Mortgage Women Magazine

08/21/2024

🚨We're excited to announce the first webinar for the Mortgage Women Leadership Council!🚨

The recent NAR settlement is set to transform the US Housing Market, bringing both challenges and opportunities for the industry. Join our special briefing to understand how this shift will impact lenders, agents, and home purchase transactions.

Gain insights into new business models, legal challenges, and strategies for compliant relationships between lenders and agents. Don't miss out on this crucial session—stay ahead in a changing market! 🏠💼

*Register now: https://link.mwlcouncil.com/NAR

*You must be a member of the Mortgage Women Leadership Council to join. Register for free with code INVITE24 at mwlcouncil.com/join.

08/21/2024

Meet Monica Zhang, CEO of Central Group Mortgage 🌟

From a chance conversation to CEO, Monica Zhang's unexpected journey into the mortgage industry is truly inspiring. "It was unplanned," she says. "I was a relationship banker when a colleague suggested I try mortgages because of my phone skills. I took a leap of faith, and the rest is history."

Monica's key to success? Looking beyond compensation. "The value of a career isn't just about money. Think like an entrepreneur, invest in your future, upskill, and stay consistent. With great intangible skills and a passion for growth, you'll navigate tough times and thrive in the good ones."

Monica was featured as a 2023 Industry Titan by NMP Magazine. Curious about Monica's journey and her insights on building a successful career? Click to read more!

https://bit.ly/3i6baWe

Stay motivated and inspired by leaders who turn unexpected opportunities into remarkable success! 💪✨

08/19/2024

Creating a culture where everyone can make an impact is crucial for business success. This means promoting diversity and inclusion at every level, especially for women in leadership roles. ServiceLink, for example, has more than 50% of its leadership comprised of women, demonstrating their commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace.

Here’s how companies can build an inclusive culture, as highlighted by Erica Restich:

🌟 Inclusive Strategies: Ensure inclusion strategies are prioritized as business objectives.

🤝 Leadership Commitment: Gain buy-in from all levels of leadership to embed inclusion into the company’s core values.

🎓 Mentorship Programs: Develop and engage talent through effective mentorship opportunities, particularly for underrepresented groups.

By focusing on these areas, companies not only create a more inclusive environment but also position themselves to outperform others.

Read the full article by Erica Restich to learn more about advancing inclusion in the workplace: https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/inclusion-matters

08/14/2024

Meet Patrina Amato, VP of Lending Support 🌟

As VP of Lending Support at United Wholesale Mortgage, Patrina Amato's long-term goals include growing the broker channel and supporting independent mortgage brokers. She aims to innovate products and create new technology to meet current and future needs.

Patrina is also dedicated to helping team members grow, paying forward the support she received in her career. She empowers UWM team members to challenge processes and find better ways to close loans.

Patrina’s vision is to drive industry transformation and growth for UWM and mortgage brokers alike. Patrina was recognized by NMP magazine as a 2023 40 Under 40 honoree. Read her full profile. https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/recognizing-40-under-40-unleashing-their-talents

Stay inspired by leaders like Patrina who drive change and support growth! 💪✨

08/12/2024

🚀 Ready to embark on transformative opportunities? Michele Bodda shares invaluable insights gleaned from leading the acquisition of four companies, shaping them into a powerhouse business unit within Experian.

📖 Delve deeper into Michele's insights. Read the full article for actionable strategies to navigate transformative opportunities in your career or business journey:
https://bit.ly/4fSlfz4

08/07/2024

This Wednesday, meet Kimberly Grim 🌟 Senior Vice President of Sales and Recruiting at Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp.

Kimberly Grim emphasizes the importance of mentoring and empowering others in the real estate/mortgage industry. She believes success comes from emulating successful individuals and setting clear expectations. Kimberly is dedicated to being a role model, offering peer coaching, and advocating for better licensing requirements to support the next generation of mortgage professionals.

