Spotlight on Gary Walters: Empowering Veterans Nationwide as Part of the VAREP National Education Committee

We’re excited to announce that Gary Walters, a dedicated Mortgage Consultant with Prosperity Home Mortgage, has been appointed to the National Education Committee (NEC) for the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP). As a member of the NEC, Gary will play a pivotal role in training real estate professionals and empowering veterans across the country with tools and knowledge for sustainable homeownership. Let’s dive into what this means—and get to know Gary a little better through a Q&A about his inspiring journey.

‍Gary’s Path of Service and Dedication

Gary’s commitment to serving others began in the U.S. Army, where he worked as a Light-Wheel Mechanic and certified Recovery Specialist at Fort Bliss, Texas. After a service-connected injury led to his honorable discharge in 1996, he transitioned into the mortgage industry, where he has excelled for over 20 years. A strong advocate for VA loan education and homeownership, Gary’s role on the NEC will allow him to continue giving back to the military and veteran communities in new and impactful ways.

NEC: Fostering Education and Empowerment Nationwide

With the NEC, Gary will be involved in several key training initiatives, including the Military Veteran Housing Certification (MVHC) and the Homeownership Education and Literacy Program (HELP), both focused on enhancing financial literacy and homeownership awareness among veterans. These courses provide veterans and military families with the knowledge they need to make confident, informed homebuying decisions.

Below, Gary shares more about his background and what motivates him to serve.

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Q&A with Gary Walters

Tell us about your time in the Army—what was your experience like?

“I served in the U.S. Army for 3 years and 8 months, stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. I was an E-4 Light-Wheel Mechanic and was certified as a Recovery Specialist. My military career ended in 1996 due to a service-connected injury. My time in the military was pivotal, shaping my career path and teaching me the importance of resilience and service.”

How did you get started in the mortgage industry?

“After leaving the Army, I moved into the mortgage industry, where I’ve been for over 20 years. I've worked in various roles—from management and VP positions to auditing and loan origination. For the last five years, I’ve been a Mortgage Consultant with Prosperity Home Mortgage, and I’m currently licensed in TX, CA, GA, FL, KS, and MO. Helping clients understand and navigate the mortgage process has been incredibly rewarding.”

What drew you to VAREP, and what role do you play there?

“I joined VAREP over 8 years ago because I’m passionate about VA loan education. As a veteran, I understand the gaps in knowledge around VA loans, and I believe in advocating for veterans to build wealth through homeownership. Currently, I’m in my second term as the President of the Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter. Being part of VAREP allows me to give back to veterans and ensure they understand their options.”

What inspired you to join the NEC, and what will your role entail?

“Teaching is one of the best ways I can give back to the military community. I believe I have a gift for it, and the NEC’s mission of educating and empowering veterans aligns perfectly with my values. I’ll be facilitating classes on VA loans, financial literacy, and budgeting, and guiding real estate professionals in serving veteran clients effectively. It’s an honor to be able to extend this knowledge on a national level.”

Can you tell us more about the training initiatives you’ll be conducting?

“One of the main classes I’ll facilitate is the Military Veteran Housing Certification (MVHC), which covers VA loans from start to finish and offers real estate agents eight CE hours. I’ll also lead the Military and Veteran Lender Certification (MVLC) and Duty to Serve (DTS) classes. Additionally, I’ll conduct HELP classes nationwide, which focus on financial literacy, budgeting, and how veterans can leverage their VA benefits to buy a home.”

What excites you most about the NEC’s mission and upcoming projects?

“The NEC is working to become a Chartered Veterans Service Organization (VSO), which will allow us to educate military members directly on bases about VA benefits and financial literacy. This is a groundbreaking initiative, and I’m thrilled to be part of it. We’re not just talking about education; we’re building a nationwide community that stands for veteran empowerment.”

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‍Looking Forward to Gary’s Impact

Gary’s role on the NEC exemplifies his commitment to giving back to the military community, and we are proud to support him in his journey. Through VAREP, Gary is bridging gaps in financial education and ensuring that veterans, active military members, and real estate professionals have the tools they need to succeed.

Congratulations, Gary, on this meaningful new chapter!

NMLSR# 513054 and CA license CA-DFPI513054

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