Press

Brian Augustine, CRMS is named 2009 Mortgage Loan Originator of the Year

February, 2010, Schaumburg, Illinois. - Brian Augustine, CEO and Certified Residential Mortgage Specialist, has been named the 2009 Mortgage Loan Originator (up to $40 Million category) of the Year by the Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals. Now in their fourteenth year, the Industry Awards, widely regarded as the equivalent to Hollywood’s Oscars, recognizes the contributions and successes of mortgage professionals and their affiliates. Nearly 300 nominations were scrutinized to decide which mortgage professionals really were the “cream of the crop”.

The Association is committed to promoting the highest degree of professionalism and ethical standards for its more than 550 members. In addition to mandating members adhere to a professional code of ethics, IAMP provides mortgage professionals with specialized education opportunities, and offers rigorous certification programs to recognize members with the highest levels of professional knowledge and education. As the sole state trade association for this mortgage industry, IAMP continues to remain active with lobbying and advocacy efforts - frequently focusing on national and state issues.

“This award comes at a time when the mortgage industry is challenged with a difficult economy and less and less available products. It is a refreshing reminder that hard work and determination can pay off. I’m honored to receive this award and share it with my company, clients, business partners and employees.” Brian Augustine, CRMS

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc has over two decades of experience and expertise in mortgage lending. Capital focuses on building strong relationships, offering its solid line of mortgage products and services, and has a diverse national network of lenders. Capital is making history in the mortgage lending industry as a progressive leader – introducing a Free Employee Benefit Program, a “Going Green” initiative, and the Union Advantage Home Ownership Program.

For more information on any of Capital Financial’s products or services, please contact them at 866.FUND.789 or visit them online at www.capitalfinancial.net.

Tory Tarsitano and Brian Augustine are nationally honored as the Most Influental Mortgage Professionals in the mortgage industry.

November, 2009, Schaumburg, Illinois. - The National Mortgage Professional Magazine recently awarded Tory Tarsitano, CRMS and Brian Augustine, CRMS their prestigious 40 UNDER 40 award. Tory and Brian were honored as top mortgage professionals under the age of 40, as voted on by their peers, who exemplify professionalism and top production in today’s housing market.

In assembling this list, we at National Mortgage Professional Magazine took some criticism when we began this endeavor. Many felt a list of this nature ignored many, and others felt that a list of this type is a thing of the past, but we firmly stood by our decision to assemble this group. Like the pioneers before them, these individuals are the ones who will carry the torch of professionalism in the year 2010 and beyond, fighting the daily barrage of regulatory and legislative pressure and negative coverage by the mainstream media as the culprits for the collapse of the U.S. economy. However, they forge forward, as they continue to lead by example and set the bar for education, professionalism and excellence in the mortgage industry.

"Achieving this type of award is an honor and comes at a time when the mortgageindustry needs to showcase some of the hard working originators looking out for the consumer’s best interest," said Tory Tarsitano, CRMS and President.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc has over two decades of experience and expertise in mortgage lending. Capital focuses on building strong relationships, offering its solid line of mortgage products and services, and has a diverse national network of lenders. Capital is making history in the mortgage lending industry as a progressive leader – introducing a Free Employee Benefit Program, a “Going Green” initiative, and the Union Advantage Home ownership Program.

"This honor is an indication of our continued driven passion for our customers and findingthem the best mortgage products available today," explained Brian Augustine, CRMS and CEO, who attributes the company's success to its dedicated staff. "We share this award with our team of caring professionals who continue to put the needs of our clients above and before anything else."

For more information on any of Capital Financial’s products or services, please contact them at 866.FUND.789 or visit them online at www.capitalfinancial.net.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. receives A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau.

June, 2009, Schaumburg, Illinois. - The Better Business Bureau awards Capital Financial Bancorp Inc., a Schaumburg-based mortgage company, an A+ rating for remaining “complaint free” for over 36 months.

The Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois is introducing a new Ratings System (a letter grade from A+ to F) for all Accredited Businesses and non-accredited companies that are in the BBB database. This new ratings system replaces the previous "satisfactory" or unsatisfactory" rating. The changeover was mandated by the Council of Better Business Bureaus (the parent BBB organization). The new ratings will be used by all BBBs across the United States and Canada. The letter grades are calculated by computer using a proprietary ratings formula that takes into account 17 weighted factors. The largest single factor in determining a letter grade is a company's overall complaint history with the BBB.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc has over two decades of experience and expertise in mortgage lending. Capital focuses on building strong relationships, offering its in-house banking products and services, and has a diverse national network of lenders. Capital is making history in the mortgage lending industry as a progressive leader – introducing a Free Employee Benefit Program, a “Going Green” initiative, and the Union Advantage Homeownership Program.

Capital Financial’s outstanding marketplace ethics and integrity were what earned them the A+ rating and company president Tory Tarsitano, CRMS, is excited that his company is being considered for the international award.

"Our employees have worked very hard to set the standard of quality and trust in this growing industry," said Tarsitano. "We are still celebrating the honor of winning Mortgage Company of the year, let alone the A+ rating from the BBB."

"While success stories from clients we helped get the best mortgage products and services available are enough of an award for us, it's always nice to be recognized by others," explained Brian Augustine, CRMS and CEO, who attributes the company's success to its dedicated staff. "Our team of caring professionals deserves all the recognition for our recent award."

For more information on any of The Union Advantage’s products or services, please contact them at 888.UNION.09 or visit them online at www.unionadvantage.net.

Capital Financial Bancorp’s Union Advantage Team supports the 2016 Olympics bid in Chicago.

April, 2009, Chicago, Illinois - Members of the Union Advantage Home Ownership Benefit Team joined forces with other volunteers to back the bid to host the Chicago 2016 Olympics. The International Olympic Committee’s Evaluating Commission was in Chicago for an official visit to assess the city’s Olympic bid, touring potential venues and event locations.

“Not only will it be an event that most of us will only experience once in our lifetime, but it will also facilitate the creation of thousands of jobs in the building trades, hospitality industry and others. We need to create as much awareness and enthusiasm as possible for the potential of this event.” Stacey Hofert, Account Executive.

The Union Advantage team believes Chicago is a city where races, religions and nationalities all live and work and play and reach for the American dream. “Chicago is a city that lives and breathes the ideals of perseverance, echoing a message that organizers have been making about Chicago's ability to host the games,” Mike Gerth, Mortgage Consultant.

Union Advantage is committed to being the premier home buying and refinance solution for union members. Our goal is to serve as a union member advocate by providing high-quality service and mortgage education. Union Advantage will extend the benefit of the program by presenting union members with the best trained and most qualified loan consultants in the industry - who are ethical and demonstrate strong integrity. Our reputable business partners are hand selected and we are committed to providing partners who are trusted, experienced and a strong representation of our moral values. Through our union support, activities and efforts, we join together with our union members and community allies to build a stronger, more empowered and educated homeowner – while remaining steadfast on continuing to emphasize the importance of union labor.

For more information on any of The Union Advantage’s products or services, please contact them at 888.UNION.09 or visit them online at www.unionadvantage.net.

Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals nominates Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. for four prestigious awards.

February, 2009, Oak Brook, Illinois - The Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals held their 13th annual Industry Awards ceremony on February 12th. Now in their thirteenth year, the Industry Awards recognizes the contributions and successes of lenders, mortgage companies and their affiliates. Nominees must have proficiency as demonstrated by the Nominee's success in the mortgage industry through their outstanding participation and profile within the industry. Their profile must include a broad breadth of scope of product & experience, a high level of expertise of the industry, which has gained them the respect of both peers and their customer base.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. was nominated for four top honors this year. Brian Augustine, CRMS and Tory Tarsitano, CRMS, were both nominated for 2008 Loan Officer of the Year. Kathy Marcinkowski was nominated for 2008 Processor of the Year. The company also took the nomination for 2008 Mortgage Company of the Year.

