Broker-to-Broker

It's the Season 4 premiere of Broker to Broker podcast, and we're kicking it off from the top! Host Marc Summers is back, joined in a momentous conversation with none other than the CEO of AIME, Jonathan Haddad.

Joanne Russell's experience makes her wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and perspective on all forms of mortgage markets, especially as Brokers everywhere are preparing for the coming year. Joanne shares how to persevere through the tougher markets, and how to capitalize on the markets when they're strong, to bolster your business through thick & thin markets and become resistant to the changes. 

In this episode, host Marc Summers refines his outlook, updates his business model, and streamlines his processes & procedures as he's joined by David Kakish, Producing Branch Manager at C2 Financial.

Fadi Sankari is an entrepreneur through and through, inhibiting the ‘entrepreneurial spirit' in everything he does. Throughout the episode, he reminisces about many failed business ventures before he entered into Wholesale mortgage, where he's now a top 1% originator. He says he remained driven and found his success in the pursuit of satisfying the ‘why'.

In this special Salute To Service: Veteran Advocacy Week episode, host Marc Summers gets a comprehensive breakdown of how to become a VA expert, as he's joined by Fuse VI Panelist, Elizabeth Cassidy, Mortgage Broker with Future Home Loans.

In this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers is joined by Fuse VI panelist Jessica Wells, Broker Owner of Clear Choice Mortgage. Jessica proves her expertise, and why she was a Fuse panelist this year, as this episode is full of nuggets of wisdom that immediately could be applied to a Broker's marketing, outreach, and pipeline to improve overall operations.

In this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey is joined by Fuse VI panelist Lindsay McCoy, Broker Owner of Care Finance Group. They cover many topics in this episode, like how to create and curate the best tech stack for your operations, consumer outreach & referral generations, client financial education & support, starting your own brokerage, Broker & homebuyer advocacy, and why NOW is the best time to be a Broker.

In this episode, Major Singleton, Broker/Owner of Major Money Matters, powered by Edge Home Finance, breaks down his approach, and his strategy for getting to the top, and remaining at the top. His biggest focus is on education; not just getting in front of audiences that can grow his network, but altering his classes and seminars to his audience, and ensuring that he follows up with every attendee for his courses. This is how he continually builds his network for himself and his team, and this is where he plants the seeds this year for production in the coming year.

In this compelling episode of Broker to Broker, Marc Summers sits down with Michael Most, a seasoned originator with 24 years of experience in the mortgage industry and a dedicated advocate for the Orthodox Jewish community. Join us as we delve into Michael's unique journey, combining his mortgage expertise and passion to empower members of the Orthodox Jewish community to achieve their homeownership dreams.

In this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey is joined by CEO of Dwell Mortgage and upcoming Fuse VI Spotlight Speaker, Shane Kidwell. Shane has only joined the broker channel at the start of 2023, and he's already making waves. Shane's hunger, energy, and drive for the wholesale channel exemplifies what it takes to succeed in the mortgage industry. As someone who has his hands in many different companies and services that he offers, he lives the commitment and effort it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur. 

Marc & JP reflect on their first Fuse experiences, uncover how it's evolved, discuss their tips for first-time attendees, and recount memories both fun and career-altering.

If you're looking to grow or scale your audience, your network, and your business, this is a must-listen episode. Braiden has maximized his business by itemizing his processes and optimizing his tech stack. He's grown his social media presence by nearly 3,000%. He's found a system to go viral with his video content. And he's grown and scaled his brokerage towards a volume approaching nearly 700 million this year. Braiden breaks down how he's done it all, with comprehensive instructions in how to do all of this with your own business.

This is an essential listen for Brokers, as Gina breaks down how to collaborate with your Processors, set expectations, and work as a unit to ensure your clients have the best experience possible. The systemic issues for Processors are addressed, debunking the idea that Processors are Broker assistants; they are true peers and collaborators.

Andrew has his hands in a lot of projects. He's been a broker for a long time, but only within the last five years did he open his own brokerage. He just moved to a new office location. He's just now hitting his stride on social media marketing. His tech is hitting its peak of processing. Everything is moving, changing, and growing for Andrew, and it's all in the black. 

Samantha's story is one shared by many in our community, one of constant growth; starting with her own business, to nurturing and ensuring the success of others under her leadership. Starting in the Retail channel, she made the jump by joining Marc's staff of Loan Officers, where she worked for 8 months. Now, from employee to peer, she's the Broker Owner of her own brokerage, and is doing amazing things in her and Marc's community by making herself a local resource, and establishing her brand.

Ethan has had a very interesting career path that is very useful to his longevity and effectiveness as a mortgage broker; he became a broker after eight years of working as an underwriter. Because of his prior career, Ethan's skills, knowledge, prep, and pipeline all reflect a full knowledge of his clients' loans, scoping out the entire mortgage process with no surprises.

Ethan has had a very interesting career path that is very useful to his longevity and effectiveness as a mortgage broker; he became a broker after eight years of working as an underwriter. Because of his prior career, Ethan's skills, knowledge, prep, and pipeline all reflect a full knowledge of his clients' loans, scoping out the entire mortgage process with no surprises.

Paige has had a life-long history in the real estate industry, growing up with her mother owning a real estate company, working numerous jobs around many different facets of mortgage, housing, and real estate, all until she landed back into becoming a mortgage broker in 2018.

Cameron is high-energy, and high efficiency. This episode covers a lot of processes and procedures and marketing topics, and Cameron shares his effective strategies, execution processes, and their incredible results.

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers is joined by Broker Owner of Green Haven Capital, Kevin Oto. Kevin is a master of setting up a system that works. From starting with a few staff members working out of a bedroom, to a prominent broker owner in one of the most lucrative markets in the country, Kevin has established his presence in the market by creating a consumer experience like no other; supported by the automations and dependable processes he's put in place. Kevin notes to “stay humble, stay hungry” in this industry, and he lives and operates by those words. He shares the way he's able to systematically keep in touch with clients, stay on top of processes, and continually generate new business leads. He notes that supporting his real estate agents' events, and coming to them as a resource to have their problems solved and questions answered has led to mutual support in kind. Kevin shares his strategies for making new real estate connections: “Every purchase I get is basically an audition. I need to wow this listing agent. What can I do differently to get this listing agent's business? Then as I grew, this came through education. I would target small teams. There's a lot of realtor groups that have teams of like five or ten. So, I would target the teams, go to the founder of that team, say, “Can I just come by your office and give a presentation? I think I can add value to your agents. What would they like to learn about?” So it's just going in there, presenting and showing them what we do differently, then educating them about the market. We cover how to get their offers accepted, how are we different, and differentiate ourselves from the competition. And that works. Every time I do a presentation, I have at least one or two people come back with questions. And then it's really just building relationships with these people. It's just staying in front of them, building relationships, supporting their events, having outings together, just building that bond and then the business will eventually go both ways. Just focus on the relationship, and make sure you're educating these people.” Key Points: 1:34 Getting Started, Rebuilding after the 2008 Crash 4:39 From The Beginning: Automations & Procedures for the Best Client Experience 8:57 Educating Borrowers and the Urgency of Pre-Approval 16:14 Establishing Real Estate Partnerships 19:32 Being Consistent: Mortgage Marketing in 2023 This episode is sponsored by PRMG

