Daily Spark Blogs

Today’s Daily Spark is inspired by James 1:12 from the Recovery Version of the Bible, and although I typically avoid connecting business with biblical scripture, the structure of this verse uniquely mirrors the principles of the Daily Success Plan we follow at Mortgage Marketing Animals. 

James 1:12 (Recovery Version): 

1. Blessed is the man who endures trial 
2. because when he has become approved by testing 
3. he will receive the crown of life 

Let’s break this down and compare it to our journey as loan officers: 

1. Blessed is the man who endures trial: 

• Interpretation: Fortunate is the loan officer who overcomes call reluctance. 
• Explanation: Just like enduring trials, overcoming call reluctance is a significant challenge. It’s about pushing past the fear and discomfort of making calls, knowing that this is part of the process. 

2. because when he has become approved by testing: 

• Interpretation: Because when he pushes through the “no’s” and rejection. 
• Explanation: Success comes after facing numerous rejections. Each “no” is a step closer to a “yes,” and by enduring this testing phase, you refine your skills and resilience. 

3. he will receive the crown of life: 

• Interpretation: He will receive the reward of success. 
• Explanation: The persistent loan officer, who consistently follows the Daily Success Plan despite challenges, will ultimately enjoy the rewards of their efforts—more closings, stronger relationships, and greater financial success.

Reflecting on the True Meaning 

While the structure of this verse aligns well with our business principles, I encourage you to explore its true spiritual meaning. The “crown of life” in this context represents eternal life and blessings far beyond any monetary rewards we could achieve in our careers.

Action Step: 

Consider this comparison as motivation to follow the Daily Success Plan diligently. The trials you face, whether it’s call reluctance or handling rejections, are shaping you for success. And remember, our ultimate goal should always include seeking deeper understanding and fulfillment beyond business achievements. 

For those wanting to master the skills needed to endure and succeed, I highly recommend joining one of our Small Group Boot Camps. You’ll get direct, hands-on coaching from Steve Kyles and Carl White, learning the Math, Skills, and Discipline necessary to excel. Sign up at loanofficersuccess.com.

Let’s embrace the trials and push through to achieve the success we’re capable of. You’re not just chasing deals; you’re building a rewarding career. Keep pushing forward—your success is on the horizon!

Yesterday, I had an experience on Facebook that reinforced why I don’t spend much time there. I typically use Facebook to post content that benefits my business, Loan Officer Breakfast Club, and Mortgage Marketing Animals. However, after posting a Marketing Animals video, I made the mistake of scrolling through my feed.

I came across a post from a new loan officer in a loan officer group asking, “What’s a good script for cold calling Realtors?” The first reply was disheartening: “It’s a waste of time,” said an individual I personally know who is somewhat of an influencer in the mortgage space. This response immediately shut down the new loan officer’s enthusiasm.

While everyone is entitled to their opinion, it’s disheartening to see an influencer discourage someone so quickly. However, there’s a partial truth in the statement—cold calling the wrong Realtors is a waste of time. But cold calling the right Realtors with the right script and proper follow-up is far from a waste of time. We know this from the amazing success stories shared every day on our live LOBC calls.

Carl White often reminds us of a National Association of Realtors (NAR) survey showing that the largest percentage of home buyers found their loan officer through a Realtor. The second-largest source is through family and friends. Combined, these sources account for over 60% of home buyer referrals. This suggests that these should be the top areas to focus on for consistent business.

Social media, while important, only accounts for about 3% of home buyer referrals. Interestingly, the influencer who dismissed cold calling is a strong advocate for social media. While it’s essential to have a social media presence, the statistics show that working with Realtors and your sphere of influence (SOI) and past clients yields more consistent results.

Don’t be swayed by influencers suggesting that working with Realtors is a waste of time. It’s just not true. Realtors are the top source of new business. Approach the right Realtors with the right script and diligent follow-up, and you will do exceptionally well.

If others think calling Realtors is a waste of time, let them. They won’t be your competition, and that’s great for you. You know the right approach, so go out and get those deals. To learn how to effectively approach Realtors and refine your scripts and follow-ups, consider joining one of Steve Kyles’ 8-week bootcamps. Sign up at loanofficersuccess.com.

Remember, taking consistent and strategic action is key to success. Let’s make today count!

Today’s Daily Spark is inspired by Sharon’s outstanding day this past Monday. The title might seem unusual, but it perfectly encapsulates her incredible productivity and success.

Sharon’s journey on Monday is a testament to the power of consistency and the skills she’s developed through the Mortgage Marketing Animals’ Daily Success Plan. Here’s what those numbers represent:

• 12: She had 12 talk-to’s, which is just one short of the 13 we often target.
• 7: Those 12 conversations resulted in 7 referrals.
• 5: From those referrals, she took 5 loan applications.
• 4: She issued 4 pre-approvals.
• 2: Finally, she secured 2 contracts.

