[Lisa Jones]

Can you provide examples of ineligible business uses of funds?

[Lisa Jones]

Can you elaborate on the SBA loan guarantee process?

[Lisa Jones]

About 8 years ago, I started a large garden. The last 2 years, I haven’t done much with it. Last year, I only had garlic and onions in it because they had been planted months before. By the time spring came around, I had no interest in it, and it all went to weeds. With this whole lockdown thing and an increasingly unstable food supply chain, I decided it was time to get my garden back in order.

Luckily, the garlic I didn’t pull up last year overwintered in the beds, and I was able to pull them up and transplant them properly. Unfortunately, I never started any onions, so whatever I get from the seed I planted will probably be small, but something is better than nothing(at least in this case). I have fruit trees in bloom right now or about to be soon; apple, peach, cherry, plum, pear, mulberry, and an almond tree. Some bushes and vines like currants, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and boysenberries. I have perennial herbs: rosemary, sage, thyme, chives, lovage, mint, and lemon balm. Recently, I planted many seeds directly into the garden: peas, carrots, radishes, spinach, lettuce, mizuna, collards, cabbage, and bok choy. I just started some in flats in the greenhouse; they are a little late, but they should do fine: tomatoes, peppers, basil, parsley, oregano, chamomile, marjoram, and perilla. In a few weeks, I will be planting beans, squash, melons, and cucumbers. I just realized I forgot to plant potatoes, celery, turnips, and parsnips.

My front and back yards have been converted to garden space, and most of the plants there, including most of the flowers and weeds, are edible.

[Lisa Jones]

Mortgage loan originators (MLOs) are currently facing a difficult environment as interest rates, home prices, inflation, and the stock and mortgage bond markets remain volatile. These factors have decreased home affordability, priced out prospective homebuyers, and eliminated virtually all refinancing opportunities. In these circumstances, MLOs must strategically use innovative lead generation techniques, personal brand building, and digital and traditional marketing to adapt and thrive. In this post, I will provide useful recommendations to enhance lead generation using social media, mailers, customer relationship management systems, Google Ads, LendingTree, forums, and classified ads.

Understanding The Current Market Challenges

High Interest Rates: Interest rates are at historic highs, decreasing affordability and demand for purchase and refinance loans.

Overrated Home Prices: Increasing home prices and stagnant wages present obstacles for lower-income families and first-time buyers.

Dead Refinance Market: Due to high rates, refinance activity has slowed dramatically, forcing MLOs to concentrate on purchase loans.

Economic Volatility: Increased uncertainty due to inflation, stock market fluctuations, and instability in the mortgage bond market contributes to a lack of buyers.

Fierce Competition: Large lenders and well-funded nonbanks capture MLOs’ attention, making the market even more aggressive.

To differentiate themselves in a crowded market, MLOs need to prioritize effective lead generation, relationship building, personal marketing, and low-cost advertising.

How Mortgage Loan Originators Can Generate Leads and Thrive

1. Look Into Untapped Markets and Niches

The great thing about targeting specific niches is that MLOs can position themselves differently. They attract clients who have distinct needs. These can be:

* Home buyers for the first time: Provide educational materials and workshops that walk them through the step-by-step procedures while highlighting minimum down payment options, such as lower than 3% FHA or VA loans.

Non-QM Borrowers: Go after self-employed or gig workers who may qualify for non-qualified mortgages.

Affordable Housing Programs: Support lower-income government-subsidized programs that buyers are priced out of.

Local Markets: Capturing regional buyers using geo-targeting search terms like “mortgage lender in [City].

Actions Items:

– Select a focus area that fits your knowledge or draws from local market gaps.

– Design niche content, such as tailored blogs and video posts that solve specific problems for the niche. Create collaborative town guides with Realtors targeting these demographics.

2. Establish Referral Partnerships

Real estate agents, especially, provide high-quality leads through referral partnerships. One in four borrowers considers a lender recommended by their agent, making these relationships golden.

Actionable Steps:

Collaborate With Realtors: Grant them the ability to use branded marketing collateral, co-host workshops, or provide mortgage consultations during open houses.

Engage Other Professionals: Maintain contacts with CPAs, financial planners, or divorce attorneys who may offer clientele.

Create Referral Programs: Put referral rewards or mutual agreements for referrals.

Employ Modern Methods: Use “shared mortgage apps” or social media to create authentic connections with realtors.

3. Use Paid and Organic Strategies Together with Digital Marketing

Brand promotion and lead generation via the internet cost less money. Self-created leads are about 300 percent cheaper than purchased leads with a better ROI.

Social Media Branding and Organic Leads

Use social media sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube to enhance personal branding and generate organic leads. Video content is best for maximizing engagement and lead generation.

Learning Social Media

Select one platform to start: Prioritize the one with active clients (e.g., Facebook for for-borrowers, LinkedIn for employed).

Outline Educational Topics: Design videos or infographics on relevant subjects, such as the mortgage process, interest rate trends, and homebuying hints.