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey is joined by Broker Owner of Pinnacle Mortgage Corp, Kurt Strandson. Kurt has a wealth of experience, insight, and influence. As the former president and chairman of the Mortgage Bankers and Brokers Association, with experience lobbying for broker and homeowner rights since the crash of 2008, Kurt brought his years of advocacy expertise and experience to his new role as the AIME Legislative State Captain of New Hampshire.  Kurt shares not just his knowledge of advocating for homebuyers and his fellow brokers, but also his knowledge of running and scaling a successful, growing brokerage. Kurt's strategy for organic lead generation by way of fostering relationships with his clients and community before, and especially after closing on homes, is his secret to evergreen referrals and leads.  “We focus on customer experience throughout the transaction. Not just throughout the transaction, but after the transaction. Many companies will focus on going out and entertaining some realtors asking for the next new loan. We spend a lot of time on a yearly basis, 7 to 8 events a year, where we invite our most recent clients to events after they closed, and we're formulating relationships with them. We're inviting their families or kids. We do stuff in the local community and we're building those relationships so they know that we care. It's not ‘Oh, your loan is closed, we're not going to see it for a long time'. Your first loan is done, and that's how you build those lasting referral relationships. You're providing a level of service. They come to us, with questions like, ‘Hey, I need a plumber,' or ‘Hey I need a solar guy,' or they're coming back asking for referrals. It keeps that dialog going. So it's not just a one-and-done transaction. And then that's how you build some loyal relationships. They rely on you. They rely on you for your knowledge, your professionalism, your experience, and you're able to provide that for more than just on a one transaction deal.”  Key Points: 2:01 Starting Out As a Broker in New England 7:31 Broker Advocacy in Action 11:27 Advocacy Strategies — Local to National 13:37 Why Employees and Homebuyers Go Broker 18:38 Pinnacle's Structure and Growth Strategy 22:36 Lead Generation via Fostering Relationships This episode is sponsored by Change Wholesale

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers is joined once again by friend of the show and AIME community, Elena Boland, Broker Owner of Wholesale Mortgage Services. Elena has been changing her game and scaling her business since she was last on the show over 100 episodes ago for episode 55. She's been diversifying her products and services, finding new ways to engage her local community, as well as ways to involve her business and marketing in her personal life to great networking and lead generation benefits. Elena is a true example of changing with the market and social climate leading to success & growth. Elena had some amazing experiences and advice to share on specialty programs like Jumbo loans; and really drove home the broker advantage: “You have to look at who your competition is, in any portion of our mortgage share. So, meaning our different products. And if you look at what your competition is doing, what are their limitations? What are their restrictions? Are we restricted in that way? Nope. So even though we don't have the same benefits in the way of omitting student loans and things like that which can be done in retail, if you can lend more money, that's really going to be more valuable to them; if they don't have another $500,000 to put down on a big expensive home that they're diving into, that's huge. You're going to do a better job because you're the mortgage professional, you're not a banker, you're not someone sitting behind a headset across the country. You are here. They can walk in, and they really love that. Not only do clients love that, but the realtors love that as well, because they know that you're going to keep working until you solve a problem.” Key Points: 2:31 Changes in the Housing Market Since early 2021 8:05 Diversifying your Products and Services based on Local Housing Needs 11:31 The Essential Requirement to Adapt to Constant Change 16:47 Blending the lines between Social Media Marketing and Personal Life 22:23 Jumbo Loans and the Broker Advantage of Negotiation 26:12 “Diving into AIME” & Other Advice for Driving Business into 2024 This episode is sponsored by PowerTPO

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey gets a peek at the bright future of the wholesale channel, as he's joined by Jason Kindler & Aaron Bacus, Broker Owners of First Coast Mortgage Funding. As Broker Owners of First Coast Mortgage Funding, Jason and Aaron bring two different approaches, skill sets, and backgrounds to their brokerage that creates a sum of strengths greater than the sum of their parts; Jason has strengths in processes and working with builders, and Aaron with relationship building to creating new leads. Together, First Coast Mortgage Funding has grown into an incredibly successful and efficient machine. Both Jason and Aaron have incredible advice for retail LOs and wholesale brokers new to the wholesale channel. The levels of freedom they have as brokers in wholesale has granted them the opportunity to forge their own systems & processes to a point that their speed competes with the fastest retail lenders, while still remaining able to maintain the service, consideration, and human element that brokers are known for. They break down and make the case for why the wholesale channel is the way of the future for industry workers and borrowers alike. Aaron breaks it down simply: “At this point, I'd be concerned for you if you're not a broker. While loan officers are still going to be needed in the future, there's no question that their margins will shrink. There's no doubt that it's happening now for technology shoppers. And if you don't have control, at least to see what's going on and have some sort of participation in that, I would be concerned. What are retail LOs going to do when rates are raised? They have no control over that. And that's why we're very optimistic for the broker from the entrepreneurial local business standpoint. We're serving the local people. That's our value add. We're accountable to that realtor and that borrower that lives down the street to make sure that their loan closes.” Key Points: 2:26 Starting Out in a Lead-Based Business 13:54 Misconceptions about Wholesale, and The Freedom of Choice 22:37 Collaboration in Wholesale vs. Competition in Retail 30:42 Wholesale Control and Organic Process Building 40:39 Advice to Retail & New LOs & the Bright Future of Wholesale This episode is sponsored by Windsor Mortgage

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey sits down with Justin Rocheleau, Broker Owner of JR Mortgage Group Inc, to discuss how teaming up with financial planners can take your business to the next level. Justin has found great success in marketing to financial planners as referral sources for his business. As we all know, financial planners are in it for the long haul when it comes to serving their clients, and being able to present the best options for their client's financial success is a win-win for both parties. By collaborating with financial planners, Justin has been able to create strong relationships and provide clients with the best possible advice and solutions. In the past, many financial planners did not have mortgage relationships at all, and when it came to mortgages, they would simply recommend their clients to "just go talk to your bank." However, this allowed Justin to come in and offer a new and better solution. He was able to show financial planners that by working with him, they could offer their clients a more personalized approach and get better results. Through his experience, Justin has learned that the key to success in this approach is to focus on building long-lasting relationships with financial planners. He emphasizes the importance of trust and transparency, as well as staying up-to-date on the latest industry trends and changes. If you're looking to take your business to the next level and gain valuable advice to stay ahead of the game, tune in now! Key Points: 1:52 The market's weird everywhere you go 4:10 Justin started JR Mortgage in March 2021 7:55 Targeting financial planners as referral sources 12:46 You gotta know your role 15:38 Where would you find these planners, and how would you initiate that conversation 25:58 Send us the folks that have trouble getting approved 33:26 Fill that gap and help those people 34:29  Where do you see the mortgage market in 3-5 years? This episode is sponsored by AIME Fuse

