Industry veterans make rare move from loanDepot to NEO, aligning with a tech-forward, advisor-centric model built for long-term growth
NEO Home Loans powered by Better, a mortgage lender combining elite loan advisors with industry-leading technology to redefine the home financing experience, proudly announces the addition of the Gustafson Team, a top-producing group that funded over $110 million in volume across 303 loans in 2024. Backed by nearly 30 years of mortgage experience, the high-performing team brings deep industry expertise and a long-standing track record of success to NEO’s next-generation model.
After spending the last 15 years at loanDepot, the Gustafson Team made the decision to join NEO Home Loans powered by Better, citing the company’s advisor-first philosophy, AI-powered operational infrastructure, and transparent, entrepreneurial compensation model as key differentiators. The move reflects a growing shift among elite mortgage originators toward technology-enabled platforms that empower them to scale with integrity and purpose.
Combined with NEO’s dedicated staffing model, including Client Success Managers, Credit Analysts, and Production Partners, this infrastructure enables top-producing teams to deliver consistent, high-value service without hitting operational ceilings.
“We had a good thing going. But when we looked at where the industry is heading and what NEO is building, the decision became clear,” said Gene Gustafson. “NEO offers the tech, the transparency, and the infrastructure we need to grow, without compromising the client experience.”
The Gustafson Team has maintained remarkable consistency over the past three decades, having operated under just two companies while building a reputation for education-first lending and long-term client success. Their move away from a familiar, successful environment signals a deliberate shift toward a platform designed for long-term sustainability, innovation, and scale. The team highlighted the alignment between their personal values and NEO’s mission of transforming the mortgage experience, from transactional lending to lifetime financial advocacy.
NEO Home Loans powered by Better’s tech stack and artificial intelligence infrastructure was a key factor in the move. Following its merger with Better, NEO gained access to enterprise-grade pricing, operational automation, and machine learning systems that optimize nearly every aspect of the mortgage process, from lead management and disclosures to pipeline visibility and client communication.
NEO’s proprietary technology infrastructure includes:
- AI-powered lead intelligence and conversion support
- Automated workflows that reduce loan officer task load
- Centralized systems for pricing, disclosures, and borrower communication
- The “Tinman” platform, streamlining the digital experience for both clients and advisors
“Most advisors want to provide long-term value, but they don’t have the bandwidth. NEO solved that,” said Gustafson. “They’ve built a machine that empowers great originators to be even better, without burning out or sacrificing follow-up.”
In addition to its operational advantages, the Gustafson Team praised NEO’s transparent compensation structure and its flexibility in building strategic partnerships. With full visibility into capital markets execution and the ability to collaborate with leadership on referral strategies, the team now operates as true business owners, not just employees. That model recently helped them win a major referral relationship, supported directly by NEO leadership.
“The Gustafson Team represents everything we believe the future of mortgage should look like; experience, integrity, and a deep commitment to client education and long-term wealth building,” said Ryan Grant, President and Co-Founder of NEO. “We’re honored they chose NEO powered by Better as the platform to scale their vision. Their decision reinforces that top professionals are no longer looking for just a place to work, they’re looking for alignment, innovation, and a model built to help them thrive.”
Based in Fort Collins, Colorado, the Gustafson Team will be instrumental in growing NEO’s footprint throughout the region, bringing their decades of experience to support both clients and emerging mortgage professionals.
For top-producing loan officers seeking more than just a new company, NEO Home Loans powered by Better offers a future-ready platform built to scale your impact, streamline your operations, and align your business with purpose-driven growth. Find out more at NEOHomeLoans.com/Join-Us.
Discover the latest trends and insights—explore the Business Insights Journal for up-to-date strategies and industry breakthroughs!