Participate Actively: Regularly post relevant content, respond to group inquiries, and facilitate live Q&A sessions.

Gather Ideas from Others: Watch influencer MLOs, such as Jennifer Beeston, who has over 50,000 YouTube subscribers.

– Enroll in Courses: Search engines like Coursera offer free social media marketing courses.

Concrete Steps:

– Ensure consistent branding when designing your profile. Could you display your logo alongside color schemes and messaging?

– Aim to post 2-3 times weekly with videos, testimonials, and market updates.

– Join town or region-specific Facebook and LinkedIn groups to engage with contractors answering mortgage queries.

– Utilize Facebook’s advertising tools to design tailored ads for relevant groups.

Search Engine Optimization

SEO is a cost-effective way to generate leads and increase site traffic without paying ads. It helps potential clients find your business easily and works 24 hours a day.

Actionable Steps:

Design your website around keywords, such as “mortgage lender in [City]” or “first-time homebuyer loans.”

Write lengthy content, such as guides to FHA loans or relocating to your area, which helps improve your ranking on Google.

– Obtain backlinks through sponsored posts on real estate or finance blogs.

Please confirm that your Google My Business (GMB) page has the right contact information and client reviews.

Google Ads

Google Ads funnels “warm” leads actively searching for mortgage products, presenting high intent and pre-qualified prospects.

Pros:

– Exact match targeting with keywords “mortgage loans” or “first time buyer mortgages”.

– Clicks can be cheap, costing only a few cents or dollars based on competition.

– Because of the user intent, the conversion rate is extremely high.

Cons:

– Needs budget control; otherwise, there is overspending.

– Highly sought-after keywords (like “mortgage loans”) can be costly.

Actionable Steps:

– Test a low budget of $500 – $1000 monthly and target specific keywords like “first time homebuyer loans [City].”

– Monitor CPC and conversions using Google Adwords

– Optimize landing pages by adding prominent buttons (pre-approval quotes within a click).

– Grab a PPC consultant to maximize ROI if you’re inexperienced with PPC.

Email Marketing with CRMs

Marketing emails and spam from this website are not permissible. While email marketing has a high return on investment, it allows a business to nurture leads and maintain customer relationships. A proper lead management system, such as CRM, is essential for automating many processes.

Pros:

– Very economical with a good return value.

– Gives customization freedom, such as targeting new first-time buyers versus refinancers.

– Maintains consistent communication with your audience through newsletters or other updates.

Cons:

– An email list with value is critical to avoiding spam traps.

– Email open rates will need higher value-driven content to sustain engagement.

Actionable Steps:

– Utilize CRM systems like HubSpot, Lofty, or Aidium to track leads and automate client follow-ups.

– Create an email list by offering valuable marketing content, such as eBooks like “How to Be a Master Shopper on Mortgage Loan Rates.”

– Provide newsletters containing industry tips, market updates, and client success stories weekly or bi-monthly.

Enhance your contact database by appending zip code-verified emails and phone numbers using Accurate Append.

4. Use Paid Lead Generation Opportunities

Purchasing leads from reputable providers can help fill the gaps of organic work. While the cost and quality vary significantly, leads typically run from $50-$100 each and are often sold in bulk to multiple loan officers, diminishing exclusivity.

LendingTree

LendingTree markets to 720+ borrowers, obtaining high-intent leads. They offer to connect them to up to five lenders. Most leads originate from clients with credit scores above 720.

Pros:

– Nearly 75% of consumers know and trust the brand.

– Can be filtered to target specific segments such as FHA, VA, jumbo, and other classifications.

– Users receive validated data and dedicated account manager assistance when requested.

Cons:

– Compelling competition with New Direct mortgage lenders, as leads are sold to multiple lenders.

– Increased cost per lead compared to what can be generated independently.

It seems that effort must be taken to follow up appropriately, otherwise the leads will not be converted.

Actionable Steps:

– Use LendingTree’s lender portal to access real-time data and select campaigns for which you have underwritten criteria.

– To minimize competition, compete in narrower loan types (like non-prime or small loan amounts).

– An integrated, strong CRM should be used to speed up lead nurturing.

Other Providers of Leads

Good Vibe Squad: They provide proprietary leads, and their CRM is strictly formulated around video marketing.

Loanbright: Uses customized criteria to generate exclusive leads.

Kaleidico: It exclusively generates leads through content marketing, SEO, and Google AdWords and directly to the customer’s CRM.

Phonexa**: Provides marketing software for tracking calls, web leads, and clicks, and contains unique mortgage call tracking features.

Actionable Steps:

– Sample leads from different providers to assess and evaluate conversion rates.

– Use the bargaining tool for exclusivity or set specific criteria for borrowers.

– Use CRM analytics to focus on the best potential candidates.

Traditional Marketing Tactics

These days, traditional techniques like mailers and community presence might not have the same impact, but they are beneficial for local outreach.

