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#584 Think you know it all when it comes to first-time home buying? Think again! In this episode, host Brien Gearin is joined by real estate expert and first-time homebuyer advocate David Sidoni, founder of How to Buy a Home. David shares his journey from showbiz to real estate, his mission to help underserved first-time buyers, and the misconceptions that hold many back — like the myth that you need 20% down. He also breaks down how self-employed entrepreneurs can navigate home buying, the impact of recent real estate commission changes, and why working with the right team is critical. Whether you're a future homebuyer or just love smart business insights, this episode is packed with eye-opening advice! (Original Air Date - 2/10/25) What we discuss with David: + Myth: You need 20% down – Not true for first-time buyers + Debt-to-income explained – Lenders assess monthly payments, not total debt + Entrepreneurs & mortgages – Self-employed buyers need strategic planning + Start earlier than you think – Many buy months sooner than expected + First-time buyers are ignored – Most agents prioritize higher-value clients + Scaling a niche business – How David built a national agent network + NAR lawsuit impact – Buyer commissions remain mostly unchanged + Renting vs. buying costs – Long-term financial growth matters + Choosing the right team – A great realtor & lender are key + From showbiz to real estate – David's journey to homebuyer advocacy Thank you, David! Check out How to Buy a Home at HowtoBuyaHome.com. Listen to the How to Buy a Home Podcast. Follow David on Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. Watch the video podcast of this episode! To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to MillionaireUniversity.com/training. And follow us on: Instagram Facebook Tik Tok Youtube Twitter To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. Want to hear from more incredible entrepreneurs? Check out all of our interviews here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tired of filling out multiple applications and taking multiple credit hits just to shop for the best mortgage rate? In this live event, I'll show you how to: ✅ Compare offers from 30+ mortgage lenders at once ✅ Use just 1 application to save time and stress ✅ Get it all done with only 1 credit pull — protecting your score Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing your current mortgage, or just keeping an eye on rates, this method puts you in control of your loan shopping. No more confusion, no more wasted time — just side-by-side comparisons that can save you thousands.
In this episode, I chat with Chad Harris, a former missionary turned full-time real estate investor, who's quietly mastered the art of building a rental portfolio without ever using traditional bank financing. Chad walks us through how he raised millions in private money—starting with zero savings and a $2K/month income—and why less interest is actually more attractive to lenders.From structuring win-win deals to understanding what private lenders actually want, Chad breaks down his strategy with a calm, no-hype approach that cuts through the noise. If you've been scared to ask for money, or you're stuck using your own cash, this episode will completely change how you think about raising capital.[Timeline Summary][0:00] – Introduction[1:01] – Why higher interest rates actually scare off private lenders[2:06] – Chad's journey from rural Kenya missionary to real estate investor[3:33] – No savings, no job, no bank—but a vision that convinced others to fund him[4:32] – Helping others become investors through lending[6:12] – Where to find private lenders (hint: they're everywhere)[8:21] – Why 6–8% is a gift to most retirees and stock investors[9:18] – The 3-part pitch Chad uses every time to start the private money conversation[11:08] – 37+ places to find lenders (free resource)[12:17] – Why Chad chose rentals over flips or wholesale[14:10] – How he generated cash at acquisition and refinance without using banks[17:03] – The turning point: when cash flow pressure finally eased up[18:22] – The lender mindset shift: lower rates = lower risk = more money raised[22:10] – The case for 10-year, interest-only loans[25:05] – How to work with Chad or learn more from him directly5 Key TakeawaysHigher interest ≠ more money. Lenders see high rates as high risk. Lowering rates actually increased Chad's capital access.Private money is everywhere. Most people don't know they can be lenders—until you show them how.Longer terms, less chaos. Chad now uses 10-year, interest-only loans to reduce stress and balloon headaches.Start with your story. Use a simple “why, what, how” pitch to build interest and trust with new contacts.You don't need a bank. Chad built an 80-door portfolio using only private and seller financing—and teaches others how.Links & ResourcesFree guide: 37+ Places to Find Private LendersLearn more or work with Chad: TrueWealthInvestors.comNeed financial clarity in your business? SimpleCFO.comEnjoyed this episode? Don't forget to follow, rate, and review the show—and share it with someone who thinks they need a bank to build wealth.
The REVISED Jobs Report just dropped—and the numbers are shaking Wall Street, Main Street, and the mortgage market. What does this mean for your investments, your 401(k), and your mortgage rate? In this live stream, we'll break it all down: ✅ Why the REVISED jobs data shocked the markets ✅ How mortgage rates could react in the days ahead ✅ The Fed's next move — rate cuts or more uncertainty? ✅ The best investment strategies you can make right now Whether you're a homeowner, homebuyer, or investor, this is the breakdown you need to stay ahead of the curve.
RUN, Don't Walk: Why New Jersey Foreclosures Are a Trap for Note Investors!
Billy English of Bible and Business and OnPath Coaching looks at the issue of debt, the exploitation of payday lenders, and also about what the Bible says about debt and debt forgiveness. Vaneetha Risner addresses the hard topic of parental and familial estrangement. Do you know why it happened to you? How do you move forward? Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: Click here
This week, host Hal Humphreys sits down with Nathan Funston of The Federal Savings Bank to unpack the pros and cons of AI in the valuation process. Nathan shares insights from his recent Valuation Expo presentation, covering the biggest opportunities for efficiency and consistency, as well as the risks and pitfalls appraisers need to be watching closely. Plus, he tells the story of a wild appraisal addendum that recently crossed his desk and offers a lender's perspective on what appraisers could do to make their reports stronger.At The Appraisal Buzzcast, we host weekly episodes with leaders and experts in the appraisal industry about current events and relevant topics in our field. Subscribe and turn on notifications to catch our episode premieres every Wednesday! You can find the video version of this podcast at http://www.youtube.com/@TheAppraisalBuzzcast or head to https://appraisalbuzz.com for our breaking news and written articles.
