The History or the Reverse Mortgage

While the concept of a mortgage has been around for centuries, the modern mortgage didn’t really take footing in America until the late-1800s. While traditional mortgage financing has certainly evolved since its original inception, reverse mortgages have had a much shorter tenure.

According to the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association, reverse mortgages didn’t really gain any traction until the late-1980’s, a period in which housing received a lot of attention after struggles earlier in that decade. 

Back then the Federal Reserve was struggling to combat inflation, in part due to the experienced oil crisis. As a result, traditional mortgage interest rates hit a high of around 18.45% 1

It wasn’t until President Ronald Regan amended the Housing and Community Development Act in 1987 that helped spark the reverse mortgage market.

While mortgage interest rates are nowhere near those set a few decades prior, it’s important to understand how mortgages evolved from that time into what we now see today. If it weren’t for those past struggles, would reverse mortgages still even be around? 

Let’s take a closer look at the history of the reverse mortgage and review how it has helped to transform and shape mortgage markets for the better.

The Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) Program is Born

In 1989, the first FHA-insured reverse mortgage was issued to a consumer marking a major milestone in reverse mortgage history. Not only were reverse mortgages now federally recognized and backed as a viable financial vehicle, but the market was also beginning to get some exposure to the program.

But this unprecedented moment in time wouldn’t have been possible without revisions to the Housing and Community Development Act a few years prior. Amendments to this law in 1987 instituted provisions for the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to insure home equity conversion mortgages.

Initially, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) invited only 50 lenders to participate in the pilot program which was to last only through September of 1991. However, due to its popularity the HECM program was extended through 1995 2 .

Eventually, the program was made permanent in 1998, after the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA) was established just a year prior 2

One of the reasons why many argue this is where reverse mortgages got their start is because it wasn’t until this time that reverse mortgages were truly systemized. Furthermore, it made it easy for lenders to warm up to reverse mortgages as a feasible solution when the federal government was regulating and insuring them. 

To attract more lenders to the program, the HUD increased the max allowable origination fees lenders could charge back in 2000 2 . It also increased the volume cap multiple times to allow more originations to occur as it began to see an uptick in new loans.

Emergence of HECM Saver and HECM for Purchase

In October of 2010, the HECM Saver program was introduced in response to the increasing number of foreclosures the market was experiencing because of the 2007-08 financial crisis. The traditional program was then referred to as the Standard program.

In short, the new HECM Saver program allowed borrowers to access a smaller percentage of their home’s market value, even as property values were declining amidst the financial fallout. 

As a result, mortgage insurance premiums that borrowers had to pay were reduced significantly, although the program didn’t see a tremendous amount of success. 

In September of 2013, the programs converged and combined again into a new unified program. The result was an increase to the initial credit amount borrowers could request, exceeding that of the current HECM Saver threshold, but lower than the previous HECM Standard program.

Before 2013, the program required an initial mortgage insurance premium (MIP) of 2% of the home’s appraised value 4

HUD also launched purchases as part of the program’s offering around 2008. Also known as HECM for Purchase or Reverse for Purchase, the program enabled eligible borrowers the flexibility to purchase a new home while simultaneously eliminating their monthly mortgage payments. 

Homeowners found many benefits to the new program including making it easier to downsize and move closer to family or loved ones. 

Borrowers could also borrow more than 60% of the principal limit, which would have penalized them through a higher up-front mortgage insurance premium (MIP) using the new standard program 4 .

Changes to the Program

Over the years, HUD updated the HECM program to address deficiencies, key regulatory issues, and consumer protections. 

For example, in 2011 the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), as a part of the Dodd-Frank Act, began regulating activities related to covered financial institutions, including those that dealt with reverse mortgages 2

Additionally, in 2013 the Reverse Mortgage Stabilization Act was passed which helped shore up HUD’s mortgage insurance fund for reverse mortgages 2

A year later, HUD also announced additional due diligence requirements by tweaking financial assessment guidelines to help reduce defaults 2 . Similarly, FHA also implemented collateral risk assessments to help address properties with potentially inflated valuations 2 .