Mailers

They can be used for targeted advertising. Could you attach QR codes to the mail that lead to calculators or mortgage landing pages to attract potential clients?

Pros:

– Effective and easy to remember for the older generation.

– Capable of including targeted offers or insights into the foreclosure markets.

Cons:

– Digital marketing has a greater ROI.

– An effective postal campaign involves great design and targeted mailing lists.

Actionable Steps:

– Build a targeted mailing list with data providers. Accurately Append is one option.

– Include QR codes that lead to landing pages with lead capture forms.

– Test scaling after measuring the aftermarket response rates on smaller batches, such as 500 mailers.

Community Engagement

Brand trust and visibility increase with sponsorship of charitable events and local youth sports leagues.

Actionable Steps: Participate in Online Forums as well as Classified Ads

In establishing authority, online forums and classified ads can generate leads locally.

Great Content Authority Forums

Focused on mortgages and related topics.

Pros:

– You can register and contribute for free.

– Answering questions builds an authoritative perception.

Cons:

– Participation requires a time investment and does not guarantee leads.

– Building reputability often requires prolonged activity.

**Actionable Steps**:

– Search active threads and sign up for relevant forums with active mortgage discussions.

– Respond to questions with relevant informative answers without sales pitches to earn a positive reputation.

– Add your website link to your profile or signature if the forum allows.

Classified Ads

Posting on Craigslist or local classified sites can appeal to budget buyers.

Pros:

– Sponsored ads have low or no cost.

– Targets a local audience.

Cons:

– Compared with digital ads, the leads generated from these sources may not be the best quality.

– Potential increase in spam or unqualified inquiries.

Actionable Steps:

– Use specific phrases in your advertisements, for instance, “First-Time Homebuyer Loans in [insert location]”.

– Provide a hyperlink to a lead capture form via a landing page.

– Keep track of replies and sift out the unqualified leads.

7. Strengthen Personal Branding

A strong personal brand sets you apart in a saturated market. Uniformity on all platforms fosters recognition and builds trust.

Actionable Steps:

– Direct traffic from your social media to a professionally designed website, which is the hub of your online presence.

– Ensure branding uniformity, including logo, colors, and messages across your website, social media, and all marketing materials.

– Enhance your branding by sharing client testimonials and successful projects.

– Establish a unique “value proposition” tagline for yourself (for example, “Helping First-Time Buyers Achieve Homeownership”).

8. Streamline Operations for Maximum Efficiency

To navigate tough times, MLOs need to cut costs while maintaining productivity.

Actionable Steps:

– Set up a customer relationship management (CRM) system to carry out autonomous and repetitive tasks such as emails and follow-ups.

– Implement AI predictive analytics tools to detect leads with high potential

– Implement digital solutions such as loan prequalification apps and e-signatures to simplify and streamline processes.

– Analyze Marketing ROI through CRM Analytics and Campaign Heat Maps

9. Continuous Learning: The Adaptability Trait

In the ever-changing mortgage sector, staying informed allows one to better deal with rate increases or changes in regulations.

Steps you can take:

– Check out the HousingWire, Mortgage News Daily, and McKinsey’s reports for updates.

– Participate in strategy development webinars and other networking conferences.

Obtain valuable resources and training from pro groups like the Mortgage Bankers Association.

How To Get Quality Leads

Referral Partners: Real estate brokers, CPAs, and financial planners highly refer to their clientele, making them warm business leads.

Organic SEO: Well-optimized content greatly improves traffic at little cost.

Google Ads: Use this for targeted ad placements because you will find pre-qualified borrowers who are actively looking for loans.

LendingTree: Provides high-intent leads with flexible targeting, but the leads are shared without competing lenders.

Good Vibe Squad/Loanbright/Kaleidico: These companies tailor leads to your liking and provide exclusively to you.

Social Media: can also be used to market products as an organic lead generator when appropriate, and constant value-added content is used.

Community Events: Local sponsorships or seminars enhance trust and capture local opportunities.

Treating Income Issues

Trim Your Budget: Cost-cutting is mandatory; however, non-essential expenses (e.g., unused subscriptions, office space) should be reduced.

Expanded Services: Provide consulting services, educate prospective buyers, and take advantage of insurance and related fields.

Talk with Your Boss: If you work for a lender, negotiate with them for reduced commissions, better advertising, or increased budgetary support for the loan programs.

Build a Cash Reserve: Put away funds during periods of high interest to weather slow periods.

Focus on Retention: Past clients are nurtured for future refinances or referrals when rates fall after some time.

Will These Strategies Work?

Social Media: Effective for branding and generating organic leads as long as there is consistency, value, and video content.

Mailers: Effective regionally, though they are only moderately effective without targeted lists and eye-catching designs.

CRM Email Marketing: Extremely beneficial for maintaining relationships and tending to leads, especially with automated systems.

Google Ads: Very beneficial for high-intent leads, but requires careful budget management.