#90: Welcome to The Lender's Playbook episode 90!, I'm your host, [Your Name], and today we've got a very special episode. But first a quick yet timely announcement!The American Lending Conference is just around the corner—next week, September 3rd–4th at the beautiful Green Valley Ranch in Las Vegas. This national event is where lenders, brokers, investors, and industry experts come together to connect, learn, and grow.In today's episode, we're joined by Chris Donovan from Doss Law, who will be taking the stage at the conference to share some powerful insights on multi-state expansion and the legal strategies lenders need to know. We'll talk about the challenges, the risks, and the smartest ways to grow your lending business with the right structure in place.So, whether you're attending the conference or just tuning in from home, you're going to walk away with real, practical advice you can apply right away. Let's jump in.”
Equifax Advisors Maria Urtubey, Emmaline Aliff, Tom O'Neill, Jesse Hardin, and Dave Sojka share what they're hearing directly from Equifax lending customers across industries. From student loan repayment impacts to shifting auto lending dynamics and tariff uncertainty, the team highlights the questions lenders are asking, the insights uncovered in one-on-one advisory sessions, and the recommendations that have resonated most in 2025. Economist Shandor Whitcher of Moody's Analytics delivers our macroeconomic update.What is this episode about?This episode of the Market Pulse Podcast brings together Equifax Advisors Emmaline Aliff, Tom O'Neill, Jesse Hardin, Maria Urtubey, and Dave Sojka to share what they are hearing in one-on-one customer advisory sessions.What are lenders most concerned about in 2025?Advisors discuss the resumption of student loan payments, the ripple effects of tariffs, shifts in auto lending, and how these issues vary across industries such as credit unions, banks, and fintechs.How are customers using Equifax advisory sessions?Advisory conversations allow lenders to bring their own portfolio challenges to the table and get tailored insights—turning market data into actionable strategies.
Episode 66: In this episode, Timalyn continues the discussion begun in Episode 64 about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Timalyn opens up the episode with a reminder of what the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is. Timalyn also warns that this tax year may not be the one where you want to let someone who is not a professional handle your preparation. Today, she's explaining the car loan interest deduction. If there is any part of this new tax law that you'd like to hear her cover, please let us know. Car Loan Interest Deduction This new deduction is effective for tax years 2025 - 2028. The vehicle must be purchased new for personal use, and leased on vehicles do not count for this deduction. The maximum deduction is $10,000. The deduction begins phasing out for single and head of household taxpayers with a modified adjusted gross income of $100,000. That amount doubles to $200,000 for married taxpayers who file jointly. This deduction is not available for taxpayers who are married but file separately. This deduction is only for qualified vehicles. The vehicle has to have final assembly in the United States. It has to be less than 14,000 pounds, so it can be any of the following: Car Minivan Motorcycle Pick-up truck SUV To qualify for the deduction, the loan has to have originated after December 31st, 2024, for personal use. Used vehicles do not qualify for the deduction. The loan must also be secured by a lien on the vehicle. Lenders will be responsible for reporting the interest paid to both the IRS and the taxpayer on an interest statement. Timalyn warns taxpayers that this is the year they may not want to let a family member who is not a professional handle their taxes. There are a lot of mid-year changes that, if not handled correctly, can lead to tax issues. To stay up to date with these changes, Timalyn lets listeners know that Tax Tips with Timalyn will be coming back. There will be different paid versions to subscribe to relevant information for individual taxpayers and business taxpayers. Need Tax Help Now? If you need answers to your tax debt questions, book a consultation with Timalyn via her Bowens Tax Solutions website. Click this link to book a call. Please consider sharing this episode with your friends and family. There are many people dealing with tax issues, and you may not know about it. This information might be helpful to someone who really needs it. After all, back taxes shouldn't ruin their life either. As we conclude Episode 65, we encourage you to connect with Timalyn on social media. You'll be able to subscribe to this podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and many other podcast platforms. Remember, Timalyn Bowens is America's Favorite EA, and she's here to fill the tax literacy gap, one taxpayer at a time. Thanks for listening to today's episode. For more information about tax relief options or filing your taxes, visit https://www.Bowenstaxsolutions.com/ . If you have any feedback or suggestions for an upcoming episode topic, please submit them here: https://www.americasfavoriteea.com/contact. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It provides a framework and possible solutions for solving your tax problems, but it is not legally binding. Please consult your tax professional regarding your specific tax situation.