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers is joined by the Broker Owner of ACE Lending Group, Elyin Perez. Elyin hasn't been in the wholesale channel long, but ever since going broker and joining the wholesale channel, Elyin and ACE Lending Group have made a substantial impact. Elyin is now a tenacious, driven, and prominent leader in the wholesale community. He leads by example, and has an adventurous willingness to continually try new or different strategies to find what works best for both his staff, and client base. ACE maximizes its backend to provide the best possible client experiences; “good enough” is not a term Elyin uses in his approach to systems, processes, and service. Elyin utilized what he calls the “Break It Method,” which means he and his staff push to change even what works, to make it work even better. It's an approach that invites his team to contribute to the way it functions, thus finding the best way for the team to collaborate. Strategies like this are how independent brokerages are able to compete with big banks and retail lenders, by remaining flexible and open to change.  Elyin breaks down the “Break It Method” process, and how and why it works as a tool to foster the abilities of your staff: “When I say “break it,” I mean that we're really changing. There will be days that we say, ‘All right, we're going to try this.' And then an hour later, we realized that was not a good idea. I take responsibility as the owner. Obviously, you need to have people that are willing to grow with you through those pains.I don't care if it costs me money. I don't care if it means I have to jump in to assist. You've got to be empowered to make decisions. I need to be able to run the business. And so going through that Break It Method, we just keep tweaking, tweaking, tweaking to make it better. I say, “What makes Amazon so special?” It's their speed. They don't actually have great service. It's all automated. Their speed is what people are buying. They're convenient. So we need to compete. We can deliver the speed & convenience that people need to feel like they're talking to the right people to make the right decisions.” Key Points: 1:20 Breaking In as a Broker — from Auto, to Retail, to Opening ACE Lending 7:52 Dynamics of Working with Loan Partners 12:08 Tech for Mortgage Brokers: Systems and Processing 13:57 The ‘Break It' Method 18:41 The Leadership Mindset: Letting Things Grow by Letting Them Go This episode is sponsored by AIME Fuse 6

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey is advised, informed, and inspired by Mortgage Advisor and Broker with C2 Financial, Allison Thenhaus! Allison is known as a Mortgage Advisor for multiple brokerages for a great reason. Though only having been in the wholesale mortgage industry for a relatively short time, she has insight and knowledge beyond her years. Allison has a vast knowledge of systems & processes, customer service, ethics & values, and long-term market trends.  Allison has done her research and has practical experience as a broker that sets an exceptional example for the rest of the broker channel, willingly taking on the wealth of responsibility that comes with being a broker, and using it to the best interests of her clients. Doing the hard work leads to long-term, and high-scale return business: “Ultimately, the buck stops with brokers. We're like project managers of the loan; we're reaching out for the title, to insurance, to the appraisers. If something happens that our borrower does not like, we fix it. Even if we didn't make the mistake, even if it wasn't our cost to incur. We're really not in this for the transaction. I'm in this for every loan, so when we get a client, I want to make sure that I do every single loan you ever have for the rest of your life, every friend, every family member. If you hear of anyone that wants a loan, that's my ultimate goal. We're really after what's best for our clients because we want them to come to us as advisors and know that we're going to shop for the best deal for them. That's why we're brokers, ultimately.” Key Points: 3:08 The 2023 Mortgage Market & The Windows of Opportunity 7:07 From the Equestrian to the Real Estate Industry 11:46 Personal and Professional Responsibility for Brokers 14:22 Recruiting, Systems and Services 21:28 Bob Burg's The Go-Giver Mentality: Saying Yes for the Right Reasons 30:25 Simplifying Processes to Handle More Volume & Save More Time 35:43 Preparing Investments for the Imminent Future of the Housing Market This episode is sponsored by EPM

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers is exhilarated by the infectious energy and down-to-earth wisdom of  Maddux Mortgage Broker Owner, Mike Maddux! Mike's hunger for success in the wholesale industry is an inspiration that mortgage professionals can learn from. Mike's energy, pragmatism, and ability to get to the heart of a topic are all as refreshing as it is educational. With a diverse background in the Marine Corps, the fitness industry, and in the retail channel all before starting his own brokerage, Mike brings a lot of no-nonsense wisdom to the table, and it leads to significant takeaways in short order. In just this episode alone, Mike provides substantiated and immediately applicable advice for peer and client relationship building, social media and advertising, VA and DPA Programs, and so much more. Mike does 50% of his business in VA Loans. His experience with VA and DPA programs leads to some invaluable insight: “VA doesn't have really strict set guidelines on debt to income or credit, and that's why it is one of the best loan programs out there, because if you get an AUS approved eligible, then it works. And if you don't get approved eligible and you have to have it manually under it and you find an underwriter that doesn't have any overlays, that goes off the VA handbook and you can get almost anything approved. I couldn't be more thankful for the fact that 50% of my business is VA Loans because it introduces me to more Veterans, and they're super easy to get close with. So I'm like a kid in a candy store. Oh, you're in the army? I'd love to help you buy a house!”  Mike doesn't take no for an answer in fighting for his clients, and takes it a step further for clients that need access to DPA programs: “A lot of Down Payment Assistance programs specific to a state or a municipality are restricted to banks and credit unions. The biggest piece of advice I can give is to do your due diligence, find out if there is a way you can offer it, or what steps would be required for you to partner with said bank or credit union so that you can offer it. And, as a broker, provide a higher level of service than they're going to get from the loan officer at the bank.” Key Points: 1:30 A Roundabout Break into the Mortgage Business 4:20 Growth Mindset of an Up-and-Coming Brokerage 6:20 VA: The Pinnacle of Loan Programs 12:29 Diligence for Success in Down Payment Assistance 17:07 Navigating the Housing Market and Communicating with Clients 19:40 Social Media - Lead Generation Through Being Relatable 27:11 Get Prepared for 2024 by Staying Hungry This episode is sponsored by RCN Capital