Lend

kaleidico.com

50 Innovative Mortgage Marketing Strategies for 2025: Beyond the Basics

Discover 50 innovative mortgage marketing strategies for 2024, from AI to SEO, and boost your lead generation with cutting-edge digital and traditional tactics.

[Lisa Jones]

Here’s a comprehensive blog page about Career Opportunities with NEXA Mortgage and Gustan Cho Associates

https://gcaforums.com/career-opportunities/

gcaforums.com

GCA FORUMS Career Opportunities

GCA FORUMS Mortgage Group has career opportunities for loan officers, independent P&L branch managers, and REALTOR/MLO partners

[Lisa Jones]

Hey, Julio, the economic and stock market changes caused by Trump’s statements have created much buzz. This is particularly interesting in the context of housing and mortgage markets, inflation, and other related factors. This analysis will address your questions and concerns regarding first-time homebuyers, the overall housing market, and Trump’s reasoning behind his actions. To complete the stock market picture, I’ll also discuss the skeptical views about its valuation and the potential layoffs and bankruptcies.

What is Happening in the Housing and Mortgage Markets?

Current Trends in the Housing Market – May 2025

Pricing of Homes:

Prices are still growing, but at a tempered rate relative to the existing pace. As of January 2025, the median sale price of existing homes was 396,900, a 4.0 percent increase from the previous year. Although prices continue to grow, the pace is much more subdued vis-à-vis the double-digit growth rates during the pandemic. Increasing prices and moderately strong demand due to a persistent supply shortage of nearly 5 million homes will drive prices up by 2-3% annually through 2029. There are regional variations, too. The South and West have stronger construction than the Northeast and Midwest, which remain supply-strained.

Housing Supply:

Although supply remains low, the inventory is improving. As of March 2025, there was a 4-month supply of homes, which is still lower than the 5-6 months required for equilibrium, but is a 19.8 percent increase from last year. Till then, prices will continue to enjoy upward pressure due to suppressed supply. Demand continues to exceed supply, but many homeowners are locked into low mortgage rates from years past (for example, 3-4% rates) and are reluctant to sell in a higher rate environment.

Housing Construction: Home construction is a bright spot, likely adding 1.1 million homes in 2025, a rise of 13.8 percent from 2024.

These homes are more compact and geared towards new buyers, especially in the Sun Belt (Texas, Florida, Arizona). To some extent, Trump’s tariffs on lumber (like 14.5% on Canadian Imports with a potential increase to 40%) would also slow construction while raising prices anywhere from $9,200 to $25,000, raising building costs.

Mortgage Market Trends May 2025: Mortgage Rates:

They’re not surging, but mortgages are still holding at a heightened level. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate as of late April 2025 sits at 6.86%, slightly lower than earlier in the year’s peak of 7%. Forecasts suggest they will hold between 6.3%-6.7% throughout 2025, with a potential drop to 6.2% and 6.4% by the end of the year in the event inflation cools and the Fed cuts rates even further. Fed’s ability to influence the economy is currently restrained due to the growing economy and inflation fears stemming from tariffs, which also command a stronger 10-year Treasury yield.

Impact of Tariffs:

Trump’s 10% blanket import tariffs have raised prices, fueling inflation and retaining a high mortgage rate. On the other hand, tariffs that are intended to curb economic growth will lower treasury yields, effectively lowering mortgage rates. The overall net impact remains uncertain but suggests leaning towards enduring high mortgage rates.

Demand:

Staggering prices and high rates took a toll on demand for existing homes, bringing sales down to a seasonally adjusted rate of 4.26 million in February 2025. This is an increase of 4.2% for siblings month-over-month but remains stagnant at 30-year lows.

First-time buyers face an affordability limitation: 75% of households cannot afford a newly constructed median-priced home.

Key Driver:

The main contributing factor is the “lock-in effect,” where homeowners wanting to hold onto their low-rate mortgages do not list their homes for sale, coupled with low housing inventory. This leads to prices remaining high while mortgage rates further worsen affordability. Volatility in construction prices due to increases from inflation caused by Trump’s tariffs also negatively impacts the market.

Analyzing 2025 Predictions for First-Time Buyers

Mapping out a first-time purchase in 2025 is tricky. However, the underlying conditions are far from bleak. Here’s a breakdown:

The Struggles:

Stressful Levels of Affordability:

Homes are projected to sell at an all-time high with a median listing of 418k and a fixed 6.86 mortgage rate. Monthly payments are bound to be steep, totaling more than 2,400 for a 400k home. At a 7% interest rate, the balance due each month would be ~$1,200 more per month compared to a 2% rate.

Inventory Competition:

Though the inventory available remains scarce, bidding wars have cooled down since the pandemic ended, which is an upside. As a result, many markets are still competitive, unlike the influx of inventory witnessed during the pandemic.