How Hard Money Lenders SHOULD Finance New Construction Deals - #295 Ground-up construction loans can be some of the riskiest—and most misunderstood—deals in private lending. In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, Jason and Chris break down exactly how experienced hard money lenders approach financing new construction projects the right way. After nearly 18 years, thousands of loans, and managing hundreds of defaults, they've learned that the key to success is structuring deals conservatively to minimize risk while still giving borrowers the capital they need to get the job done. You'll learn: ✅ The four biggest risks of new construction lending (day-one exposure, execution, type of lot, and land pricing) ✅ How to structure deals to protect your capital while keeping borrowers vested ✅ Why ground-up deals can actually resemble heavy rehab loans when done right ✅ Real-world examples of loan structures that work (and ones to avoid) ✅ Why experience and borrower “skin in the game” are non-negotiables If you've been hesitant to dive into new construction lending—or want to expand your portfolio safely—this episode will give you a proven framework to get started responsibly. ✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅ Are you a new or experienced private lender or hard money lender? Join Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers as they draw from their extensive experience running a successful hard money lending company since 2007. Tune in weekly with episodes related to all aspects of private lending. From discovering lucrative loan opportunities to securing private capital, effectively managing your loan portfolio, handling defaults, and much more, we've got you covered. ✔️ Tune in now and watch the full video podcast at www.privatelenderspodcast.com ✔️If you enjoyed this podcast we would appreciate a positive review... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-lenders-podcast/id1476153070 ✔️Make sure to check out the #1 Online Community For New and Experienced Private and Hard Money Lenders.. Create your account at www.hardmoneymastermind.com FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Get updates or reach out to Get updates on our Social Media Profiles! ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardmoneymastermind/ ✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardmoneymastermind
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode of Passive Real Estate Investing, guest host Melissa Nash welcomes back fan-favorite and top investor-friendly lender, Aaron Chapman, for a no-fluff conversation every new (and seasoned) investor needs to hear. They dive into the #1 question investors ask lenders, why lenders ask for "so much paperwork," and how to avoid last-minute closing chaos. Aaron also breaks down what appraisers really look for, how to handle low appraisals, and why your lender is actually your business partner—not your enemy. Whether you've bought zero doors or five, this episode is packed with practical advice, real-world insight, and the mindset shift investors need to scale with confidence.
Welcome to The Chrisman Commentary, your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.In today's episode, we go through all the latest headlines in mortgage banking. Plus, Robbie sits down with Lenders One's Justin Demola for a discussion on how originator compensation will evolve in the age of the digital mortgage. And we close by previewing Fed Chair Powell's Jackson Hole speech.FHA fall-out borrowers represent untapped market shares that can stabilize your shrinking pipeline. Arrive Home's Earned Equity Program supports these clients on their path to meaningful homeownership. Additionally, FHA borrowers who don't have the benefit of family assistance are able to qualify using the Nation's leader in DPA.
Rich Weidel, CEO, Princeton Mortgage. Highlights include: industry profitability challenges; misalignment across the organization; productivity as the key driver of cost; cultural and leadership issues and path forward: transparency and smaller profitable teams. Rich has been recognized as the 2019 Most Admired CEO Award – Philly and National Mortgage Professional Top 40 Under 40.
Brian in joined by Dan Rivers of Synergy Stays to talk about the Short Term Rental Market and if there is till money to be made! Then stick around for special guest Derek Goulette as he talks about the mortgage market and how high rates are affecting Real Estate sells. Have a real estate need or question? Book a consult with us today! ☎️ (843) 800-0065
Stephen Grootes speaks to consumer ninja Wendy Knowler about misleading grocery SMSes from lenders. In March, an Absa message led thousands of customers to believe that simply changing their payment method would secure them a R500 Pick n Pay voucher. The catch? Only 10 000 vouchers were actually available, leaving many disappointed customers empty-handed. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa Follow us on social media 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spin up digital co-workers that qualify leads, update CRM fields, and send follow-ups but THAT'S NOT ALL — no payroll paperwork. ⏳ Realtors and Lenders—you're being pulled in a thousand directions every single day. Tracking rates, creating content, following up with clients, managing your pipeline… it's impossible to do it all. But what if you didn't have to? This is the future of real estate and lending productivity. Stop chasing. Start leading. Links: https://www.youtube.com/live/1jn_RpbPbEc?si=fZYW0Sf7s8-qLQyp ⭐ JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ⭐ Get the hottest and most up-to-date info in the Real Estate and lending industry! click the link to subscribe today ➡️ https://theREsource.tv/?utm_source=ytd
Nonbank auto lenders may soon have a reason to celebrate, following a proposed rule change by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to how it defines larger participants of the auto market. On Aug. 7, the bureau filed an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking to change the definition of a larger participant in auto to nonbank entities with up to 1.1 million aggregate annual originations, an increase from 10,000. This followed the CFPB's July 14 motion filed with the Office of Management and Budget which would rule on the request. The change, if approved, would reduce the number of financiers considered larger participants to five from 63, according to the notice. Traditional lenders and nonbank entities would still be subject to state laws even if they are no longer under CFPB jurisdiction. While this unfolds, lenders are also working to seize opportunities in the market. Auto lenders are continuing to lean into refinance programs on the heels of stabilizing interest rates and consumers' search for affordability and better loan terms. Subprime lender Arivo Acceptance Chief Executive Landon Starr told Auto Finance News that the company is ramping up its refinance program with a goal of $60 million in average monthly origination volume. In fact, TransUnion estimates 18 million consumers, or 23% of borrowers with open auto loans, have interest rates that exceed the average APR in the industry. Also, average vehicle transaction prices jumped 5.2% year over year in the second quarter to $31,216, according to an Edmunds report published Aug. 12. In this episode of the “Weekly Wrap,” Auto Finance News Senior Associate Editor Truth Headlam and Associate Editor Aidan Bush discuss trends across second-quarter bank earnings for the week ended Aug. 15.
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Welcome to The Adviser's What's Making Headlines podcast, your go-to source for the week's biggest stories in finance and real estate, distilled into bite-sized insights. Join host Annie Kane, senior journalist Will Paige and commercial content writer Ben Squires as they review the news of the week. This week, they discuss: How long will it take for the July cash rate cut to filter through. The changing broker flows at the major banks. What's driving investor lending growth. And much more!
