Housing News

In this special Power House episode, host Zeb Lowe previews the conversations coming to the show and unpacks a core challenge facing the industry today.As automation and AI continue to accelerate productivity, the industry’s cost problem isn’t a technology issue, but an economic one. He explains why human judgment, trust, and accountability have become the most valuable (and expensive) parts of the mortgage process, and what that shift means for leaders heading into 2026. The episode also offers a look ahead at upcoming Power House guests, setting the stage for conversations focused on building with intention, not reaction. The Power House podcast brings the biggest names in housing to answer hard-hitting questions about industry trends, operational and growth strategy, and leadership. Join HousingWire president Diego Sanchez every Thursday morning for candid conversations with industry leaders to learn how they’re differentiating themselves from the competition. Hosted and produced by the HousingWire Conte

This week on Power House, Zeb Lowe sits down with Anthony Casa, President and CEO of UMortgage, for a candid conversation about what actually drives long-term success in the mortgage business. Anthony reflects on his decades in the industry, sharing why mentorship remains one of the most critical (and most overlooked) factors for loan originators. He explains how building early relationships with real estate agents compounds over time, why consistency matters more than short-term wins, and how earning trust is still the foundation of every successful career. The conversation also takes a personal turn as Anthony opens up about his own transformation, including sobriety and renewed focus on health and wellness, and how those changes reshaped his leadership style. He connects personal discipline to professional performance, arguing that sustainable success in mortgage lending starts with how leaders take care of themselves. Anthony and Zeb also dig into the industry’s structural shift from retail to broker c

This week on Power House, Clayton Collins sits down with Kristin Messerli to unpack one of the most persistent challenges in housing: why first-time homebuyers feel overwhelmed, underprepared, and increasingly distrustful of the financial system. They explore the role of education in bridging the knowledge and trust gap, emphasizing the importance of empowering loan officers to build relationships within their communities. The discussion also highlights the impact of the ambassador program and the goals for 2026, focusing on sustainability and advocacy in the housing market. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: Why first-time buyers often feel overwhelmed and uncertain How trust in lenders has declined over time Why education is the foundation of buyer confidence What loan officers need to become effective educators How ambassador programs strengthen community relationships Why financial literacy is missing from traditional education systems How personal stories help buyers see thems

This week on Power House, Zeb sits down with David Kooris, Executive Director of the Connecticut Municipal Development Authority, for a wide-ranging conversation on how urban planning shapes the long-term success of communities. David explains why urban planning is no longer just about zoning and land use, but a holistic approach that balances infrastructure, housing, climate resilience, and economic development. He shares insights from his own unconventional path into the field (spanning architecture, archaeology, and planning) and how that perspective influences his work supporting municipalities across Connecticut. The conversation explores why demand is shifting away from sprawl toward walkable, compact communities; how climate risk is reshaping development decisions; and why community engagement has become central to successful projects. David also offers practical guidance for investors and developers interested in transit-oriented development, emphasizing the importance of understanding both the publ

In this conversation, Richard Ross, CEO of Quinn Residences, discusses the evolution and significance of dedicated rental communities in the housing market. Richard explains how dedicated rental communities differ from traditional build-to-rent models, why they are purpose-built specifically for renters, and what years of real estate experience have taught him about shifting housing preferences. He also breaks down how COVID accelerated demand for single-family rentals, changed renter demographics, and reshaped expectations around space, privacy, and community. The conversation digs into why the average resident in these communities is 38 years old, how thoughtful community design and longer lease structures foster stability, and why outdated perceptions of renting continue to hold back policy progress. Richard also makes the case for regulatory reform as a necessary step toward solving the country’s housing shortage. This episode offers a grounded look at where rental housing is headed—and why the future o

