get ready for
A lending team that’s focused on you.
At Luminate Bank, we’re redefining the home loan industry by ditching the old bad habits and bringing together a team with decades of experience. Our mission? To align with your vision and help you unlock your full potential through smarter finances.
>> Our Team
We believe lending should be easy to understand and approachable. With transparency and consistency at the heart of everything we do, we’re here to make sure every step is clear and every decision is made in your best interest.
Our goal is to keep you informed, engaged, and confident at every turn—so, let us introduce you to the staff who make it all happen!

Mark Knudson
Mortgage Loan Originator | NMLS# 2040748
Mark Knudson brings a customer-first approach to mortgage lending, shaped by more than 20 years of experience in hospitality and sales.
Mark entered the mortgage industry in 2020 and quickly found that many of the skills he developed throughout his earlier career translated naturally to helping homebuyers: listening carefully, understanding what people need and making sure they feel taken care of.
For Mark, those qualities are especially important during the homebuying process. Purchasing a home is a major financial decision, and he believes borrowers deserve a loan officer who will take the time to understand their goals, explain their options, and be available throughout the transaction.
A Focus on Education and Service
Mark takes pride in going beyond simply helping clients secure financing. His goal is to educate borrowers so they understand the decisions they are making and feel confident about the path forward.
Whether someone is purchasing their first home or moving into their next one, Mark focuses on creating a smooth, well-communicated experience. He listens to his clients' needs and requests and works to make the mortgage process feel as manageable as possible.
His commitment to client service has earned him Chicago Magazine's Rising Star recognition for four consecutive years, an acknowledgment of his work and dedication as a mortgage professional.
Mark is licensed to lend nationwide, allowing him to work with borrowers across the country while maintaining the same personal approach with every client.
Rooted in Chicago
Mark grew up in Chicago's Northwest suburbs and has lived in downtown Chicago for more than two decades. His connection to the city gives him a personal perspective on the communities and neighborhoods he serves.
Whether working with a Chicago buyer or a borrower elsewhere in the country, Mark brings the same focus to every transaction: listen, educate and help the client move toward their homeownership goals with confidence.
Life Outside of Mortgage Lending
Outside of work, Mark enjoys staying active and involved in his community. He volunteers his time, enjoys playing billiards, and spends time on the golf course whenever he can.
His background in hospitality, sales and mortgage lending all share a common thread: working with people. Mark enjoys building relationships and being someone his clients can rely on throughout an important milestone in their lives.
For homebuyers looking for a knowledgeable, approachable loan officer who prioritizes communication and education, Mark Knudson is ready to help make the mortgage process a smoother part of the journey to homeownership.