In the finale of Model Citizens: AI Compliance for Banks and Fintech Lenders (a six-part miniseries from the Fintech Takes podcast in partnership with FairPlay), we confront the biggest questions yet: What does financial regulation look like in the age of AI (when the very concept of governance is under strain)? And in a world where algorithms move faster than institutions can react, how do we protect consumers, ensure fairness, and keep power in check? If you're looking for quick answers or one-dimensional takes, this isn't that episode. But if you're looking for a candid, wide-ranging exploration of the forces reshaping financial services, law, and society, you've come to the right place. With Kareem Saleh (Founder & CEO of FairPlay) as cohost, we talk deepfakes, regulatory dysfunction, and more with two experts in the trenches: PR Stark (Director of Machine Learning Research at FinRegLab) and Tom Brown (Senior Counsel at Paul Hastings). Highlights include: Why deepfakes could trigger the next bank run — and why most banks aren't ready The return of “model risk management” as the most underrated regulatory export How agentic AI could upend overdraft revenue, shopping for a mortgage, and the regulatory calendar Don't miss this closing chapter of Model Citizens; a conversation as complex, candid, and full of possibility as the future itself. This miniseries is brought to you by FairPlay. FairPlay is an AI enablement company for financial services. They help companies build, test, optimize, validate and govern AI models. Learn more at Fairplay.ai Sign up for Alex's Fintech Takes newsletter for the latest insightful analysis on fintech trends, along with a heaping pile of pop culture references and copious footnotes. Every Monday and Thursday: https://workweek.com/brand/fintech-takes/ And for more exclusive insider content, don't forget to check out my YouTube page. Follow Alex: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJgfH47QEwbQmkQlz1V9rQA/videos LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhjohnson Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/AlexH_Johnson Follow Kareem: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareemsaleh/ Follow PR: https://www.linkedin.com/in/p-r-stark-1a9786142/ Follow Tom: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tpbrown5/ Learn more about FairPlay here.
Many student loan borrowers are falling behind again, and the impact is more than financial.A recent change in federal law has reshaped student loan repayment, and as collections ramp back up, millions are seeing their credit scores drop. If you're feeling the weight of repayment, you're not alone. Neile Simon joins us today with practical steps to help you regain control.Neile Simon is a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors (CCC), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.Major Changes in Federal Student Loan RepaymentIn early July, sweeping legislation restructured federal student loan repayment options. Borrowers now face only two choices:Standard Repayment Plan: Lasting 10 to 25 yearsRepayment Assistance Plan (RAP): A 30-year plan with payments based on 1% to 10% of the borrower's income, with a minimum of $10 per monthWhile RAP may seem like a helpful tool, the new law eliminated borrower-friendly plans such as the SAVE plan and many income-driven repayment options. For borrowers who are unemployed or experiencing hardship, this is a significant loss. The end of pandemic-era protections, including deferments, has left many unprepared and falling behind.Adding to the challenge, federal collections resumed on May 5, signaling a firm end to COVID-19 relief. The result? A wave of financial instability.The Credit Score CrisisThe fallout from these changes has been swift and painful. According to AP News, in the first quarter of this year alone:Over 2.2 million borrowers experienced a credit score drop of more than 100 points.Over 1 million borrowers experienced a decrease of more than 150 points.This sharp decline has made it difficult for individuals to secure new credit. Car loans, mortgages, and even rental approvals are now being denied. With limited disposable income, many are forced to choose between paying rent, student loans, or credit cards.More people are relying on credit cards just to cover essentials like groceries and gas. It's a cycle that only deepens their debt and financial stress.How Credit Counseling Can HelpWhile Christian Credit Counselors doesn't directly manage student loans, they play a vital role for those overwhelmed by mounting credit card balances. Neely explains how nonprofit credit counseling agencies bring clarity and relief:One-on-One Counseling: Certified counselors review your debt, income, and budgetDebt Management Plan (DMP): Unsecured debts are consolidated into a single monthly paymentCreditor Negotiation: Lowered interest rates (often between 1% and 12%), reduced monthly payments, and elimination of late feesCommitment to Repayment: This is not a loan, bankruptcy, or debt settlement. You repay your full debt—just through a simplified plan.It's a way to honor your commitments while regaining control. And once enrolled, your interest rates remain fixed throughout the program.If you're feeling weighed down by debt, don't wait. Take an honest look at your budget, explore your options, and don't hesitate to reach out for help. You may feel stuck, but there are real solutions—and people who care.Christian Credit Counselors is here to walk with you, offering biblical guidance and practical solutions to help you achieve debt freedom. Visit ChristianCreditCounselors.org to connect with a certified credit counselor today.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've paid off my credit cards and car—praise God! Now I'm wondering how to balance my emergency fund and regular savings. How much should I aim for in each?I'm reinvesting the interest from a CD. Since I'm not withdrawing the money, do I still need to tithe on the interest?My wife is turning 65 but hasn't earned enough credits for Social Security on her own. Can she start receiving spousal benefits now—and how will that affect her survivor benefits down the road?I'm debt-free and contributing 15% to my 401(k), but I only have two months of emergency savings. Should I pause my retirement contributions to build up my emergency fund?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Christian Credit CounselorsWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
Welcome back to Model Citizens: AI Compliance for Banks and Fintech Lenders, a six-part miniseries from the Fintech Takes podcast in partnership with FairPlay. In some ways, this is the episode everything has been building toward. We've explored AI in customer acquisition, underwriting, and compliance — but we haven't gone deep on the buzziest, most frontier concept in the mix: agentic AI. In Episode 5, we tackle the systems that don't just analyze or predict, but actually act. With Kareem Saleh (Founder & CEO of FairPlay) co-hosting, we sit down with Alex O'Rourke (fintech adviser, lawyer, and AI cofounder) and Jay Budzik (AI/ML product and tech leader; Senior VP at Fifth Third) to unpack the implications of letting autonomous agents loose in financial services. Highlights include: Why agentic AI breaks the “rules vs. empathy” binary that has defined human vs. machine roles (and how that opens new risks in compliance, customer service, and fraud detection) How AI agents will reshape customer loyalty (expect your robo-butler to switch your accounts for better rates while you sleep) Why banks might be more prepared than anyone thinks, thanks to a pre-existing culture of risk management (and why consumers remain the weakest link) Don't miss our deep dive into the wild frontiers of agentic AI … and what it means for the future of work, trust, and intelligent systems in finance. Don't forget to subscribe and catch the rest of Model Citizens; more insights to come! This miniseries is brought to you by FairPlay. FairPlay is an AI enablement company for financial services. They help companies build, test, optimize, validate and govern AI models. Learn more at Fairplay.ai Sign up for Alex's Fintech Takes newsletter for the latest insightful analysis on fintech trends, along with a heaping pile of pop culture references and copious footnotes. Every Monday and Thursday: https://workweek.com/brand/fintech-takes/ And for more exclusive insider content, don't forget to check out my YouTube page. Follow Alex: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJgfH47QEwbQmkQlz1V9rQA/videos LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhjohnson Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/AlexH_Johnson Follow Kareem: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareemsaleh/ Follow Jay: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaybudzik/ Follow Alex: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-villarreal-o-rourke-39631b28/ Learn more about FairPlay here.
