August 2025 marks a major milestone for Oak Leaf Community Mortgage (OLCM)—10 years of serving families and communities with heart, expertise, and forward-thinking mortgage solutions. Headquartered in Plainfield, Illinois, and now powering homeownership throughout Illinois and Wisconsin, OLCM has grown into a trusted name in community lending.

In an industry where nearly 65% of businesses don’t survive a decade, and as mortgage companies across the country scale back, OLCM stands out not just for surviving, but for thriving. With a focus on personalized service and community impact, this team has helped thousands of people across the Midwest and beyond achieve their dream of homeownership.

Founded in 2015, Oak Leaf was built on the vision of creating a different kind of mortgage company—one that would put people first, develop lifelong relationships, and serve as a reliable financial partner through all stages of life. That mission remains at the core of everything they do.

“I still vividly remember standing outside and holding the signed lease for our very first office in Downtown Plainfield,” recalled Joe LaGiglia, Senior Mortgage Originator. “That moment marked the start of something special.”

Over the years, OLCM has weathered the highs and lows of the mortgage market, including the rapid pandemic-fueled housing boom and the more recent volatility in interest rates. Through it all, the team remained focused on one thing: serving their clients with care, clarity, and consistency.

“My deepest gratitude is extended to the dedicated team,” shared Andrew Trakszelis, VP of Mortgage Operations. “Their passion, innovation, and teamwork created the foundation on which the company stands today.”

In late 2023, Oak Leaf took a major step forward by joining forces with North Shore Trust and Savings (NSTS)—a community-focused bank with more than 100 years of trusted service. This strategic partnership combined Oak Leaf’s boutique mortgage service with North Shore’s financial strength and legacy.

“Celebrating 10 years is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when two organizations come together around a shared mission,” said Amy Avakian, Chief Lending Officer. “This partnership has deepened our impact, expanded our reach, and reaffirmed our belief that people deserve more than just a mortgage—they deserve a path to opportunity.”

“OLCM can only be spoken of through the acknowledgement that it is truly powered by NSTS,” added Phil LaGiglia, Senior Vice President of Lending. “Cheers to another decade of serving our communities with solution-based residential loan programs and products.”

In fast-moving real estate markets like Chicago, Plainfield, Waukegan, Kenosha, and other communities across Illinois and Wisconsin, homebuyers face complex challenges. Whether it’s rising prices, tight inventory, or timing the sale of a current home with the purchase of a new one, Oak Leaf is meeting these challenges head-on.

The “Buy Now, Sell Later” loan program is a standout example designed to eliminate common contingencies and make it easier for homeowners to transition from one property to another with confidence.

“The innovative mortgage products and level of customer service they bring allowed us to exponentially increase the number of families we have guided through the mortgage process,” said Nathan Walker, President and CEO of North Shore Trust and Savings.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, refinancing, downsizing, or investing in your future, Oak Leaf’s team is here to help, offering everything from conventional and FHA loans to portfolio lending options that meet unique financial needs.

At its heart, Oak Leaf Community Mortgage is more than a lender. It’s a team of people who care deeply about the families and neighborhoods they serve.

“When I look around, I feel I’m at the right spot,” said one team member. “Every day brings new opportunities to help someone, and we treat each customer like family.”

As Oak Leaf celebrates a decade of service, they’re not slowing down. The next chapter includes more innovation, more outreach, and more personalized mortgage experiences for clients across Illinois, Wisconsin, and beyond.

“We’re just getting started,” said Avakian. “And we’re honored to continue walking this journey with the people and communities who’ve trusted us along the way.”