Schwartz was selected among a field of nominees from across the state of Florida. Honorees will be recognized at an awards banquet and reception at Disney's Vero Beach Resort on October 7, 2006

The top 20 women are chosen based upon criteria such as professional achievement; sales; industry participation and recognition; and community involvement. Schwartz led the original team of five employees who launched Silver Hill Financial(R) in 2003, pioneering the residential-style underwriting approach to small-balance commercial loans. Under her leadership, Silver Hill has grown from five to more than 360 employees, opening 10 regional and satellite offices throughout the country. Silver Hill has introduced industry firsts such as its residential approach to commercial lending, a customer rewards program, 90-percent loan-to-value (LTV) and a declining fixed rate program. The national lender is at the forefront of its industry in training residential brokers, helping them to increase their comfort level in dealing with commercial transactions.

Schwartz has emerged as a thought-leader in her industry, frequently cited in trade publications and appearing as a guest on the "Talk About Mortgages and Real Estate" television program. In addition to her involvement with the Children's Psychiatric Center's "All Aboard" mentoring program, she is an active member of The Commonwealth Institute (TCI), a non-profit organization that helps women entrepreneurs, CEOs and corporate executives build successful businesses.

"We congratulate Joanna on being honored as one of the 'Top Women in Florida Commercial Real Estate,'" said David Quint, President and COO of Bayview Financial(R), Silver Hill's parent company. "Her leadership has been instrumental in establishing Silver Hill's foothold in the small-balance commercial market and an important factor in the company's tremendous growth. Joanna has united Silver Hill around a common vision, which has greatly influenced its success."

Last Updated ( Sunday, 23 July 2006 )