Send us a textGreg sits down with Senior VP of Midfirst Bank Tom Altieri (Mr. Outstanding) and talks about his love of SBA loans and the reasons why it is a key to building wealth for small business Owners, his personal success and involvement with the Phoenix Thunderbirds, which last year raised $20 million for local charities with the largest golf tournament in the world. Sometimes we have guests on industry topics, other times it's people I admire that are friends or family members and/or subjects that I think would benefit subscribers. On this podcast, we had 3 in 1. He is funny, sincere, entertaining, knowledgeable, humble and excellent at his craft. Hard to not like Tom Altieri. It's not a loan it's a dream. Listen and enjoy.
On today's episode, Editor in Chief Sarah Wheeler talks with Joe Tyrrell, CEO of Optimal Blue, about some of the best AI use cases he's seeing lenders deploy and other areas where he would be cautious. Related to this episode: Optimal Blue HousingWire | YouTube More info about HousingWire Enjoy the episode! The HousingWire Daily podcast brings the full picture of the most compelling stories in the housing market reported across HousingWire. Each morning, listen to editor in chief Sarah Wheeler talk to leading industry voices and get a deeper look behind the scenes of the top mortgage and real estate stories. Hosted and produced by the HousingWire Content Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Calm on the Surface, Distress Below: Joe Blackbourn on the State of Sunbelt Multifamily The Eye of the Storm? When my podcast guest this week, Joe Blackbourn, president and founder of Everest Holdings, stepped in front of a room of ULI members in late 2024, he titled his multifamily market forecast “An Underdressed Weatherman Gets Sent Into a Hurricane.” The image was evocative – and accurate. Multifamily investors, developers, and lenders had been navigating gale-force winds of rising rates, inflation shocks, and structural cost resets. And yet, as Blackbourn noted in my conversation with him, today the industry still appears eerily calm. “There's a lot of stormy weather on the horizon, and, like a hurricane, we don't know quite where it's going to land or how bad it's going to be.” The Invisible Cost of ‘Calm' Core inflation may be retreating, but the real story, Blackbourn argues, is not about the rate of change. It's about the baseline shift. “Even if we're at just over 2% now, it's still a 30% increase in a very short period of time,” he said, referring to food prices, but with implications for housing as well. Home prices in many U.S. markets, particularly across the Sunbelt, have surged by 30–50% since 2020. That repricing is likely to stick. “It's really difficult to give that pricing back,” he added. “Short of some real economic calamity, the best we can manage is slower growth, not a decline in consumer pricing.” That same principle is locking up real estate deals. Rent growth has slowed, but operating expenses have not. The result is compressed margins, sluggish NOI, and a widespread inability to transact or refinance. Multifamily: Where Distress Hides Quietly On paper, the multifamily sector looks surprisingly stable. Cap rates for high-quality assets remain in the 5.0%–5.25% range, and transaction volume is beginning to pick up in select markets. But beneath the surface, stress is mounting. “There's a lot of stress at the balance sheet level,” said Blackbourn. “And it's not being helped by property-level performance.” In many Sunbelt markets, especially those with pandemic-era construction booms, organic NOI growth is flat or negative. Rent collection is delayed, staffing is inconsistent, and delinquencies are rising. “We're seeing situations where it's taking all month to get the rents collected,” he noted. “You'd be at the 15th of the month with less than 50% of rents in the door.” Yet distress sales remain rare. Why? Blackbourn offers two reasons: Lender tactics: Debt funds are “hope-certificating” properties, granting extensions, persuading sponsors to inject capital, and delaying the inevitable. Human psychology: “There's a survival instinct at work,” he observed. “People will do whatever they can to stay in the game.” What Keeps Deals Frozen? Everyone is waiting. Borrowers, lenders, and investors are all betting on falling interest rates to solve their problems. But Blackbourn remains skeptical. “I don't think it's inevitable that rates come down,” he said. “And yet, it's within the debt fund's interest to persuade borrowers that they will.” Many current valuations are premised on that hope. But even if rates do drop, the bid-ask spread remains wide. In his words, “It feels like this really taut balloon; fragile.” Why Aren't Cap Rates Rising Faster? One of the stranger dynamics in today's market is that cap rates haven't risen much, despite the Fed holding policy rates above 5%. High-quality assets are still trading at 5%–5.25% caps. How is that possible? “If you have the right basis, you can sell into that,” Blackbourn explained. “The pricing for high-quality assets hasn't jumped that much.” But for vintage assets, pricing capitulation is coming. Lenders are forcing assets to market when no other solutions are viable. And while buyers are circling, few are pouncing. Supply, Demand, and the Surprise of Absorption Another surprise: absorption is holding up remarkably well. “We're seeing absorption that's about keeping up with supply,” Blackbourn noted. “In some markets, we're about to hit the point where we're absorbing more units than we're adding.” This matters. Historically, once net absorption overtakes new deliveries, rents begin to recover, often before occupancy hits 95%. And that could happen sooner than expected in markets like Phoenix. “We're modeling that inflection point this year,” he said. But again, bifurcation matters. New Class A developments are attracting high-income renters, people who once would have bought homes. Meanwhile, vintage B and C properties are seeing tenants who are increasingly rent-burdened. “In new projects, we're seeing a higher-income demographic than we've ever seen,” said Blackbourn. “But in older assets, collections are way down. Rents are up 30%, but incomes aren't.” The Forecast: Q3 and Q4 2025 Looking ahead to the rest of the year, Blackbourn sees a mixed bag. More volume is expected from both opportunistic buyers and forced sellers. Permits are collapsing, setting up an eventual rebound in pricing power. Selective outperformers will emerge in submarkets with favorable rent-to-income ratios. “We could see surprising outperformance in the asset class sooner than people think,” he said. “But it will be bifurcated by quality, by tenant income, and by geography.” In short, the underdressed weatherman may not be in the eye of the storm just yet – but the wind is shifting.