“It’s humbling to continually receive these honorable nominations, particularly in the current market climate. We stand behind our team and are devoted to providing the best possible work environment in the industry.” Tory Tarsitano, CRMS.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc has been an industry leader since 1996 with their goal being to have every client’s mortgage handled with the utmost care from open to close. Their shared vision was to make the entire lending process seamless and comfortable. They believe if they put their clients’ needs before the dollars they earn – they will continue to be successful and do the absolute best thing for each and every client.

Capital’s goal for 2009 is to stay at the forefront of industry knowledge, provide the best in mortgage solutions for their customers and encourage their loan originators to be leaders in the mortgage industry.

Capital Financial Bancorp’s team supports the Political Action Committee and the Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals.

October, 2008, Schaumburg, Illinois - Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. recently purchased Political Action (PAC) pins from the Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals (IAMP) to help support the association and to show their dedication and assistance in meeting the challenges of changing laws and regulations that may affect the mortgage industry. Capital Financial Bancorp purchased a gold pin for the company and each member of the entire team purchased individual bronze pins.

The mission of PAC and the IAMP is to provide a forum for their members to share information, knowledge, and technology in order to increase the level of professionalism in the mortgage industry.

Some of the PAC goals include:

Protecting YSP

Educating the public

Loan Officer Registration

Company Licensing

Working with Elected Officials

Continued Education

Lobbying in Springfield

"Our employees have worked very hard to set the standard of high ethics and integrity in this industry," said Tory Tarsitano, CRMS, and President. "We work each and every day to make sure we are supporting the association and leading by example – in a marketplace that is downsizing and/or closing their doors. We know that our business will continue to grow if we stay at the forefront and continue to be progressive."

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc is a mortgage banker that has over two decades of experience and expertise in mortgage lending. Capital focuses on building strong relationships, offering its inhouse banking products and services, and has a diverse national network of lenders. Capital is making history in the mortgage lending industry as a progressive leader – introducing a Free Employee Benefit Program, a “Going Green” initiative, and the Union Advantage Homeownership Program.

"Now is the time to roll up our sleeves and work harder than ever before – for our clients, our employees and our families," explained Brian Augustine, CRMS and CEO, "Our team of caring professionals separates us from the crowd – our tenacious attitude and hard work continues to lead the way ."

For more information on any of Capital Financial’s products or services, please contact them at 866.FUND.789 or visit them online at www.capitalfinancial.net.

Tory Tarsitano, CRMS, appointed to the Illinois Association of Mortgage Professional’s Mortgage Education Foundation Board of Directors.

September, 2008, Schaumburg, Illinois - The llinois Association of Mortgage Professional’s appointed Tory Tarsitano, CRMS, of Capital Financial Bancorp Inc., a Schaumburg-based mortgage lender, to the 2008-2009 Mortgage Education Foundation Board of Directors.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc is a mortgage banker that has over two decades of experience and expertise in mortgage lending. Capital focuses on building strong relationships, offering its inhouse banking products and services, and has a diverse national network of lenders. Capital is making history in the mortgage lending industry as a progressive leader – introducing a Free Employee Benefit Program, a “Going Green” initiative, and the Union Advantage Homeownership Program.

“Tory’s extensive mortgage knowledge and lending experience has already proven to be a tremendous asset to our company and we are pleased he has joined our Board of Directors”, said CEO, Brian Augustine, CRMS, "He continues to set and maintain the standard for quality and trust in this growing industry," said Augustine.

The Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals (IAMP) is a not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the highest degree of professionalism for its members and providing ethical and professional standards against which mortgage professionals can be measured. The Mortgage Education Foundation’s online learning system combines the best of in-house and online delivery methods. MEF is committed to the highest standards of professional training and its programs are known for their depth and completeness. They have trained hundreds of Realtors® throughout the United States. Their online courses are custom fit for loan originators, Realtors®, business owners, loan processors and underwriters.

For more information on any of Capital Financial’s products or services, please contact them at 866.FUND.789 or visit them online at www.capitalfinancial.net.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. receives nomination for the BBB International Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics.