Kimberly was featured as a 2023 Mortgage Star. Read her feature here: https://bit.ly/3K1hWqP

08/05/2024

In today’s digital age, your online presence can be a game-changer, especially in industries like mortgage services where trust is paramount. Rebecca Richardson, The Mortgage Mentor, shows us how to build a strong, authentic brand on social media by:

🌟 Sharing Your Story 📚 Providing Value 🎥 Being Authentic

Remember, it's about creating content that speaks directly to your ideal client. Define your niche, stay true to your voice, and keep experimenting. You have the power to make a difference and build trust, one post at a time! Read the full article to learn more about Richardson’s insights and tips for building your online presence.

https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/sold-social

07/31/2024

Jessica Evett, recognized as one of NMP's 2023 Powerful Women of Mortgage Banking, is a trailblazer in her field. With extensive experience, she navigates challenges with resilience and vision.

Her Advice:
"Be yourself. Your ideas and expertise matter. Seek cultures that embrace authenticity."

On Gender Equality:
Jessica notes progress but stresses the need for more female representation in senior leadership roles.

Together, we can achieve incredible things! 💪✨

Read her 2023 Powerful Women In Mortgage Banking feature: https://bit.ly/49chQ9T

07/29/2024

🌟 Kickstart your week with a dose of inspiration! 🌟

In the competitive world of mortgage lending, PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is bringing a different kind of “green” to the industry – one that's all about golf and giving back. But how does giving back generate business? And how can mortgage lenders utilize charitable donations for public relations and community outreach?

Join us as we uncover the powerful connection between giving back and business success. Sue Rector, chair of the board of directors at the PGA REACH Gateway Foundation, shares invaluable insights on how charitable drives and collaborations can bolster both public image and internal morale.

Discover how supporting causes like PGA HOPE not only strengthens your community ties but also enhances employee engagement and attracts top talent. Let's dive into the transformative impact of corporate philanthropy and explore actionable strategies to make a difference while making waves in your industry.

Ready to tee off your week with purpose? Let's swing into action and make our communities better! ⛳️🏡

https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/driving-change-and-business-too

07/24/2024

Industry pioneers like NEXA Mortgages' Rana Mortensen and Mobility Market Intelligence's Heidi Iverson accepted their awards as 2024 honorees of the Mortgage Women magazine's annual Mortgage Star Awards. In a crowded ballroom at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, Mortensen and Iverson, among other award winners like Viviana Abarca and Rebecca Seward, gave speeches and celebrated their achievements.

https://youtu.be/v6JAl6noy7E

Industry pioneers like NEXA Mortgages' Rana Mortensen and Mobility Market Intelligence's Heidi Iverson accepted their awards as 2024 honorees of the Mortgage...

07/24/2024

🌟 Meet Erica Acie: A Leader in the Mortgage Industry 🌟

After 26 years in the mortgage business, Erica Acie stands out for her foresight in navigating market cycles and integrating technology with human expertise. Her leadership shines through her dedication to preserving her team's morale during downturns. Erica was featured as one of NMP Magazine's 2023 Industyry Titans.

Read her full profile: https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/meet-nmp-2023-titans-industry

Stay inspired and motivated by leaders like Erica! 💪📈

07/22/2024

Meet Irene Amato, CEO of A.S.A.P Mortgage and a true New Yorker. From humble beginnings in The Bronx to leading a multi-branch mortgage company, Irene's journey is nothing short of inspiring. She started by robocalling customers in a cubicle, then ran her own tanning salon, and eventually founded A.S.A.P Mortgage in her basement in 2001.

Named after her three children — Alexa, Stephanie, and Peter — A.S.A.P stands for providing mortgages "as soon as possible." Today, her company boasts an average loan size of over $420,000 and has been recognized as one of the best places to work.

Irene's story reminds us that with determination and heart, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our dreams. Let her journey inspire you to embrace new endeavors and believe in your potential.

https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/irene-machine

07/18/2024

Join us as we recap an incredible day at the Mortgage Star Conference in July, where we also held our first in-person Mortgage Women Leadership Council (MWLC) meeting! The energy was fantastic, leaving us inspired about the future and our mission to empower women in the mortgage industry.