Even as HUD continues to tighten guidelines and credit requirements for HECM loans, the program continues to be a popular choice among consumers. In fact, HECM volume increased by nearly 38% in 2020 3 .

Riding the Ups and Downs of Private Programs

Private or proprietary reverse mortgage programs have evolved alongside the FHA home equity conversion program over the years. Initially, most programs addressed deficiencies in the market that surrounded properties in higher valued markets, gaining traction in the mid-2000’s.

Over the years, HUD tightened the amount of money the HECM program would allow in relation to a property’s market value, which created an opportunity for private programs to flourish.

However, in 2008 investors receded away from mortgage entirely which severely impacted the private reverse mortgage market to the point where pretty much all originations dried up. There was about a five-year period where no private reverse mortgages were really being completed.

Eventually, new private programs began to emerge again, but at a gradual pace. It wasn’t until about 2014 that Urban Financial of America rolled out a new proprietary reverse mortgage program called HomeSafe, that the market began seeing some traction 5 .

Competition warily followed suit, with the addition of new programs to the public about two years after the launch of HomeSafe 5 . As new investors warmed up to private reverse mortgage programs again, it helped facilitate new innovations and products launching private programs even further than before.

Private programs also found additional opportunities with the tightening of HUD’s HECM program guidelines that were in part used to triage against the losses it experienced in the aftermath of the 2007-08 financial crisis. 

Suddenly, lenders found added flexibility with private programs including different draw options, customizable terms (including adjustable-rate options), and lower rates. 

Similarly, concerns about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic had mortgage and real estate markets spinning at the start of 2020. But as the market began to stabilize and property values started exploding, homeowners considering reverse mortgages prior to the pandemic now found themselves with even more equity than before.

While some lenders exited the reverse mortgage space, other providers found opportunity to service a growing demand amongst older homeowners. 

Sources

1 Elvi, Z. (2013, November 22). Why Mortgage Rates Once Reached a Sky-high 18.5%. Retrieved June 21, 2021, from https://finance.yahoo.com/blogs/just-explain-it/why-mortgage-rates-matter-152241574.html

2 National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association. (2020, July 24). An Overview of Reverse Mortgage History. Retrieved June 21, 2021, from https://www.nrmlaonline.org/2020/07/24/an-overview-of-reverse-mortgage-history

3 Wharton, D. (2021, January 11). How Much Did HECM Volumes Increase in 2020? Retrieved June 21, 2021, from https://themreport.com/daily-dose/01-11-2021/how-much-did-hecm-volumes-increase-in-2020

4 Pfau, W. (2018, November 30). A Brief History Of Reverse Mortgages In The United States. Retrieved June 21, 2021, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/wadepfau/2018/11/29/a-brief-history-of-reverse-mortgages-in-the-united-states/?sh=3d75a0a11ba3

5 Branson, M. G. (2020, November 23). The Evolution Of Jumbo Reverse Mortgages. Retrieved June 21, 2021, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesrealestatecouncil/2020/03/04/the-evolution-of-jumbo-reverse-mortgages/?sh=3b7c65dd627d

