Helping homebuyers in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arizonia, and Florida buy homes with confidence and without the stress.


Hi, I'm Erik Kolz, an Area Sales Manager and mortgage loan officer based in Bloomington, Minnesota, bringing 25+ years of experience in helping clients navigate the home financing process with clarity and confidence.


I specialize in working with first-time buyers, self-employed borrowers, investors, veterans, and more across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arizonia, and Florida, offering tailored loan solutions and a smooth, transparent experience from start to finish.


Whether you're:  
- Buying your first home  
- Exploring refinancing options  
- Looking into programs like FHA, VA, Conventional, Jumbo, Non-QM, or Down Payment Assistance  
I'll walk you through your options and help you choose the right strategy—not just the easiest one.


What sets me apart:  
- Wanting what is best for the client, so the borrower can make a comfortable decision on the best financing option for them  
- Clear, honest communication—no surprises  
- Fast, reliable pre-approvals to help you win offers  
- A hands-on, local approach backed by top-tier technology  
- A focus on education so you feel confident every step of the way  
- I truly care. It's a relationship and not a transaction. I am accountable, accurate and accessible!


Do you need 20% down to buy a home?  
No—many buyers qualify with as little as 3–5% down depending on the loan program.


What credit score do you need?  
It varies, but there are options available even if your credit isn't perfect.


How much home can you afford?  
That depends on your income, debt, and goals—I'll help you break it down clearly.


I've helped at least 7,500 clients throughout the U.S. secure financing for homes, and I'm proud to be a trusted resource for both buyers and local real estate agents. Clients know me for fast responses, with evenings and weekends availability always an option. Check out my client reviews to see what it's like to work together.


I believe this business is about relationships—and being someone people can rely on long after closing.


If you're thinking about buying, refinancing, or just want to explore your options, let's connect.

Area Sales Manager

Erik Kolz is your Bloomington local lender. As a loan officer at Guaranteed Rate Affinity, a national retail mortgage lender delivering low rates with a streamlined process, Erik is committed to helping homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances. Contact Erik at (952) 844-6557 for more information!

Erik Kolz at Guaranteed Rate Affinity (NMLS #30450)

I'm a seasoned mortgage professional known for making the home loan process clear, strategic, and refreshingly straightforward. With a strong background in lending and leadership, I help buyers, homeowners, and referral partners cut through the noise, understand their options, and make smart financial moves with confidence.


My approach is simple: educate first, communicate clearly, and execute relentlessly. I believe mortgages shouldn't feel overwhelming or mysterious, and I pride myself on being the person clients can actually get on the phone when it matters most. Whether it's a first-time buyer, a complex scenario, or a refinance that needs creativity, I always do my best to bring calm, clarity, and a plan.  
Trusted by clients and partners alike, I'm known for my transparency, responsiveness, and ability to simplify even the most complicated loan scenarios. When I'm not helping clients win in real estate, I'm focused on building strong relationships and staying ahead of market trends, so my clients are always one step ahead.


If you want a mortgage professional who tells it like it is, keeps things moving, and has your back from application to closing—I'm your guy!

VP of Mortgage Lending

Zach Kwakenat is your Bloomington local lender. As a loan officer at Guaranteed Rate Affinity, a national retail mortgage lender delivering low rates with a streamlined process, Zach is committed to helping homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances. Contact Zach at (952) 844-6803 for more information!

Zach Kwakenat at Guaranteed Rate Affinity (NMLS #400966)

Helping homebuyers across Minnesota navigate the mortgage process with ease, confidence, and expert guidance.


Hi, I'm Dean Schiffler, a mortgage loan officer serving clients throughout Minnesota, bringing over 35 years of experience to every transaction.


I work with all types of buyers—from first-time homeowners to seasoned investors—offering a full range of loan options and a smooth, straightforward experience from application to closing.


Whether you're:  
- Buying your first home  
- Exploring refinancing options  
- Looking into programs like FHA, VA, Conventional, Jumbo, or specialty loan products  
- Helping clients relocate to Minnesota


I'll walk you through your options and help you choose the right strategy, not just the easiest one.


What sets me apart:  
- Over 35 years of industry experience helping thousands of clients  
- Consistently ranked in the top 1% of lenders  
- President's Club and Chairman-level recognition  
- Responsiveness that's second to none. I always answer the phone


Do you need 20% down to buy a home?  
No—many buyers qualify with as little as 3–5% down depending on the loan program.


What credit score do you need?  
It varies, but there are options available even if your credit isn't perfect.


How much home can you afford?  
That depends on your income, debt, and goals. I'll help you break it down clearly.


I've helped thousands of clients across Minnesota secure financing over the past three decades, and I'm proud to make what can feel like a complex process simple and stress-free.


Check out my client reviews below to see what it's like to work together.  
When I'm not helping clients, you'll find me spending time with family, traveling, or out fishing to recharge.


I believe this business is about relationships and being someone people can rely on long after closing.


If you're thinking about buying, refinancing, or just want expert guidance, let's connect.

SVP of Mortgage Lending

Dean Schiffler is your Bloomington local lender. As a loan officer at Guaranteed Rate Affinity, a national retail mortgage lender delivering low rates with a streamlined process, Dean is committed to helping homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances. Contact Dean at (952) 844-6888 for more information!

Dean Schiffler at Guaranteed Rate Affinity (NMLS #155671)

Guaranteed Rate Affinity

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