Sharon’s day wasn’t a fluke; it was the result of her dedication and the skills she’s honed over time. These skills include picking up the phone, calling a targeted list, using crafted scripts, securing appointments, diligently following up, and asking for the business. By consistently applying these practices, she’s built a machine that produces steady results.

The beauty of Sharon’s success is that these skills can be learned by anyone. They are simply conversations, not complex or hard tasks. At the Mortgage Marketing Animals, we have the plan and the support system in place to help anyone willing to learn achieve similar results.

Make today the day you decide to take control and work towards results like Sharon’s. Because, why not?

If you’re ready to develop these skills and start seeing incredible results, join us at the Mortgage Marketing Animals and start implementing the Daily Success Plan. Click below to schedule your call.

I was inspired by an interview I started watching on YouTube. It was an interview between Dr. Jordan Peterson and Elon Musk. They were discussing AI and its purpose. The question came up if taking AI to the level of super intelligence, where AI is smarter than all humans put together, is dangerous. Elon responded by saying, it’s happening no matter what, so he could be a spectator or a participant. 

This got me thinking about our mortgage business. At Loan Officer Breakfast Club, we go over a lot of information, and we showcase many case studies in the testimonies that we see and hear from those who fully participate in being part of Mortgage Marketing Animals, including Call Stars and the other resources available to them. Yet, there are still many spectators—those who perhaps don’t have the belief that it’s real, or who don’t believe they have the disposition to actually participate in the Daily Success Plan.

Here’s why you shouldn’t hold back and why you should make the decision today to participate rather than spectate: 

1. Proven Success: We’ve seen countless examples of loan officers who have transformed their businesses by following the Daily Success Plan. These are not just isolated cases; these are consistent, repeatable successes that come from a structured approach. 

2. Supportive Community: By becoming an active participant, you join a community of like-minded professionals who are committed to helping each other succeed. This support system can provide you with the motivation and accountability you need to stay on track. 

3. Access to Resources: As a participant, you gain access to a wealth of resources designed to enhance your skills and knowledge. From scripts to marketing strategies, everything you need is at your fingertips. 

4. Increased Confidence: The more you engage with the plan, the more confident you will become in your abilities. Confidence leads to action, and action leads to results. 

5. Personal Growth: Beyond the professional benefits, participating actively can lead to significant personal growth. You’ll develop discipline, improve your time management, and build resilience—all skills that are valuable in every aspect of life. 

6. No More Missed Opportunities: By hesitating or holding back, you risk missing out on opportunities that could significantly impact your career. When you take action, you put yourself in a position to seize these opportunities. 

To truly make the most of these benefits, I strongly encourage you to sign up for one of our Small Group Boot Camps. This is where you get direct, hands-on coaching from Steve Kyles and Carl White. You’ll learn the Math, the Skills, and the Discipline required to fully deploy the Daily Success Plan. These boot camps are transformative, providing you with the tools and confidence to elevate your business to the next level.

Make today the day you transition from a spectator to a participant. Join us at Loan Officer Success and transform your business. 

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of something great. Become a participant and watch how your business—and your life—can change for the better.

When I was at our Mortgage Marketing Animals Boot Camp last week, I had a conversation with a gentleman named Steven Cooper. Steven, who has 15 deals in the pipeline with 7 closing this month, shared an insightful lesson from his basketball days. His coach used to say, “Pressure is a privilege.” This concept resonated deeply with me and can be effectively applied to the mortgage industry.

The Essence of Pressure

What Steven’s coach meant was that not everyone gets the privilege to be in a position where they can directly experience and influence great success. In basketball, there is the pressure to perform well, the pressure from the opposing team, and the pressure to win. These pressures are not burdens, but privileges. They signify that you are in a position where your actions and decisions have significant impact.

Applying This to the Mortgage Industry

Similarly, in the mortgage industry, we face various pressures:

• Pressure to Originate: The constant need to find new clients and opportunities.
• Pressure to Perform: Ensuring that every client receives the best possible service and outcomes.
• Pressure to Overcome Objections: Navigating challenges and objections to ensure smooth closings.
• Pressure to Close Deals: Managing all the moving parts to successfully close deals on time.

These pressures can seem overwhelming, but they are actually indicators of the opportunities we have to succeed. Being in the mortgage industry offers immense rewards — financial freedom, professional growth, and the satisfaction of helping people achieve their homeownership dreams.

