Working in managerial roles and customer service most of his life, Mark Zihmer’s desire to take care of people comes naturally. After enlisting in the Army and serving in the reserves for six years, Zihmer started a career in finance and enjoyed helping customers with personal loans, which eventually progressed into real estate loans. “The military taught me about team building, to urgently and effectively complete tasks, timeliness and discipline,” he explains. “I recommend this option for young adults who are trying to find their place and are undecided about their future career.”

As vice president of mortgage lending with Guaranteed Rate Affinity in Brandon, Zihmer specializes in down payment assistance, conventional, nontraditional and reverse mortgage loans and VA, FHA and USDA loans. Known for his dedication and efficiency, he considers himself easygoing while still being detail oriented. “I am a guideline guru because I already know the issues before they happen,” he says. “I prefer to tell it like it is and lose a deal than to say things that just aren’t true.”

A recipient of numerous accolades throughout his 26 years in the mortgage industry, Zihmer was recognized in the Scotsman Guide numerous times and was named Top Veteran Military Originator in 2022. A member of Guaranteed Rate Affinity’s President’s Club, he ranks in the top 100 across the country. He credits his success to being personable with his clients, as well as his desire to continue learning the business.

“I provide my customers the same white-glove service, no matter their loan situation,” he shares. “I pride myself in being available and am an open book to help anyone with mortgage-related questions.”

Guaranteed Rate Affinity, Inc. is a private corporation organized under the laws of the state of Delaware. It has no affiliation with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Agriculture or any other government agency.