There was a time when the mortgage was considered an intimidating financial product. That time has passed. Are there specific edge cases that require additional paperwork? Of course, but they are just that: edge cases.
Over 80% of mortgages are conforming, which translates to an incredibly straightforward process. In addition, technology now handles the majority of the work.
Most importantly, Realtors already understand the client. In many cases, they have known them for years. They understand their finances, concerns, and timelines before a traditional LO ever enters the conversation. There is simply nobody more qualified to guide them through financing.
Additionally, Realtors manage what have to be considered the transaction’s most difficult moments: negotiations, inspections, deadlines, final walk-throughs, and the list goes on and on. The idea that they could not also handle the financing simply no longer holds water.
With licensing, education, and, of course, our in-house loan officer, the mortgage and the revenue associated with it are now not just achievable, but something we envision becoming required. Clients will expect their agent to be the one who also handles the financing.
Currently, the barrier is the access loan officers have to mortgage systems, products, and operational support. This is where Ike comes in, providing the back-end support while the Realtor does what they do best: manage the client relationship better than anyone else could.
Our app is designed to offer complete transparency into the product, not just for the Realtor but also for their client. This gives both the Realtor and the client confidence and clarity. Weeks will never go by without anyone hearing about the status of a loan. Notifications from Ike always arrive, ensuring the process is running smoothly. If questions arise, Ike is there with the answer at any time of day. If more information is needed, our in-house LO steps in.
Ike is to Realtors what a pit crew is to a driver: the support system working behind the scenes that allows them to stay focused, move faster, and remain in control.
Shane