Robert B. Austin
president
Robert Austin is the Owner and Broker of Record at Crawford Real Estate Services, Inc., a private money lending company specializing in trust deed investments and hard money loans throughout California. He began his real estate career in 2000 and became a licensed real estate broker in 2009. Robert joined CRES, Inc. in 2008, became the Broker of Record in 2012, and became the owner in 2019.
With over 3,000 real estate transactions completed, Robert brings deep industry knowledge and a practical approach to private lending. He serves on the Board of Directors for the California Mortgage Association and is also a longtime member of the Redlands Rotary Club. He studied marketing at the University of Oklahoma.
Outside the office, Robert enjoys spending time with his three children, playing golf, coaching youth football, and watching college football.
Leonel Tapia
executive vice president
Leonel began his real estate career in 1987 as a payment processor for Far West Savings and Loans. He also worked for Standard Mortgage Company Loan Servicing Department and Aames Home Loans Investor’s Relations Department before he was hired by Crawford Investment Company in August of 1995. Leonel obtained his California Department of Real License in 1997. Outside of work, Leonel enjoys traveling every chance he gets including visiting his parents in Nicaragua.
Tekla Housley
operations manager
Tekla Housley began her career at Crawford Investment Company/Crawford Real Estate Services, Inc. in September 1996. Tekla obtained her real estate license in August 1997. Her first duties with Crawford were as the Lender Representative which entailed placing private investors in trust deed loans arranged by Crawford, preparing lender documentation as required by the Department of Real Estate, and acting as the liaison for the lenders with other Crawford departments. In her spare time Tekla enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and working jigsaw puzzles.
Sue Zowarka
servicing manager
Sue has worked in the real estate industry for over 45 years. She has worked at Crawford Investment Company/Crawford Real Estate Services, Inc. continually since April 1, 1995. She began as the manager of loan servicing and also oversaw the activities of Shoshone Service Corporation. Sue is still the manager of loan servicing department. She has been married to her husband Tom for 47 years. They have two grown sons and 4 grandchildren.
Zana Shain
escrow officer / fund control
Zana Shain began her escrow career as an escrow secretary in 1989. Zana has worked for CRES, Inc. for over 25 years. Zana’s overall knowledge and experience in the escrow industry allows her to be a valued team member. Over the years Zana has handled all kinds of transactions; each day presents a new challenge. She is a problem solver and brings a “can achieve” attitude to the closing process. In her spare time she enjoys reading and solving word puzzles.
James Branek
loan consultant
James Began his Real Estate Career with Household Finance Corporation (HFC) In 1989. In 1998 he also obtained his California Department Real Estate license and in 2008 he obtained his NMLS license. Before joining Crawford Real Estate Services, Inc. in 2024 James held various positions as a loan originator and Manager for such companies as Ford Consumer Finance and Ameriquest Mortgage. Outside of work, James enjoys spending time with his family and his new grandchildren.
Liliana I Zerpa
Executive Assistant
Liliana Zerpa launched her real estate career in 2021 with BHHS Realty, where she served clients as both a listing and buyer’s agent. In October 2024, she transitioned to Crawford Real Estate Services, Inc., taking on the role of Executive Assistant.
There, she plays a key part in initiating the loan process by organizing essential documentation and offering dedicated support to our team.
Liliana earned her real estate license in December 2021. Outside the office, she finds joy in dancing, exploring new destinations, and cherishing time with her family.
Elizabeth Grijalva
Escrow Assistant
I began my real estate career in 2000 as a Real Estate Agent Assistant. After a few years, I took time off to focus on raising my son. I later transitioned into the mortgage side of the industry, joining a family-owned company as a Junior Home Loan Processor, where I specialized in FHA and Conventional loans. I eventually began working independently as both a Loan Processor and Loan Officer Assistant, gaining valuable experience across various aspects of mortgage lending.
In 2025, I was excited to join Crawford Real Estate Services, where I continue to focus on private mortgage lending and providing personalized, client-focused service.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading and spending quality time with my son.
