wiscon- sin-based Water- stone Mortgage Corporation has announced the promotion of David Sparks to the role of Director–Affordable Housing and Loan Servicing. Sparks has more than 25 years of experience in the lending industry and holds his Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB), Accredited Mortgage Professional (AMP), and Certified Residential Underwriter (CRU) designations from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). In 2018, Sparks joined Waterstone as the Bond Manager and began working alongside state housing finance authori- ties to bring affordable housing opportu- nities to Waterstone customers. In his new role, Sparks will explore trends within affordable housing and un- derserved communities. He will identify, manage, and grow strategic relationships with key bond authorities and affordable housing assistance providers to offer new, viable programs and to enhance ex- isting programs for Waterstone Mortgage customers. As the Director of Affordable Housing and Loan Servicing, Sparks will also continue to monitor existing bond and down payment assistance (DPA) programs and will oversee the interim servicing of loans that are sold to private investors. "David is an extremely valuable member of the company," said Jennifer George, Waterstone Mortgage VP–In- vestor Relations and Credit Policy. "His passion for affordable housing drives him to dig deep and find the hidden gems out there that are not apparent on the surface but add extreme value for our sales force and their customers. In combination with this passion, his indus- try knowledge is an incredible asset for our servicing platform. He will continue to seek stronger collaboration with our servicing provider." Sparks said, "I enjoy helping people. In my time away from work, on a regular basis, I schedule opportunities to do so. It is also a privilege to fulfill that mission in a different way secularly. What I do helps make the dream of homeownership a reality. This is true from both the avail- ability of a vibrant, affordable housing "I enjoy helping people. In my time away from work, on a regular basis, I schedule opportunities to do so. It is also a privilege to fulfill that mission in a different way secularly. What I do helps make the dream of homeownership a reality." —David Sparks, Director–Affordable Housing and Loan Servicing, Waterstone Mortgage