Policy Control Gaps:

Restricted immigration policies combined with proposed tariffs could raise the cost of building and decrease the number of construction workers, significantly impacting supply and affordability.

Possible Benefits:

Rising Construction Inventory:

Newly constructed homes are being targeted towards first-time homebuyers, improving inventory overall. This is especially true for the Sun Belt regions, which are in more demand. There is now a four-month supply compared to last year.

Reduced Growth in Pricing:

The increase in pricing is estimated to stagnate even further compared to previous years, which is likely to lower the risk of purchasing a home. A 2 – 3 % growth is expected.

Increased Wage Growth:

In the context of purchasing power, it is beneficial as home price growth is offset by growth in nominal wages. Thus making housing slightly more affordable.

Look Outside of Big Cities:

Zillow’s 2025 hottest list states that markets like Buffalo, Indianapolis, and Kansas City are less competitive and more affordable.

Tips For First-Time Buyers:

Financial Health:

Make sure you have no debt, save a 5-20% down payment (20% avoids PMI), and can pay the closing costs. You can get better rates if your credit score is above 620, especially around 700+.

Stop Trying to Time the Market:

If you’re looking to buy for the long term (5-10 years), waiting for lower prices or rates may not be worth it since real estate tends to appreciate over time. As David Sidoni puts it, “economic noise” shouldn’t keep equipped buyers on the sidelines, especially with persistent supply-demand imbalances. Prices do not just crash.

Don’t Go It Alone:

A real estate agent could also provide insight into local trends and help find “less competitive” markets.

Check For Aid Programs:

Search Business Insider and similar outlets for down payment assistance or affordable mortgage programs.

It is not ideal considering the current economic context. However, concurrently targeting affordable markets, planning to stay long-term, and being financially prepared does make it a good time. A crash seems unlikely, as prices remain high amidst low supply, tighter lending conditions, and stricter standards compared to 2008.

Are home prices tanking and mortgage rates surging?

Home Prices: N/A

While prices have risen by 4% year-over-year, growth is expected to slow down to approximately 2-3% in the coming years, lasting until 2029. A low supply coupled with steady consumer demand prevents prices from declining. However, modest price reductions are likely during a recession.

Mortgage Rates:

Not increasing. Current rates remain high, with a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.86%. However, if inflation alleviates, predictions show rates stabilizing or improving to between 6.2% and 6.7% by the end of the year. While tariff-induced inflation might keep rates high, a recession could provide relief.

There is no forecast for a price jump or drop. Overall, the market is sluggish but stable, and there is no expectation for improvement in affordability any time soon.

Inflation and the Economy: Still Rising, in Disarray?

Inflation (May 2025)

Current Rate:

According to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), inflation eased to 2.4% year-over-year in March 2025, down from 2.8% in February. Core inflation (without food and energy) sits at 2.8%, above the Fed’s 2% inflation target.

Trump’s Policies:

Tariffs (10% on all imports, higher for Canada/Mexico/China) will likely increase inflation by 0.6 percentage points in the short run, possibly bringing CPI to 3% or more. Deportation policies would increase the construction labor shortage, elevating construction costs.

Outlook:

Inflation appears to be easing but remains sticky. The Fed is projected to cut rates twice in 2025, which may keep borrowing costs high.

US Economy (May 2025)

Performance:

The economy is not in shambles but rather in resilient shape. Q3 2024 GDP growth was 3.1%, alongside consumer spending and exports. Slower growth for 2025 is observed at 1.5%- 2%, alongside a cooling labor market. Unemployment is projected at 4.1%, slightly increased.

Concerns:

Implementing trade tariffs may slow growth and worsen inflation, triggering a recession. Strain from deportation policies on the agriculture and construction sectors may hurt those industries more. These changes impact workforce sustainability.

Job Market Update:

Nonfarm payrolls rose by 151,000 in February 2025, lower than expected, which indicates that demand is cooling.

Yet, no extensive breakdown can be observed.

Summary:

The economy is expanding, although there are looming risks associated with tariffs. Inflation is above target but not out of control, and a recession remains possible, but not definite, as the economy demonstrates resilience.

What Is Trump Doing Now? Stock Market Comments And The Surge.

The Reason Behind Trump’s Statement made on May 8, 2025:

As reported, Trump encouraged Americans to purchase stocks (this was either a post on Truth Social or a public statement; the exact articulation is unavailable) on May 8, 2025. This came after his February 12, 2025, post stating tariffs will allow for lower interest rates.

After a tumultuous week in which the market had over a 2,000-point drop due to fears surrounding tariffs, on May 12, 2025, the Dow Jones saw a surge of over 1,100 points. Shortly after a week of volatility, including a 2,000-point drop due to tariff concerns.

Why Did Trump Make The Statement?:

Boosting Confidence

A pillar of Trump’s economic strategy includes projecting power and encouraging stock purchasing. This counters recession fears and negative sentiment from the market dip due to tariffs. His “Liberation Day” tariffs (10% on all imports) spooked market constituents, resulting in a 6% dip in the S&P 500 in the first week of April. He hopes to fuel consumer confidence and drive investment by promoting stock purchases, which are vital to keeping the economy chugging.

