Meet Samantha Shelton | President- Broker Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Samantha Shelton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Samantha, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
In 2019, I found myself contemplating a significant shift from being a stay-at-home mom to re-entering the workforce. The decision was driven by a desire for personal and professional growth, as well as contributing to our family’s financial stability. The challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, I embarked on a career in the mortgage industry, navigating through unprecedented times. The experience provided valuable insights into the real estate and financial worlds, inspiring me to envision a path of leadership. In 2020, I took a leap of faith and founded my own brokerage, driven by a passion for helping individuals achieve their homeownership dreams. The journey from stay-at-home mom to brokerage owner has had its ups and downs.

Opening my own brokerage wasn’t initially in the cards, but as I dove deeper into the mortgage industry during the uncertainties of Covid-19, the idea swiftly transformed into a tangible goal. The prospect of working for myself became increasingly appealing, promising not only financial growth but also the freedom to shape my business in alignment with my values. The stability of being my own boss resonated with my aspirations, offering a sense of control over my professional destiny.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Align Lending’s inception, born from an afternoon discussion in our living room, marked the beginning of an unexpected journey into entrepreneurship. While owning my own brokerage wasn’t initially in the plan, hours of conversation led to a realization that our family’s story could take a different, empowering turn. My background in retail origination laid the groundwork, but the shift to wholesale presented a new and challenging landscape, especially amid the global shutdown caused by Covid-19. A spontaneous drive to Ohio for fingerprinting marked the start of this venture. The early days were tough, revealing the complexities of starting a business and building a brand. Through it all, I’ve come to understand the role consistency plays in achieving any goal. Even in the face of challenges, missing the mark multiple times only reinforces the resilience gained through repetition and practice.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is a fun one. There are so many great places here in Michigan it would be really hard to fit it all in! I would say we would need to start in Mackinaw. Growing up my family didn’t have a ton of money to vacation to big destinations. I found my love for Mackinaw at a young age. I would start there. We would visit the strip and watch them make taffy and caramel corn! You have to it down at Audies for a meal! My favorite is obviously desert and I LOVE the bananas foster! Obviously wouldn’t be a trip without jumping on a sheplers ferry and heading to the island. From the fort, to biking and the obvious FUDGE we would have the best time!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A big shoutout to my husband for being my anchor and biggest supporter as I navigated the path from being a stay-at-home mom to mortgage broker owner. His encouragement has been the driving force behind my decision to take on new challenges and pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. In the face of uncertainties, his belief in my abilities has been a constant source of inspiration, giving me the confidence to overcome obstacles. I am fortunate to have a partner who not only stands by me but actively champions my aspirations. Here’s to a remarkable man whose unwavering support has made this journey all the more fulfilling.

Website: www.alignlending.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sammylovesherboy/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-shelton-660a06103/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samantha.shelton.18

Image Credits
Jessica Hance- Hance Photography