What is your name?
Karen Costin
What is your occupation?
I have been in the Financial Industry 25+ years and recently transitioned into the Mortgage Industry, helping people obtain personal mortgages.
What is your business name?
How long have you been a Boston Business Women’s Member?
1 year
What is your Instagram handle?
What is your LinkedIn URL?
linkedin.com/in/karen-costin
Were you born and raised in Boston? If not, what brought you here?
I grew up north of Boston and live in West Peabody with my daughter, 2 pups, and parents in my in-law. There is never a dull moment at home!
Tell us more about your job or company and what led you to your career?
I spent the last 25 years in banking in various roles. I began as a small business specialist and then moved into Branch Manager for 6+ years. I realized my passion was helping customers and moved back into a customer-facing role. I worked with high net worth clients assisting them with day-to-day banking, investments, and lending needs.
I shifted to commercial banking, working with small-business and larger commercial clients for 10 years. At the end of 2020, my commercial lending team went through a large revamp, and many of us were laid off. I was ready for a change, and the mortgage industry excited me. After meeting Brian at NewFed Mortgage, I instantly knew I wanted to join his team. The next day I started at NewFed Mortgage.
What would your clients say about you and your company?
My clients would tell you I always answer my phone, am hardworking, trusting, funny, dependable, and smart.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
I have received so much great advice along the way. My mom told me to stop and smell the roses, and I think we all have to remind ourselves to do that! Thanks Mom!!
What is your favorite book?
The Secret
What is your secret weapon? An app, a tool, an organization method, anything?! (Can be a personal or professional life tool)
I am a firm believer in positive affirmations, exercising, eating healthy, reading books, listening to loud music in the car and singing along. Be grateful, make time for family and friends, be present, enjoy the moment, be kind, answer your phone, give compliments, travel, give more than you get, be silly, and love as many things in life as you can.
What is your most recent WIN? How are you slaying it in your career or business?
Ask for the business, educate your clients, and ALWAYS put your clients’ needs first. My mantra.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Wear sunblock, don’t worry about small things, listen to your gut, and always bet on yourself.
How do you enjoy your free time?
I have an 8-year-old daughter who is the light of my life. My family and friends are a huge part of my life. I love hiking, the beach, vacationing, and staying active.
What is something that not many people know about you?
I never sneeze just one sneeze!!