Crypto isn’t a side bet anymore; in this episode of Power House, Milo CEO Josip Rupena sits down with Zeb Lowe to discuss how Milo built the leading crypto mortgage model. How did they accomplish this? By solving a problem traditional lenders ignored: how to borrow against Bitcoin without giving it up, while addressing volatility, capital markets, regulatory clarity, institutional interest and the long-term implications of quantum computing on crypto security. The two also discuss misconceptions that are hindering traditional financing.  This episode discusses: Why Bitcoin volatility can be structured as a strength, not a risk How crypto mortgages allow borrowers to finance homes without selling their assets What makes Bitcoin different from other crypto assets when used as mortgage collateral How Milo underwrites crypto-backed mortgages and manages risk during market volatility  What traditional lenders and capital markets need to understand before entering crypto mortgage lending Where

In this conversation, Tyler Hodgson shares his journey into the mortgage industry and discusses the emerging role of cryptocurrency in mortgage lending. He details a unique case involving a $4 million crypto asset depletion loan, highlighting the challenges and opportunities presented by this niche market. The discussion covers the verification of cryptocurrency ownership, the volatility of crypto assets, and the future of crypto lending in the mortgage industry. Tyler emphasizes the importance of curiosity and continuous learning for loan officers to stay relevant in an evolving market. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: Tyler's journey into the mortgage industry began after serving in the Marine Corps. How Tyler’s path from the Marine Corps to mortgages shaped his approach to lending Why asset depletion loans matter for nontraditional borrowers How cryptocurrency can be used to qualify for a mortgage What “proof of Satoshi” means and why ownership verification is critical How volatil

In this episode of Powerhouse, Diego Sanchez interviews Mike Malloy, CEO of Sage Home Loans, and Sakhi Gandhi, Director of Partnerships at Robinhood. They discuss the partnership between Sage and Robinhood, aimed at simplifying the mortgage process for homebuyers. The conversation covers the seamless experience provided to Robinhood Gold customers, the competitive mortgage rates offered, and the strategic focus of both companies on enhancing consumer finance accessibility. The episode highlights the importance of technology and efficiency in the mortgage industry and the future growth strategies of both organizations. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Sage Home Loans aims to revolutionize the mortgage industry by simplifying the process. Robinhood's mission is to democratize finance and make investing accessible. The partnership between Sage and Robinhood focuses on creating a seamless customer experience. Sage offers competitive mortgage rates due to operational efficiencies. The collab

In this episode of Powerhouse, Diego Sanchez interviews David Finkelstein, CEO of Annaly Capital Management. They discuss the company's position as a leading mortgage real estate investment trust (REIT), its growth strategy, and the importance of subservicing partnerships. David shares insights on the current mortgage rate environment, the challenges faced by the Federal Reserve, and the future outlook for the housing market. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Annaly Capital Management is the largest mortgage REIT. The company has $15 billion in permanent capital allocated to housing. Annaly's portfolio consists of $100 billion in assets. The focus is on managing interest rate and prepayment risk. Partnerships with subservicers create operational efficiencies. The company is targeting 20% capital for its MSR portfolio. Mortgage rates are expected to remain in a stable range. The Federal Reserve faces challenges with inflation and employment. Annaly a

This week on Power House, Diego sits down with Dan Sogorka, GM of Rocket Pro, for a forward-looking conversation about the tools, technology, and strategic shifts Rocket is deploying as they move into 2026. Dan offers an inside look at how Rocket Pro is investing in AI-driven efficiencies, reshaping its broker support model, and strengthening its position through recent acquisitions. He also dives into the story behind the Broker Manifesto and how it fits into Rocket’s broader mission to build trust and choice for brokers nationwide. From competition to technology, narrative change to partner support, this episode breaks down how Rocket Pro is positioning itself to lead in one of the industry’s most dynamic and competitive segments. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why Rocket Pro is energized heading into 2026 with a renewed innovation roadmap How new AI tools elevate broker efficiency and streamline everyday workflows The strategic role of recent acquisitions in strengthening Rocket’s market positi

