FNF Unplugged

Seasoned title insurance professionals have likely forgotten more than some who are newer to the industry have yet to learn. That said, you're never too experienced for a refresher course in the nuances of the complicated, and often strict insurance product we provide. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec calls on industry expert, attorney Bush Nielsen, for a refresher course in title & escrow

If higher mortgage rates and scarce housing inventory wasn't enough, now a spike in homeowners insurance premiums adds another challenging ingredient to buying a home. The Florida market is in the crosshairs, but why are places far removed from hurricanes and wildfires also being impacted by rate hikes? In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on industry expert Joseph Petrelli, President and Co-Founder of Demotech, for insight and answers. 

The digital age offers the opportunity for seamless, secure, paperless real estate transactions. Yet the industry is slow to adopt and reluctant to implement technology or applications that have proven to save time and money.  In this timely download, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes Stavvy's EVP Digital Strategy Tim Anderson to cover not only the "what", but the more important "why" of digital adoption, and offer solutions for real estate professionals.

Recent Fed news has relaxed mortgage rates and while there's still a ways to go, ANY positive signs for the real estate market is welcome news as we close out a challenging year. In this year-end download, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes ICE VP of Enterprise Research Strategy Andy Walden, who delivers an upbeat assessment. While mortgage rates will likely fluctuate in the year ahead, Andy shares positive data on foreclosures, home equity and other factors that point to an improving market in 2024.

The dust hasn't settled, and likely won't for several years, but one thing appears to be certain: The real estate industry as we know is about to change dramatically, particularly for buyers agents. The impact of Missouri's Sitzer-Burnett verdict will also be felt by lenders and title agents. In this timely episode, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on real estate industry veteran Arthur Sterbcow, who offers candid takes on the verdict, and how his forecast for the future of the real estate profession.

Fall conferences are in the books and FNF's Chuck Cain has made the rounds, returning with the latest info from industry insiders. Think the recent verdict in Missouri won't impact title & settlement? Think again... Chuck explains why, and also provides an update on the activity of federal regulators as they ramp up scrutiny of the of the real estate industry.

Often referred to as "energy", our emotions and mindset are key in what is no doubt a challenging real estate market. Data, and accurate tracking, is also critical so we're devoting our time and resources to the partners and relationships that drive our business. In this sales-focused download, FNF's Chuck Cain, Ethan Powsner and Tim Hooper team up to share their insight on harnessing emotions and following the numbers to grow your business.

In the cyclical world of real estate brokerage, lending and settlement services, regulators often take action when the market is slower. That's the case this year as we're seeing stepped up enforcement action, which is time consuming and costly. On top of that, the person who handled compliance may have been a victim of budget cuts. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain leads a conversation with Josh Weinberg, Co-Founder and President of Firstline Compliance. Josh offers insight on what he's seeing, and how smaller companies can handle this issue.

The downshift in the real estate market allows industry professionals the time to re-engage with teams and sharpen sales tools for the opportunities ahead. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes FNF VP of Training & Technology Tim Hooper. Tim shares how he's coaching real estate agents and title professionals as we prepare for the next cycle in the real estate market. 

Location, location, location: The reason it's a cliche, is because it's true. Specific markets are feeling more pain, particularly in the office sector, than others. How will things unfold in the years ahead? And what sector are investors still bullish on? For those answers and much more, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on Jamie Woodwell, Cie President in the Research and Economics Group and the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA).

Mortgage rates remain elevated and inventory is severely constricted in most markets. The good news is the job market is strong, and it appears if a recession does hit, it'll be mild. So the obvious question is this: When will we arrive at the intersection of favorable rates and increasing inventory? Few in the industry possess the data and insight to accurately forecast this answer, and Black Knight's Andy Walden is one of them. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain gets an update that gives us direction.

Often times important topics become a buzzword or acronym that gets lost in the day-to-day and month-to-month world in the real estate business. But for the next generation of real estate professionals, there is an opportunity to grow business by connecting with a diverse community. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes attorney and closing agent Barry Miller, who shares his perspective and insight.