For more Originator Connect Network events visit originatorconnectnetwork.com.

https://youtu.be/KvEMqynRwKA?si=EOH2F4JJRp2byW8h

Join us as we recap an incredible day at the Mortgage Star Conference in July, where we also held our first in-person Mortgage Women Leadership Council (MWLC...

07/17/2024

This Wednesday, we highlight Chandra Srivastava, a dynamic "pracademic," seamlessly integrates academia and industry, driving Calque's marketing endeavors with precision.

With a PhD in Marketing, she pioneers data-driven strategies, notably championing the Trade-In Mortgage to revolutionize homeownership. Chandra's visionary leadership has propelled Calque's expansion to 40 states, securing significant capital and fostering invaluable partnerships. Her blend of academic rigor and interpersonal finesse sets her apart, epitomizing innovation and client-centricity in the mortgage industry.

Chandra was featured by NMP Magazine as one of their 40 Under 40 honorees for 2023. Read more about Chandra in her profile: https://bit.ly/3sWpB4C

07/15/2024

Take a moment to rethink the conventional approach to lending. While others chase after perfect credit scores and hefty down payments, Jen Conley and her team at Home Loans by Jen are rewriting the script.

🏡 They're not just about transactions, they're about transformations. Jen's mission? To help those who think they can't achieve their dream of homeownership.

🤝 No 'nos,' just solutions. At Home Loans by Jen, there's no 'No' file—only a 'not right now' plan. They'll work with you, guide you, and support you on your journey to homeownership.

🌟 Join the movement and discover a new path to homeownership ,because everyone deserves the opportunity to turn their house into a home.

Read more: https://bit.ly/3zTtJ8g

07/10/2024

It's Wednesday and today in New Orleans, the Mortgage Star Conference for Women celebrates the 2024 Mortgage Star Award recipients, honoring trailblazing women who have made significant impacts in the mortgage industry.

We are inspired by these outstanding female professionals leading the way in mortgage!

Read their feature in Issue 2 of Mortgage Women Magazine: https://bit.ly/3zDl8GY

In 2024, we’re especially proud to highlight the women who excel despite the unique challenges they face in the workplace. Presenting this year’s selection of Mortgage Stars — Women Who Rise Above The Rest.

07/10/2024

Issue two of Mortgage Women Magazine introduces the all-new Mortgage Women Leadership Council, which aims to offer a seat at the table for all women seeking mentorship, soundboarding and collaboration. A profile on A.S.A.P Mortgage’s Irene Amato offers a sneak peek into how she took her entrepreneurial attitude and applied it to the financial services industry. Issue two also contains features about self-discovering in the workplace, identifying growth opportunities, and more.

Read the digital edition: https://bit.ly/4eZcZMY

07/08/2024

🌟 Embrace the journey of transformation! Kristen Eklund's story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination.

From starting afresh in the Florida Keys to overcoming setbacks like Hurricane Irma and the challenges of rebuilding after a divorce, Kristen's journey is a reminder that every obstacle is an opportunity for growth.

Despite facing rejection and uncertainty, Kristen never gave up on her dream. Instead, she pivoted, re-entered the brokering world, and set ambitious goals for herself.

Through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, Kristen not only surpassed her initial targets but also became a trusted leader in her field, earning accolades and recognition along the way.

Her dedication to her clients, her community, and her craft serves as an inspiration to us all. Kristen's story reminds us that with passion, integrity, and a willingness to adapt, anything is possible.

So, as you embark on your own journey this week, remember Kristen's words: "Life gives you what you can handle." Stay focused, stay resilient, and keep pushing forward. Your dreams are within reach!

Ready to be inspired? Dive deeper into Kristen's remarkable journey by reading the full article below. Let her story ignite your own passion and determination! 🔥💼

https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/one-stars-rise-mortgage-sky

07/03/2024

This Wednesday we highlight Michele Johnson.

Michele Johnson, reflecting on her journey in sports and the professional realm, emphasizes the impact of female mentors and coaches on her success. Rooted in confidence, self-assuredness, and genuine concern for her team, Michele shares her leadership philosophy as a servant leader.

Offering valuable advice to women entering the mortgage industry, she encourages breaking down perceived barriers and learning from mentors who embody integrity and continuous improvement.