This week on Power House, Diego sits down with Kristen Seifert, President of Finance of America, for a candid and forward-looking conversation about the evolution of reverse mortgages and the growing role home equity plays in retirement planning. Kristen breaks down why reverse mortgages still face widespread misconceptions, how Finance of America is investing in education to change the narrative, and why partnerships and proprietary products are shaping the next chapter of the industry. She also opens up about her personal leadership journey, the importance of mission alignment, and what it means to navigate mergers and acquisitions while scaling responsibly. From growth strategy to women’s leadership, from product innovation to industry perception, this episode offers an inside look at the forces redefining reverse lending—and how Finance of America plans to lead the way. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: Why mission alignment unlocks innovation and long-term growth How mergers and acqu

This week on Power House, Diego sits down with Susan Milazzo, the outgoing CEO of the California Mortgage Bankers Association, who reflects on two decades of transformative change in the mortgage industry.  Susan shares her insights on the massive tech adoption that has reshaped every aspect of the loan lifecycle and how AI is becoming integral to mortgage processes while regulators keep a close eye on consumer protection. She also talks about her proudest advocacy achievements, discusses the smooth transition to Paul Gigliotti and her plans for retirement after dedicating over 20 years to leading the California MBA. Here’s what you’ll learn: How technology integration became the biggest change in mortgage over the past 20 years Why compliance costs have multiplied despite technological advances The role AI plays in streamlining processes while maintaining regulatory oversight Susan's legislative victories during COVID-19 and beyond How the Urban Institute study proved IMBs already serve m

This week on Power House, Diego sits down with Robert Pieklo, the president and CEO of eLEND, formerly known as American Financial Resources. Rob is a passionate advocate for wholesale and has led eLEND in a 900% growth period in the wholesale channel. Robert talks about why he believes the broker channel creates the ultimate competitive environment that benefits consumers, how eLEND competes with giants through nimble execution and superior capital markets strategies, and why he thinks current MSR valuations are built on unrealistic assumptions. He also shares how eLEND has managed to scale dramatically without significantly increasing their headcount. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why competition in the broker channel drives down prices and spurs innovation How AFR rebuilt its culture into customer-obsessed service Strategies for competing with wholesale behemoths  The reality behind MSR valuations and recapture rate assumptions Scaling operations through technology, AI, and hig

Today on Power House, Zeb sits down with Rachel Clark, Executive Director of the Broker Action Coalition (BAC), a grassroots advocacy network that's been advocating for the mortgage industry since 2022. Rachel is also a co-owner of Firehouse Mortgage, a Houston-based brokerage that specializes in serving first-responders, veterans, and minority homebuyers.  Rachel breaks down how the BAC took on abusive trigger lead practices, their work that led to the Home Buyers Privacy Protection Act, explaining how they turned a complex legislative process into wins that brokers could understand. They also talk about what goes into sustaining grassroots movements, why showing up matters more than most small business owners realize and what's next on BAC's radar. Here’s what you’ll learn: How the BAC transformed from a small advocacy group to a legislative force in just three years Why trigger leads were poisoning broker-client relationships and how the industry fought back The coalition strategy tha

Today on Power House we are bringing you a conversation between Zeb Lowe and Aaron Clark, a firefighter and co-owner of Firehouse Mortgage, a Houston-based mortgage brokerage that is owned and operated by first responders and veterans. Aaron shares his journey from fighting fires to becoming a loan officer and how a layoff led to the creation of Firehouse with his wife — who will be joining us on the show later this week! Aaron discusses their approach to serving veterans, minorities, and low-income borrowers, his concerns about AI's impact on personal relationships in mortgage, and the challenges of staying competitive as a smaller, relationship-focused company. Here’s what you’ll learn: How Aaron transitioned from firefighter to real estate agent to loan officer Why Firehouse Mortgage's team of first responders creates unique trust with clients The community-focused business model that prioritizes giving back over profit maximization How they serve veterans, minorities, and low-in