Embracing the Privilege

Recognizing pressure as a privilege shifts our perspective. Instead of feeling burdened, we can feel empowered. Each pressure-filled day is a testament to our ability to make a difference and achieve success.

• Revenue: High performance in the mortgage industry leads to substantial financial rewards.
• Freedom: Successful originators often enjoy a level of professional and personal freedom that many other careers don’t offer.
• Impact: We play a critical role in helping individuals and families achieve their dreams of homeownership.

Conclusion

So, as we face the pressures of our work, let’s remember how privileged we are. These pressures are not obstacles, but opportunities. They are the markers of our potential to achieve great things. Let’s embrace them, rise to the challenge, and enjoy the immense rewards that come with being in this dynamic and impactful industry.

Let’s attack each day with the mindset that “Pressure is a Privilege.”

There was a 30-year study done by researchers Dudley and Goodson that summarized call reluctance as “all the thoughts, feelings, and avoidance behaviors that conspire to keep otherwise talented, motivated, and high-potential salespeople from earning what they are worth.”

Breaking Through Call Reluctance

Call reluctance is a common challenge among salespeople, even those who are incredibly talented and motivated. It’s the mental barrier that prevents you from reaching your full potential and earning what you’re truly worth. But here’s the truth: You are worth it.

Believe in Your Worth

1. Acknowledge Your Value: Understand that you possess unique skills and talents that are valuable. Recognize the worth you bring to your clients and the difference you make in their lives. Your success isn’t just about making sales; it’s about providing solutions and helping people achieve their dreams.

2. Overcome Mental Barriers: Call reluctance is rooted in fear and self-doubt. It’s the anxiety of rejection or failure. But remember, every successful salesperson has faced rejection. What sets them apart is their ability to push through these barriers. You can do it too.

3. Take Action: The best way to combat call reluctance is through consistent action. The more you engage in prospecting activities, the more you desensitize yourself to the fear of rejection. Each call you make, regardless of the outcome, is a step toward your success.

Join Call Stars and Overcome Together

At Mortgage Marketing Animals, we understand the struggle of call reluctance, and we’ve created a supportive environment to help you overcome it. Our Call Stars program is designed to provide accountability, encouragement, and practical strategies to help you break through these barriers. Here’s how it works:

• Daily Support: Join us Monday through Thursday for live call sessions. Surround yourself with like-minded professionals who are also committed to breaking through their call reluctance.
• Expert Guidance: Benefit from the expertise of seasoned coaches who can provide tips, techniques, and encouragement to keep you motivated.
• Accountability: Stay on track with your goals through regular check-ins and accountability partners. Together, we can push through the fear and achieve our full potential.

Take the First Step

You deserve to earn what you’re worth. Don’t let call reluctance rob you of your potential. Take the first step toward overcoming your fears and achieving your goals by joining us at Mortgage Marketing Animals.

Action Steps:

1. Believe in Your Value: Recognize the unique talents and skills you bring to your clients.
2. Push Through Fear: Understand that rejection is a part of the process, not a reflection of your worth.
3. Join Call Stars: Get the support, accountability, and encouragement you need to overcome call reluctance.

Let’s make today the day you start believing in your worth and taking action toward your success. You’re worth it!

Every loan officer has been there – on the brink of losing a deal that you’ve poured your heart and soul into. The stress, the uncertainty, and the feeling that all your hard work might slip away can be overwhelming. But then, there’s that sweet, sweet save that makes it all worthwhile.

The Story: My Recent Sweet Save

Just a couple of days ago, I found myself in a situation that could have ended disastrously. We were working on a fast-close loan with short contingency dates, putting in the effort to make sure everything went smoothly. Out of nowhere, I discovered my borrower was shopping around for better rates. Another lender had come into the picture, offering a slightly better deal and making my life miserable.

The real kicker? The difference in rates and price was negligible, something I could easily match. But here I was, in a race to the bottom, scrambling to keep the deal. I knew I had to step in and fight for it. I had to get tough with the borrowers, explaining that I’d have to pull the plug until we resolved the issue. It wasn’t fun, and it was nerve-wracking for everyone involved.

But in the end, I won. The feeling of potentially losing the deal was terrible, but the victory was incredibly sweet. It wasn’t just a win for me but also a huge relief for all the realtors involved, who knew they could trust me to get the job done.

The Counter: Confirming Commitment

In hindsight, I realized that the borrowers had initially come to me for a pre-approval letter over the weekend because they couldn’t reach the other lender. Steve Kyles always reminds us to “get the commitment” from the borrowers by asking, “Is there anything that would prevent me from being your lender?” Reaffirming this commitment before issuing any pre-approval letters, especially on weekends, can save us from working for nothing. Had I known they were talking to another lender, I wouldn’t have issued the letter until the shopping issue was resolved.