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers is joined by Brian Sweeney, Broker Owner and President of Scoot Mortgage. Brian has a long, varied career in financial services. Starting in retail, he transitioned to wholesale while simultaneously working in wealth management. Brian's varied career has led directly to an understanding that knowledge is power. The more knowledge you have and are able to successfully communicate to consumers leads to a more diverse and assured client base.  Brian believes that brokers can and should take on an advisor role for their clients because it brings in return business, which is better for the long-term health of a brokerage. “When you're an investment advisor, I mean, you're having quarterly meetings. We're reviewing what's happening in the economy. We're reviewing what's taking place in your actual investment accounts. We're looking at time horizons and risk tolerance and all these sorts of things that go into investment management along with your accounting and taxes, especially for a business owner. But you know, the wealth management side has taught me to be very patient in the mortgage world, because that planning aspect goes a long way. Instead of just saying, ‘Oh yeah, here's your rate, here's your turn, let's do business.' it's like, tell me about yourself. How is your current financial situation? What do you have going on? Maybe it's not even right for you to buy a House right now.” Brian explains “Clients can smell desperation. Look out for your clients' best interests as opposed to the business they may give you.”  Key Points: 1:30 From Retail to Wholesale, starting Scoot Mortgage 5:38 Brokerage vs. Wealth Management Firm 15:18 Social Media, Content Production, and Client Education 18:16 Client Communication and Lead Generation 21:35 Conceptualizing and Executing a Successful Marketing Campaign 27:42 Fuse: Success from Last Year, and Anticipation for Fuse ‘23 This episode is sponsored by REMN Wholesale

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey's foundations are rocked by the incredible stories and life lessons from a much-beloved member of the AIME community, the CEO of Mr. Mortgage, D.C. Terry!  D.C. has incredible stories, and important lessons to share and impart on the broker community. From his start as a US Marine in the music industry, to the pivotal moment that made him make a dramatic change in his career trajectory. D.C. is full of stories, moments, and instances where he took it upon himself to do the right thing by his clients. His selflessness, knowledge, and commitment to his clients is both inspiring and a model to which mortgage brokers should aspire to. D.C.'s stories have to be heard to be believed. D.C. speaks of how essential it is to ensure the client gets the most out of working with him, and how this has led to long-term connections, referrals, and business. “Listen, something spoke to me and said, “I've got too much money.” I sat back and I'm like, “What do you mean?” That client was charged too much money. I'm really going over it in my mind because I'm thinking, “I did a great job. The client was happy.” Next thing I know, I call them back and tell them that I charged them too much money. True story.”  D.C. recounts “But, I tell him “If there's anything that you need from this point forward in this industry, you come to me. I got you.” Well, it turns out that guy later on, his businesses had to go through some modifications. So he calls me, and we can make money for doing modifications. I jumped on the phone with his commercial lender, worked that out for him. I worked out the same thing with his primary residence as well. If he had any issues with insurance or anything, he called me. I handled everything for him. But from that point it was something that was given to me that I can now give to you: when you are closing a loan for someone. Make sure that that person gets more out of it than you.”   Key Points: 2:23 The Hall of AIME Sparking Change Award 5:51 Life-changing moments, from the music to the mortgage Industry 14:17 Working in mortgage for the service, not the money 22:52 Establishing Your Own Brokerage 28:52 Serving the Underserved Loans and Clients. 34:34 Educating Clients leads to Long-Term Collaboration 41:08 Making Homeownership Possible for the “Impossible” Clients This episode is sponsored by Change Wholesale

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers is given an absolute masterclass on social media, content production, and branding from The Mortgage Mentor™️, Rebecca Richardson! Rebecca is known all throughout the AIME community and the wholesale channel at large for her expertise in content creation, branding, and social media. She's been featured on AIME stages and in AIME content due to her success and the hard-earned knowledge she shares, helping mortgage brokers navigate and find success across all social media platforms. Rebecca acknowledges that often, the content creators themselves are the biggest hurdle to overcome. She shares her two-tiered strategy for content creation and posting, but also, how to approach mortgage-specific content to make it more fruitful for the audience AND the creator: “Let your real self come through. We're talking about a pretty dry topic. At least look like you're excited to be here. It's really more about being willing to be unique and nobody can copy you. So the way that you explain things, the way that you show up, what you think is funny, even injecting humor into those videos - that's a vulnerable process because you're putting yourself out there for public consumption, ridicule, all those kinds of things. Until you start getting some of that feedback, you feel like you're just shouting into the void. But understanding that it's going through that process, and being consistent, and being willing to do it consistently for three, six months, sometimes longer, there is a payoff at the end because you will find your people. They will find you, and they will identify with you as your true, unique self versus trying to be some persona or avatar or whatever you think that people want to be. Just be yourself. You've already connected with people in real life. It's really no different online.” Key Points: 1:17 Then: From Financial Planning to the Wholesale Channel 5:01 Now: Connecting with Clients Online 8:17 The Brass Tacks of Tik Tok, Facebook, and Instagram 13:20 Content Creation and Posting Strategy 20:12 Posting Across Multiple Platforms 25:16 Being Authentic with Your Content & Finding Your Audience 27:54 Improve Processes & Procedures by Making them Personal This episode is sponsored by FundLoans

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey is joined by a master of pipeline management and relationship building, CEO/Broker of EZ Fundings Home Loans, Tano Kapedani! Tano has been in the wholesale mortgage business for over 20 years. As an expert on delegation, Tano shares how to properly prioritize your own time. He's honed and prioritized his brokerage's structure to get the absolute most out of his precious time as a producing owner.  What does Tano do with that time he's earned back? He's focusing on building strong relationships. Tano has made EZ Fundings massively successful because he's learned how to effectively build relationships with peers and clients over his 2 decades in the industry.“I promise you this: 20 good relationships are better than 5000 likes. I don't care if everybody knows me or not. What I care about is how the results are aligned with my efforts. Am I getting what I'm putting in? Am I influencing and accomplishing what I want to do? Am I changing the lives of people I'm meeting? This is what I care about.” Tano passes on how to both make time to form relationships, and the steps to building strong relationships. “Make sure that you create relationships so strong, that those you work with would be embarrassed to even consider working with somebody else.” Key Points: 2:02 The 2023 Housing Market, West to East Coast 7:14 The Differences over 20 Years in the Industry 12:23 Serving your Pipeline by Eliminating the Unknown 18:01 Setting the Schedule to Run a Brokerage 22:41 Own what You're Doing in Policies & Procedures 31:20 Delegation of Tasks, Paying to Save Yourself Time 39:43 20 Relationships over 5,000 likes- Becoming the Broker you Want to Be This episode is sponsored by PRMG