Policy Narrative:

His primary narrative is that tariffs will lead to lower interest rates, claiming they will pay for tax cut spending and inject stimulants into the economy. The May 8 statement was meant to affirm this fueled growth narrative by framing tariffs as growth-friendly policies.

Political Optics:

AI detection tools indicate “Political Optics” corresponds with the first sentence. Noted that “in 2024 housing affordability emerges as a pivotal voter priority,” Trump attempts to assure citizens that his regulations of doling out tariffs, tax cuts, and deregulations will result in some level of prosperity for the country down the line.”

What Caused The Market Surge On May 12?

Rebound Effect:

The 1,100-point Dow surge reflects bargain-hunting and recovery from the fall due to tariffs. After the Dow suffers from a tariff-induced selloff, it is not rare to see markets recover due to investor risk reevaluation. The surge also displays hope that the feared impact of tariffs will not come to fruition, which was the case with Canada’s lumber not receiving an additional 10% tariff increase.

Trump’s Influence:

Trump moving the market with his bullish discourse is not uncommon; the same reasoning was applied for the past “Trump bumps.” His comments are normally perceived as policy changes or Fed rate pressure to relax rates.

Economic Data:

Consumer spending remained steady, and a strong Q3 2024 GDP of 3.1% helped bolster Confidence even amidst tariff concerns.

Is 43,000 an Overvalued Market?

43,000 does seem excessive for the Dow to rest on, but your skepticism is justified. Take the Shiller P/E ratio for example, sitting at 35, where the historical average is 17, suggests stocks are overvalued. That said, though: Earnings Growth:

With bottom line option numbers for the S&P 500 rising 7% in 2024, Nvidia and Apple, which are also seeing an increase in their stock prices, benefit the index’s growth.

Low Rates Historically:

Post-2008, near-zero interest rates boosted asset prices. Currently, 6% and 7% rates stand well below the 1980s peak, which helps maintain high valuations.

Sentiment:

Trump’s business-friendly policies, such as tax cuts and deregulation, increase optimism and push markets higher irrespective of fundamentals.

Counterpoint:

While high valuations may not indicate an impending collapse, volatility does exist. In April, 3,000-point swings were witnessed. However, no distinct bubble can be tracked.

What’s Trump Trying to Do?

Trump’s policies attempt to showcase fiscal strength and reserve consumer confidence while stimulating voter confidence. He trims spending via tax cuts, deregulation, and tariffs labeled as revenue streams. His stock market cheering is intended to offset tariff fears and promote consumer spending and Confidence. Critics claim the tariffs risk inflation and recession, undermining Trump’s narrative.

Layoffs and Bankruptcies: The Coming Storm?

Layoffs:

Current Data:

Nonfarm payrolls in February 2025 were 151,000, stagnating and lower than expected, unemployment holding steady at 4.1%. Federal government layoffs linked to Trump’s restructuring cuts around HUD staffing up to 50% also happened in early 2025.

Tariff Impact:

Trade wars could soften employment in highly impacted regions like manufacturing and agriculture due to higher cost structures, reducing international sales. No mass layoffs have been confirmed, but a recession would increase the chances.

Outlook:

The labor market shows signs of cooling but remains stable. If tariffs trigger an economic slowdown, layoffs will increase. However, the sharp rise in spending and GDP growth mitigates the risk.

Bankruptcies:

Current trends:

No surge in bankruptcies is recorded.

In 2024, defaults from corporations emerged from small retailers and cap-sized firms. Meanwhile, larger firms continued to thrive due to healthy earnings and significant cash reserves.

Risks:

Stricter tariffs could harm smaller capital firms that rely on overseas imports due to increased costs and narrow profit margins. While a recession would primarily affect over-leveraged corporations, corporate America’s post-2008 recession has seen stricter regulations that strengthened balance sheets.

Outlook:

There’s a possibility of an economic standstill, but rising bankruptcies due to stagnation in economic growth aren’t likely. Moreover, there is no evidence of a repeat crisis similar to 2008. Most firms are coping, even though high interest rates (with Fed funds at 4.25-4.5%) are weighing down weaker firms.

Verdict:

While the outlook remains doom and gloom with the rise in layoffs and bankruptcies, the immediate crisis still rests on the sidelines. The US economy can still weather a storm (3.1% GDP growth, low unemployment).

Critical Perspective

The baseline narrative optimistic estimates of GDP, stable markets, and the absence of a recession also miss many risks. Tariffs may impede supply chains more than foreseen, construction worker deportation policies may spike housing costs by crippling construction labor, and stock prices reveal only a fraction of economic health. If they fail, trump stock-buying call may jeopardize trust in public bailouts, and only buy for petty political reasons. First-time buyers will not face a 2008-style market crash due to tighter lending standards, but should be prudent not to overpay for supply-constrained homes.

