Our Story
Building Dreams, One Home at a Time
Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group is a residential retail and wholesale mortgage lender and servicer, proudly headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Our Story
A Lender Built on Relationships
Founded in 2000 by Daniel Milstein, Gold Star was built on a mission to make the American dream of homeownership more accessible. Under Daniel’s continued leadership, the Gold Star family of companies has expanded into multiple industries, while our mortgage division has become a nationally recognized leader - celebrated for innovation, service, and an unwavering commitment to the borrower experience.
AJ Franchi, President & Chief Executive Officer, has been instrumental in shaping the modern direction of Gold Star Mortgage. Since joining in 2008, he has championed forward-thinking operations, launched proprietary technology like the ConnectGS platform, and helped elevate our reputation as a trusted, tech-savvy lender.
At Gold Star, we believe that financing a home should feel as personal and empowering as the home itself. We take the time to understand your goals - so we can help you move forward with confidence, one step at a time.
Our Mission
One Family at a Time.
We are committed to building lifelong relationships with our clients that extend well beyond closing. Through a dedicated, customer-focused approach, we strive to deliver exceptional service to every customer, both within and outside our organization. By leveraging advanced technology, we streamline the mortgage process to create a seamless experience while preserving the personalized service our clients know and trust. More than just a lender, we are a reliable partner at every step of your homeownership journey.
Our Leadership
Meet the Experts Driving Our Success
Dan Milstein
Founder & Chairman of the Board
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AJ Franchi
President & Chief Executive Officer
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John Newton
Chief Information Officer
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Eric Schultz
Executive Vice President, National Sales Director
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Bill Trainor
Chief Compliance Officer & General Counsel
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Dave Christmas
Chief Financial Officer
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Jason Broomfield
Director of Operations & Credit
View profileOur Pillars
Five Values That Guide Every File
At Gold Star we focus on creating the smoothest, most transparent borrower experience guided by five core values:
1Homeowner First
Behind every mortgage, there is a person. We are passionate about delivering exceptional service, and we are committed to giving our customers the best homeownership experience possible.
2Our People Matter
Our team members are our greatest asset. We celebrate success and recognize achievement. Serving homeowners and achieving our goals are a team effort.
3Relationship Driven
Our long-term reputation is more important than our short-term gains. We work to develop and maintain quality relationships through our everyday interaction with homeowners, business partners and team members.
4Improve Everyday
We challenge the status quo. We strive to get better every day whether it be a process, technology, or personal performance. We strive for the highest possible standards in everything we do.
5Accountability
We take ownership, solve problems, and continuously improve. If something goes off course, we learn from it and make it right.
Gold Star Family
Divisions of Gold Star Mortgage
From retail lending and wholesale channels to sports management and technology, the Gold Star family of companies spans more than 50 branches and divisions nationwide.
- Gold Star Mortgage
- City First
- Clear Mortgage
- Hancock Mortgage
- Home Loans by Jen
- Ignite Mortgage
- Innovation Lending Partners
- National Home Lending
- Principal Lending
- Radiant Mortgage
- Responsive Mortgage
- Stride Home Loans
Recognition
Our Awards & Accolades
Company Culture
Company Highlights
Company Culture
Employee Kudos
Creating a Movement of Change
Your Next Career Move.
Explore all of our career opportunities and find out how you can be a perfect fit for us.
Borrower Experience
Leading You Home
Discover a wide range of solutions designed to fit your unique needs and goals. Whether you're buying, refinancing, or building, we've got the right loan for you.
We’re dedicated to providing exceptional mortgage services that prioritize speed, personalized care, and loan quality.
Our innovative technology makes the process smoother and more efficient, but it’s our people who make it personal - ensuring every step feels seamless and stress-free.
With 50+ branches and divisions across the country, we bring local expertise and a personal touch to every borrower’s journey. No matter your unique needs, our knowledgeable team is here to guide you home.