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers is joined for a strategically rejuvenating, and a self-assuring discussion with the Pacific Northwest Regional VP at UMortgage, Kahren Oxner! Kahren is a wealth of hard-earned knowledge, wisdom, and confidence. This combination makes for an exceptional, educational, and inspiring episode. In just a half hour, Kahren shares an empowering discourse about business, networking, and social media strategy, how to build up your skills and mindset to take on changing markets, and most importantly, how to build yourself up to be the best version of yourself every day.  Kahren also provides a lot of clarity and definitive reasons why it was the right decision to change from the retail mortgage channel to the wholesale community. While in retail, Kahren had heard years worth of lies and ghost stories about what goes on in the wholesale channel. Little did she know, those fabricated stories would end up being exactly opposite from the truth, and also, a self-dictated description of the retail industry: “You have better technology as a broker, a better opportunity, more control. You've got executives, peers, and leadership at every wholesale lender that want us to thrive and succeed, and are working their tails off to be innovative. I have never seen more innovation than I have in the broker channel. It is a sharp, smart, progressive group of people that are really moving this industry forward. And frankly, I think what retail is saying about wholesale is more true about their own side than it is on the wholesale side.” Key Points: 1:06 From Unaware of the Mortgage Industry to Retail Mortgage Expert 4:40 Going Broker- how and why she made the jump 6:55 Myths & Misconceptions about Brokers from the Retail Industry 9:35 The Current Mortgage Market, and Controlling what you can Control 13:42 Changing with the Market, Finding the Opportunity in Everything 18:53 Strategies to Build Relationships over Transactions 27:19 Learning What Works to be Your Own Self-Advocate This episode is sponsored by AFR Wholesale

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey is joined by an exceptional entrepreneur and member of the AIME community, Broker/Owner of Harris Capital Mortgage Group, Lamont Harris! Lamont has his hands in many industries. Nonprofits, basketball teams, solar energy, and a brokerage of more than 80 staff members are just some of his endeavors. Lamont is able to successfully juggle all of these fields because he focuses on long-term sustaining practices. He actively fosters long-term relationships and prioritizes contributions to his communities. By example, Lamont has taken it upon himself and for his staff at Harris Capital to stay hungry and humble by being active, contributing members of their local communities. Lamont himself is an expert on the VA VASH program, and takes the opportunity to spread awareness of this resource to homeless veterans in his community: “I look for areas of opportunity to actually meet with homeless veterans and educate them on this process, and walk them down the path of finding out whether they're eligible or not. I don't get any immediate gain from that. It's not about that. It's about taking somebody from not having housing at all, and being able to help them regain that sense of independence. So I look at it from a standpoint of, hey, it may not create something for me today. Doesn't matter. It could possibly create something for me a few years from now. Once this person gets back on their feet, they're working, they're gainfully employed, I may have a VA loan in the future. Who knows? What I do know is I know that servitude begat gratitude, and gratitude creates opportunity. Right. So we don't go into it looking for an opportunity. We go into it looking to serve.” Key Points: 3:19 Starting in the Industry By Accident 6:21 Promoted Cross-Country, and Similarities of Timeshares and Mortgages 11:23 Sustainability Through Relationships- from Retail to Independent 17:27 Building Community, Staying Humble, and Staying Hungry as a Broker Owner 26:18 FLAG: The  Financial Literacy Advocacy Group 33:02 Balancing Multiple Businesses, and Keeping Everyone Happy 37:15 Controlling the Controllables- Preparing for Opportunity This episode is sponsored by REMN Wholesale

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers is joined by the new, yet already beloved member of the AIME community, Mortgage Advisor for Mortgage Nerds LLC, Amy Jo Tetzner! Amy Jo joined the broker channel only recently, having worked in the retail industry for most of her life. Despite that, Amy Jo has made a massive, positive impact on the entire wholesale community. “I started noticing the things about retail that I didn't like that I wasn't in love with, and having the background of living and breathing this industry. For almost 21 years, I started to suspect that I was being fed some lines of garbage and that I really needed to figure it out on my own. So I really started researching it and I was like, I need to become a mortgage broker. I want to become a broker.” Since joining the Wholesale Mortgage Channel, Amy Jo has contributed on social media, marketing, and community education to an unprecedented scale, setting an incredible example of what brokers are capable of on Facebook, TikTok, and in person. But it doesn't come easy. Amy Jo breaks down her industry jump, and how it was one of the hardest, but most rewarding years of her life: “I am my mortgage business. And when something bad happens or makes me feel bad in mortgage, I take that very, very personally. And I think that most of us do. I think that's very regular to feel that way. And if you really care, like if you really give a shit about your business, you're going to feel that way. I'm 20 years in, the good is really good, the bad is really bad. But just remember, you are going to get over that mountain and you're going to feel like you climbed Everest and you're on top. And I feel like that right now.” Key Points: 1:29 From Business Major to Marketing Director, Mortgage Broker 3:42 Poking Holes in the Retail Channel, Deciding to Become a Mortgage Broker 7:00 Networking via Facebook Groups, and Marketing in the Last Places You'd Expect 13:18 Success By Educating Borrowers, Peers, and the Community 19:53 Tips to Breaking into the Broker Community 23:13 Building Yourself and Your Work/Life Balance, Rebuilding the best Mental Health This episode is sponsored by Homepoint

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey celebrates 150 episodes with President of Growth at AIME, Broker and Co-Founder of Edge Home Finance, and Host of Grow & Get It, Tom Ahles. Tom is a master of many. As the President of Growth for AIME, he has helped facilitate the growth of AIME and hundreds of brokerages nationwide. While he has many large-scale goals and aspirations for the wholesale channel, he hasn't lost sight of, or consideration for improving the business of small and individual brokerages. Tom shares his top-down perspective from the positions he holds, but approaches his work from the ground floor, in that he still finds originating as invigorating and engaging as ever.  Tom shares his strategy and approach to recruiting and growth that has brought him and the wholesale community such unprecedented success: “All that I know for what I can control is I can make it a little better than it was yesterday. So for me, if that means I'm adding one person a day to this industry, then I'm doing my part. We just onboarded 30 in the last 50 days. So, you know, we'll do a little bit more than the average just because we've been at it for 12 years.”  “We're all using the same things, it's about getting your process down. Make sure it's something that you feel confident to put your reputation on. Because our members have families to feed, they have goals and aspirations. And the last thing we want to do is set somebody up in a position where it's not going to be better for them. I think that's the biggest misconception with a lot of those in retail that haven't switched yet- is the saying the grass is always greener. Well, it's a damn true statement. I got to tell you, the grass on the broker side is green.” Key Points: 2:33 Celebration of Broker to Broker Episode 150 6:39 Unprecedented Growth from Operations and Relationships 15:55 The Broker Lifestyle, Maintaining Success and Life/Family Balance 22:31 Doubling the Broker Market Share 28:09 The Value of Working ‘From the Ground Floor' 34:59 Best Lessons from Grow & Get It 41:24 Getting Involved in the Community through AIME On Tour This episode is sponsored by EPM

