Meet Keith Howard - The Mortgage Maestro

Founder, The Fair Mortgage & Company, LLC
NMLS ID: 953547

Though I spent many years away, Peoria has always been home. I was raised here, and after building a successful career in our nation’s capital—serving clients across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia—I returned during the pandemic to be closer to family in a time that called for it. That season reminded me of the power of community and sparked a renewed mission: to bring personalized, high-integrity mortgage lending back to the place that raised me.

I’ve been in banking and mortgage lending since 2008, serving in nearly every role this industry has to offer—processing, underwriting, originating, and even stepping in as an interim mortgage sales director. That full-spectrum experience gave me something most loan officers don’t have: a deep understanding of how to structure loans that get approved and serve my clients’ long-term financial goals.

My mission deepened years ago at a housing fair in Washington, D.C., when a woman asked me a question that stopped me in my tracks: “How many minorities have you given mortgages to this year?” I gave a professional answer—but her words stayed with me. I realized that in many underrepresented communities, homeownership isn't just out of reach—it often feels out of the question. That moment changed how I see this work.

Today, as The Mortgage Maestro, I bring big-market experience to Illinois with a local, people-first focus. My goal is to orchestrate a smooth and empowering mortgage experience for every borrower—whether you're buying your first home or refinancing your forever home. I believe every client deserves to feel seen, supported, and set up for long-term success.