Committed to fostering the future success of women, Michele takes pride in helping her teammates build confidence and reach their full potential. Addressing internal barriers, she advocates for leadership encouragement and mentorship to empower women in the industry.

Michele envisions greater flexibility in the mortgage industry to respond swiftly to market shifts, emphasizing the importance of timely adaptations.

Michele was featured in the July 2022 issue of Mortgage Women Magazine as one of our 2022 Mortgage Stars:

https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/magazine/mortgage-women-magazine/diverse-workforce/digital-edition

07/01/2024

🌟 Meet Patty Brown, Senior Vice President of Underwriting at Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group. Originally from Emerson, New Jersey, Patty's journey in the mortgage industry began in customer service, leading her to discover her passion for underwriting.

💼 Career Journey: Patty's transition to underwriting stemmed from her discomfort with certain loan types, driving her to seek a role where she could prioritize clients' best interests. Over 20 years later, her commitment to client success has propelled her to her current leadership position.

🌟 Patty's journey exemplifies resilience, continuous learning, and the power of mentorship in achieving success.

📖 Read Patty's full article for more insights into her inspiring journey and valuable career advice: https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/passion-sharing-knowledge-others

06/26/2024

This Wednesday the spotlight is on Camelia Martin!

Camelia Martin acknowledges equal pay as a significant challenge for women in tech and suggests starting by educating oneself, knowing one's worth, and advocating for equal pay. She emphasizes the impact of these individual efforts on organizations and industries over time.

Camelia's journey into technology began in legal, risk, and operations roles at a mortgage technology company. Eager to learn, she actively volunteered for tech initiatives, gradually transitioning into formal tech roles. Her advice to women entering tech is to balance technical skills with a deep understanding of the industry, its challenges, and desired business outcomes.

Reflecting on mentors, Camelia recognizes the maze-like nature of her career path and appreciates individuals who opened doors and provided guidance. However, her parents stand out as the most influential figures, instilling values of grit and hard work that contributed significantly to her success.

In the realm of mortgage technology, Camelia emphasizes the importance of addressing change management alongside tech implementation. She advocates for a deep understanding of mortgage processes and their complexity before simplification, aiming for successful implementations that truly address challenges in the industry. Camelia was recognized as 2023 Woman Of Tech in Mortgage Women Magazine.

Read her full profile: https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/honoring-women-mortgage-technology

06/24/2024

Adenna Huggins, believes strong relationships are the key to a successful career. Networking and maintaining these relationships through communication and a willingness to learn are essential.

🔑 Takeaway: Relationships are the most valuable asset in both personal and professional life. Networking begins relationships, but communication and teamwork keep them strong.

https://bit.ly/3RBtNjh

06/19/2024

In Nelda Cales' journey within the mortgage industry, she credits her achievements to influential female mentors who equipped her with essential business skills and leadership qualities. Advocating for the pivotal role of mentoring, Nelda emphasizes its significance in fostering both personal and professional growth.

Nelda's leadership approach is characterized by valuing relationships, maintaining composure in challenging situations, and skillfully exercising diplomacy. Offering guidance to women embarking on careers in the industry, Nelda encourages a focus on assisting others, actively pursuing growth, expanding networks, and sharing knowledge generously.

Committed to contributing to the industry's future, Nelda sets an exemplary standard, provides coaching, and champions ongoing personal development. In addressing challenges faced by women, Nelda supports the prioritization of work-life balance and advocates for the importance of family commitments. Looking ahead, Nelda envisions a transformation in the industry, emphasizing a shift towards prioritizing client-centric advice over price considerations and calling for ongoing evolution to drive down costs while delivering substantial value.

Nelda was featured as a 2023 Mortgage Star: https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/2023-mortgage-star-awards

Watch her video interview on The Interest:
https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/video/interest/high-prices-heating

06/12/2024

It's !