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey sits down for a deep, considered mortgage coaching from the CEO at Safetrust Mortgage LLC, Marsel Cilla! Marsel started his career in production for the auto industry, and brought his skills and mastery of managing minutiae in product and service delivery to the mortgage industry. Marsel has established dozens of processing systems to address immediate problems and concerns by setting short-term goals that fit in with the pursuit of long-term visions. Now, Marsel is looking ahead at the future of the entire wholesale channel by extending a welcoming hand to retail channel LOs looking to make the industry jump in 2023. In what he's called the ‘Thrive in Wholesale' campaign, Marsel and Safetrust aim to educate and empower Retail LOs, to encourage recruiting in independent brokerages, further strengthening the wholesale channel by utilizing the invaluable experience from retail lending. “It's short-term goals, but the long-term vision, so that met goals will guide you towards your long-term vision. We need to have the long-term mindset every day. What are we doing every single day to hit those production goals? Just like production, that goal will be reached, correct? And then, if we're unable to reach it, let's take a look and see what we can tweak.” Marsel illustrates that the idea of perfection is the enemy of progress, and that the best approach for your clients and your business is to improve as you go: “We call it quick response, continuous improvement. It's a method of saying, ‘Hey, this was my goal, and what actions are you going to implement to try something different, to fix the reason, to fix the root cause?' Then, we continue to get better every day.” Key Points: 2:21 What was Taken from the Automotive to the Housing Industry 4:11 How to Become a Business Owner and Leader in the Mortgage Industry 8:12 Establishing Structure and Goals of Mortgage Transactions 16:40 Short-Term Goals, Long-Term Vision 24:07 Recruiting from Retail to Wholesale with the Broker Shop Platform 32:49 Networking, Social Media, and Marketing for LOs This episode is sponsored by FundLoans

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers has an invigorating heart-to-heart with Broker Owner of Shields Family Home Loans and essential member of AIME's Veteran Homeownership Committee, Brian Shields. Brian shares exactly how he's brought his marketing, his business, and his overall well-being to a new level through being ‘Heart Forward' in everything he does. His social media presence and engagement are both incredible because he shares himself with his community. His peers, clients, and community all get to know him as a person just as much as they know his work.  Brian shares his effective, time-tested strategy of sharing yourself and personal, daily life as the model for video content creation: “We don't use it for marketing, we use it to provide for the communities and people that follow us. But, on the flip side, it does help because my audience realizes, ‘Oh, these are real, real people! They're not scripted, and they're not actors. So be as relatable as you can, very heart-forward. One of my favorite lines is ‘I don't have to ask for business as long as everybody knows what I do'.” “Go out and appreciate everything you got, and hold onto it with both hands.” Brian explains as he details his ‘Heart Forward' way of engaging his clients that builds community and trust. “Give your clients the attention that they deserve.”Brian's Heart Forward approach exemplifies the core of what makes brokers great resources for their communities: “Give your clients the attention that they deserve. These people are leaning on us. They're coming to you and me without even knowing who we are to say,' Hey, I want you to handle me, my wife, and my kids buying a house.' They're giving you that trust. We can't be desensitized to that. We've got to make sure that we're appreciating that and giving everything that they deserve and more. And with that, they'll never look for a mortgage broker anywhere else ever again.” Key Points: 1:18 Starting the Broker Side Hustle, to the Broker Lifestyle 6:16 Sharing Yourself and Life as Video Marketing Strategy 11:11 Responding to Engagement to Create More Engagement 16:04 Treating Every Conversation as a New Relationship 21:04 Remaining ‘Heart Forward' for Business and Mental Well-Being 27:27 Supporting those who Support You in the Community This episode is sponsored by RCN Capital

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey learns about video content creation and how to pursue your own niche by the Broker Owner of Navigator Mortgage Brokers, Jason Turner. Jason has over a decade of experience in the mortgage industry, and over that time, has become one of the community's leading VA loan experts, as well as one of the most consistent content creators in the wholesale channel. Jason shares how he pursued and found his niche, which has led him to strong, business-growing relationships, as well as the basis for his marketing strategy. Jason shares his secret to how he's able to post high-level content so consistently: “My content day is Monday. I'll actually bring a bunch of different shirts to the office and then just change my shirt, adjust the camera angle, and then it looks like it's a different day where I do stuff off the cuff. I see a question online, I'll do a real quick-hitter - I like to create my content all at once, just to have it done. I get it recorded, edited, and then posted and just spread it out through the week.” Jason shares his strategy for the rest of the week: “I like to plan on my content, and I actually do a lot of research online to see what other people are interested in or talking about. And then let me talk about that. What do the people want and what do they want to learn about? And then bam, here's my timely take on that.” Jason also shares his wisdom on how he was able to get over the hump of creating and releasing content: “Do what you're passionate about - I'm passionate about the VA space, so it's very easy for me to get behind my passion and then speak about it. So if you're fired up about it, the nerves fall to the wayside. So if you do what you're passionate about, it's going to be really easy.” Jason's advice for great business networking, knowledge building, and business growth are one and the same. “Target a niche. You can't be everything to everybody. People know me as a VA guy. If I talk to a bunch of realtors and I sell everything that I have, I'm really not selling anything. But if I sell myself and what I do as a specialty, and then they have that need, then they think of me. So I would absolutely recommend going deep in a niche for whatever people want to do.” Key Points: 2:50 From Laid Off, to Loan Processing, to going Independent 6:09 Opening up Shop during 2020 9:03 From Retail to Broker & the Tools of Wholesale 15:23 Expertise in VA Loans & Debunking VA Myths 22:51 Marketing and the Importance of Video Content Creation 30:05 Overcoming Yourself to Produce Relevant and Consistent Content This episode is sponsored by AIME Member Portal (AMP)

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers learns of the invaluable innovations in networking and marketing from Broker Owner of Third Street Financial, Robert Mahaffey. Robert shares exactly how he's changing and elevating the game for networking and lead generation through organic relationship building, and with proving and providing value in his relationships. Robert has both of these techniques on display through the hosting of his new Realtor Mastermind session series, featuring top-ranking realtors. Robert explains how the game for networking, lead generation, and marketing has changed for Brokers: “I did the parody of the ‘Call Me Maybe' Carly Rae Jepsen song, poking fun at the way that loan officers still think they can market when refinances dry up. They're like, ‘Hey, I just met you. Here's my business card. Call me maybe!'. You just can't go in with rate sheets and donuts anymore; that's the old way that people did it. We've got to provide more value than we ever have before, and we have to prove and provide value before we ask for anything.” Robert shares how he provides incredible value for those who attend and speak at his Mastermind Sessions, through graciously investing his time and providing the resources he has available: “I create reels for the agent, and then I send it to them and I say, ‘Hey, thank you so much for being my guest. I learned a lot about you. I think it was great whether we ever do a deal together or not. I know I've gained a new friend and hopefully, we'll get to work together. But I wanted to give you something; here's the whole recording of our mastermind. And, here's 12 reels that I cut for you without me in it.', It's an organic thing where now I'm investing in them.” Key Points: 1:11 From The Tech Industry to the “2nd Worst Job in America” 6:41 Independent from Day One, to Owning Third Street Financial  11:33 Organic Leads from Organic Conversations 14:37 Proving and Providing Value — Hosting Realtor Mastermind 22:25 Leading by Example and Collaboration 28:35 Hall of AIME, and the Opportunity to Build Relationships This episode is sponsored by Change Wholesale

