Third Coast Bank Mortgage Center

Willie Merritt serves as Senior Vice President and Director of Mortgage at Third Coast Bank, leading residential mortgage operations across the Greater Houston area. With more than 23 years of experience in mortgage banking and residential lending, he brings proven leadership, deep product knowledge, and a relationship-focused approach to both clients and referral partners.

Since joining Third Coast Bank in 2019, Willie has been responsible for the strategic growth and daily management of the bank’s mortgage division. He oversees a eleven-member mortgage team and consistently delivers strong performance, closing 100+ residential mortgage loans annually.

Willie works closely with realtors, home builders, and bank partners throughout Houston, helping foster strong professional relationships that support seamless loan execution and positive borrower experiences. His background in sales leadership and account management allows him to effectively align borrower needs with appropriate loan products, serving first-time homebuyers, move-up buyers, and real estate investors alike.

Recognized for both production excellence and innovation, Willie has received multiple industry honors, including designation as a Top 1% Certified Partner with UWM, Fastest Growing Loan Officer, and In the Spotlight award recipient. These recognitions underscore his commitment to high standards, operational excellence, and forward-thinking leadership within the mortgage industry.

A Houston resident since 1997, Willie attended Rice University on a football scholarship and remained in the Houston area following graduation in 2002. Originally from West Texas, he brings a disciplined, team-oriented mindset to his leadership style. He is a devoted husband and father of three and remains deeply invested in the community he serves.

As Director of Mortgage at Third Coast Bank, Willie remains focused on building trusted partnerships, delivering consistent lending solutions, and guiding borrowers and professionals through a confident, well-managed mortgage process.

Jessica Taylor is a Vice President and Mortgage Production Manager at Third Coast Bank with more than 25+ years of experience in the mortgage industry. She leads high-performing lending teams while continuing to deliver tailored financing solutions for homebuyers and homeowners.

Throughout her career, Jessica has held senior production and leadership roles at well-known financial institutions, including BB&T, Chase, SouthStar Bank, and IBC Mortgage. Her deep knowledge of mortgage lending, combined with a hands-on leadership style, allows her to drive growth while ensuring a seamless, efficient experience from application through closing.

Jessica studied Business Management at St. Edward’s University in Austin. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, reading, and hiking with her dogs.

PERSONAL MISSION STATEMENT

“I have experience in every facet of the mortgage industry, giving me a depth of expertise that most originators lack. Each client receives a unique strategy that is created in collaboration with myself to fulfill both short-and long-term financial objections.”

I am originally from the East Coast, from a military family with military sons, I have worked in the mortgage lending industry for more than 20 years. During this time, I have developed a strong enthusiasm and exceptional creativity for producing solutions for my clients.

Because of my origination and industry knowledge background, I am a valuable resource for all my clients and referring partners.

PERSONAL MISSION STATEMENT

"I specialize in originating mortgage loans across the nation while helping, guiding, and educating individuals and families in realizing their financial investment and real estate dreams through home ownership."

My over a decade long experience in banking has developed my passion for communicating and assisting customers with navigating loan programs and finding the right ones to meet their needs.

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, seasoned owner, or investor, think of me as a valuable resource as you develop your real estate short and long-term goals, no matter how intimidating the process might seem.

Elizabeth McAdams is a Senior Mortgage Loan Originator at Third Coast Bank, serving borrowers throughout the Greater Houston area and beyond. With nearly 24 years of experience in mortgage originating and lending, Elizabeth has successfully navigated multiple economic cycles and real estate market shifts, giving her clients the confidence that comes from working with a seasoned professional.

Elizabeth is known for her unwavering commitment to integrity, transparency, and personalized service. She specializes in a wide range of loan products, including FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional, and HomePath. Her deep product knowledge allows her to tailor financing solutions to fit each borrower’s unique financial situation—whether they are first-time homebuyers, repeat buyers, or seasoned investors.

Throughout her career, Elizabeth has built lasting relationships by delivering dependable guidance, clear communication, and results her clients can be proud of. She remains dedicated to staying current in an ever-evolving industry while continuing to provide mortgage solutions that help her clients achieve their homeownership goals with confidence.

With 24+ years of expience in the banking and mortgage industry, Rod Kinney brings a seasoned, relationship-driven approach to helping clients achieve their homeownership goals. He is an experienced Loan Officer with a demonstrated history of success aross a wide range of lending enviroments, consistently delivering a smooth and informed mortgage experience.

Before begining is career in finance, Rod played football at Baylor University, where he developed the discipline, resilience, and leadership that continue to define his professional approach today. The teamwork and competitive mindset he built on the field now translate into his commitment to serviing clients with focus, integrity, and a drive for excellence.

Rod's background includes deep expertise in Negotiation, Business Planning, Slaes, VA lending, FHA lending and Customer Relationship Management (CRM). His clients appreciate his ability to simplify complex financial concepts, anticipate challenges before they arise, and guide them confidently from application to closing.

Whethere working with first-time buyers, season homeowners, or Veterans utilizing VA benefits, Roderick is committed to providing personalized solutions tailored to each borrower's unique financial situation.

Rod believes that trust, communication, and education are the foundation of every successful mortgage transaction. His goal is to ensure that every client feels upported, informed, and empowered throughout the lending process.

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