For Massachusetts-based Branch Manager Jessica Celia, helping Veterans achieve the dream of homeownership isn’t just a career, it’s a calling born from her own experience as a military spouse.

13 years ago, while using their VA loan benefit to buy their first home, Jessica and her husband Tony — who served in the Army National Guard and completed two combat deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq — faced unexpected resistance from sellers and agents.

“We were told flat out, ‘We would never accept a VA loan,’” she recalls. “It was shocking. People don’t realize that a VA loan isn’t just another product. It’s an earned benefit that our service members have fought for.”

That experience deepened Jessica’s resolve to make a difference. She decided to enter the mortgage business and dedicate her career to educating veterans, real estate agents, and lenders about the power of VA home loans. Her passion has since led her to serve on loanDepot’s VA Council, and represent the company at industry and veteran events, recently delivering a keynote address at the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAHREP) national conference in California.

Over time, Jessica’s dedication to serving Veterans has expanded to include helping families and buyers across Boston’s South Shore region. Her spirit of advocacy defines her approach to lending — one that has helped her achieve a perfect 100% customer satisfaction Score for 2025.

Jessica attributes that success to a simple philosophy: treat every client like family. “We’re in the business of helping people build their lives – where they’ll raise their kids, celebrate holidays, and create memories.”

Her branch operates with transparency, empathy, and follow-through. Every client conversation begins with listening, and the process is tailored to fit each borrower’s needs – whether that means guiding a first-time buyer, supporting a family through a renovation, or helping a veteran finally secure a home of their own. “We truly care about every client.”

Jessica also credits her success to the tight-knit culture she’s built within her branch, one she describes as an ecosystem rather than a hierarchy. The team collaborates constantly, supports one another unconditionally, and celebrates wins together. “Happier teams make for happier borrowers.”

As we celebrate Veterans this week, Jessica’s story is a powerful reminder of why it’s so important to support those who have served – and how purpose, passion, and empathy can leave a lasting impact on our customer’s lives.