As 2025 comes to a close, all of us at Oak Leaf Community Mortgage (OLCM), powered by North Shore Trust & Savings, want to take a moment to say thank you.
This has been a year defined by growth, innovation, and most importantly, gratitude. From welcoming new team members and expanding our reach to helping thousands of families across Illinois and Wisconsin achieve their homeownership dreams, every success we have had has been made possible because of you, our clients, partners, and community.
Now celebrating more than a decade in business, we remain deeply committed to what has always set Oak Leaf apart: providing personalized mortgage solutions, local expertise, and honest guidance built on trust, transparency, and teamwork.
Here’s to another year of serving with heart and to the relationships that make it all worthwhile.
Celebrating a Year of Milestones
This year, Oak Leaf’s accomplishments reached new heights.
Joe LaGiglia, Senior Mortgage Lender, earned a spot among the Top 1% of Mortgage Originators in the Nation, as recognized by the Scotsman Guide for the 9th consecutive year. His leadership, expertise, and dedication to clients continue to set the bar for the entire organization.
That honor adds to an impressive list of recognitions this year:
Philip LaGiglia
These awards underscore the company’s ongoing commitment to excellence and the trust placed in Oak Leaf by clients and communities alike.
Innovation That Empowers Homebuyers
In a housing market defined by fluctuating rates and tight inventory, Oak Leaf’s team continues to innovate with programs designed to make homeownership more attainable.
The “Buy Now, Sell Later” loan program remains a standout, offering buyers the ability to purchase their next home before selling their current one. This smart and flexible solution has helped clients across Illinois and Wisconsin move confidently into their next chapter.
Bob Hammel
Thomas Raschka
Welcoming New Expertise
In 2025, Oak Leaf welcomed Bob Hammel and Thomas Raschka, two experienced mortgage professionals who have strengthened the company’s reach and expertise.
Bob brings over 30 years of mortgage experience, serving families across Southeastern Wisconsin with warmth and professionalism.
Tom, based in Illinois, offers clients nearly two decades of financial insight and a personalized, consultative approach.
Together, they embody Oak Leaf’s mission: to provide local expertise backed by a people-first philosophy.
Our Offices: Local Roots, Lasting Relationships
Each Oak Leaf office is more than a place of business—it’s a community hub where clients are guided by trusted experts who understand local markets and care about long-term success.
Plainfield is home to a dynamic and award-winning team that continues to drive growth and innovation across the Midwest.
Loan Officers:
With over 25 years in mortgage lending, Joe blends sales, marketing, and financial expertise to help clients achieve their homeownership dreams. His national recognitions reflect his commitment to excellence and service.
With more than 32 years of experience, Dave is known for guiding clients with honesty and care through every step of the mortgage journey. He’s a trusted advisor who delivers solutions for all types of borrowers.
Dedicated to providing tailored solutions, Tom helps clients achieve financial milestones such as relocation, real estate investment, or debt consolidation with confidence and clarity.
Serving as a bridge between Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin, the Lindenhurst office is a welcoming resource for buyers exploring cross-state opportunities.
Loan Officer:
With over 30 years of experience, Bob’s approach is grounded in personalized service and education. He guides families through buying, refinancing, and life transitions with genuine care and local expertise.
A cornerstone of Oak Leaf’s Lake County presence, the Lewis Avenue office provides trusted, face-to-face guidance for local homebuyers navigating today’s competitive market.
Loan Officer:
With over 30 years of experience, Bob’s approach is grounded in personalized service and education. He guides families through buying, refinancing, and life transitions with genuine care and local expertise.
The Green Bay Road location serves as a convenient neighborhood resource for residents seeking flexible loan options and fast, reliable approvals.
Loan Officer:
With over 30 years of experience, Bob’s approach is grounded in personalized service and education. He guides families through buying, refinancing, and life transitions with genuine care and local expertise.
Located in the heart of the Fox Valley, the Aurora office supports homebuyers, refinancers, and growing families with tailored mortgage strategies.
Loan Officer:
As Senior Vice President and Director of Mortgage Sales, Tim brings over 35 years of leadership experience. Known for developing high-performing teams and mentoring future leaders, Tim’s guidance has helped countless clients and loan officers alike succeed.
In the heart of downtown, Oak Leaf’s Chicago office represents innovation and access—serving clients across the city’s diverse neighborhoods and real estate markets.
Loan Officer:
With over 28 years in the industry, Todd’s client-first philosophy has earned him consistent recognition, including a place on Forbes’ Five Star Professional Legends List. His dedication to clear communication, education, and accessibility ensures every client feels informed and confident.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
Reflecting on 2025, the Oak Leaf team feels deeply grateful—for every client who entrusted them with their mortgage journey, every partner who collaborated along the way, and every teammate who continues to make this work meaningful.
From Plainfield to Chicago, Lindenhurst to Aurora, and Waukegan to Kenosha, Oak Leaf’s commitment to helping families achieve homeownership remains as strong as ever. Here’s to another year of innovation, connection, and community impact.