Emmanuel Daniel is a global thought leader, author, and advisor on the future of finance, geopolitics, and their impact on business and society. He was named a top 10 global influencer on the Fintech Power50 list in 2021 and 2022, and is the founder of TAB Global, which operates platforms like The Asian Banker, Wealth and Society, and TABInsights. Emmanuel works closely with corporate and government leaders, advising on strategy and facilitating high-level planning workshops around the world. His book, The Great Transition: The Personalization of Finance is Here (2022), explores how technologies such as blockchain, crypto, and gaming are reshaping finance. Featuring forewords by former Congressman Barney Frank and financial innovator Richard Sandor, the book provides a roadmap for disruptors in the financial industry. Emmanuel is also a frequent commentator on BBC, CNBC, and Bloomberg, and was awarded the Citibank Excellence in Business Journalism Award for Asia in 1999. With a legal background and degrees from the National University of Singapore, University of London, and studies at Columbia University, Emmanuel brings a global perspective to his work. A former member of the Entrepreneurs' Organization and an avid model train enthusiast, he has traveled to over 130 countries and splits his time between Singapore, Beijing, and New York while working on his next book, The Winning Civilization. During the show we discussed: What's happening with crypto and stable coins How stable coins impact the US dollar What the Genius Act means for you New crypto giants emerging from stable coin growth Why the US central bank won't regulate crypto' What to know about alt coins and staying safe Credit profiling through business transactions New credit scoring methods for businesses What's changing in peer-to-peer lending Digital data now used in lending decisions Lenders using lifestyle data to qualify you How friends, shopping times, and habits affect borrowing Resources: https://www.emmanueldaniel.com/
Lenders have avoided potentially needing to pay compensation to millions of drivers following a Supreme Court ruling.It ruled that lenders are not liable for hidden commission payments in car finance schemes.But it might not be as bad as it seems....Our Consumer Editor Chris Choi tells Paul Brand what you need to know.For more information on this, advice can be found on the ITV News website
⚠️ Your deal is cash flowing—and still at risk of default?! That's right. On this episode of Apartment Syndication Made Easy Podcast, real estate attorney Nic McGrue uncovers a hidden danger that's hitting operators across the country: technical defaults triggered by minor issues—despite on-time payments. Nic has helped clients raise over $500 million and knows the ins and outs of how lenders work. His insight? Lenders are now looking for ways to reclaim loans written at low interest rates… even if your deal is performing.
Equifax Senior Advisor Tom O'Neill sits down with Ian Wright, Chief Strategy Officer at IXI, to unpack the shifting landscape of consumer wealth in a post-COVID economy. Drawing on exclusive IXI data, they explore how total U.S. household assets have grown to over $66 trillion—while the median household has actually lost ground. The conversation dives into the shrinking mass affluent segment, the rising influence of retirees, regional trends in affluence, and how financial institutions can better target high-potential markets. Economist Justin Begley of Moody's Analytics delivers our macroeconomic update.In this episode:· Post-COVID wealth trends and overall asset growth· The shrinking mass affluent segment and rise of the “barbell effect”· Disparities in wealth distribution across income tiers· Differences in financial outcomes by age group (Gen Z, Gen X, retirees)· Geographic variations in wealth concentration· Stock market and investments as primary drivers of wealth growth· Declining deposit levels and implications for banks· K-shaped economic and credit recovery· Strategic marketing approaches for targeting affluent households· Outlook for deposits and investments through 2025–2026
Listen in for a special presentation of The Small Business Mindset. Kirsten Flory's firm, Foundations Commercial, held a Small Business Lending Insights event with lending experts and clients. They shared the different types of small business lending programs, and how you as a business owner, can apply! To watch the full presentation on You Tube click the link HERE Key Takeaways: At some point in your business cycle, you will need a loan SBA lending is available for owner-occupied businesses Building a relationship with your lender is crucial Get organized financially before applying for a loan Understand your financial picture regularly (and update it!) Lenders will look at your credit history and debt-to-income ratio Keep your credit card balances low for better loan prospects Make on-time payments to maintain good credit history There are many programs available to help small businesses
Since it's unlikely the Fed will make any interest rate moves at this week's meeting, it's safe to assume rates will stay up for at least a while longer. That means potential borrowers are weighing whether to wait out the Fed or get access to capital now, despite the cost. In this episode, local bankers tell us about the current lending climate. Plus: The EU promises to increase U.S. energy spending, credit card issuers lean in to premium cards with high fees, and Congress makes major changes to vehicle fuel efficiency regulations.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.