On today’s sponsored episode, HousingWire president and returning Power House host Clayton Collins sits down with Jennifer McGuinness, the CEO of Pivot Financial. With her extensive Wall Street background and her experience at Deutsche Bank, CoreVest, and WinWater, Jennifer brings unparalleled expertise to today’s conversation about non-QM products and the future of mortgage securitization Clayton and Jennifer dive deep into product diversification strategies, the importance of prudent underwriting, and the innovative securitization framework that Pivot is developing to level the playing field for small and mid-sized lenders. They also tackle persistent non-QM misconceptions, explore the untapped potential of first and second lien HELOCs, and discuss how VantageScore 4.0 could reshape credit evaluation. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why non-QM products are essential for lender survival in today's market, not risky subprime lending How first lien HELOCs can serve as game-changing cash management too

This week on Power House, Zeb sits down with Kristin Messerli, a strategist and speaker on millennial and Gen Z housing trends and the founder of FirstHome IQ. Kristin talks about the 2025 NextGen Homebuyers Report, which surveyed over 8,000 millennials and Gen Z consumers to uncover the financial literacy gaps when it comes to homeownership. Kristin dives deep into why financial myths persist despite widespread information availability, how AI is rapidly changing how young buyers research homes, and how community partnerships can bridge the trust gap in an age of information overload. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why 92% of next-gen buyers are wrong about down payment requirements and how this myth persists across all education and income levels How information overload is causing young buyers to delay major financial decisions and shut down completely The surprising correlation between confidence levels and actual financial literacy test scores Why building relationships and empathy

This week on Power House, Diego sits down with Scott Everett, President of Supreme Lending, and Sarah Middleton, Chief Growth and Marketing Officer of Supreme Lending. Scott, who recently made his LinkedIn debut after years of behind-the-scenes leadership, discusses why Supreme Lending is no longer the industry's "best kept secret." Sarah shares her strategic approach to growth and the famous 26-point checklist she used to evaluate Supreme before joining the team. The conversation covers Supreme's debt-free, tech-first approach to business, from building their own PPE 20 years ago to preparing for AI disruption in the mortgage industry. They also discuss their successful M&A strategy and how they've achieved a 97% retention rate on recent acquisitions. Here’s what you’ll learn: How Supreme Lending built a 26-year track record of fiscal stability without debt or private equity The tech decisions that positioned them ahead of industry disruption Sarah's 26-point evaluation framework for choos

This week on Power House, Zeb sits down with Ryan Grant, the president and co-founder of NEO Home Loans. Originally trained in martial arts from age four under his father, Ryan brings the unique disciplined thinking of a martial artist to the table to revolutionize mortgage. Ryan talks about how his background shaped his approach to business and leadership, teaching him emotional consistency and the compounded effect of disciplined training. He also discusses NEO's partnership with Better.com's tech stack to transform LOs into true mortgage advisors who provide lifelong value to clients. Here’s what you’ll learn: How martial arts discipline translates to sustainable business success Why the traditional LO model is dead and the mortgage advisor era has begun How NEO's AI-powered tech reduces team size while increasing meaningful client interactions Why financial literacy and holistic wealth planning are essential for modern mortgage professionals How to create proactive, long-t

This week on Power House, Diego sits down with Leo Pareja, CEO of eXp Realty, the world's fastest-growing, cloud-based brokerage with over 83,000 agents across 27 countries. Leo discusses his transition to CEO during the NAR settlement announcement and how eXp has evolved from a bootstrapped startup to a major industry player.  He shares how eXp built a distributed workforce and why transparency in real estate data benefits everyone. Leo explains eXp's strategy of attracting entrepreneurial agents who build their own brand and how their virtual-first approach creates competitive advantages in today's hyper-localized market. Here’s what you’ll learn: How eXp scaled from just a startup to a global brokerage without physical offices Why 2026 will be a hyper-localized real estate market and what that means for agents The importance of transparency sharing versus private listing strategies How eXp's distributed workforce model creates operational advantages over traditional brokerages