August, 2008, Schaumburg, Illinois - The Better Business Bureau of Illinois nominated Capital Financial Bancorp Inc., a Schaumburg-based mortgage lender, for the BBB International Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics..

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc is a mortgage banker that has over two decades of experience and expertise in mortgage lending. Capital focuses on building strong relationships, offering its inhouse banking products and services, and has a diverse national network of lenders. Capital is making history in the mortgage lending industry as a progressive leader – introducing a Free Employee Benefit Program, a “Going Green” initiative, and the Union Advantage Homeownership Program.

Capital Financials outstanding marketplace ethics and integrity were what earned them the nomination for the Torch Award and company president Tory Tarsitano, CRMS, is excited that his company is being considered for the international award.

"Our employees have worked very hard to set the standard of quality and trust in this growing industry," said Tarsitano. "We are still celebrating the honor of winning 2007 Mortgage Company of the year, let alone the nomination for the International Torch Award."

The 2009 BBB International Torch Awards will recognize two businesses in the Marketplace Excellence category and two in the Advancing Marketplace Trust category. An individual will also be recognized in the Consumer Leadership category.

The International Torch Award, started in 1996 by the Council of Better Business Bureaus, recognizes companies for "fair, honest and ethical business practices."

"While success stories from clients we helped get the best mortgage products and services available are enough of an award for us, it's always nice to be recognized by others," explained Brian Augustine, CRMS and CEO, who attributes the company's success to its dedicated staff. "Our team of caring professionals deserves all the recognition for our recent award and for this nomination."

For more information on any of Capital Financial’s products or services, please contact them at 866.FUND.789 or visit them online at www.capitalfinancial.net.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. is chosen 2007 Top Producer by AmTrust Bank

July, 2008, Schaumburg, Illinois - Capital Financial Bancorp’s banking divison was chosen 2007 Top Producer by AmTrust Bank.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc opened its doors in1996 with their goal being to have every customer’s mortgage handled with the utmost care from open to close. Capital continues to focus on building strong relationships, offering its in-house banking division, a diverse array of products and services, and a national network of lenders. Capital is making history in the mortgage lending industry as a progressive leader – introducing a Free Employee Benefit Program, a “Going Green” initiative, and the Union Advantage Homeownership Program.

“We’ve known all along that we offer competitive products and prices, first-class customer service, and superior technology that makes doing business with us simple, fast and efficient. Our all-in business model, combined with our cutting edge technology environment, truly makes doing business Capital Financial a consistently pleasant and efficient experience. Our competitors talk about it – but we actually do it.”

- Tory Tarsitano, CRMS

AmTrust Bank, founded in 1889, has grown from a local savings and loan with one office to one of the fastest growing financial institutions in America, with branch offices in Florida, Ohio and Arizona. AmTrust Bank offers customized checking, investment and small business services; is among the top 15 home loan originators in the country; and is a nationally recognized leader in commercial construction lending. In addition, AmTrustDirect.com, a division of AmTrust Bank, is an online-only resource offering competitive rates on CD, savings and money market accounts.

For more information on any of Capital Financial’s products or services, please contact them at 866.FUND.789 or visit them online at www.capitalfinancial.net.

Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals names Mike O'Brien 2007 Operations Manager of the Year

February, 2008, Oak Brook, Illinois - The Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals held their 12th annual Industry Awards ceremony on February 12th. There is no doubt that 2007 has been a busy year for the lending community, with plenty of hurdles to overcome for lenders and borrowers alike. The most impressive players have risen to the challenges the market has thrown at them this year, consistently providing great products combined with excellent service to mortgage borrowers. It is these lenders that the IAMP Industry Awards recognize. Over 800 nominations were scrutinized to decide which companies really were the "cream of the crop". Mike O'Brien from Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. was named 2007 Operations Manager of the Year.

"Mike is a GREAT manager, but the truth is he has made extensive and resourceful improvements to our service and operations that have had a significant and positive impact on our company. Mike started when it was only a small company – he is the reason we have doubled in size and are continuing to grow."