Summary

Housing/Mortgage Markets:

Prices are not crashing but modestly increasing by four percent. The rate remains relatively stagnant at a high 6.86%, not surging. Affordability is difficult due to low inventory and tariffs.

First-Time Buyers:

Don’t wait for a non-existent crash because no crash is on the horizon. If financially prepared, it is manageable to buy while targeting affordable regions and a long-term plan.

Inflation/Economy:

Inflation sits at 2.4%, which is cooling, but still poses risks from tariffs. While not in shambles, the economy is growing at 3.1% GDP, but comes with looming recession risks.

Trump’s Stock Call:

He is lifting Confidence to offset fears of tariffs and maintain his image as a pro-growth President. The surge on May 12 of 1,100 points reflects his influence and dynamic rebound effects. However, 43,000 seems frothy to me, only sentiment and tech-driven. Layoffs/Bankruptcies:

Growth slows due to tariffs, but there has been no widespread calamity. The workforce and businesses are managing.

Your Next Steps:

Users: If you want to spend, get pre-approved, and search for homes within your budget range.

[Lisa Jones]

What can you grow in your garden for vegetables to make a nice salad in Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconsin?

What do you like to plant in your garden?

• This reply was modified 1 month, 2 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.

[Lisa Jones]

Here are a few of the most well-known lenders that concentrate on providing financing for mobile home parks (MHPs):

1. Live Oak Bank

Provides loans specifically for the mobile home communities and manufactured housing MHPs.

2. Lennar Multifamily Communities

Also provides financing for the mobile home park and other multifamily MHPs.

3. Wells Fargo

Provides receivables in commercial real estate and issues loans for mobile home parks in its commercial lending operations.

4. Citi Community Capital

Concerned with affordable housing funding, and can also finance mobile home parks, especially those aimed at low-income areas.

5. Greystone

It is a real estate lending firm that finances different categories of properties, including mobile home parks.

6. Northmarq

Services the mobile home park sector within commercial real estate financing.

7. Berkadia

Provides other financing for the mobile home part of multifamily properties.

8. First Capital

Focuses on financing manufactured housing and mobile home parks.

9. SBA (Small Business Administration)

It is not a direct lender but guarantees loans for businesses involving mobile home parks through listed lenders.

It’s crucial to look into the specialized mobile home park lenders and their loans to understand how to qualify for financing. They all have unique products, terms, and requirements. Let me know if I can help with anything else!

[Lisa Jones]

If you’re a Business Development Manager (BDM) seeking to establish partnerships with unfamiliar Realtors, the strategy is to make contact with them directly, establish trust quickly, and provide them with an irresistible offer. Since you are starting from scratch, aim for making a positive first impression that breeds trust and sets the stage for collaborative synergies. To help, here are some piece of advice on how to do this:

### 1. Research and Identify the Right Realtors

**Why It Matters**: As with any cold communication strategy, reaching out to warm prospects increases success rates. As with any niche or market, Realtors are busy professionals, so make sure you align with their objectives or pain points from the start.

**What To Do**:

– **Identify Niche**: Find Realtors specializing with First Time Buyers or Investment Properties using LinkedIn, Zillow, or local MLS data. If it is an advantage that Gustan Cho Associates’ non-QM or no-overlay loan expertise, focus on Realtors whose clients are turned away from other lenders.

– **Look At Their Activity**: Check for Realtors that have active social media presence and take part in local forums or even larger groups—they’re more likely to engage.

– **Make It Easy On Yourself**: Personalize campaigns for 5-10 Realtors in your local market to begin with.

**Action**: Start creating a document with their: name, contact details, and a short description of their niche or most recent activity (for example, “Jane Doe—fixer upper content on Instagram”).

### 2. Use a Warm Introduction (Even If Cold)

**Why It Matters**: Realtors get pitched constantly. A warm vibe – even without prior connection – cuts through the noise.

**Step-by-Step Instruction**:

– **Utilization of Shared Experiences**: If you have any mutual connections or contacts, bring them up. Comment or reference on social media about local events they attended or anything personally related to their digital footprint. For instance, mention: “Your post about that intricate deal was something to behold—especially the way you executed it. Bravo!”

– **Leverage Value**: Mention it in context to the reputation of GCA (Gustan Cho Associates). “I’m with Gustan Cho Associates—the best at closing impossible loans—so probably a few of your clients could be benefited here.”

– **Channel Options**:

– **Email**: Clear email body says “Hello [Name], I’m [Your Name] the BDM at Gustan Cho Associates. We are great with [exact skill, e.g. quick closings or non-QM loans]. Want to discuss a strategy to improve your next transaction? A swift cup of coffee works or just a call?”

– **LinkedIn**: Let’s create a connection like so: “Hi [Name], I’m BDM at GCA and I have worked with [niche]. I believe there are some exclusive loan options that we have that could enhance your deals and save them. Would you be okay if I DM you so we could discuss?”

