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Emily Huckaby at Guild Mortgage NMLS# 3274
I don’t think I ever really knew who I was.
For most of my twenties, I just wanted to make everyone happy. I worked hard. I smiled. I did what was expected. I built a career in mortgage lending, and I was good at it. But I tied my worth to the company I worked for. That became my identity.
And then I left.
When I made the decision to move out on my own with Guild, not everyone understood. People asked me why, and I didn’t always have the words. But deep down, I knew I needed a change. I needed the space to grow into the person I was becoming, not the one I felt expected to be.
With Guild, I found a place that let me work the way I believe in. I get to help people in a way that feels honest and lasting. It’s not just about closing loans. It’s about relationships, about guiding people to make smart financial decisions that will still feel right two years from now. That matters to me.
And during that transition, life kept going. I was balancing my role as a mom, helping with the farm, and navigating leadership roles in the community. I became President of the Chamber of Commerce and President of the library foundation. I poured my energy into projects I cared about, and I learned a lot in the process.
Downtown became a big part of that journey. I had already volunteered with downtown events because I believed in the heart of this place. But when I moved my office here, something shifted. Being part of downtown every day reminded me why I love this community. It gave me a sense of connection I didn’t know I needed.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is about boundaries. I’ve learned to say no when something doesn’t align with where I am or what I need. I used to say yes to everything. Now, I protect my time. I make room for what matters most.
This year has been full of change, growth, and reflection. I’ve gotten quieter in some ways, more intentional. I’ve focused on my health. I’ve redefined friendships. I’ve realized that not everyone is meant to walk every step of the journey with you, and that’s okay.
What I’ve held onto is this: I want to be proud of the work I do and the way I do it. I want people to know that if they come to me, I’ll be honest. I’ll work hard. I’ll care. Even if that means I don’t always take the easy path.
I’m not just a mortgage lender. I’m someone who wants to serve my community, who believes in giving back, and who is still learning, still growing. I may not have it all figured out, but I’m closer than I’ve ever been.
Emily Huckaby at Guild Mortgage NMLS# 3274