By Garrick Werdmuller September 29, 2025
When rates drop, many homeowners hear about a “no closing cost refinance.” It sounds like free money—but is it really? Let’s break it down. What Is a No Closing Cost Refinance? A no closing cost refinance allows you to refinance your mortgage using lender credits to pay for third-party closing costs. How is this done? Well, in markets where interest rates are heading down, homeowners who may have purchased or refinanced at a higher rate can refinance at a lower rate that has lender credits to cover the closing costs. We are also able to wrap the interest and other fees into the loan, so the borrower pays nothing out of pocket. Instead of paying thousands at closing, those costs are covered in one of two ways (and usually BOTH): Lender Credit – The lender gives you a higher interest rate and uses that extra margin to cover the costs. Rolled Into the Loan – The lender adds the closing costs into your new loan balance. 🏡 Mortgage Rates Are a Menu — Not One Number Most people think there’s just one mortgage rate — but really, rates are shown on a matrix (a pricing sheet lenders use). Each interest rate has a cost or credit attached to it. Higher Rate → Lender Credit (the lender gives you money to offset closing costs — this is how “no closing cost” refinances work). Lower Rate → You Pay Points (you pay extra upfront — called “discount points” — to buy the rate down and get a lower payment). 💵 Hypothetical Example — $400,000 Loan (Numbers below are for illustration only — not a rate quote or loan offer) Rate Option Upfront Cost / Credit What It Means 5.50% $0 (Par Pricing) The “standard” rate — no extra cost or lender credit. 5.75% 1% lender credit (≈$4,000 back). You get about $4,000 to help with closing costs, but pay a bit more each month. 5.25%. 1% cost (≈$4,000) You pay about $4,000 at closing to “buy down” and lower your monthly payment. 💡 Monthly Payment Impact (Approx.) 5.75% → about $133 more per month vs 5.25% 5.25% → about $133 less per month vs 5.75% 🧮 How People Use This Short-term or planning to refinance again → Pick the 5.75% “no-cost” option — you’re not out of cash and can refi if rates drop. Long-term home → Consider paying the 1% to drop the rate and save monthly. The Pros ✅ No big check to write at closing ✅ “Instant” monthly savings ✅ Great for homeowners who want quick savings, knowing if the market drops again, they can do another refinance The Cons ⚠️ Not the lowest market interest rate ⚠️ Loan balance can increase if costs are rolled in ⚠️ May not be the best long-term solution Who Should Consider It? Homeowners with interest rates about 1% or more above the current market. Borrowers who want lower monthly payments without spending money out of pocket. Anyone refinancing to drop mortgage insurance or adjust loan terms quickly. The Bottom Line “No closing cost” doesn’t mean free—it just means structured differently. The best refinance strategy depends on your financial goals, how long you’ll stay in your home, and the rate environment. 👉 Want to know if a no closing cost refinance makes sense for you? Let’s run the numbers together. Garrick Werdmuller Independent Mortgage Broker DRE BRKR 01368202 | NMLS 242952 📞 510.282.5456 | 📠 510.225.0382 ✉️ garrick@freshhomeloan.com 🌐 freshhomeloan.com 🏢 1151 Harbor Bay Parkway, Suite 136, Alameda, CA 94502 Socials: https://www.facebook.com/freshhomeloan/ https://www.instagram.com/garrickwerdmuller/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrick-werdmuller-b044253/ https://www.youtube.com/@freshhomeloan-garrickwerdm316 #Refinance #Mortgage #RealEstate #MortgageBroker #HomeLoans #Realtor #MortgageLender #LoanOfficer #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #HomeLoan #Finance #MortgageRates #Investment #HomeBuyers #RealEstateAgent #Loans #NewHome #Loan #Home #DreamHome #Property #Mortgages #MortgageTips #HomeOwnership #Lender #Realtors #Lending #Purchase #HomeBuying #Broker
By Garrick Werdmuller September 23, 2025
