Lessons from Local Leaders:

Bryan Sumardi

From Marine to Mortgage Mentor: How Bryan “Sumo” Sumardi Empowers Veterans and First-Time Homebuyers

Bryan Sumardi’s journey from a power-lifting Marine to a trusted mortgage professional is as inspiring as it is practical. Nicknamed “Sumo” during his Marine Corps days, he carried that brand from his personal training business, Sumo Lifts, into his work helping families and veterans build wealth through homeownership.

A Discipline-Driven Start

Bryan spent six years in the Marine Corps Reserves, learning teamwork, grit, and the importance of clear expectations—traits that continue to guide his business today. After leaving the military, he opened a hands-on personal training business. But when COVID-19 shut down in-person sessions, Bryan pivoted. With the guidance of a cousin in the mortgage industry, he started a new chapter in residential finance during the historic low-interest-rate period of 2020.

Turning Military Lessons into Financial Guidance

Bryan bought his first home at age 28 using a VA loan—an experience that helped him see the gaps in financial education for service members. Today, he helps veterans leverage the VA loan’s benefits, like zero-down financing and no PMI, to build long-term equity and stability.

His Marine-instilled discipline and empathy show up in his client meetings: Bryan is known for using spreadsheets, visuals, and simple analogies to break down intimidating mortgage terms. “There’s nothing to fear but fear itself,” he says. “Once you understand something, it’s not scary.”

Educating Buyers in a Competitive Market

With over 200 loans closed nationwide—many in the competitive DC metro region—Bryan emphasizes the importance of setting realistic budgets and understanding compounding value. He often counsels clients that real estate is a hedge against inflation and a long-term wealth-building tool.

Bryan also educates clients about overlooked opportunities like FHA 203(k) renovation loans, which allow buyers to finance improvements as part of the purchase—often creating instant equity.

A Relationship-First Philosophy

For Bryan, building trust is everything. “It’s like dating,” he explains. “I set expectations early and ask my clients to be open about their goals and finances. Trust goes both ways.”

This focus on transparency extends to his referral partners and team culture. Drawing from his Marine experience, Bryan creates a family-style, no-drama environment where everyone works toward shared goals.

Beyond the Office: A Passion for Community

When he’s not helping clients, Bryan pursues his passions: powerlifting, motorcycles, and discovering great food spots around the DMV. His creative side also shines through Sumo Media, a storytelling and branding side project that helps him connect authentically with clients.

Advice for Young Professionals

Bryan’s message to the next generation is simple: “Explore your interests early. Be disciplined with your finances. And remember, it doesn’t hurt to be nice.”

By blending discipline, empathy, and education, Bryan Sumardi has become not just a loan officer but a mentor for veterans, first-time buyers, and anyone ready to build a strong financial foundation through homeownership.

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