- Brian Augustine, CRMS

Capital Financial Bancorp, Inc. was chosen 2006 MORTGAGE COMPANY OF THE YEAR by the Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals and nominated as the 2007 Mortgage Broker of the Year by the National Association of Mortgage Brokers. They have over a decade of experience and expertise in mortgage lending. Their shared vision is to provide the best possible service, coupled with a variety of products to meet the needs of their customers.

"Some managers just put out fires, Mike ignites them! He is the driving force on our team and continues to create new and exciting opportunities for each of our employees."

- Tory Tarsitano, CRMS.

Tory Tarsitano, CRMS is nominated for the 2008 National Mortgage Broker of the Year

January, 2008, Schaumburg, Illinois - Tory Tarsitano, CRMS has been nominated for the 2008 National Mortgage Broker of the Year by the National Association of Mortgage Brokers. NAMB is the voice of the mortgage broker industry, representing the interests of mortgage brokers and homebuyers since 1973.

The Association is committed to promoting the highest degree of professionalism and ethical standards for its more than 25,000 members. In addition to mandating, members adhere to a professional code of ethics, NAMB provides mortgage brokers with professional education opportunities, and offers rigorous certification programs to recognize members with the highest levels of professional knowledge and education. As the sole national trade association for this industry, NAMB is affiliated with all 50 state associations and their active lobbying and advocacy efforts frequently focus on national and state issues.

"My company goals are centered on longevity and always improving the industry and showing that there is a much needed place for companies like ours that clients can actually get better programs through us...always educating my clientele so they understand what they are doing and understand their mortgage." Tory Tarsitano, CRMS Capital Financial Bancorp Inc opened its doors in1996 with their goal being to have every customer’s mortgage handled with the utmost care from open to close. Their shared vision was to make the entire lending process seamless and comfortable. They believed, then and today, that if they put my customers’ needs before the dollars they earn – they would all be more successful.

The bottom line is this award will give the people I work with, and want to work with, peace of mind when they come to us for their mortgage. It will reinforce our mission to provide a safe and reliable mortgage process for each customer, community and business we work with."

- Tory Tarsitano, CRMS

For more information on any of our products or services, please contact us.

Illinois Association of Mortgage Brokers names Capital Financial Bancorp, Inc. 2007 Mortgage Broker of the Year

February, 2007, Oak Brook, Illinois - The Illinois Association of Mortgage Brokers held their 11th annual Industry Awards ceremony on February 17th. Now in their eleventh year, the Industry Awards, widely regarded as the equivalent to Hollywood's Oscars, recognizes the contributions and successes of lenders, mortgage companies and their affiliates. Nearly 800 nominations were scrutinized to decide which companies really were the "cream of the crop". Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. was named Mortgage Broker of the Year.

"Market conditions in the mortgage industry have certainly become more challenging in recent months, so the timing of this award comes with great enthusiasm and pride."

- Brian Augustine, CRMS

Capital Financial Bancorp, Inc. opened its doors in 1996 with their goal being to have every customer's mortgage handled with the utmost care from open to close. Their shared vision was to make the entire lending process seamless and comfortable. They believed, then and today, that if they put their customers' needs before the dollars they earn – they would all be more successful.

Their success is paying off big time. They have recently moved into a new office space – doubling their size. Their plans are to focus on staying at the forefront of industry knowledge, provide the best in mortgage solutions for their customers and encourage their loan originators to be leaders in the mortgage industry. They are hoping to double their team to provide additional products, services and capabilities in the coming year.

"It's a pleasure to receive this type of award, particularly when it is decided upon by the industry itself."
- Tory Tarsitano, CRMS

Capital Financial Bancorp, Inc. Leaders are Awarded Lending Champions 2006

December, 2006, Schaumburg, Illinois - Tory Tarsitano and Brian Augustine are featured in Metro Chicago Real Estates' December 2006 issue - Lending Champions. They were nominated by their peers for their hard work and dedication. They were identified as some of the best in Chicago and its suburbs.