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey sits down with Broker/Owner of Treasure Coast Mortgage, Emmett Dempsey. Emmett has an invaluable wealth of experience that he's bringing to the table. From globetrotting in the military, to varied jobs and positions within numerous channels in the Real Estate industry, Emmett has a perspective of the mortgage broker channel that few can match.  Emmett shares the marketing and business strategies that he's utilized to great success with Treasure Coast Mortgage, and notes that a business and marketing strategy can be one and the same; an established catalog of educational content. Emmett utilizes YouTube as means to educate and motivate tentative homebuyers off the fence, as to spread awareness of his brand by providing education and resources for borrowers. Emmitt explains how easy it is to establish and build a catalog of content that resonates with people. “Explain different concepts to clients, like loan estimates and closing disclosures. Make those videos a part of your in-process marketing — you know when you record a video for individuals sometimes? Record it one time and it lives forever.” Emmitt explains how these videos are utilized: “Build a consistent catalog. As soon as they find content that they like, they'll watch everything. They'll get into a suggested video loop on YouTube, or they'll dig through your Instagram to your old videos. Now, a common thing I hear is: I watched all of your stuff!” Key Points: 4:10 From Korea and Kosovo, to Two Decades in Real Estate 9:41 Starting a Successful Brokerage in April 2020, and Thriving Through COVID 18:01 How to Specialize with Niche Loans 26:53 Marketing Strategies, and Inspiration from Gary Vee 32:56 How to Build Credibility through a YouTube Catalog 40:36 The Need for Brokers: 100,000 LOs chasing 1,000,000 Agents, Doing 3,500,000 Sales This episode is sponsored by PRMG

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers sits down with a Mortgage Loan Officer at UMortgage, Kyle Koller. Kyle shares his eclectic knowledge and expertise from both the professional and personal sides of the wholesale channel – from multiplying his overall business by streamlining his operations processes, to the unique and effective ways he's able to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Kyle acknowledges the pride and drive that comes with a successful position in the wholesale channel, and drives home the importance of utilizing your community and resources to take the best care of yourself. “Brokers are an amazing force. We can do so many great things and I feel like the sky's the limit. And being able to turn that off sometimes is very hard.” He notes,  “Is being number one ruining your life balance? You've got to take a look in the mirror and realize, hey, I need to be the best dad tonight – I know on Monday I'm not going to be able to shut it off. Know your limitations, but also lean into what you have.” Key Points: 0:00 Preparing for Hall of AIME 2023 3:16 From Dentistry to Mortgage Brokering 8:48 Streamlining Operations Through Pipeline Management  13:38 Change Your Life with an Underwriter Cover Letter   17:58 Phenomenal Operations by Leaning into Your Community 25:34 An Alter Ego to Carve Out a Work-Life Balance This episode is sponsored by EPM

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers sits down with Broker/Owner of K2K Mortgage, Kris Radermacher. Kris shares the secrets of how she's established, maintained, and lived her memorable branding, and how she's taken advocating for the betterment of her client's long-term finances to an unprecedented level. From her returning clients, all the way to those who have only seen her K2K branding in passing –- there's no denying Kris has made herself and her business unforgettable. Kris shares how consistently going beyond the call of duty to advocate for even the toughest borrower cases has brought her incredible success in 2022. “It's so important now to be giving that extra to people. Where brokers are so much better is that only brokers can do loans that most can't, right?” Kris notes “Wells Fargo tells the client they can't get approved, and never tells them how to fix their situation. That client may be able to get approved. It may not be as far away as we think.. And that's where I think I've set my business kind of apart, is that honestly, I will have a talk with anybody. I tell agents, send in my way, let's chat about it. Let's see if there's a fix.” Key Points: 1:41 From Retail to Founding K2K in the Wholesale Channel 3:45 The Broker Boutique Process 6:37 Using The Experian Credit Report App to Clients' Benefit 9:37 Reverse Bruised Credit for your Borrowers   14:56 Making an Impression & Establishing Strong Branding 25:34 Investing in Yourself in 2023 This episode is sponsored by Homepoint

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey sits down with Thomas Sloan, Certified Mortgage Advisor at Capital First Mortgage. Thomas shares his recent experiences of entering the Wholesale Channel just before the pandemic, and how navigating that environment was a crash course of how to succeed through the worst the mortgage industry had been since 2008. These experiences, in turn, made him a stronger advocate for his borrowers. It's evident that Thomas is a true mortgage expert and fiduciary – always looking out for his client's best financial interests. “The harder you work, the more you stay in touch with your borrowers,” Thomas states. “The more you pay attention to their pennies and try to save them money wherever you can – the more they appreciate you, then refer you. Most of my business is referrals from my borrowers to other people, not real estate agents.” Key Points: 2:44 From Hospitality to the Mortgage Industry 8:03 Becoming a Full-Time Broker 11:33 Working Lean with a Small Brokerage 15:57   Flexibility as a Business Model 19:57 Organic Leads Through Doing the Right Thing  25:46 Taking the Time to Educate Realtors 29:57 Humanizing Yourself to your Borrowers This episode is sponsored by RCN Capital

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers sits down with Eric Rotner, VP Mortgage Banker at Change Home Mortgage. Eric shares how he maintains a consistently growing mortgage business through developing long-term relationships with his industry peers & partners, and through return business & referrals from previous clients. This ensures a consistent stream of new referrals and contacts from both sides of mortgage correspondence. Eric maintains a strong core of real estate agent contacts, but most importantly, client contacts. “Get to know the person as a whole, that's going to enable you to guide them the best. I'm working with them on their first house. I'm working with them on their next house. I'm working with their friends. They're my older clients. I'm working with their kids as they come to the age of purchasing a home. It's not because I offered them the best rate. It's because they trust me.”  Key Points: 1:24 From College to Change Home Mortgage 6:38 First Contact with New Clients and Contacts 10:20 Resolutions, Common Ground, and Return Business 16:22   Dictating the Terms of the Mortgage Process 19:31 Established Realtor Partners and Past Clients 24:37 Tracking Connections and Referrals This episode is sponsored by RCN Capital

