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Learn About Us and Our Company History

Proudly Part of the Local Community

21st Mortgage Corporation opened its doors in 1995 with a staff of four. Today, the company has more than 1,000 team members. Founded by CEO, Tim Williams, and retired CFO, Rich Ray, 21st Mortgage has always played an important role in the revitalization of downtown Knoxville, and continues to actively support local organizations in-and-around Tennessee.

Company History

For more than 15 years, 21st Mortgage has been the largest employer of graduates from the University of Tennessee and Maryville College. 21st Mortgage has also been recognized as a Top Workplace in Knoxville numerous times, and has been specifically recognized as a Top Employer for Benefits Package.

In December of 2003, Clayton Homes acquired 21st Mortgage. The company quickly became the nation’s largest manufactured home lender. 21st Mortgage has taken home the prestigious National Lender of the Year award, sponsored by the Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI), every year since 2011.

As a consistent leader in the manufactured housing industry, the award is a testament to 21st Mortgage’s ability to operate profitably since opening – including challenges faced during the Great Recession and the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Meet Our Executive Leaders

Tim Williams, CEO

Tim Williams, President & CEO, began his career at Clayton Homes in 1976. He was the acting President of Vanderbilt Mortgage & Finance by 1982, and he founded 21st Mortgage in 1995. Tim has always been an active leader in the community through his work on many boards and the establishment of one of his most impactful programs, TN Achieves, which works to provide free community college for all Tennessee high school graduates. Tim earned both his Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Masters of Business Administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Walden Buttram, President

Walden Buttram started with 21st Mortgage in 2005 as a Financial Counselor. He has served in a number of roles with 21st. Walden is known for producing excellent results throughout his career – stemming from a combination of a strong work ethic, intelligence, calm demeanor, and kindness. Walden is a graduate of Maryville College, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in History.

Chris Housewright, COO

Chris Housewright began his career with Clayton Homes and moved to 21st Mortgage in 2000. Chris has since filled numerous front-line and leadership roles within 21st. Chris is a first-generation graduate of Maryville College, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business and Organization Management.

Hal Bibee, CFO

Hal Bibee began his accounting career with Coulter & Justus, where he gained 6 years of valuable experience. He joined the 21st Family in 2010 as Assistant Controller and served as Controller for 2 years before taking over as the Chief Financial Officer. Hal is a Knoxville native, and he was a standout baseball player for both Webb High School and the University of Tennessee. Hal received his bachelor of science in accounting from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Join Our Team

Considering 21st Mortgage as a possible next step in your career? Submit an application today! We are always looking for motivated, dynamic professionals who look to advance in the finance industry.

Apply Today