The Cover Story

Loan officer, Blain Gentry, travels to the Ukraine to provide aid to civilians on the frontlines. While taking shelter from heavy artillery fire, he gets a text that his borrower is ready to close.

In an era where banks are retreating from mortgage lending, Cornerstone Capital Bank is boldly running the other direction. Born from a unique merger between a beloved independent mortgage lender and a 110-year-old West Texas bank, Cornerstone has rapidly transformed into a full-service financial institution—with mortgage lending still at its core. CEO Scott Almy reveals the story behind this high...

The future of lending belongs to those who can deliver not just loans, but seamless experiences that mirror the convenience consumers expect in every other aspect of their lives. While Rocket may have moved first, the game is far from over. For everyone else in the industry, the challenge is clear: adapt fast or risk becoming obsolete.

Better Mortgage is bridging tomorrow’s technology with today’s borrowers, unleashing AI-driven loans in a world not yet ready for a fully digital era. Discover how they plan to transform lending.

After decades of undervaluation, Black homeowners across the U.S. are seeing historic increases in property values—outpacing gains in majority-white neighborhoods. A mix of market shifts, federal policies, and anti-bias efforts in appraisals is helping close the racial wealth gap. From Detroit to Atlanta, Black communities are experiencing a long-overdue boost in home equity, creating billions in...

Before becoming CEO of RCN Capital, Jeff Tesch learned the fundamentals of leadership by managing Subway franchises in Connecticut. From scrubbing toilets to training employees, his early experiences shaped the skills he’d later use to build a private lending powerhouse.

As shrinking commissions put pressure on buyer agents, many are turning to dual licensing to control both sides of the transaction. Industry leaders weigh in on the financial benefits, regulatory concerns, and what this shift means for the mortgage and real estate landscape.

Can blockchain transform the mortgage industry? Editor Ryan Kingsley explores Figure Technology Solution’s bold innovations, blending compliance and cutting-edge tech to streamline lending. Learn how "truth over trust" is reshaping financial transactions.

In a move to reform federal government, the Trump administration has set its sights on dismantling the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). What does this mean for the mortgage industry, financial regulation, and borrowers? Will this lead to a new era of financial freedom — or a dangerous return to the conditions that fueled the 2008 financial crisis? We break down the consequences of unpl...

With fewer MLOs in the industry, lenders are prioritizing innovation, adaptability, and cultural fit over sheer production. Leaders stress the value of collaboration, technology, and long-term growth while influencers like Sosimo Avila highlight the importance of endurance and guidance. Companies like West Capital Lending and Primis Mortgage focus on transparency and support, ensuring their teams...

Many in the mortgage industry have gotten to know Loan Factory’s founder and CEO, Thuan Nguyen, as his company has grown massively in the past few years. But not many would know of Nguyen’s life in Vietnam; his attempts to escape the country by boat; his imprisonment at 14 years old; and his relentless pursuit of hope.

Paige Ringkamp’s journey from working with children in special education to becoming a top-producing mortgage originator is nothing short of inspiring. Leveraging her data-driven approach and passion for helping others, she’s redefining leadership in a male-dominated industry while empowering women to take bold leaps in their careers.

New to the mortgage industry, disabled Marine veteran Chris Shank brought heart and determination to the 2024 Originator Connect conference, rallying others to support veterans in need. With his own $1,000 pledge, Shank underscored his commitment to making an impact, inspiring attendees and demonstrating that his new role as a loan officer is about service, both to his clients and the veteran comm...

Listen to "Following The Sunshine," the cover story from the NMP Magazine October 2024 edition, "A Pivot In Paradise."

Listen to "Chasing The Cash" the cover story from the Mortgage Women Magazine September/October 2024 edition, "The Cash Crusader."

Listen to "The Big Spend," the cover story from the Mortgage Banker Magazine September 2024 edition, "The New Front Office."

Listen to "Never Say Never," the cover story from the NMP Magazine September 2024 edition, "Measure By Measure."

Listen to "Ramon Walker Has A Few Thoughts…," the cover story from the NMP Magazine August 2024 edition, "Unfiltered."

Listen to 'Doing Away With "Brokers Are Better," the cover story from the Mortgage Banker Magazine July 2024 edition, "Success Del-ivered."

Listen to "Irene The Machine," the cover story from the Mortgage Women Magazine July 2024 Edition, "Empire State Of Drive." 

Listen to "The Sale, The Risk, & The Trend," the cover story from the NMP Magazine July 2024 Edition, "Go Time."

Listen to "Manufacturing Fair Lending," the cover story from the Mortgage Banker Magazine June 2024 edition, "Meet The 2024 Legends Of Lending."

Listen to "Living & Lending, By The Numbers," the cover story from the NMP Magazine June 2024 Edition, "From Boardroom To Battleground."

Listen to "Trusting The Process," the cover story from the Lone Star LO Magazine May 2024 Edition, "Gritty Guidry."

Listen to "The Great Balancing Act," the cover story from the Florida Originator Magazine May 2024 Edition, "A Family Man With Fancy Cars."