– **Phone**: Taking 30 seconds for a call could really stand out, if you manage to get their number: “Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] from Gustan Cho Associates.”

“I help Realtors close more deals with our [specific benefit]. Can we set aside 10 minutes to discuss it?”

**Tip:** Try your best to combine all three channels. Some Realtors prefer emails while others appreciate calls.

### 3. Provide Measurable Value Right Away

**Why It Matters:** Realtors are not going to partner unless there is value for them. As a BDM, focus on improving their operations or making their business more successful.

**What You Need To Do**:

– **Offer A Solution**: “Have you ever had a deal go ghost due to financing? I have more than 210 lenders available without any overlays. Let me pre-approve your next buyer and I will do it at no cost and no strings attached.”

– **Give Out A Resource**: “I have put together a simple resource guide on [insert topic here: specifically non-QM loans for self-employed buyers]. Would you like me to send it to you? It could be useful for your customers.”

– **Special Offer**: “With our Preferred Realtor Program, you receive exclusive leads, and co-marketing opportunities. Would you want to find out more?”

– **Testimonial**: “Who here has heard that we just closed a deal in 14 days for a Realtor’s client who got denied in every possible place? I am more than glad to walk you through how we can do that for you!”

**Next Steps**: Come up with a one sentence pitch that delivers the statement of everything you love about Gustan Cho Associates (for example “We close 100% of pre-approvals with options other lenders don’t have”) and use it as a mantra.

### 4. Casual Meetup With No Strings Attached

**Why You Should Care**: Face-to-face communications are way more effective than online ones, meaning more trustworthy, without prior contact. This gives your clients an easier way to join in.

**Steps to Accomplish This:**

– **Event Suggestions**:

– “Come to my coffee drop-in” “I’m hosting a quick coffee meetup for local Realtors next Thursday. Come say hi and let’s talk shop.”

– “Lunch-and-learn” “Come join me for a 30-minute lunch next week. We’ll discuss how we’re closing tough loans real fast. Bring a question or a deal you’re stuck on.”

– **Invite** “Extend the invite via email or LinkedIn. It can be as brief as – No sales pitch, just good coffee and an opportunity to connect.”

– **Venue** “Reasonable locations could be a café or a co-working space. Opt for something central and keep the attendance 5-10 invitees for intimacy.”

– **Follow-Up** “Bring a one-pager about your program and swap contact details. Then, you can follow up with – Great meeting you, let’s get that [specific idea] rolling.”

**Tips**: Persuade a neutral party like a title rep to co-host. Enhances credibility and draws a crowd.

### 5. Use Digital Presence Proactively

**Why It Matters**: Real estate professionals identify their business associates before attending any event. Having strong online presence makes you approachable.

**How To Do It**:

– **Content – Highly Specific**: Share tips on LinkedIn and Instagram with targeting specialists. Post content such as “3 Ways Realtors Can Spot a Reliable Lender” or “How We Saved a Deal with a 500 FICO Buyer.” Don’t forget to tag the Realtors you are targeting.

– **Testimonials** Share a hypothetical video or quote from realtors: “Jane closed her last deal with us in 10 days because our team is ridiculous.”

– **Call-to-Action**: As we discussed, tweeting “Got a messy deal? DM me, I will consider it!” invites them to reach out first.

### Action

Every week for 15 minutes, post content that provides real value to build reputation.

### 6. Persistence Without Pestering

**Why It Matters**: Realtors don’t engage immediately. You have to stay relevant to them, but not in a dominating way.

**How to Do It:**

– **Follow-Up Cadence:** Try the “wait and see” approach for your first outreach. If no response, wait a week and try a different angle on a different channel, e.g., “I saw rates drop today; could be a win for your buyer. Free to chat?”

– **Drip Nurture:** Every 2-3 weeks, following up with: “Just closed a specific deal—thought of you!”

– **Stay Posted:** Comment on their posts, share their listing with a note: “Awesome property! I can pre-approve buyers—fast.”

**Tip:** After 3-4 no response touches, put them on a nurture list and check in 60 days, but don’t burn the bridge.

### What is the Best Approach for a BDM?

The best approach merges **relationship outreach** and **personal outreach**:

1. **Start Online**: Send a benefit-centric email or LinkedIn message to 10 Realtors to get their attention and highlight key advantages to working with Gustan Cho Associates.

2. **Offline Follow-up**: Enable them to attend a laidback, small group meeting that will happen within the next two weeks to help build rapport.

3. **Close It**: Give them what I call a “one-man show” proposal. Make sure that you keep your end—solving problems that showed up during the initial contact—and build trust.

This combination systematizes everything so that the BDM will be primarily viewed as someone who builds relationships and the company’s services are made known. Some Realtors thrive on referrals, so after a while, you get some partners, deliver results, and voila!

How is your area’s local market? Do tell if you’d like me to refine this for a particular audience!