This is something really simple we are VERY well known for. The follow up refer back program. How it works is simple. We find most real estate agents collect a lot of leads, however the follow up can slip behind. With all the inspections, showings, listings appointments, etc. a real estate agent’s business is largely out of the office, it is no wonder some leads may slip through the cracks! Whereas we loan folks, we are tied to our computers and in the office much more. It only makes sense we do the follow up. Not only that, but we also find that a potential lead might tie you to one property or neighborhood and we can work all over. This makes it easy for us to cross sell your services and talk about things like interest rates and home payments. Instead of just making a cold call, I position it through the agent: “Hi [Name], this is Garrick with Fresh Home Loan. [Agent’s Name] asked me to check in and see if you needed help with anything or had questions about the market? Why It Works People remember the agent’s name. I’m just the bridge. It reopens the conversation without pressure. It gives us a chance to share new value—like zero down programs, FHA ARMs, Jumbo Loans, Fix n Flip, Equity Lines etc. etc. etc. or strategies to get more buying power in today’s market. For Agents, It’s a Win-Win Every time my team and I make these calls, I’m putting the agent’s brand in front of their old leads again and letting prospects know the agent has a solid follow up team. They don’t have to do the chasing, but they still get the credit when the lead is ready to move. It’s leverage. It’s consistency. And it’s one of the simplest ways to turn cold leads back into live conversations. Fresh Gold for Agents I call this process “Follow Up / Refer Back” —but really, it’s just about doing the work agents don’t always have time to do. Old leads can become fresh gold if you know how to approach them. If you’re a real estate agent and you’d like me and my team to help you re-engage your database, reach out. This is one of the easiest ways to keep your name in the game and uncover deals you thought were dead. 👉 Contact me here and let’s get to work on warming up your cold leads. https://www.freshhomeloan.com/contact-us Or here: Garrick Werdmuller Independent Mortgage Broker DRE BRKR 01368202 | NMLS 242952 📞 510.282.5456 | 📠 510.225.0382 ✉️ garrick@freshhomeloan.com 🌐 freshhomeloan.com 🏢 1151 Harbor Bay Parkway, Suite 136, Alameda, CA 94502 Lets Connect: https://www.facebook.com/freshhomeloan/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrick-werdmuller-b044253/ https://www.youtube.com/@freshhomeloan-garrickwerdm316 All loan approvals are conditional and not guaranteed and subject to lender review of all information. Loan is conditionally approved when lender has issued approval in writing, but until all conditions are met, loan cannot be funded. Specified rates and [products may not be available to all borrowers. Rates subject to change according to market conditions and agreed upon lock times set by borrower. Fresh Home Loan Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Mortgage Broker in California. This licensee is performing acts for which a real estate license is required. Fresh Home Loan, Inc. is licensed by the California Department of Real Estate #02137513 NMLS # 2124104 #FreshHomeLoan #RealtorLife #RealtorPartner #FollowUpMatters #LeadGeneration #RealtorSupport #AgentSuccess #RealtorTools #FirstTimeHomebuyer #RealEstateTips #RealEstateGrowth #RealtorHasYourBack #HomeLoansMadeEasy #LoanOfficerLife #MortgageBroker #ColdLeadsToClients #RealtorMarketing #RealEstatePros #FreshLeads #RealEstateStrategy #FreshGold #ReferBack
By Garrick Werdmuller August 27, 2025