Meet Megan Marsh: Social Media Maven and Mortgage Leader! 🌟 With over a decade of video content creation under her belt, Megan's online presence has skyrocketed, with thousands of followers on LinkedIn and a growing presence on platforms like TikTok and Instagram reels. Despite her success, Megan remains humble, striving to provide valuable information and education to her audience rather than seeking influencer status. Her journey from loan originator to co-founder of Co/LAB lending has equipped her with a wealth of knowledge, which she generously shares to mentor others in the industry. Megan's dedication to her craft and commitment to continuous improvement make her a true leader in both mortgage lending and social media. Megan was interviewed in the September 2023 issue of NMP Magazine.

Read more about Megan in her feature: https://bit.ly/44G2jg6

06/10/2024

🚀 Rise and shine, champions of change! Today, as we reflect on the challenges facing diversity and inclusion efforts, let's remember the power of perseverance and the resilience of the human spirit.

In the face of adversity, it's easy to feel discouraged. But let's flip the script and see these obstacles as opportunities to innovate, to push boundaries, and to redefine what's possible.

So let's stand tall, embrace diversity, and champion equity in all that we do. Together, we can break down barriers, uplift marginalized voices, and build a society where everyone has the chance to thrive.

Today, let's reaffirm our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Let's turn challenges into triumphs and create a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.

Ready to dive deeper into the conversation? Click the link below to read the full article and join the movement for change! 💪🌈

https://bit.ly/4b0mLeC

06/05/2024

Facing early career challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, Lisa Gao didn't back down. 🚀

Her advice for aspiring female leaders? Trust yourself, seek mentorship, and never stop learning. 💡

In an industry constantly evolving, Lisa stays resilient by embracing change and innovation. 💪

Her mantra? "Embrace change, innovate, and persist." 🌟

Read her profile as a 2024 Mortgage Lending Women Of Inspiration: https://bit.ly/3wNFtHT

06/03/2024

Tina Asher reminds us to rediscover the magic of curiosity and unlock the door to endless possibilities in Mortgage Women Magazine! Don't settle for the status quo—embrace the 'first-day' approach in every aspect of your life. Challenge assumptions, ask questions, and cultivate a genuine thirst for knowledge. Let's embark on this daring adventure together! Are you ready to ignite your curiosity and transform your world?

Read Tina's full article: https://nationalmortgageprofessional.com/news/curiosity-gets-results

05/29/2024

Meet Jennifer Vallinayagam: A Trailblazing Force in Mortgage Lending! 🚀 From humble beginnings in India to becoming the Chief Operations Officer at Sun West Mortgage, Jennifer's journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Breaking barriers as the only female engineer at Sun West, she leads with finesse, driving her team to exceed targets and spearheading innovations like Morgan, Sun West's groundbreaking AI technology poised to revolutionize the real estate industry. Jennifer's resilience, leadership, and commitment to blazing her own path inspires us all. Let's celebrate her remarkable contributions to the mortgage world!

Jennifer was featured by NMP Magazine as one of their 2023 Mortgage Lending Women of Inspiration. Read more about Jennifer in her profile:
https://bit.ly/3F9dqnT

05/27/2024

Did you know that a simple addition like video content on your website can skyrocket your visibility on search engines? It's proof that staying sharp pays off big time.

If your year is passing by without a focus on learning, don't dwell on the missed opportunities. Take inspiration from Rosalie's journey and commit to a year of growth and development. With each new piece of knowledge, you're not just expanding your skill set—you're setting yourself up for greatness.

So, let's seize the day and make this a year of unstoppable progress! Embrace the power of continuous learning and watch as your potential unfolds.

Read her feature from the February 2022 Mortgage Women Magazine: https://bit.ly/3QTR4wv

05/22/2024

This Wednesday we proudly announce the election of several outstanding women to the Advisory Board for the Mortgage Women Leadership Council. This milestone represents not just personal achievements, but a powerful stride towards gender equality and leadership diversity in our field.

Their expertise, vision, and dedication are set to inspire and drive positive change, fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued. Let's celebrate these trailblazers and continue to support the empowerment of women in the mortgage industry! 🌟💪

If you are interested in joining the MWLC visit MWLcouncil.com and use our code INVITE24 to receive your first year of complimentary membership .