In part 2 of our series, FNF's Linda Grahovec welcomes back marketing expert Wayne Stanley from Bowe Digital to share what he's seeing, hearing and interacting with in the real estate marketing world. CAUTION: This information may offend real estate professionals who are sending out marketing materials at the post office.  Seriously, everyone has their comfort zone, but Wayne encourages you to think beyond your website and focus on visuals in other mediums.Bonus Read: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/perfectionism-poison-pretends-vitamin-life-going-messy-jon-acuff/

A calm real estate market means more professionals are tuned into market news, updates and personal development. It's an ideal time to be in touch with referral partners and building new relationships. But how much is TOO much? And what happens when the marketing "flavor of the month" goes stale, or isn't work for your business model. In Part 1 of our 2 part series,  FNF's marketing guru Linda Grahovec calls on industry expert Wayne Stanley of Bowe Digital for a download on how to formulate and execute a successful marketing plan.

As the conversation continues between FNF's Chuck Cain and real estate and lending industry veteran Dave Stevens, the focus shifts from regulatory and compliance concerns to the bigger issues ahead. Affordability, or lack thereof, due to a significant shortage of housing inventory, will continue to pinch the housing market even as rates are expected to ease in the latter half of 2023. Stevens offers his take on what Uncle Sam needs to do- but don't count on anything happening anytime soon.

In the opening download of this riveting two-part conversation, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes industry insider and veteran Dave Stevens for a candid take on the real estate industry. In his 40-year career, Stevens has seen and done it all, as a top loan originator, CEO of the Mortgage Bankers Association, and Federal Housing Commissioner. Stevens doesn't pull any punches when it comes to The Fed, mounting compliance concerns, and the real estate industry's slow adoption of technology. 

The pandemic is thankfully behind us, and one of the positive outcomes was the forced push into e-notes, digital closings and a more flexible, streamlined process for the real estate industry. That said, challenges remain, and industry players will need to work closely together to as we take the next stop to save clients time and reduce cost. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes industry expert Camelia Martin of Snapdocs to give us an update.

He may be one year into his well-deserved retirement, but John Voso hasn't forgotten about the industry he helped shape. Fact is, John has probably forgotten more than most of us know the business! In this entertaining and heartwarming episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec reconnects with John, who offers his insight.

The market may have downshifted, but the bad guys have ramped up their game. Over half of the real estate transactions in Q4 of 2022 had vulnerabilities which could lead to fraud. In this important download, FNF's Chuck Cain invites FundingShield Chairman & CEO Ike Suri to share the recent report, and offer insight and advice for all parties involved in closing real estate transactions.

We open Season 4 of FNF UNPLUGGED with an adrenaline rush of creative juice from NYT best-selling author, entrepreneur, investor and keynote speaker Josh Linkner. In this episode, Josh motives and inspires with his keys to reinventing your business. FNF's Linda Grahovec leads this motivational conversation, as Josh provides real world examples you can apply to your business, and your life.

At this point, we're all aware that the year ahead will be challenging in the real estate industry. And while the market conditions have shifted significantly, other threats loom: cybersecurity concerns, government intervention, accessibility and new consumer privacy laws are all in play. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain offers an update and guidance on what title agents can do to prepare and protect their business.

Rising mortgage interest rates, a looming recession, and sagging consumer confidence are all the ingredients for an extremely challenging real estate market in the year ahead. Title agents who are prepared will not only survive, but can thrive as competitors who don't adapt will find themselves cutting staff and profits. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on Ethan Powsner, VP of Market Development at FNF to offer a candid assessment and back to the basics advice for title agents to implement now.

The headlines are intended to grab us and get that click. But what's really going on in the bond markets? What direction are mortgage interest rates headed? And what key data are industry insiders watching to determine how, and when the market will improve. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on respected industry expert Andy Walden, VP of Enterprise Research & Strategy at Black Knight for his analysis and forecast.

With the industry adjusting and teams seeking to grow or maintain by acquisition, there's a new pipeline of talent to explore.  In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec welcomes Nathan Britsch, EVP of Compliance at Neighborhood Loans. Britsch provides a lender's perspective on the future of mortgage financing, qualification changes, being tactical versus strategic, and how chasing that bright shiny object works against us. Plus, tips on what your business should be doing and checking now while the pipeline is slower including creating efficiencies within your organization and for your customers.