Welcome back to The D&G Loan Officer Realtor Motivational Business Mindset Podcast 🎙️ In this episode, we’re diving into a mindset shift from Dan Sullivan that has transformed how entrepreneurs, REALTORS®, and loan officers approach business: 👉 Ready, Fire, Aim.  🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0UmcIu1EmN11YfXzvH9lzQ 🔥 What Is “Ready, Fire, Aim”? Traditional wisdom says: Ready – Aim – Fire Get prepared Get perfect Then act But Sullivan flips it to: Ready – Fire – Aim Get a direction Take fast action Refine and adjust with real feedback 💥 Why It Works Perfection is procrastination. Waiting for perfect means you may never launch. Momentum dies when you overthink. Real feedback only comes in motion. Clarity doesn’t come from sitting still — it comes from doing, failing, and adjusting. Speed creates confidence. Quick action builds momentum, and momentum fuels smarter choices. Action filters ideas. Not every idea needs deep analysis. Execution reveals what works and what doesn’t. 🧠 Real-World Applications Podcasting: Start with what you have. Don’t wait for the perfect mic or setup. Entrepreneurship: Launch MVPs (Minimum Viable Products) and refine later. Content Creation: Post today; let feedback guide you. Marketing: Send the email, post the reel, make the call — now, not later. 🔁 Supporting Concepts by Dan Sullivan The 80% Approach: Ship it when it’s 80% good; the rest improves with feedback. Who Not How: Don’t do it all yourself — start, then find partners to fill the gaps. Failing Forward: Mistakes are part of progress — embrace them. 🧨 Final Takeaway You don’t need it all figured out before you begin. 👉 The only way to figure it out is to begin. “If you wait until you’re ready, you’ve waited too long.” – Dan Sullivan 📅 Schedule a Meeting To schedule an appointment with Garrick, visit: 👉 https://freshhomeloan.com/schedule-a-meeting/ Garrick Werdmuller Independent Mortgage Broker DRE BRKR 01368202 | NMLS 242952 📞 510.282.5456 | 📠 510.225.0382 ✉️ garrick@freshhomeloan.com 🌐 freshhomeloan.com 🏁 #ReadyFireAim 💥 #TakeAction 🎯 #EntrepreneurMindset #PodcastLife #BusinessGrowth #MindsetMatters #JustStart #ActionOverPerfection #Entrepreneurship #Motivation #SuccessMindset #HustleAndFlow #LaunchNow #LearnAsYouGo #Momentum #StartToday #SmallBusiness #ContentCreators #Podcasters
By Garrick Werdmuller August 26, 2025
Welcome back to The D&G Loan Officer Realtor Motivational Business Mindset Podcast 🎙️ If you’re a REALTOR® or mortgage pro looking to scale your referrals, prospect smarter, and cut through the noise , today’s episode is for you. We’re diving into LinkedIn Sales Navigator and data mining with AI tools — two game-changers that help you target the right people at the right time. 🎧 Listen & Learn on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/4H5Vev58EH1v3ERp1AU8LR 💼 Why Use LinkedIn Sales Navigator? This isn’t just another social media platform—it’s your B2B prospecting engine. With Sales Navigator , you can: 🎯 Build custom lists of referral partners like investors, CPAs, divorce attorneys, estate planners, and business owners 🧠 Filter by location, title, industry, and years in business 🔍 See who’s viewed your profile (hello, warm leads) ✍️ Send personalized, trackable messages 📓 Save leads and track engagement across conversations Example Use Case: “Want 10 estate attorneys in your county who work with high-net-worth clients? Sales Navigator can find them in minutes. Connect, follow, message, and follow-up like a pro.” 🤖 LinkyBot.ai = AI Follow-Up on Autopilot Once your list is built, LinkyBot takes over with automated outreach that feels personal, not spammy. What It Does: 📩 Sends intelligent, human-sounding DMs or emails 💬 Keeps conversations alive while you focus on showings, closings, or calls 🔁 Reaches out on your behalf, even when you forget 🔗 Works with LinkedIn, email, or exported contacts from your CRM or Covve Instead of saying: 👉 “I should follow up with that attorney I connected with.” You’ll say: ✅ “LinkyBot already did — and they booked a call.” 🔍 Data Mining = Your New Prospecting Advantage Data mining is the process of extracting predictive insights from massive datasets to identify who is most likely to move, sell, or refinance. Think: finding the needle in the haystack before the needle realizes it’s sharp. 