To help our members get to know one another, NRMLA publishes periodic member spotlights featuring professionals from across the reverse mortgage ecosystem.
Meet Edward Salzano, a loan officer at Absolute Home Mortgage in River Vale, NJ, who actively serves on NRMLA’s State and Local Issues Committee.
Prior to entering the mortgage business, Edward spent 31 years at LiDestri Foods, Inc. As Executive Vice President and COO, Edward drove the company to prominence as the largest privately held pasta sauce and salsa manufacturer in the U.S. He played a pivotal role in marketing and co-creating Francesco Rinaldi Pasta Sauce and Spikes’ Salsa.
During his time at LiDestri Foods, Edward was active in the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) and in 2024 was inducted into the Private Label Hall of Fame with its Lifetime Achievement Award.
How did you get into the reverse mortgage world?
When my Godson Anthony Muscarelle joined Absolute Home Mortgage Company, I was asked to become an Advisor to the company. I thought the best way to help was to learn what they did. So, I studied and took the NMLS test. After becoming more familiar with Absolute and the team, I perceived a void servicing the senior community. I decided to specialize In Home Equity Conversion Mortgages.
What reverse mortgage issues/topics are you most focused on now?
The topics I focus on most is how to use the reverse to unlock your home’s equity for Estate planning and lifestyle enhancements. I concentrate on meeting with attorneys and financial planners to educate them on how powerful a tool the reverse is for their clients.
What has been your biggest professional challenge/obstacle thus far? How did you overcome/handle it?
My biggest obstacles right now are condos that are not HUD approved. Some of the bylaws are very restrictive and are not applicable for a spot approval.
Why did you become a NRMLA member?
To learn more about the industry and network with the experts in the field.
What’s one item you can’t live without?
My family!
