The Journey
With 17 years combined real estate, mortgage lending and consumer finance experience, Mary Hester has been successful in providing a full service real estate experience.
Her clients are always impressed with the amount of knowledge and guidance given through a real estate transaction and through community relationship building.
Compelled to engage with families facing foreclosure and non-profits focused on community sustainability after the Housing and Market Crash of 2008, Mary began to offer financial education and credit counseling while taking courses to obtain her real estate licensure. She was essential in facilitating NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania’s lending program and was PHFA certified to provide pre-purchase education from 2008-2010.
Through NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania organization collaboration, Mary transitioned into the Loan Manager position for the Hill District Federal Credit Union. The only Community Development Financial Institution to receive TARP (Troubled Asset Relief Program) funding in the region. From 2010 – 2015 she work closely with Richard Witherspoon and community leaders on the importance of financial literacy, savings and homeownership. This lead to her desire to be active in community and redevelopment initiatives.
Eager to make a substantial impact, Mary joined the Wells Fargo Home Mortgage team and advocated with the Diverse Segments Division to bring funding to under served communities and non-profits.
Mary currently works diligently in community redevelopment efforts in the City of Pittsburgh while facilitating community forums on affordable homeownership. She is licensed with Keller Williams Realty and relies on robust relationships with local banks and city officials to foster substantial impacts in the neighborhoods they serve.
Affordable homeownership and generational wealth for ALL families is the driving mission.
Mary graduated from Penn Hills Senior High School, attended Point Park University and LaDolce Real Estate Academy. She has four children and three grandchildren. She enjoys traveling, painting and outdoor recreation.