Today we’d like to introduce you to Diane Kinlaw.
Hi Diane, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began my mortgage career in 2017 after taking a short break from “corporate America”. When I decided on my career change, I knew I wanted something that was both fun and challenging — something that would let me make an impact while keeping me on my toes. I’ve never been afraid of sales or of earning trust; connecting with people has always come naturally to me. I’ve always believed that being open, transparent, and authentic builds lasting relationships — and that’s the foundation I’ve built my business on.
I was fortunate to have an incredible mentor who helped me find my footing early on. She taught me the importance of staying true to your values, no matter how the market shifts. Being a mortgage lender isn’t just about numbers or transactions — it’s a tremendous responsibility. You’re helping people make one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. That requires trust, integrity, and heart.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Every career comes with challenges, and in the mortgage world, the market plays a starring role. Interest rates rise and fall, and those changes often shape how clients and referral partners see you. People like to “shop around,” and I get it — but I always remind them that not all rates are created equal. Sometimes those “great deals” come with hidden fees or trade-offs. My job is to cut through the noise and make sure my clients truly understand what they’re getting.
If I had to sum up my approach in one word, it would be education. I believe that the more informed my clients are, the better their decisions will be. My goal is to empower them — not pressure them — so they can feel confident, supported, and ready for one of life’s biggest milestones: homeownership.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Today, I’m proud to say my business has grown far beyond what I ever imagined. I’ve built a career rooted in relationships, trust, and education — three things I refuse to compromise on. My clients aren’t just numbers on a loan application; they’re families, individuals, and investors who deserve to understand their options and feel confident in their choices. I can help the first time homebuyer with education and I can also assist the savvy investor utilize the capital they have. I offer all of the traditional lending options and several “NonQM” options in-house.
Over the years, I’ve expanded my role from mortgage lending into helping professionals strengthen their networks, communicate authentically, and build referral-driven businesses that thrive on connection rather than competition. That’s what lights me up: watching people realize that relationships really are the best ROI.
I am very proud of the networking group that I started with a friend who has the same mindset as me. We just celebrated 7 years in August. We offer a free platform for small business owners to gather, network and grow their business through creating meaningful relationships and we meet twice a month (shoutout to Bombshell Brewery in Holly Springs for letting us use their space!). We are firm believers that relationships over transactions is not just “lip service” but something we expect the group to embrace.
For me, success isn’t just measured in closings. It’s measured in trust earned, relationships built, and the ripple effect that happens when you lead with authenticity and heart.
Any big plans?
Looking ahead, my focus is on continuing to grow both as a mortgage lender and as a speaker. I love being able to take what I’ve learned in this industry and in life — the wins, the challenges, the lessons — and use it to inspire others. Whether it’s through workshops or presentations, my mission is simple: help people build stronger businesses through genuine human connection. I’ve recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, so I definitely plan on using this journey as an inspiration as well and educating women that early detection is so important!!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.revolutionmortgage.com/dkinlaw/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianerkinlaw/
- Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/RevolutionMortgageCary/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-kinlaw-2234a07/