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey sits down with a mortgage broker from JH Home Loans, Jimmy Hobson. The two discuss Jimmy's introduction to the inviting community of the Wholesale channel, take a deep dive into VA Home Loans, and how to create your own leads through frequent and authentic posts on social media.  Jimmy shares his invaluable expertise of how and why he's the #1 originator of VA Loans in Utah, and how having a specific expertise can grow the rest of your business. “Give me your VA Loans, and give me the opportunity to show you why we're better, and then I'll do your commercial loans, too.”  Jimmy goes on to break down misconceptions and the more intimidating aspects of originating VA Loans. “You can never take enough training on how to do those loans. The VA handbook is fluid, right? So there's a lot of nuance to it. That's why it's such a powerful loan, because the nuance is where you get loans done.” Key Points: 2:03 Looking ahead to 2023 4:26 Starting as a Lender 8:29 Being Welcomed into the Wholesale Channel 14:24   How Authenticity Beats Perfection 20:04 Generating Organic Leads 26:42 Developing a Social Media Presence 36:01 Breaking Down VA Loan Processes This episode is sponsored by JMAC Lending

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers sits down with two members of E Mortgage Capital Inc: Founder & CEO Joseph Shalaby, and President Sam Hijazin. The three discuss Joseph and Sam's unique yet similar perspectives of the mortgage industry, both having started their careers in the wholesale channel, neither having worked in retail before. They share their experiences and wisdom in navigating starting companies, establishing healthy workplace culture, and the grit mentality it takes to make it through Recessions and Pandemics with overall growth on the other side. Joseph discusses how he maintains such a great working culture of mutual support within E Mortgage - even with its members spread across the country. “Even though you're independent within this organization, you don't feel like you're independent. You're part of something much bigger than you… One of our pillars is community; the whole company is one big community. We're always helping each other get better.” Sam also shares the benefits of open communication and resource sharing leading to widespread success. “Our members follow the same mindset that Joe and I have, which is that mentality of abundance. Sharing your wins for the day, sharing things that are working for you with other people within the organization. That collaboration is really what makes this company special.” Key Points: 1:22 Starting in Wholesale and Joining Forces 9:36 Growing your Business with Great Workplace Environment 13:52 Internal Systems and Processes 18:42 Nationwide Training, Support, and Community 27:03 Large-Scale Mindset and Culture 31:57 Favorite Parts of Fuse 2022 - The Year That Made Us Better This episode is sponsored by Leadpops

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host JP Hussey sits down with Senior Mortgage Planner and Owner of Grow Mortgage, Russell Petty. The two discuss how to make the career shift into the mortgage industry, and how to start, structure, and staff your own brokerage. JP picks Russell's brain on his successful marketing campaigns through TikTok and Instagram Reels, and how Russell successfully utilizes social media to connect with local leads and collaborators in the Broker Channel. Russell shares his ideologies for successful marketing for both brokers and owners. “I own a marketing company that does mortgage- nobody wants to talk to a mortgage lender until they need a mortgage, but if you're marketing… that's how they know to call you.” Russell breaks down the initial barriers and struggles in marketing through social media that most Brokers encounter.  “Post every day, or as often as you can; consistency beats talent, every single day of the week.” Key Points: 2:11 Moving from IT to the Mortgage Industry 6:28 Starting, Structuring, and Staffing Your Brokerage 10:23 The Importance of Keeping your Marketing Local 15:50   “Niche Down” Your Marketing Through Social Media 28:59 Forming Genuine Connections with Your Leads 34:57 Advice for Loan Officers and Brokers for Thriving in the Market This episode is sponsored by PRMG

Gusmus meets the Hussbus in this week's episode of Broker to Broker. JP Hussey sits down with Carrie Gusmus, the President and CEO  of Aslan Home Lending Corporation, a 100% female-led brokerage based in Denver, Colorado. In this episode,  they will discuss how to break yourself from the Retail and non-bank culture and steps to thrive in today's market. A veteran in the financial industry, Gusmus shares her advice to independent mortgage brokers: "Do not diminish yourself to having only a rate conversation." They challenge listeners to effectively communicate the broker model to not only borrowers, but to originators in the Retail channel. Gusmus also expands on Aslan's business model and hiring practices by sharing her insights to building a successful brokerage. She urges all originators in the wholesale channel to expand their spheres of Influence and to stay vigilant when communicating the ups and downs of today's market to clients and referral partners. She leaves us with one resounding thought that solidifies her perspective -- "I believe that people are good, but brokers are better." 3:33 Journey from Financial Services 7:25 Cold Calling for Business 9:50 Transition from Retail Banking 15:58 AIME is the Association of Choice 19:00 Mindset for Today's Market 22:53 Communicating the Broker Model 27:25 Now is the Time to Buy 34:00 Aslan Business Model 45:00 Utilizing Your Sphere of Influence This episode is sponsored by EPM

On this episode of Broker to Broker, host Marc Summers, President of Membership at AIME, sits down with Samantha Baros, Broker Owner of Integrity Home Loans Inc. The two discuss how AIME has helped grow her business by providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and community support. As a recipient of the Spark small business grant program, Samantha was able to open her own brokerage and grow her business to do what she does best – helping homebuyers. She details how she develops relationships with women in her community to build trusted interactions with borrowers, referral partners, and potential clients. “My communication is pretty open across the board. And just knowing that I'm a human and I'm a mom – clients can hear my kids in the background, and they know that I'm a real person. I want people to know that I'm here for them because I'm really passionate about helping them.” Key Points: 5:20 Starting Your Own Brokerage 10:15 How AIME Helps Mortgage Brokers 13:31 Spark Small Business Grant Program 18:55 Building Relationships with Borrowers 27:40 The Impact of Fuse on Business This episode is sponsored by Homepoint

On this special edition episode of Broker to Broker, guest host Katie Sweeney, CEO of AIME, sits down with the Founder and CEO of Mortgage Champions, Dale Vermillion. The two discuss the evolution of leadership in a variety of market cycles and the need for a collaborative mindset. From Dale's humble beginnings selling pots and pans to becoming a leadership and sales expert with 30 years of experience, he shares his journey into mortgage and his recipes for success. They dive into the biggest challenge facing the mortgage broker channel – the rising rate environment. Sweeney notes that “this environment is where people are going to win – this is the market where people are going to grow.” Vermillion agrees and challenges that now is the time for loan originators to shift from a volume market to a conversion market and doubles down that brokers need to learn how to sell more effectively in this climate. Vermillion leaves the audience with a strong message to focus on “others first,” instilling his mantra that giving back to others is our duty, both in business and life. Key Points: 1:52 Getting Started in the Mortgage Industry 4:32 Evolving Leadership with Market Cycles 16:23 Mindset Shifts for Tough Market Climates 24:32 Selling for a Conversion Market 32:30 Importance of Giving Back This episode is sponsored by Guaranty Home Mortgage