Latest from the Mortgage Blog
Something is different this year
Every loan officer and realtor I’ve spoken with is saying the same thing:
They haven’t had a January this busy in years.
Personally, I just wrapped up one of the busiest weeks of calls and meetings I can remember.
That’s great news for the industry and the market.
But it also means this 
As competition increases, seller concessions will become less common — and that can mean thousands more due at closing for buyers who aren’t prepared.
The good news?
A solid plan doesn’t start with a rate…
It starts with a conversation.
Wealth in America
Wealth in America started with land.
It still does.
Real estate has helped generations turn work into ownership—and it still matters today:
Fixed payments while rents reset
Forced savings with every principal payment
Equity that can fund the next chapter
If cash to close or self-employment feels like a hurdle, there are real options.
No templates. Just strategy.
What role do you want real estate to play in your 10-year plan?
Top Tools for Mortgage Loan Officers
When speaking with younger loan officers, I’m often asked what tools I use on a day-to-day basis. The truth is, most of these aren’t flashy — but they’re incredibly effective.
Top Mortgage Tools for Loan Officers:
The Phone — It might sound old-school, but nothing beats a real conversation. A live call builds trust faster than any automated text or database message ever will.
MortgageCoach (Total Cost Analysis) — Alright… this one is kind of flashy. I’ve used it since before it was even web-based. It allows me to quickly compare options side-by-side, show the true total cost of borrowing, and update numbers for clients on the fly — even on weekends without opening a laptop.
A Solid CRM — I can’t keep everything straight in my head anymore. Simple reminders, like calling clients on their birthday, create real connection — especially when most people are used to getting messages, not phone calls.
Loom (Screen & Video Recording) — This is a game changer. It lets me share my screen, highlight exactly what I’m looking at, and record a video explanation at the same time, making complex scenarios easier to understand without needing a live meeting.
Outside of MortgageCoach, I suspect these tools are just as effective in almost any industry. If you have questions or want to chat through how to use them, please reach out — I’m always happy to help.
January wrap-up thoughts.
For the last 4–5 years, running has been a big part of my routine. Late last year, an Achilles injury forced a hard stop—no running for now. So instead of sulking or forcing it, I made a change for Q1: walk one hour a day. Outside whenever possible. Quiet mornings. Fresh air. No headphones most days. It’s been an incredible way to start the day, and honestly, a reminder that progress doesn’t always look the way you planned it.
The second change was sleep. I’ve been a lifelong early riser—4:30am has been my sweet spot—but when I looked back honestly, I was averaging about six hours of sleep. After reading more about mental health and cognitive decline, it became clear: seven hours isn’t a luxury, it’s a baseline. So now I’m in bed by 9:00–9:15. That required some family logistics. Swim practices run late, so Maureen handles some of the pickups, and I take the early mornings—making lunches and breakfast so she can rest longer. Teamwork beats willpower every time.
Third challenge this year: the push-up ladder.
1 push-up on January 1.
2 on January 2.
Today? 31 push-ups.
Not impressive yet—but if I stay consistent, the math gets interesting later this year.
And finally, a business shift that’s been energizing. I’ve accepted something about myself that’s always been true: I’m not a “salesy” loan officer. I’m an educational one. So this year I started hosting Lunch & Learn sessions for real estate agents. My goal was six for the entire year. Demand surprised me—in a good way. I’ve already booked four before the end of February. Teaching, sharing fundamentals, helping people sharpen their craft… that’s my lane.
None of this is flashy.
No overnight transformations.
Just small, intentional changes—stacked daily.
January reminded me of something simple and old-school:
Consistency beats motivation. Every time.
On to February.
Here’s Why You Can’t Wait To Buy A Home!
Would you believe that buying a home TODAY with a 3% down payment, will likely cost you LESS than buying a few years down the road with a larger down payment?? Check it out!
Buyers, Perseverance Pays Off!
Due to a lack of inventory, it is taking longer for buyers to find the right home. That perseverance is going to pay off, because as the Fed begins to raise rates, the cost of owning a home is going to increase also. The lack of inventory and high demand is here to stay with 35 Million millennials who have not purchased yet. If have wondered what it would be like to buy a home, please reach out, we would love to help put together a plan for you!