The Moral of the Story: Fight to the End

The moral here is clear: even when it seems like you might lose a deal, fight for it until the end. It’s not always fun, but if you’re victorious, the satisfaction and relief are immense. And remember, when we’re in these situations, we’re not just fighting for ourselves – we’re fighting for our realtor partners as well.

Action Steps:

1. Stay Vigilant: Always keep an eye on your deals. Regular check-ins can help you spot potential issues early.
2. Communicate Clearly: If you suspect a borrower is shopping around, address it head-on. Clear, honest communication can often resolve issues before they escalate.
3. Confirm Commitment: Before issuing pre-approval letters, especially on weekends, ensure the borrower is committed to working with you.
4. Know Your Worth: Understand that sometimes you need to stand firm and fight for what you’ve worked hard for. It’s about knowing your value and conveying that to your clients.
5. Support Your Team: Remember, you’re not alone in this. Your success is tied to the success of your realtor partners. Fight for them as you would for yourself.

The next time you find yourself in a tough spot, remember the sweet save. It’s worth the fight.

Let’s get out there and make today a great day!

Today, I want to share a quote that I came across while watching a real estate reality show featuring agents in Manhattan, New York. The broker said something that really resonated with me: “Take care of the work and the work will take care of you.”

This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates a fundamental truth about achieving success in our field, especially for those of us involved in loan officer training and mortgage loan officer coaching. Here’s what it means for us as mortgage originators:

1. Dedication to Excellence: By focusing on the quality of our work and ensuring that we deliver excellence in every interaction, we naturally build a reputation that attracts more business. Whether it’s meticulously preparing loan applications, promptly following up with clients, or providing outstanding customer service, our commitment to doing the job well will lead to long-term rewards.

2. Consistency Pays Off: Consistency is key in our industry. When we consistently take care of our daily tasks, such as making those prospecting calls, following up with leads, and nurturing our client relationships, we build a solid foundation for success. This regular effort ensures that our pipeline stays full and our business grows steadily.

3. Trust and Reliability: Taking care of the work also means being reliable and trustworthy. Clients and referral partners need to know they can count on us to get the job done right. When we demonstrate reliability, we earn their trust, which leads to repeat business and valuable referrals.

4. Long-Term Vision: It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of immediate results. However, taking care of the work involves having a long-term vision. It means investing time and effort into building relationships, enhancing our skills, and continuously improving our processes. This long-term perspective ensures that the work we do today will bear fruit in the future.

5. Personal Satisfaction: There’s a deep sense of satisfaction that comes from knowing you’ve done your best. When we take care of the work, we also take care of ourselves by fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment. This positive mindset fuels our motivation and keeps us driven to succeed.

As we move forward in our day, let’s embrace this mindset. Let’s take care of the work, knowing that by doing so, the work will take care of us. Let’s focus on excellence, consistency, trust, long-term vision, and personal satisfaction. Together, we can achieve incredible things.

Remember, success is not just about chasing the next deal; it’s about laying a strong foundation through diligent, dedicated work. This is what we emphasize in our Carl White podcast, the Mortgage Marketing Animals, and the Loan Officer Breakfast Club. Through our loan officer training programs and the Daily Success Plan, we can all become better loan originators and achieve more in our careers.

Good morning, everyone!

Yesterday, we had the privilege of hearing from Owen Lee, who provided some invaluable insights about our market positioning. He highlighted how the activities we are diligently performing today are setting us up for incredible opportunities at the beginning of next year. It’s a crucial reminder that what we do now is more than just about chasing the next deal.

By sticking to our daily success plan and maintaining consistency in our efforts, we are positioning ourselves to thrive when the market conditions become even more favorable. Every “just ask” call on Tuesdays, every “pre-approved and looking” call on Thursdays, and every follow-up we do is an investment in our future.

As loan originators, it’s easy to get caught up in the short-term hustle. Each call, each follow-up, and each appointment can sometimes feel like we’re just scrambling for the next deal. But in reality, every single action we take today is laying the groundwork for our future success.

We’re not merely chasing deals. We are positioning ourselves to be in a place of strength and readiness when rates come down and inventory rises. Think of this period as a training ground, where we sharpen our skills, strengthen our relationships, and solidify our presence in the market.

So, as we go about our activities today, let’s remember the bigger picture. We are positioning ourselves to be the pillars and beacons that our referral partners and clients will rely on when the time comes. This consistent effort and dedication will empower us to dominate and excel in the upcoming months.

Stay focused, stay committed, and keep positioning yourself for success. The future is bright for those who prepare today.

Let’s make it a great day!