Sara, a lifelong Montanan, moved to Bozeman in 1999 and built a career in the mortgage industry rooted in passion and expertise. With 20+ years of experience, she’s helped clients navigate Bozeman’s growth with confidence. She offers more than competitive rates; she provides trusted guidance, personal service, and a commitment to lasting relationships. We sat down with her to chat about finances, her life, and more.
Tell us about your career path.
It feels like I was destined to work in finance and lending. Even as a child, I was interested in business and money. I wanted to run lemonade stands at an early age, and when other kids picked out cute little cards of their favorite characters for their valentines, I opted for the “checkbook” edition so I could practice writing checks to my friends. I worked in a bank right out of high school and throughout college at MSU, where I earned my degree in Business Management. I started dabbling in buying my first piece of real estate when I was 21, and I now own both long-term and short-term rentals and manage them myself. It feels natural to want to help others do the same.
What is the most fulfilling thing about the work you do?
The biggest joy for me is helping clients achieve homeownership, especially when they think it might not be possible. Age doesn't matter; I recently closed a loan for a 68-year-old who was perhaps more excited to buy her first home than some of my younger homebuyers! I am also passionate about financial advising and debt consolidation/strategy. With me, you won't just get a pre-approval letter. I like to dive deeper with my clients and understand their long-term goals, working through their finances to figure out the best possible plan.
What do you love about the business community in Bozeman?
Everyone is so supportive, especially other small business owners. We live in a town that is expanding rapidly, but deep down I think the Bozeman locals really love to support their fellow friends and local businesses. I love to see that!
What do you appreciate most about your clients in the Bozeman area?
I am incredibly fortunate that I've gotten to spend the last 22 years working with thousands of clients in the Gallatin Valley. I love their appreciation and loyalty to myself, and referring their family and friends. Montanans love to support other Montanans that were born and raised in this beautiful state. My team works really hard to treat each client like they are our only one.
What are some of your favorite Bozeman activities?
I love how healthy and active this community is. Health and physical fitness are a big part of my life, so living in a community that really embraces an active lifestyle and healthy eating is a big plus for me. I try to eat very clean, and the restaurants in Bozeman are the best in the state. I have traveled all over and you can’t find the selection that you can in Bozeman for all sorts of amazing restaurant options and exceptionally good gluten free/ dairy free options for me.
What are some financial practices you use in your daily life?
First, I opt for credit cards; never debit! I like to have two to three credit cards and no more. I try to keep my balance below 30% of the credit limit; optimally, I keep it below 10%. If my limit isn't high enough, I call the credit card company and work with them to increase it instead of opening new cards. Little things like this make a big difference in one's FICO score.
Second, I sit down once a month and look at my credit card statements. You would be surprised at how many people have signed up for all sorts of subscriptions that they never use, and have no idea where their funds are going; reviewing your monthly statements as a habit is a great way to mitigate this..
Third, I budget. I set goals for myself and make sure I am diversified when it comes to my financial assets. I see far too many clients worrying about throwing all of their cash into real estate when they should be diversifying, working with a financial planner, investing in the market, and planning for retirement.
Lastly, I do consignment and use Facebook marketplace to sell gently used items that I no longer need. This is a great way to make additional cash for a vacation, house projects, etc. Donation definitely has its place, but it's worth investing a little time into selling your higher quality items online. It's easier than you think!
To work with Sara, visit rate.com/loan-officers/sara-koelzer-400361.
"The biggest joy for me is helping clients achieve homeownership when they thought that perhaps they never would."