Kedrick McDuffie, a seasoned professional in the mortgage industry, has dedicated over two decades to helping individuals and families achieve the dream of homeownership. With roots in a small town, Kedrick overcame significant odds to secure a football scholarship and further his education, earning a B.A. in Marketing from Fort Hays State University, where he distinguished himself on the Dean’s list. As the manager at Noble Home Mortgage, his leadership and expertise have guided countless clients through the intricacies of the mortgage process. Kedrick’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his mortgage company at the young age of 27, showcasing his commitment and proficiency in the field. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kedrick is a devout Christian and a family man, actively participating in his church and emphasizing the importance of community and philanthropy. His hobbies include going to the gym and watching football, embodying a lifestyle of continuous personal growth and community involvement.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My days start early with a morning routine that includes exercise, which I find essential for keeping my energy up throughout the day. After that, I dive into my work at Noble Home Mortgage. My day often involves meeting with clients, reviewing loan applications, and strategizing on how to improve our services. To stay productive, I prioritize tasks based on their impact and deadlines, and I make sure to delegate when appropriate. Keeping a tight schedule and allowing for breaks to clear my mind are also key practices.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I believe in a collaborative approach. Whenever I have a new idea, whether it’s for a business strategy or a community project, I bring it to my team or family to brainstorm. This process involves discussing the idea openly, considering different perspectives, and refining it until we have a solid plan of action. Then, we assign responsibilities and set deadlines to bring the idea to fruition.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The increasing adoption of technology in the mortgage industry excites me. Innovations like online applications, automated underwriting, and digital documentation are streamlining the mortgage process, making it faster and more accessible for homeowners. This trend is revolutionizing how we serve our clients and opening up new opportunities for innovation in our services.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Setting daily goals is a habit that has significantly boosted my productivity. Each morning, I list what I want to achieve by the end of the day. This keeps me focused and drives me to tackle the most important tasks first, ensuring I make the most of my time.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to fearlessly pursue your dreams and not to be deterred by obstacles. The challenges you face will only make you stronger and more resilient. And remember, success is not just about achieving your goals but also about the impact you make on others along the way.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
Failure is not something to be feared but embraced as a part of the journey to success.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Invest in relationships. Whether it’s with family, friends, clients, or colleagues, nurturing strong relationships has been key to my personal and professional success. You never know how these connections can support you in the future.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I find that discussing my concerns with a trusted friend or mentor can provide new perspectives and help me refocus.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Creating relationships not just within the mortgage industry but also in related fields like real estate and finance has opened doors to opportunities and provided insights that have helped me grow my business and enhance my career.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Starting my mortgage company at 27 was challenging, and there were times when things didn’t go as planned. Overcoming these setbacks required resilience, flexibility to adapt, and the humility to seek advice. The biggest lesson I learned is that perseverance and a willingness to learn from every situation can turn any failure into a stepping stone for success.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A platform that connects potential homeowners with financial education and resources to prepare them for homeownership could be a game-changer. Educating clients on financial health, budgeting for a home, and understanding the mortgage process can demystify homeownership and make it more accessible.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Task management software, like Asana, has been a game-changer for me. It helps me organize my tasks, track progress on projects, and collaborate effectively with my team. It ensures nothing falls through the cracks and allows me to focus on what matters most.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey has been incredibly influential for me. It’s not just a guide for business, but for life. The principles of proactivity, prioritization, and seeking mutual benefit in relationships have shaped how I approach both my career and personal life.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently enjoyed “All The Lights We Cannot See” on Netflix. I always enjoy a story of history and reflecting on the horrors of World War II and how lucky we are to live where and when we do.