As president of Summit South Mortgage, Lou Browning knows the importance of being flexible in both work and life. “Flexibility makes our organization unique,” he stated. “Summit South Mortgage is not a bank. We do not operate within boxes. We pride ourselves in providing commercial capital for most all property types. Summit South Mortgage Commercial feels this country was built on the backs of small business. We thrive in bridging the gap between small businesses and commercial property owners that need capital and lenders that need loan growth.”
Browning goes on to explain that most commercial business deals do not materialize without the capital needed to fund the project. “I feel like Summit South Mortgage Commercial has done an excellent job in originating commercial capital which has resulted in new hotels, restaurants, apartments, self-storage centers and entertainment venues to name a few. This business expansion leads to an increased tax base, new jobs and more services for Knoxville.”
Summit South Mortgage is proud to be a true believer in hope and the American Dream, and it’s this philosophy that makes Browning proud to be a part of the organization. “There are many people in our community who suffer personal tragedy that is out of their control,” he said.
“The saying that ‘broke is temporary, but poor is forever’ rings true for many people. Because of this, we feel that providing funds to various charities to help the temporarily disadvantaged can be a jump start in getting people back on their feet and being productive in society again. One of the best organizations in Knoxville for this kind of support is Family Promise of Knoxville.”
Having worked with most of the staff since Summit South Mortgage opened in 2002 has been one of the best parts of his job. “This is a fun place to work because we encourage creativity and opportunity through hard work and production,” Browning acknowledged. “We have just enough rules to provide a framework for success.”
Browning admits that Knoxville itself is a great place to be. “You cannot find a better place to live, work and raise a family than in Knoxville,” he said. “Other places are great to visit, but you always appreciate coming home. The combination of the cost of living, schools, recreation, The University, the weather and the people is what makes this city very special.”
When asked what he would like to see for the future of Knoxville, Browning is quick to note the opportunity for more development and growth. “Business is fun to me,” he noted. “I love getting up every morning knowing there is opportunity to originate mortgage loans and give back to the community.”
In his role as president of the company, Browning regularly gets asked for advice, whether it be from friends, family, colleagues or customers. His advice tends to be the same for everyone. “I tell people to go for it, to take risks and to have fun,” he advised.” If you do something you really like, you will never work a day in your life. We live in the greatest country in the world. Don’t take it for granted, and work hard to make it better. My parents have been my greatest mentors and gave me great advice throughout my life. I am happy to now be able to share that advice with others.