Karen Lagasse
Karen Lagasse is a seasoned mortgage professional with over 26 years of experience in the industry, currently serving as a Senior Loan Officer at Northpoint Mortgage, Inc. in Bedford, New Hampshire. Throughout her career, Karen has guided clients ranging from first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors, earning a reputation for honesty, professionalism, and client-focused service. She excels at navigating complex real estate markets, interpreting lending regulations, and negotiating favorable outcomes for her clients, all while keeping them informed and confident at every step.
Karen’s journey into the mortgage industry began after 17 years of owning and operating a service station in Manchester, New Hampshire. Transitioning to mortgages required learning an entirely new set of skills — underwriting, compliance, and commission-based sales — but her persistence and commitment allowed her to build a thriving career. She discovered her niche working with first-time homebuyers, valuing the opportunity to guide clients through one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives with clear communication and accessibility. Her dedication has been recognized multiple times, placing her consistently among the top performers in her company.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Karen is deeply invested in giving back to her community. She serves on the board of Tailgate Transport and Rescue, a local nonprofit dog rescue, and remains active in professional networks such as the Greater Manchester National Board of Realtors and the Young Professionals Network. Balancing a demanding career while raising two children, Karen attributes her success to consistency, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to ethical service. Her philosophy is simple: make homeownership not just a dream, but a reality for every client who walks through her door.
• Greater Manchester National Board of Realtors
• Young Professionals Network
• Tailgate Transport and Rescue
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to consistently showing up every day, dedicating the necessary time and effort, committing to continual learning, and maintaining clear, responsive communication with my clients.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The mortgage industry is not for the faint of heart. It’s competitive, commission-based, and demands resilience. My advice for young women entering the field is to find a mentor and immerse yourself for at least two years. Mentorship provides guidance, perspective, and support as you navigate the challenges of the industry.
Consider starting at a bank, where you can learn the structure, terminology, and essential skills while earning a base salary before moving into commission-only roles. Be prepared for a 3–6 month adjustment period when changing companies—it’s a normal part of growth.
When I entered the industry, a friend gave me my start. Even in competitive spaces, mentorships evolve, and learning never stops. Today, I continue to connect with colleagues across different states, exchanging insights and staying open to growth. After twenty-six years in the business, I still consider myself a student.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The mortgage industry is highly competitive and self-driven. In a commission- and referral-based business, no one hands you a pipeline or guarantees a paycheck—you build it relationship by relationship, referral by referral. It often takes at least two years to establish consistent momentum and trust in the marketplace.
At the same time, there’s a collaborative side that many don’t see. Colleagues share insights, problem-solve challenging files, and learn from one another across state lines. Thriving in this balance of independent drive and professional camaraderie allows you to build something lasting.
The biggest challenges are the unpredictable income and difficulty in team-building due to the commission-based structure. Opportunities exist for companies that foster mentorship and a strong professional culture, and for increasing visibility for women who successfully balance family and career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are ethics, reliability, and maintaining a strong family balance. I strive to approach my work with integrity, treat people well, and be responsive and dependable in all my professional relationships. Continuous learning and building meaningful connections—across state lines and within my community—are also central to how I work and live.
Outside of work, I enjoy traveling to Minnesota to visit my grandchildren, tending my garden, refreshing a room with new décor, or exploring local restaurants. Living in New Hampshire gives me the perfect balance of access to Boston and the seacoast while staying grounded in the beauty of home.
Locations
Northpoint Mortgage, Inc.
Bedford, NH 03110