The industry was forced to go remote, mobile & virtual during the pandemic. Now, a sudden and dramatic downturn in the market will likely cement Remote Online Notary or RON as lenders look to save money on every single transaction, at every title agency or attorney's office regardless of size. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes digital advocate Toni Carroll who explains why RON is here to stay, and why you should embrace it.

When asked the question "What do you want to be when you grow up?" none of us answered "title examiner" or "escrow officer". With the exception of a few family title businesses, most of us landed in settlement services from another profession, or a career change. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec connects with 40-year industry veteran Leslie Midgley, who shares how she's stayed at the top of her game and helped others do the same.

He's worked his way up from an agency sales rep, through management roles, the executive suite and now, Mike Nolan is the CEO of the FNF Family of Companies. Few are as well-versed and in touch with the industry, our people, and our agents as Mike. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec leads a master class in leadership with Mike, who pulls from his 35 years of experience, offering insight everyone in the industry can benefit from.

Real estate is literally in Dan Elsea's DNA. The third generation co-owner, with brother Stuart, of Michigan's Real Estate One has weathered the inevitable market cycles just like his father and grandfather before him. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on Dan for a market update, perspective, and reflection on what's kept this family business running successfully since 1929.

Part 2 of a Sales & Marketing One Two Punch: As the real estate market transitions to a healthy balance over the next year, the focus will be on YOU. Your people skills, your communication, and your ability to differentiate yourself from your competition. In a world where we're often viewed as a commodity, there's never been a more important time to flex your marketing muscles! In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec calls on "The First Lady of Sales" Dr. Cindy McGovern, to share her tips for building your brand, creating it, living it and selling it.

Part 1 of a Sales & Marketing One Two Punch: When the real estate market is on tilt, we're too busy chasing deals and closing business to focus on sales improvement. With market conditions changing fast, now is the time to focus on your sales skills, or areas needing improvement. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec checks in with Darlene Wilsey, FNF's National Agency Director of Sales Training for a pep talk and practical applications to improve your sales skills now.

You were either born into this business, or you stumbled into it... Some of you remember the IBM Selectric Typewriter and Xerox machines, others might have to Google that. Whether you're an industry veteran or a newbie, you need to know your numbers to survive. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain invites Lodestar Software Solutions Founder & CEO Jim Paolino to offer his insight after growing up in a business where the only thing constant is change.

Insurance is what we do. But how do we insure ourselves against a 24/7 threat that could put us out of business in a matter of seconds? In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes cyber insurance expert and settlement industry-specific partner Peter Riebling to the podcast for an a conversation we all struggle with.

As we continue our conversation with former ALTA CEO Michelle Korsmo, who now leads the National Restaurant Association, FNF's Linda Grahovec delves deeper into the importance of association engagement. Korsmo shares what leaders can do to provide value for members, and her task of supporting over 500,000 member restaurants across the nation.

Connections are critical in the real estate industry, and few professionals are as plugged in as Michelle Korsmo. The National Restaurant Association President & CEO  served in the same capacity at the American Land Title Association (ALTA), where she doubled membership and revenue during a decade in leadership. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec connects with Korsmo for key takeaways on association engagement in Part 1 of our conversation.

Memo to attorney closers: Get rid of the overstuffed leather chairs, box up your lobby's legal library, and take down the myriad of diplomas on your wall. Consumers don't care, and a growing number of them won't visit your office anyway! In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes South Carolina attorney Gary Pickren, who shares how he continuously improves the customer closing experience. And Gary's tips work for independent title agents too!

After back-to-back record setting years, the real estate industry is adjusting to higher interest rates while consumers deal with raging inflation, higher gas prices and watch their retirement savings dwindle each day. If your business wasn't healthy prior to this downshift, we don't blame you- we've all been busy! Now is the time for a check up, and FNF can help you. In this episode, Chuck Cain invites FNF's Vice President, Market & Technology Development Ethan Powsner to share how he and his team help agents improve their business.

Rising mortgage interest rates grab headlines, but that's not the only thing real estate professionals are adjusting to. Information security is also top of mind as regulators and lenders require title agents big & small to secure their data. Real estate brokers will also be impacted if they fail to comply with strict security measures. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes industry veteran James O'Donnell, President of Equity National Title which operates nationally. Jim shares his experience and outlook on the future of the industry.

