As January 2025 winds down, Derick and Stephen take a deep dive into the key trends shaping the housing and mortgage markets. In this episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers, they explore:

• Why mortgage rates are staying near 7% and how that impacts buyers
• The ongoing home shortage of 4.5 million properties and its effect on prices
• Slowing home price appreciation in 2025—what buyers and sellers should know
• Changes in buyer demographics: The rise of multigenerational homes and all-cash purchases
• New tech in real estate: How AI, blockchain, and borrower portals are streamlining the process
• What’s next for spring 2025: Regional price trends, rate expectations, and the affordability outlook

Tune in for brutally honest advice to help you navigate this evolving market with confidence!

n this episode of "The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds," hosts Derick and Stephen sit down with his "sister from another mister," Jillian Montague, Director of Business Development at CoreTitle. With over a decade of experience in the title industry, Jillian brings a wealth of knowledge and a personal touch to the conversation. They'll delve into the intricacies of title insurance, share stories from the field, and discuss how CoreTitle's commitment to competence and hospitality sets them apart in the industry. Don't miss this engaging and informative chat with one of the leading professionals in the title business.

In this heartfelt episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers, Derick and Stephen sit down with Ricky and Jessica Smith, the inspiring founders of Guardian Angel Inspections. From a family tragedy to creating a business that serves and protects families, the Smiths share their incredible journey. They discuss the importance of home inspections, the hidden risks they uncover, and why their personal story fuels their passion for keeping homeowners safe. It’s an episode full of resilience, family values, and practical tips for homebuyers and sellers alike.

In this episode of “The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds,” Derick and Stephen sit down with James Hackman, a rising star in real estate who skyrocketed to success after getting licensed in 2021. James shares how his fearless approach to cold calling landed him a $3 million deal and the strategies he uses to stay consistent and motivated in a competitive industry. From building rapport with clients to overcoming rejection, James offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to level up their real estate game. Don’t miss this inspiring story of grit, determination, and making things happen!

In this reflective and forward-focused episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds, Derick Brown and Stephen Brock dive into the power of goal-setting just days before the new year. They explore why writing down your goals can increase your chances of success by 42%, backed by compelling research. The duo shares their own wins and lessons from 2024, including Stephen’s goal reflections and Derick’s journey of building diverse referral partnerships.

Whether it’s crushing professional milestones, improving personal habits, or leveling up in 2025, this episode provides actionable tips to turn aspirations into achievements. Tune in for inspiration, accountability hacks, and a brutally honest roadmap to start the new year strong.

n this episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds, Derick and Stephen take out their crystal ball to forecast the mortgage landscape for 2025. From economic shifts and interest rate trends to housing inventory and homebuyer demand, they tackle the key factors shaping the industry. Will rates stabilize? Will inventory challenges ease? What trends should loan officers and homebuyers prepare for? Tune in to hear their brutally honest insights, predictions, and strategies to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.

In this episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds, we’re joined by the one and only Kerry Stafford — founder of Paperchain Transactions, and the ultimate transaction coordinator (T.C.) powerhouse. From managing deadlines to taming paperwork madness, Kerry shares how she keeps real estate deals on track and agents sane.

Hosts Derick and Stephen dig deep with Kerry on what it really means to be a T.C., how she balances it all, and how modern technology is shaping the future of real estate transactions. Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes of a smooth homebuying experience? This episode pulls back the curtain.

Kerry also spills on wild transaction stories, offers advice for agents and homebuyers alike, and reveals the one thing people always get wrong about her role. Whether you're an agent, a buyer, or just love a good behind-the-scenes industry breakdown, this episode is for you.

Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the best in the business

In this episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officer Podcast, Stephen Brock and Derick Brown welcome the incredible Christine Wilson—a mentor, coach, and the inspiration behind this very podcast! Christine has been a dedicated Mortgage Advisor with The Mortgage Firm for over 17 years, growing her business across multiple states and earning over 1,000 5-star reviews.

As a Master Coach and leader in the mortgage industry, Christine shares how she helped Stephen and Derick launch the podcast during their time in her coaching program. She also dives into her journey, favorite client success stories, and advice for thriving in a challenging market. Whether you're a loan officer, realtor, or just looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom and laughs.

Tune in to hear how Christine's coaching sparked a partnership that’s still growing strong!