Name: Zahra Jafri

Job Title: President

Company Name: Lynx Mortgage Bank LLC, Commercial Division

How has your working environment changed over the last year?
The pandemic presented many challenges to our industry throughout the last two years. Our team continued to develop our digital platform to ensure we remained efficient through any obstacle that may present itself. At Lynx Commercial Division, our goal is to maintain the same level of support for our clients regardless of the circumstances. Our Commercial Division remains fully prepared to sustain the same level of efficiency despite recent challenges. We take pride in the level of dedication and service we deliver to our clients on a daily basis.

What are your predictions for your industry in 2022?
As a result of the pandemic and the shutdown we faced, we have seen the configuration of office space to a more spacious working environment. We are beginning to see more people return to work and go back to the office which will have a positive impact on commercial real estate. Even with people going back to the office we may continue to see a hybrid type of work structure for years to come, which can limit the amount of space commercial tenants will be seeking.

What was your greatest professional accomplishment or most notable project, deal, or transaction in 2021?
In 2021 Lynx Mortgage Bank LLC’s, Commercial Division as intermediary expanded to a national footprint, targeting specifically Florida, Texas, South Carolina, Georgia, Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Lynx Commercial Division originated as an intermediary in the Southeast region with closings in both Orlando, FL, and Charleston, S.C. Our most recent deal in Orlando, FL was originated, negotiated & executed by commercial loan officer Joey Rainero. Additionally, Lynx expanded its Commercial Division by hiring John Hale III as senior commercial loan officer. Prior to joining Lynx, he served by presidential appointment in two senior political positions.