get ready for

A lending team that’s focused on you.

Michael Schwartz has spent more than four decades in the financial services and mortgage industries, building a career around experience, relationships, and helping clients find financing solutions that fit their goals.

Michael began his career in September 1984 at Blazer Finance after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a degree in Finance. He transitioned into mortgage brokerage in the late 1980s before joining Guardian Credit Union as a Mortgage Loan Officer in 1996. During his time there, Michael eventually took on leadership of the Mortgage Department and gained additional experience with construction lending.

In 2003, Michael joined the mortgage team he remains part of today, following an unexpected conversation with longtime colleague and former high school classmate John Scaffidi. Over the years, the company went through several ownership and name changes, eventually becoming First State Mortgage. In 2026, Michael joined Luminate Bank.

Experience Across a Range of Mortgage Needs

Michael primarily serves borrowers throughout Wisconsin, where he has built much of his career and professional network. He is licensed to lend in all 50 states and has also helped clients finance second homes in markets outside Wisconsin.

His primary focus is Conventional mortgage financing, but Michael also works with first-time homebuyers and brings experience in construction loans and home equity lending.

With more than 40 years in the industry, Michael understands that every borrower has a different financial situation and set of goals. He takes a personalized approach to understanding what clients need and helping them navigate their mortgage options.

His long tenure in the industry also means he has experienced significant changes in lending, financial markets, and the homebuying process, allowing him to help clients approach their financing decisions with confidence.

A Career Built on Relationships

One of the defining themes of Michael's career has been the relationships he has built along the way.

His transition to the company in 2003 came through a longtime professional connection with John Scaffidi, whom Michael had known since high school and had previously worked with professionally. That relationship ultimately led Michael to join the team, where he has remained through multiple company transitions.

Today, Michael brings that same relationship-focused approach to his clients. He believes good mortgage lending starts with understanding the people behind the transaction and providing dependable guidance throughout the process.

Life Outside of Mortgage Lending

Michael is the proud father of two daughters, Noelle and Allison.

Noelle graduated from UW-Whitewater with a degree in education and recently began her first full-time position as a fourth-grade teacher in the East Troy School District. Allison graduated from Elmhurst University in 2025 with a degree in Health Science after playing volleyball throughout college. She now works in Illinois at Athletico.

Family is an important part of Michael's life, and he takes great pride in following his daughters' careers and accomplishments.



After more than 40 years in finance and mortgage lending, Michael continues to enjoy helping clients navigate important financial decisions. Whether you're purchasing a home, buying a second home, exploring a first-time buyer program or considering another type of mortgage financing, Michael brings decades of experience and a personal commitment to every transaction.