Since it's unlikely the Fed will make any interest rate moves at this week's meeting, it's safe to assume rates will stay up for at least a while longer. That means potential borrowers are weighing whether to wait out the Fed or get access to capital now, despite the cost. In this episode, local bankers tell us about the current lending climate. Plus: The EU promises to increase U.S. energy spending, credit card issuers lean in to premium cards with high fees, and Congress makes major changes to vehicle fuel efficiency regulations.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.
Host Emmaline Aliff is joined by economist Amy Crews Cutts, President at AC Cutts and Associates, and a panel of Equifax experts—Maria Urtubey, Tom O'Neill, and Dave Sojka—to unpack the latest signals from both hard and soft economic data. From shifting consumer sentiment to rising tariffs and the ripple effects on credit, lending, and affordability, the team explores the impact on consumers as we head into the second half of the year.
Today we bring on Owen LaFave, Market President at the Bank of Tampa. He tells us all about how he uses LinkedIn to create value for himself and his bank. Owen's advice in today's episode could inform your LinkedIn strategy to create value for your clients and to meet new prospects. Learn more about The ARC Program here. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees. SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
The Uninsurable Future: How Climate-Driven Insurance Risk is Reshaping Real Estate The Canary in the CRE Coal Mine If insurance is the canary in the coal mine for climate risk, then the bird has stopped singing. That's the warning from Dave Jones, former California Insurance Commissioner and current Director of the Climate Risk Initiative at UC Berkeley. In a conversation that touches on reinsurance markets, mortgage delinquencies, lender behavior, and regulatory dysfunction, Jones laid out the most sobering climate-related CRE risk analysis to date: we are already living through a systemic insurance crisis—and commercial real estate is not exempt. “We are marching steadily towards an uninsurable areas in this country,” Jones warns. From Homeowners to High-Rises: What the Data Shows Much of the early distress has been observed in the residential and small business markets, where data is more publicly available. A study by the Dallas Fed, cited by Jones, found a direct correlation between areas hardest hit by climate events and surging insurance premiums, non-renewals, and mortgage delinquencies. But commercial real estate isn't insulated. While pricing data is less transparent due to looser filing requirements, Jones states, “everything that I've seen indicates that those [commercial] rates are going up too,” particularly in regions where catastrophic climate events are becoming more frequent and severe. Take Florida. One of our clients' office tower's premiums jumped from $300,000 to $1.2 million in a single renewal cycle. That's straight off the bottom line. The hit is entirely non-accretive; it's pure cost. The Feedback Loop: Insurance, Lending, and Liquidity As insurance availability shrinks and prices soar, lending dries up. Lenders want to see that there is property and casualty insurance yet, as it becomes harder to get, that has implications in credit markets… and flow-through implications to the real economy. It's not just anecdotal. Jones references studies showing that banks are offloading loans insured by lower-rated, higher-risk insurers to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, effectively shifting the risk onto taxpayers. That means if a hurricane hits and the house is knocked down, there isn't insurance available, potentially because the insurance company went insolvent. The trend is clear: insurance stress is bleeding into credit markets and weakening the foundations of the entire real estate financing stack. The “Deregulation” Illusion Some states, like Florida, are trying to respond by loosening regulatory constraints to attract insurers. Jones is skeptical. “Florida rates are four times the national average,” he says. The state has adopted taxpayer-funded reinsurance schemes, weakened litigation protections, and allowed less-robust rating agencies to operate. Still, “the national branded home insurers are not writing in Florida… they can't make a profit,” says Jones. “So even with all these changes, the background risk is too great.” In short: deregulation cannot solve a fundamentally unprofitable underwriting environment driven by climate volatility. Adaptation Isn't Being Priced In - Yet Jones is more optimistic about resilience measures. Home hardening, defensible space, and forest management, especially in wildfire-prone states like California, can materially reduce losses. Commercial insurers often have engineering staff to assess and recommend these strategies. But the industry hasn't kept pace. “Insurers, by and large, are not accounting for property, community, and landscape-scale adaptation and resilience in their models,” Jones says. One exception is Colorado, which passed a law requiring insurers to factor in proven risk mitigation. This could prove to be a model for commercial markets, but it's early and insurers remain price takers in the face of mounting losses. From Reinsurance to Municipal Bonds: Signals to Watch What market signals should CRE investors monitor? Jones suggests: Insurance pricing and non-renewals: leading indicators of distress. Reinsurance costs: though recently softening, they've trended upward for years. Lender behavior: especially offloading risky loans to agencies. Rating agency downgrades: particularly for municipalities facing severe climate risk. Housing market mispricing: First Street Foundation estimates as much as $1 trillion in residential overvaluation due to underpriced climate risk. Any of these could tip the balance in specific markets or signal a broader inflection point. A Slow Collapse or a Sudden Shock? Is this a long-term crisis or a fast-moving one? “It's happening in real time now,” says Jones. “It's more likely that this will be a steady glide into uninsurability… as opposed to one catastrophic event that brings the whole house of cards down.” Still, the metaphor is chilling. The systemic risks posed by climate-driven insurance failure are already manifesting across sectors. Whether the collapse is gradual or sudden, the endpoint is clear. “There is no place in the United States where you have a ‘get out of climate change free' card,” Jones warns. For CRE professionals, that means a hard reckoning is ahead – not just with climate, but with underwriting, capital access, and portfolio risk in a fundamentally altered landscape. *** In this series, I cut through the noise to examine how shifting macroeconomic forces and rising geopolitical risk are reshaping real estate investing. With insights from economists, academics, and seasoned professionals, this show helps investors respond to market uncertainty with clarity, discipline, and a focus on downside protection. Subscribe to my free newsletter for timely updates, insights, and tools to help you navigate today's volatile real estate landscape. You'll get: Straight talk on what happens when confidence meets correction - no hype, no spin, no fluff. Real implications of macro trends for investors and sponsors with actionable guidance. Insights from real estate professionals who've been through it all before. Visit GowerCrowd.com/subscribe Email: adam@gowercrowd.com Call: 213-761-1000
