Austin Downs is a driven individual whose life has been shaped by his diverse upbringing. Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, he spent much of his childhood relocating between St. Louis, Missouri; Brandon, Florida; Tabiona, Utah; and Mesa, Arizona. As the oldest of six siblings within a diligent family, Austin acquired a deep appreciation for the importance of determination and hard work from a young age. His father, juggling college at night and multiple jobs during the day, instilled a strong work ethic in him. Summers were spent working alongside his grandfather, constructing the family cabin nestled on the side of a mountain in Tabiona. Utah. Throughout Austin’s formative period, he engaged in a variety of activities, including achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts, restoring classic cars, riding dirt bikes, participating in wrestling, bodybuilding, and pursuing a strong interest in fitness and competitive endeavors. All these pursuits played a significant role in shaping his determination and steadfast dedication to achieving excellence.

Following his graduation from Mesa High School in Arizona, Austin briefly enrolled at Maricopa Community College before recognizing that college was not his intended path. Opting for a different trajectory, he decided to enlist in the U.S. Army. During his active duty and Army National Guard service, Austin held two Military Occupational Specialties (MOS’s): 11B and 31B. After transitioning to a role as a Military Police Officer in the National Guard, he had a distinctive opportunity to serve on Title 32 orders with Border Patrol as part of the Joint Counter Narcotics Task Force (J.C.N.T.F) for a period exceeding two years. This eye-opening experience allowed Austin to engage in purposeful work and embark on exhilarating endeavors. Upon the conclusion of these orders and his return to drilling status, Austin initiated his journey into the realm of high finance and lending.

Before joining Independence Home Loans LLC, Austin launched his career in finance and lending with JPMorgan Chase, renowned as one of the country’s largest banks with extensive mortgage servicing portfolios. From the very start, he proved himself as one of their top performers and producers, consistently excelling for nearly two years. This outstanding performance led to an enticing opportunity as a Senior Loan Officer at The Federal Savings Bank. Over nearly a decade, Austin demonstrated a consistent upward trajectory within the bank, ultimately achieving the position of Senior Vice President in the highest-producing region for The Federal Savings Bank, all while maintaining his National Guard commitments. What distinguishes Austin and Independence Home Loans LLC from other industry players, including lenders, brokers, and bankers, is their unwavering commitment, diligence, and pledge not only to facilitate transactions but also to comprehensively assess their clients’ entire financial landscape. In his role, Austin offers continuous guidance and support throughout the process, employing innovative thinking to ensure a profitable, supportive, and seamless experience for his clients.