🧠 How Platforms Use It: Public Records 🔑 Ownership history, mortgage type, equity position 💼 Tax data, zoning, property age, square footage Consumer Behavior 📲 Online search habits (Zillow visits, moving boxes ordered) 📦 Life event triggers (marriage, divorce, new baby, inheritance) MLS + Market Trends 🏘 Expired listings, price reductions 📉 Days on market, agent-switchers Third-Party Data 💳 Pre-mover credit pulls 🧭 Out-of-area ownership, investor activity, rent vs own 🎯 Why It Matters for REALTORS ✅ Beat Zillow, Redfin & Rocket to the consumer ✅ Focus on the right people, not just more people ✅ Build hyper-targeted lists for AI follow-up, postcards, ads, and calls 💥 This isn’t cold calling anymore… it’s precision prospecting with data . 📅 Schedule a Meeting To schedule an appointment with Garrick, visit: 👉 https://freshhomeloan.com/schedule-a-meeting/ Garrick Werdmuller President & CEO Fresh Home Loan Inc 📱 510.282.5456 (call/text) NMLS 242952 🌐 www.FreshHomeLoan.com Socials: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube #LinkedInSalesNavigator #DataMining #AIForRealtors #RealEstateProspecting #RealtorTips #LoanOfficerLife #BusinessMindset #FreshHomeLoan #ReferralPartners #SphereOfInfluence #PrecisionProspecting #RealEstateTechnology
By Garrick Werdmuller August 26, 2025
Welcome to The D&G Loan Officer Realtor Motivational Business Mindset Podcast — yeah, probably the longest and least catchy name in all of streaming. 😅 In this episode, you’ll hear an excerpt from a live event we did on social media + prospecting . If you’ve ever struggled to stay consistent with calls, letters, or outreach, this one’s for you. 🎧 Listen & Learn on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/1GRwITq5KiFxyBpuLdh4Ly 🔥 Let’s get into it: 🧠 Beast Mode Prospecting Plan Your database is a goldmine. Treat it that way. 📬 2 Letters a Week (Every Wednesday) ✖️ 52 Weeks = 104 touches 📞 4 Calls Per Year (Per Contact) That’s once per quarter — simple, human, consistent. 💬 What Do You Say When You Call? Keep it simple and real: “Hey, just checking in — how’s it going?” “Thank you again for working with me!” “Did you hear about that ___ down the street?” “Just wanted to say hi. No pitch. Anything you need?” 🔥 Here’s the truth: It’s not what you say… ✅ It’s that you say something . 🎯 The “3 x 2” Referral Script When you make those calls, just ask: 👀 “Do you have any: 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Friends 👯 Family 💼 Co-workers looking to 🏡 buy or 🏠 sell?” That’s it. No pressure. Just planting seeds. 🌱 🧩 Part 2 – Sphere of Influence Your SOI (Sphere of Influence) is your untapped goldmine. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Friends & family 🏘️ Neighbors 🏪 Local business owners 🏋️ Gym buddies, church members, school parents, clubs 🙋 Anyone who knows your name and would say: “Oh yeah, I know Garrick.” 💡 Why It Matters: 🌟 According to NAR, 63% of business for top agents comes from their sphere . ✅ More referrals ✅ More repeat deals ✅ Steady stream of business 📱 Pro Tip: Mine Your Cell Phone Use a tool like Covve Export to pull all your contacts into a CSV. Clean it up, delete duplicates, and upload it to your CRM. Your phone = your prospecting powerhouse. 📞💥 📆 Lock It Into Your Weekly Routine 🗓️ Wednesday = Database + SOI prospecting day Keep it light, human, and consistent Your voice is your superpower ⚡ 💬 Final Thought Prospecting doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about letters + calls + consistency . Show up, stay in rhythm, and the business will follow. Old school ALWAYS wins. 🧢 📅 Schedule a Meeting To schedule an appointment with Garrick, visit: 👉 https://freshhomeloan.com/schedule-a-meeting/ Garrick Werdmuller President & CEO Fresh Home Loan Inc 📱 510.282.5456 (call/text) NMLS 242952 🌐 www.FreshHomeLoan.com Socials: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube #BeastModeProspecting #RealtorTips #RealEstateProspecting #SphereOfInfluence #DatabaseMarketing #RealtorLife #LoanOfficerLife #AIforRealtors #BusinessMindset #MortgageTips #FreshHomeLoan #JustCall #RelationshipMarketing #ConsistentAction
By Garrick Werdmuller August 26, 2025
