One of the strongest attributes about Builders Capital are its people.  Our team works diligently to service a loan from inception to conclusion, and all points in between.  From time to time we will take you behind the scenes to meet the team and learn more about them.

In this spotlight feature we get to meet Tera Dray, our Servicing Manager here at Builders Capital.

Tell us more about yourself, Tera…

I started working in finance in 2004 working as a bank teller at a local bank. A series of twists and turns led me to working with the construction draw processing team. It ended up being a great opportunity; not only was I learning about construction lending, but I also had a chance to support builders in achieving their version of the American Dream.

What made you decide to join Builders Capital?

A current colleague at Builders Capital and I previously worked together for several years before she joined Builders Capital. A short time after she joined, she referred me to recruiting and the rest, as they say, is history. One of the deciding factors for me joining Builders Capital was being able to go to the next level in providing support for builders and be there for them from start to finish.

What role did you start in when you joined the team?

I joined as a Transaction Coordinator in March of 2020, right at the start of Covid.

What was that experience like?

At first, it was a bit isolating while we were getting adjusted to being remote. However, the team at the time was supportive of my onboarding process. We built a virtual bond almost immediately. That is what is amazing about Builders Capital, the sense of being one team no matter if you are working remotely or in the office.

Are you in this role today?

After serving as a Transaction Coordinator, I moved into the Portfolio Manager role. Then, in May of 2021, I moved into my current role as the Servicing Manager.

What are your main responsibilities as the Servicing Manager?

As a Servicing Manager, I lead the transaction coordinators, jumping in where needed to support, and facilitate training for the team.

In addition, I ensure that we are meeting or beating all industry standards. I still support draws from borrowers and manage budget reviews during the loan process. Managing this process allows me to see each loan up close and confirm that the details are lined up to support the loan.

Since you have joined Builders Capital, what are some of the key differences you have noticed between working in traditional versus private lending?

The key difference is the value leadership places on hearing feedback from all levels within the organization versus just sticking to the script. The other difference is flexibility, whether that is flexibility in supporting the needs of the employees or supporting the borrower for their current project.

What is something you enjoy most about being at Builders Capital?

You feel like you’re making a difference daily. You feel heard, and there is support from leadership to bring ideas to the table. We are focused on the borrowers, and I like being able to have that personal connection to each loan that comes through.

Any advice would you give to someone looking to work in private construction lending?

Private construction lending is flexible, accommodating, and busy. No two days, let alone two hours, are the same. There isn’t a sense of boredom with the number of loans we work on or all the scenarios that inherently arise from lending across the United States.

Fun fact about you?

During Covid, my daughter and I started learning how to beat-box.

Anything else you’d like to share?

If you are open to new adventures and willing to learn, then the sky is the limit, and if opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door. You are the only one holding yourself back.