We catch up with local business owner Justin Steiner, Vice President of Mortgage Lending at Guaranteed Rate Affinity. Justin was elected to the city council of Celina in 2019 and is an active member of the community. A father to twin boys who are approaching the teenage years, Justin decided to focus on his family and faith and not run for council re-election. His love for Celina will continue to show through his service as a volunteer for numerous city organizations.
What brought you and your business to Celina?
Our family found a house on a couple of acres years ago and immediately fell in love with the community. The first day I walked into the Chamber Office to introduce myself, I met the chamber’s president Melissa Cromwell. She introduced me to then city manager where he took me to rotary. Everyone was so welcoming, I immediately knew I needed to have my office here.
You volunteer for many local events, do you have a favorite?
Every one of our local events are great, but my favorite is Oktoberfest. The whole atmosphere during that event is amazing.
What is your biggest take away from serving on the City Council?
It will sound cliché, but our city is moving in the right direction. I am impressed with our city staff and all first responders. We have something very unique here, from the way our community wrapped their arms around our local businesses during the height of the pandemic to the support our city gave during the great freeze last year. There is a reason our tag line is “Life Connected.” We are.
Any advice for those who want to get more involved with the community?
It starts with asking, “Where can I serve?” There are many places to start getting more involved. One can start with the Rotary. If you are a veteran, look into our local American Legion. Have a child? Get them involved in Scouts. Scouts need a lot of good parents to be involved. Have a business? Join the Chamber. There is opportunity everywhere to get involved.
What is the best part about running a business in Celina?
I have not seen community support for local businesses as strong as it is in Celina. Our community truly does “Support Local”.
As a professional mortgage sales manager, what advice do you have for families looking to buy a home in this growing Celina market?
Don’t look anywhere else. Celina is the place to be, to raise your family, to retire, to live.
Tell us about “The Steiner” special menu item at Tender Smokehouse.
3 1/2 years ago, I asked them if they would put burnt ends on top of mac and cheese. They did it and immediately I tasted a little bit of heaven. I started ordering it regularly and then my friends started ordering and it just evolved into “The Steiner.” It’s still my favorite dish!
Describe Celina in three words.
Home, Unique, Community
Guaranteed Rate Affinity | 469.855.9062 | Justin.Steiner@grarate.com
