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    Tom Miller

    Member
    October 9, 2025 at 5:24 pm in reply to: Free CE Courses for NEXA MLOs

    Thank you for sharing this information. I had no idea that NEXA loan officers could obtain free CE courses through Lenders One. Also, I appreciate you notifying me of the broken link and your effort to obtain an updated link. I will log into the LOLA portal and review the Continuing Education section to obtain those free courses. Did you have difficulties incorporating them into your basket, or was it problem-free? Also, I would appreciate any suggestions regarding which of the national courses I ought to take. Thank you once more for sharing this.

  • He wore a badge, acted like any other officer, and went home like nothing was wrong—but behind that uniform was a secret no one saw coming. When investigators looked deeper, they found something sickening: disturbing files hidden away, and a man who stayed calm as the truth crept closer. In this rare and tense interrogation, it’s not just the suspect who’s nervous—the officers, too. He knows the system, he’s worked it. Now, he’s on the other side of the table, trying to downplay a digital trail too detailed to ignore.

    https://youtu.be/E2yqqjHa3YY?si=c3QAJKvLIizR102r

  • Mitch Vexler files a criminal complaint with the DOJ, claiming that homes are falsely appraised to create higher tax revenue for the school districts. What this could mean for homeowners and real estate investors

    https://youtu.be/Mrsp7CJ0hNc?si=0BFzyF-Id_XJSXgk

  • #nevada​ #housingcrash​ #realestate2025​

    According to Zillow Q2 2025 and Redfin market reports, Nevada is facing one of its steepest housing declines in decades, and some cities are feeling it more than others.

    In this video, we reveal the 10 Nevada cities seeing the fastest home price drops and the real reasons behind them. From casino closures in Laughlin to HOA crackdowns in Las Vegas, you’ll see the data, the local stories, and the red flags every buyer should know before making a move.

    Whether you’re a homebuyer, investor, or just tracking the housing market, this is your guide to understanding what’s happening without the hype.

    https://youtu.be/IoanLMmhmQY?si=-e6l7U-8Naz8J-80

  • Chicago is staring down a massive $1.1 billion budget gap for 2026, with financial pressures mounting after a controversial pension bill added over $11 billion to the city’s long-term liability. Mayor Brandon Johnson now faces intense scrutiny from business leaders, residents, and political opponents as concerns grow over public safety, economic decline, and population loss.

    The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce warns that the city’s current fiscal strategy could stifle business growth and drive employers away. Rising property taxes, increasing crime rates, and an exodus of residents — particularly in Chicago’s Black community — are painting a grim picture for the Windy City’s future.

    Mayor Johnson’s proposed plan aims to eliminate debt and increase investments in public services without raising property taxes. But can Chick go balance the budget while tackling crime, boosting economic growth, and keeping residents from leaving?

    We break down the full story — the politics, the numbers, and what it means for Chicago’s future.

    https://youtu.be/TuKJX1yIto0?si=5OGnXN5zABHZfqMJ

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    Tom Miller

    Member
    April 6, 2025 at 11:40 pm in reply to: Go to anything to do with money

    That’s a powerful vision—and one that’s definitely in demand right now. Blending business development into your strategy to support self-employed folks and entrepreneurs is not just smart; it’s also deeply impactful. Here’s a structured approach to help you do that while continuing to grow yourself and your offerings:

    1. Define Your Value Proposition for Entrepreneurs

    Before you jump into strategies, get crystal clear on:

    • Who you serve: Niche down—freelancers, coaches, solopreneurs, creative entrepreneurs, etc.

    • What they need: financial clarity, scalable strategies, time management, client acquisition, or all of the above?

    • How you help: Translate your existing experience into clear, benefit-driven outcomes.

    2. Create a Business Development Framework

    You’ll need a simple but powerful framework you can apply to your own work and to your clients’ businesses:

    3. Package Your Services Smartly

    Offer tiers or service bundles that match different growth stages:

    • 🟢 Starter – For brand-new entrepreneurs (clarity sessions, offer development)

    • 🟡 Scaler—For growing businesses (automation, lead generation, systems)

    • 🔴 Strategic—For mature businesses (growth strategy, partnerships, team scaling)

    This allows you to grow with your clients.

