In this week's special MikeDrop episode, we capture key highlights from our interview with Keith Canter, CEO of First Community Mortgage. Keith, with his 25+ years in the mortgage industry, shares his journey from starting as an independent mortgage banker to leading a respected nationwide lender that values people and community at its core. Under his leadership, First Community Mortgage has expanded its footprint across the country, while focusing on cultivating a supportive, growth-oriented environment for its team members. This episode offers a glimpse into what makes Keith’s leadership—and FCM itself—remarkable in the mortgage world.
Keith’s unique approach to success lies in his focus on personal development and mentorship. He believes in creating a “community within a community” at FCM, where leaders have the autonomy to innovate, and each team member has the opportunity to grow. This value-driven approach is evident in FCM’s strong balance sheet, their fully approved lender status with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Ginnie Mae, and their high rankings and accolades, such as the Best Place to Work and Top Workplace USA awards. Keith’s leadership philosophy centers on gratitude and discipline, traits he sees as essential in both challenging times and periods of growth. He reflects on FCM’s journey through the mortgage market’s turbulent periods, like the 2007 crisis and recent rate fluctuations, crediting gratitude as a constant that has kept the company moving forward.
Reflecting on Coach Nick Saban’s “Nothing Speech” from the Pat McAfee Show, Keith shares insights about discipline. He emphasizes that past success in loan origination doesn’t guarantee future achievement. Without discipline, commitment, and continuous effort, Keith says, "Nothing" is achieved—a lesson he believes every loan officer should internalize. This is a reminder to stay driven, focus on the fundamentals, and never settle. At FCM, this philosophy extends into every facet of their structure, from their lean yet supportive infrastructure for loan officers to their dedicated in-house marketing team that amplifies each individual’s work.
Keith highlights the unique values FCM fosters—values that are actively practiced, not just printed on walls. The organization regularly recognizes and rewards team members who embody these values, and Keith explains that real leadership lies in addressing areas where values are lacking. For him, fostering a culture of transparency and encouraging healthy conflict are key to building a strong, resilient organization. This episode captures how FCM's values shape a culture that not only drives the company’s success but also positively impacts the communities they serve.
First Community Mortgage’s achievements speak for themselves: from numerous awards to their place as a Top 100 Mortgage Company in America, FCM’s commitment to ethical practices, recognized by the BBB Torch Award for Ethics, and their focus on diversity and inclusion with the Mortgage Bankers Association DEI Leadership Awards are a testament to their integrity and dedication. Keith’s story is one of vision, growth, and unwavering commitment to both his team and the wider mortgage community.
This MikeDrop episode captures the essence of Keith Canter’s leadership and why First Community Mortgage stands out as a mortgage industry leader. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the values that define a thriving, people-focused mortgage company that’s making a true impact.