Tory and Brian started Capital Financial Bancorp in 1996 with their goal being to have every customer's mortgage handled with the utmost care from open to close. Their shared vision was to make the entire lending process seamless and comfortable. They believed, then and today, that if they put their customers' needs before the dollars they earn – they would all be more successful.

"My goals are threefold; match my clients with the financing programs that best enhance their personal estate and financial plans – maximize equity, cash flow, and tax benefits, see to it that they get to closing on time. The business of mortgage banking is a personal one – my rewards are the referrals I received by providing premium service for my clients, their family and friends."
- Tory Tarsitano, CRMS

Their success is paying off. They have recently moved into a new office space – doubling their size. This new office space will allow for further growth in 2007. Their plans are to focus on staying at the forefront of industry knowledge, provide the best in mortgage solutions for their customers and encourage their loan originators to be leaders in the mortgage industry. They are hoping to double their team to provide additional products, services and capabilities in the coming months.

"Being recognized in our industry by our peers is second only to the kind words of thanks we receive from our clients. We are both truly honored."

- Brian Augustine, CRMS

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. reaches "Top Customer Status" – Banco Popular's Illinois Broker Home Equity Division

September, 2006 Schaumburg, Illinois - Capital Financial Bancorp, Inc. was honored with "top customer" status by Banco Popular's Illinois Broker Home Equity Division. In 2003, Capital Financial was the first mortgage broker to sign up and be approved by Banco's mortgage division. Capital Financial has continued to be Banco Popular's number one volume producing mortgage broker.

Illinois Association of Mortgage Brokers awards Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. with 2001 Mortgage Processor of the Year.

February, 2001, Oak Brook, Illinois - The Illinois Association of Mortgage Brokers held their annual Industry Awards ceremony on February 13th. The Industry Awards recognizes the contributions and successes of lenders, mortgage companies and their affiliates. Nearly 800 nominations were scrutinized to decide which companies really were the "cream of the crop". Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. was awarded Mortgage Processor of the Year.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. was chosen 2000 Mortgage Company of the Year last year. They are proud to be recognized again for their hard work and dedication in the mortgage industry. Their processing systems and procedures are a true reflection of their efficiency and commitment to making every mortgage transaction seamless for their clients.

Illinois Association of Mortgage Brokers names Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. 2000 Mortgage Broker of the Year.

February, 2000, Oak Brook, Illinois - The Illinois Association of Mortgage Brokers held their annual Industry Awards ceremony on February 15th. The Industry Awards, widely regarded as the equivalent to Hollywood's Oscars, recognizes the contributions and successes of lenders, mortgage companies and their affiliates. Nearly 800 nominations were scrutinized to decide which companies really was the "cream of the crop". Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. was named Mortgage Broker of the Year.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc credits their success on their ability and experience to find the best mortgage programs and solutions for their customers. They believe that their reputation for building strong relationships and getting to personally know each and every customer helped them achieve this award.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc. promotes Senior Account Manager to Head of Processing Department.

November 4, 2007, Schaumburg, Illinois - Capital Financial Bancorp Inc has promoted Ann Ford to Processing Department Manager. Ann has been with Capital Financial Bancorp since 1999 where she started as a receptionist. In 2001 she moved to the Processing Department and in 2002 was promoted to a Senior Account Manager. With the addition of the Inside Sales staff, and the growth of the company, Capital Financial Bancorp realized the need for a Processing Department Leader. Ann has been with the company a long time and offers over a decade of processing experience. She has the know-how and expertise to lead the internal team - she is an integral part of the team.

Capital Financial Bancorp Inc has been chosen 2007 MORTGAGE COMPANY OF THE YEAR by the Illinois Association of Mortgage Professionals and opened its doors in1996. Their goal was to have every customer's mortgage handled with the utmost care - from open to close. Their team shares a vision to make the entire lending process seamless and comfortable. They believed, then and today, that if they put my customers' needs before the dollars they earn – they would all be more successful.