If you're a new loan officer , a REALTOR® learning the ropes of mortgage pre-approvals , or a homebuyer ready to take that first step toward homeownership , understanding the 1003 Loan Application is absolutely essential. This form isn’t just paperwork—it’s your gateway to pre-approval and ultimately closing on your new home. 🎧 Listen & Learn on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/2CSWRFrcIaOHU9SmItH6lG 💡 What Is a Loan Application? A loan application is a financial snapshot that helps determine whether someone can be pre-approved or fully approved for a home loan. At its core, there are six key elements required to trigger the process: ✅ The 6 Things That Make a Loan Application Complete Borrower’s Name – Legal name(s) as shown on your ID. Income – Salaried, self-employed, or rental income. (Think paystubs, tax returns, or P&L statements.) Social Security Number – Required to pull credit and verify identity (encrypted & secure). Property Address (if known) – Optional for pre-approvals, required for full underwriting. Estimated Property Value – Helps determine Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio. Loan Amount Requested – Drives monthly payment and approval calculations. 🕒 Timeline: What Happens Next Day 0 – Application Date (“Trigger Day”) Disclosures are legally required to be triggered. Day 3 – Initial Disclosures Due The Loan Estimate (LE) must be delivered or mailed. Borrowers must acknowledge receipt before appraisal or fees can be collected. 📄 The Full 1003 Form (aka URLA) The official name is the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA) — also known as Fannie Mae Form 1003 or Freddie Mac Form 65. It’s used for conventional, FHA, VA, and other residential loans and includes: Section 1: Personal Info (name, SSN, marital status, housing history) Section 2: Employment Info (employer, title, self-employment details) Section 3: Income (base pay, commissions, rental income, child support, etc.) Sections 4–5: Assets, Liabilities & Real Estate (bank accounts, retirement funds, debts, properties owned) Section 6: Loan Info (loan purpose, property details, loan amount) Sections 7–9: Declarations, demographic info (optional), and loan originator details 🏡 Why It Matters With a complete 1003, we can: Pull credit Issue disclosures Submit to underwriting Lock your rate Move you closer to homeownership 💬 Final Thought Taking a great loan application isn’t about filling in boxes—it’s about asking the right questions, gathering the right documents, and building trust. If you’re ready to get started—or want to learn what goes into a solid pre-approval—our team is here to help. 📅 Schedule a Meeting To schedule an appointment with Garrick, visit: 👉 https://freshhomeloan.com/schedule-a-meeting/ Garrick Werdmuller President & CEO Fresh Home Loan Inc 📱 510.282.5456 (call/text) NMLS 242952 🌐 www.FreshHomeLoan.com Socials: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube #LoanApplication #1003Form #MortgageTips #HomeLoan #FirstTimeHomebuyer #RealtorLife #PreApproval #MortgageEducation #BuyAHome #DreamHomeJourney #FreshHomeLoan
By Garrick Werdmuller August 26, 2025
Most entrepreneurs, salespeople, and professionals I talk to live in a constant state of reactive chaos — jumping from one fire to the next with no time to plan, build, or breathe. Here’s the truth: it’s not just a time problem — it’s a quadrant problem . In this episode of The D&G Loan Officer Realtor Motivational Business Mindset Podcast , I break down the legendary 4 Quadrants of Time Management , based on Stephen Covey’s model, but tailored for modern professionals like us. Understanding this concept has changed how I structure my day, lead my team, and scale my business — and it can do the same for you. 🎧 Listen on Spotify: 👉 4 Quadrants of Time Management 🔥 The 4 Quadrants Explained Quadrant 1: Urgent & Important Examples: Crises Deadline-driven loan files Emergencies that can’t wait This is the firefighting zone . You don’t want to live here — just visit when necessary. If you ignore the next quadrant, you’ll stay stuck in this one. 💡 Quadrant 2: Not Urgent but Important Examples: Planning & goal-setting Marketing & prospecting Relationship building Systems, training, & development ✅ This is where success lives . Want to grow your business, have more peace in your day, and build something sustainable? Quadrant 2 is your new home. Pro Tip: If you don’t make time for this quadrant now, you’ll be forced into Quadrant 1 later. 