Carmen Walden With over 40 years of experience, Carmen Walden has dedicated her career to helping first-time homebuyers achieve their dreams of homeownership. Her extensive background spans various roles in the mortgage and real estate sectors, including Senior Mortgage Loan Officer and Business Development Officer at JPMorgan Chase, as well as Appraisal Reviewer and Lending Manager at People’s United Bank. In 2019, she reached a lifelong goal by earning her Real Estate License and is now a proud Real Estate Agent with Realty ONE Group Connect.
Ms. Walden is passionate about sharing her expertise and empowering others. She actively partners with HUD-approved housing counseling agencies across Fairfield and New Haven Counties, serving as a presenter. Through these collaborations, she advocates for sustainable homeownership as a powerful tool for wealth building, especially in low- to moderate-income communities.
Her career is marked by numerous accolades, including the "Heart of the Community" award from Chase, "Rookie of the Year" award from Realty ONE Group Connect and in 2025 she was honored at the 42nd Annual Ijlal Muhammad Humanitarian Award for Outstanding Community Service. She takes great pride in her ability to successfully develop and expand businesses in underserved areas, leaving a lasting impact on her community.
Carmen often expresses gratitude for her career, saying, "Helping others achieve their dreams of homeownership and being part of their wealth-building journey brings me immense joy and fulfillment. This is the most rewarding part of my life's journey."
Born and raised in Bridgeport, Carmen graduated from Central High School and pursued higher education at Sacred Heart University and the University of Bridgeport. She remains deeply rooted in her community, serving as an active member of the Cathedral Parish of St. Augustine's. She has also held leadership roles as a board member for the Neighborhood Housing Service (NHS), Family Services Woodfield, and Bridgeport Neighborhood Trust and contributing to various committees.
In her personal life, Carmen is married to her high school sweetheart, Karl "Buckey" Walden. Together, they have two children, KC and Jenna, and two grandsons, James and Marques. When she is not working, Carmen enjoys hosting game nights, working out, listening to music, and reading on her Kindle—always cherishing quality time with family and friends.