    4. Integrate Learning & Personal Growth

    You’re growing too! To ensure you’re leveling up while helping others:

    • Schedule regular upskilling time (e.g., 1 hour/day for learning sales, marketing, finance tools)

    • Join business masterminds or coaching programs

    • Track your own KPIs as you would for a client—make yourself a case study!

    5. Position Yourself as a Growth Partner

    Entrepreneurs don’t just need a service provider—they want someone in their corner. So:

    • Focus on long-term retainer or advisory roles

    • Offer accountability check-ins or strategy calls

    • Celebrate wins with them—it builds loyalty and referrals

    6. Automate Where Possible to Free Up Time

    Use tools for:

    • CRM and client follow-ups (e.g., HubSpot, Dubsado)

    • Automated scheduling (Calendly, TidyCal)

    • Proposal and contract templates

    • Email marketing and funnel-building (ConvertKit, ActiveCampaign)

    Would you like me to help you sketch out a sample offer suite or create a landing page outline for this business development idea?

  • GCA Mortgage Forums News – Weekend Edition (March 10 – March 16, 2025)

    During the week of March 10 to March 16, 2025, there were some noteworthy stories in different sectors, such as politics, economics, environmental issues, and social issues. Here’s a summary highlighting the primary stories in the limelight throughout the week.

    Political Affairs

    America—China Relations:

    • This week, the new tariffs on Chinese commodities worsened the tensions between China and the United States.
    • The Biden government justified its position on the newly imposed tariffs by citing national security issues and predatory dealings.
    • This resulted in an immediate backlash from Beijing, which stated it would defend itself.

    Congressional Hearings:

    • The House of Representatives conducted several hearings, starting with Technology Regulation and working with major tech CEOs.
    • Lawmakers were worried about Big Tech corporations’ lack of data privacy, misinformation, and monopolistic powers, indicating a change of behavior toward more regulation.

    Economic Statistics

    Inflation Rates:

    • Regarding the decreasing rate of inflation, the February Consumer Price Index reported a CPI of 2.8 %, a decrease from 3.0% in January.
    • Just like in January, this figure provides some needed comfort to the Federal Reserve as it fights to maintain an unstable monetary policy.

    Market Updates:

    • The Dow Jones Industrial Average showed volatility over the week.
    • It closed down 0.5% on Friday due to worries about increasing interest rates and geopolitical conflicts.
    • Market participants pay particular attention to the Fed’s signals regarding future monetary policy tightening.

    Real Estate And Housing News

    Low Housing Inventory:

    • According to multiple reports, the inventory of houses for sale is at critically low levels, which is exacerbating the rise in home prices.
    • The National Association of Realtors pointed out that there is a serious need for more construction to meet the demand, particularly in the market for affordable housing.

    Interest rates:

    • The rate on 30-year fixed mortgages remains steady at 6.68%.
    • This stability may trigger some homebuyers to act before rates rise.
    • Experts advise buyers to look at multiple lending institutions and programs to secure the best-suited financing for their needs.

    Debates About The Environment

    Policies to mitigate the effect of climate change: An Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) published a report about the need for more definitive actions to reduce the impacts of climate change. The report highlights the importance of reducing carbon emissions and investing in renewable energy resources to help mitigate the effects of global warming.

    Wildlife Conservation:

    • The effort to reintroduce beavers into England’s ecosystems is gaining momentum.
    • Conservationists consider this a win for biodiversity, considering beavers are a keystone species for wetland health and water quality.

    Social Developments

    Healthcare Accessibility:

    • Advocacy groups have been pushing for more access to healthcare services, especially mental health services.
    • Many claim the American healthcare system is fundamentally broken.
    • One of the most recent polls highlights that many people face challenges obtaining necessary care.

    Education Policy Changes:

    • As with many other areas of the educational system, there are also inequities in funding and resources among schools, leading to variations in student educational outcomes.
    • The Department of Education’s recent policy change was meant to address those issues by implementing new equity guidelines.

    Cultural Highlights

    Film and Entertainment:

    • The wait is over.
    • Multiple studios revealed their summer line-up, and the entertainment industry has been resting excitedly.
    • Forthcoming films people look forward to are sequels to well-known, loved franchises and entirely new original content.

    Art and Exhibitions:

    • A new exhibition displaying art by contemporary social issue artists opened in New York City, capturing the public’s attention.
    • The exhibition’s purpose is to spark dialogue about identity, community, and social change.
    • From March 10 to March 16, 2025, several critical developments occurred.