It's been almost three decades since the real estate industry has seen an interest rate spike like we've experienced in the past 90 days. The benchmark 30-year-fixed rate mortgage flirts with the 5% range, cooling the purchase market and all but extinguishing the refi market. For perspective, analysis, and projections, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on Black Knight VP of Enterprise Research and Strategy Andy Walden.

The shift back to an office environment creates friction for those employees who prefer working from home. This presents significant challenges for independent agents in retaining key people, or attracting new talent. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes Erik Biro, Founding Partner of Anderson Biro, the nation's leading talent search firm for the title & settlement industry. Biro provides his insight on how to reward key people- and it's not all about money.

Opening doors to home ownership is critical to continuing the health of the housing market, the real estate industry, and title and settlement services. For many, buying a home is merely a dream that seems unattainable. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes Dione Joseph, Commercial Title Underwriter at Title First Agency in Columbus, Ohio. Chuck and Dione chat about their efforts to make home ownership a reality for more people .

Our industry is constantly changing, and with new leadership at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, expect even more scrutiny of the real estate sector, and that includes title  settlement services. In this episode, FNF Senior Vice-President for National Agency Operations Chuck Cain provides an in-depth analysis on the issues and concerns the CFPB will pursue and what industry professionals need to be aware of.

RON is still a mystery to some, offering a bag of time-saving technology to improve the title & settlement industry. Others argue that RON isn't safe and will replace experienced staff providing good old fashioned customer service.  In either case, we all need to learn about RON. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes Nicole Booth from Notarize to introduce us to the evolution of fully digital closings.  We'll learn about  the importance of working with local legislators and other stakeholders. The goal: Paving the road to safe, secure, efficient and streamlined digital real estate transactions as an option for consumers who want it.

You've built a successful business based on relationships, excellent customer service and closing transactions on time. Now, you're ready to call it quits and cash in. But how much is your business really worth? And have you made the right moves behind-the-scenes to not only attract a buyer, but deliver success after you're gone? In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes title industry mergers & acquisitions expert Howard Turk who delivers his playbook for a successful sale.

If clip art and licking stamps are still in your marketing plan, it's time to shake it up! And for those of you who have mastered social media, what you were doing last year might not work this year. In this episode, FNF's Master of Marketing Linda Grahovec invites Bowe Digital's Wayne Stanley to share what's working, what's not, and why TikTok isn't just for silly dance videos.

As the real estate profession continues to evolve, adopting digital solutions to save time and improve customer service, the transfer of secure funds remains critical. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec welcomes Jason Nadeau, Senior Vice-President and Chief Digital Officer of the FNF Family of Companies. Jason takes a deep dive into the various digital payment options, how they work, and what's appropriate for the real estate industry. For more information go to our website: https://nationalagency.fnf.com/FNF-Guidance/Digital-Closings

The pandemic forced all of us to do business differently. For some, that meant drive-through closings. But others took the leap of faith into the digital world and completed transactions via Remote Online Notary or RON. What was once only talked about became a reality. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes two of the leading experts in the industry. Stavvy CEO Kosta Ligris and CSO Shane Hartzler join us to talk about the past, present and future of RON, which will transform transactions for all players- real estate agents, lenders, and especially title agents.

As we approach year-end, we're already reflecting on what was another record year in real estate, in spite of forecasts that the market would likely cool off. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec welcomes FNF Executive VP & Division Manager Rob Wineman to share his impressions of the past, what reports tell us about the year ahead, and resources he relies on. 

In the midst of critical, time sensitive email communication that's vital to our strategic partners, consumers and closing transactions, we are bombarded by marketing emails and solicitations that interrupt our effectiveness each & every day. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec connects with BombBomb's Shane Ryan to learn more about digital noise, unwanted distractions, and how it risks our revenue and relationships. These and additional stories are covered in the new book “Human-Centered Communication: A Business Case Against Digital Pollution”, a WSJ bestseller. 

Racing. We do it every single day in real estate. We're on the clock, and our performance is measured in time, accuracy, confidentiality and delivering exceptional customer service.  We are always seeking that extra edge that will give us an advantage over our competition. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec scores an exclusive interview with Olympic triathlete Ben Kanute. The Chicago-area native shares the parallels between business & sports, and offers examples you can apply to your career.