The VA Loan Trap No One Warns You About Hosted by: David Pere Episode Type: Real Estate, Financial Education Length: ~25 minutes Watch on YouTube: The VA Loan Trap No One Warns You About
Which means two different lenders think they have rights to the collateral. https://www.lehtoslaw.com
Today we bring back Sim Cheema, who works on our ARC Team here at SouthState. We talk about the current Fed policy, the economic environment, and what all that means for you and your lenders at your bank. Learn more about ARC here. Learn more about the Community Bank Summer Performance Series here. The views, information, or opinions expressed during this show are solely those of the participants involved and do not necessarily represent those of SouthState Bank and its employees SouthState Bank, N.A. - Member FDIC
Wondering how much house you can actually afford? Forget what the bank tells you. Lenders base your mortgage approval on outdated debt-to-income ratios that ignore your real life—and that's exactly how people end up house-poor. In this video, we break down the most accurate and financially sustainable way to calculate home affordability using a smarter method: the 25% rule.Instead of relying on gross income or bank pre-approvals, we show you how to determine your home buying budget based on take-home pay—the money that actually hits your bank account. Our rule of thumb: Your monthly mortgage payment, PMI, homeowner's insurance, and HOA fees should never exceed 25% of your net income. This ensures you still have room for retirement savings, emergencies, vacations, and everyday living—without sacrificing your future.We'll walk you through:o Why traditional mortgage advice is flawedo The hidden dangers of lender-approved debt ratioso The full breakdown of housing costs (and which ones matter most)o How to budget for maintenance, taxes, and unpredictable repairso A real-world case study to show how this plays out in actual numberso Whether you should buy at all—or if renting and investing might be the better moveWhether you're a first-time homebuyer, someone relocating, or trying to figure out if it's finally time to stop renting, this episode gives you real numbers, honest insights, and zero sales fluff.Ready to stop guessing and start planning? Check out this episode before you make a home-buying decision that locks up your income for decades.Don't become house-poor. Buy smart. Live free.**Support the Stream By Shopping at Our Store** Buy Your Financial Mirror Gear: https://www.thefinancialmirror.org/shop YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancialmirrorRumble: https://rumble.com/TheFinancialMirrorFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefinancialmirr0rX: https://twitter.com/financialmirr0rInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancialmirror/Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/thefinancialmirrorIf you are in need of a Financial Coach, don't waste another day of being in debt, not planning for retirement, or simply wondering where your money went each month. Today is the day to take control of your finances and I can help, no issue is too big or too small. Contact me at https://www.thefinancialmirror.org/#InvestInYourself #PersonalFinance #FinancialEmpowerment #personalfinance #financialfreedom #finance #money #investing #financialliteracy #financialindependence #budgeting #debtfreecommunity #financialplanning #debtfree #financialeducation #debtfreejourney #wealth #financetips #business #budget #investment #entrepreneur #moneymanagement #moneytips #stockmarket #financialgoals #invest #motivation #debt #savings #moneymindset #savingmoney #success
Matty A. dives into the world of crypto-backed mortgages, explaining how you can use Bitcoin or Ethereum as collateral to finance a home—without selling your crypto.Why This MattersKeep your crypto gains intact: Avoid selling and triggering capital gains taxesFaster and easier transactions: Lenders like Milo, USDC.Homes, and Figure offer no-credit-check loans and quick fundingFHFA update: Regulators are now exploring crypto as a recognized asset for mortgage applicants at Fannie Mae and Freddie MacHow Crypto Mortgages WorkPledge crypto as collateral (often 100% of loan value or more)Receive fiat funds for your purchaseLoan repayment in traditional currency — collateral returned when paid in fullBeware of margin calls — if crypto value drops, you may need more collateralPros & ConsProsPreserve crypto upside potentialNo cash down payment or credit check neededFaster closings than traditional loansConsCrypto volatility risks collateral liquidationPlatform risk — fewer regulations than banksWho's It For?Crypto-holders confident in long-term market growthBuyers wanting fast, streamlined access to liquidityIndividuals with thin qualifying profiles for traditional loansAction StepsResearch crypto mortgage lenders: Milo, USDC.Homes, Figure, Ledn, RockoPrepare documentation: Proof of holdings, escrow/custody proceduresBuild a cash buffer for margin call scenariosStay updated: FHFA's evolving stance, mortgage market trendsKey TakeawaysCrypto mortgages offer a strategic way to leverage digital assets without sellingThey're fast, flexible, and tax-efficient but come with volatility and collateral risksWith FHFA backing, crypto is beginning to gain real legitimacy in mainstream lendingTune In & ShareListen now to discover if a crypto mortgage makes sense for your next real estate move and how to get started. Don't forget to rate & review Wise Investor Segment, and follow Matty A. on social media for more investing insights!Episode Sponsored By:Discover Financial Millionaire Mindcast Shop: Buy the Rich Life Planner and Get the Wealth-Building Bundle for FREE! Visit: https://shop.millionairemindcast.com/CRE MASTERMIND: Visit myfirst50k.com and submit your application to join!FREE CRE Crash Course: Text “FREE” to 844-447-1555