    The socio-economic level is continuously changing and always complicated. Everyone involved in these issues, from the business world to ordinary citizens, needs to be informed to know how to respond to the challenges while making the most of the situation.

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    Tom Miller

    Member
    April 29, 2025 at 4:11 am in reply to: Does Lending Network Finance Mobile Home Parks

    Absolutely! The following are some ineligible business purposes for funding an SBA loan.

    1. **Refinancing Existing Debt**

    Using these funds to settle existing loans or debts is not permissible.

    2. **Purchasing Real Estate for Investment Purposes**

    Reimbursing the purchase of real estate that is not used to conduct business operations is not allowed.

    3. **Gambling Activities**

    No funding for gambling operations or any other related activities is eligible

    4. **Political Activities**

    Funding of any political campaign, lobbying, or any political activities is prohibited.

    5. **Illegal Activities**

    Business activities that are illegal by federal laws, state laws or local laws are ineligible.

    6. **Speculative Businesses or Investments**

    Funding of speculative stock or commodity trading is prohibited.

    7. **Paying Dividends**

    Paying dividends to the share holders is not an acceptable use of the funds.

    8. **Non-Operational Expenses**

    Personal expenses or unrelated costs are not reimbursable.

    For a smoother process when applying for SBA financing, understanding these ineligible uses is critical. From the start, ensure that the intended purpose of spending the funds conforms to the SBA regulations so as not to complicate the request approval process. If you have additional questions or need me to clarify anything, let me know.

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    Tom Miller

    Member
    April 29, 2025 at 4:06 am in reply to: Does Lending Network Finance Mobile Home Parks

    The process of guaranteeing loans through the Small Business Administration (SBA) is crafted to help small businesses receive much-needed assistance while minimizing the lender’s risk. This is an overview of the entire step-by-step process:

    1. Getting Familiar with SBA Loan Programs

    7(a) Loan Program: The most popular SBA loan is used for numerous things like working capital, real estate, and equipment purchase.

    504 Loan Program: Exclusively designated for acquiring immovable property or sizeable equipment.

    Microloan Program: Designed to help startups, these loans are smaller in value.

    2. Being an Eligible Candidate

    Business size: Needs to be within a certain limit as defined by the SBA, which is generally based on revenue or the number of employees.

    Business Type: Other business types, like religious organizations and nonprofits, are excluded from qualifying.

    Creditworthiness: Business owners require a decent credit score and a well-structured business plan.

    Use of the Funds: The funds provided must be spent elsewhere, such as on equipment, inventory, and eligible business expenses, and not paid out as business loans.

    3. Locating an SBA Lender

    Some lenders do not offer SBA loans; finding one is critical. Once they are verified as approved to process these loans, a search can be done using the SBA webpage to locate the lenders.

    4. Steps to Apply

    Gather Documentation: Bank- and IRS-approved financial statements, business outline, and many other documents must be combined.

    8 Steps in an SBA Loan Application: Steps 5, 6, 7 (Submission Steps 1-4)

    * Submit Loan Application. Please fill out the lender’s application form and submit it alongside supporting documentation.

    5. Lender Review

    * Your application will be reviewed based on the lender’s credit policy and the SBA’s eligibility criteria. During this review, the lender may request further information as well.

    6. SBA Guarantee

    * After the lender approves your application, you can submit it to the SBA for a guarantee. The SBA guarantees a portion of the loan. For instance, they will guarantee up to 85% of the loan for loans lower than $150,000 and 75% for loans higher than that threshold.

    This guarantee makes it easier for lenders to approve a loan since the repayment risk is lower.

    7. Loan Approval and Closing

    * Once the SBA approves the guarantee, you receive the funds, which can only be utilized for the reasons mentioned in the application.

    8. Repayment

    * The lender outlines the repayment structure, and borrowers are bound to follow it. Defaulting on payments can have devastating financial repercussions.

    9. Loosely defined as ‘discretionary’ spending, post-loan covers: business, fintech, AI, and marketing. Borrowers receive step coupon discounts towards the repayment amount of the loan. Overseen by the SBA, these funds are to be used to support financial aid and business support.

    With the guarantee of an SBA loan, small businesses can get the necessary capital while reducing the risk for lenders. Knowing the steps of this process and preparing for every part can significantly increase your likelihood of receiving an SBA-backed loan. If you have any additional questions or would like me to expand on certain topics, don’t hesitate to ask!

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