📞 Quadrant 3: Urgent but Not Important Examples: Unnecessary meetings Solicitors Constant notifications “Got a minute?” interruptions These tasks feel urgent but don’t contribute to your long-term goals. Delegate or eliminate whenever possible. Learn to say “no” or “later” without guilt. 💤 Quadrant 4: Not Urgent & Not Important Examples: Instagram scrolling during work Binge-watching Random internet rabbit holes Pointless group chats We all need a break — but too much time here is how dreams die slowly. Audit your screen time and be honest about distractions. 🎯 Final Thoughts: Where Are You Spending Your Time? Time is your most valuable resource . Once you understand how to categorize your daily tasks using this quadrant system, you can start making powerful shifts — from reactive to intentional, from busy to productive. 🧠 Pair this framework with your personal motivators (Wealth, Health, Peace, Freedom, etc.), and your whole day begins to align. ⚡ Action Steps 🔹 Comment or DM me “Quadrant 2” and I’ll send you the time-blocking worksheet I use weekly. 🔹 Need help building a system around this? Let’s chat : Schedule a Meeting 🔹 Want to share this with your team? Grab the Slide Deck Here Garrick Werdmuller President & CEO Fresh Home Loan Inc 📱 510.282.5456 call/text NMLS 242952 🌐 www.FreshHomeLoan.com Socials: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube For more information, give me a call at 📞 510.282.5456 or visit 👉 Schedule a Meeting
By Garrick Werdmuller August 26, 2025
Welcome to The D&G Loan Officer Realtor Motivational Business Mindset Podcast ! In this episode, we dig into a powerful truth: every human action is driven by self-interest . That might sound selfish—but it’s not a bad thing. It simply means that everything we do is motivated by something deeply personal. When you understand these motivators, you unlock the ability to influence behavior, build trust, close more sales, and lead with impact. Whether you’re a loan officer, REALTOR®, entrepreneur, or leader, mastering these motivators will help you connect with people on a deeper level.  🎧 Listen on Spotify: 👉 The 8 Human Motivators The 8 Human Motivators Here are the eight reasons people take action—and how you can use them to connect better with clients, partners, and even yourself: 1. 💰 To Be Wealthy Money may not buy happiness, but it provides freedom, options, and security. People want to grow their wealth or save money. In sales, frame your message around outcomes: how your service increases financial security or protects their resources. 2. 😍 To Be Good Looking It’s not always about vanity—this is about confidence and presence. People want to feel admired, sharp, or stylish. Show clients how your solution enhances their image, reputation, or how they present themselves to the world. 3. 💪 To Be Healthy Health covers both physical and mental well-being. Reduce stress, simplify processes, and remove obstacles that cause anxiety. Clients who feel healthier (in mind or body) because of working with you will always come back. 4. 🌟 To Be Popular Recognition and approval are powerful drivers. Everyone wants to be seen, appreciated, and valued. Help your clients feel important, highlight their wins, and show them they’re part of something bigger. 5. 🔒 To Have Security Safety and stability are non-negotiables in major decisions like buying a home or taking on a loan. Offer reassurance, clarity, and predictability. Trust is built when clients feel safe in your hands. 6. 🧘 To Achieve Inner Peace People crave calm, alignment, and peace of mind. When your process feels smooth, stress-free, and values-driven, you become more than a service provider—you become a trusted guide. 7. 🕰️ To Have Free Time Time is the ultimate luxury. Saving time, simplifying steps, or giving clients back hours in their day is one of the most powerful motivators you can tap into. Respect it—and you’ll win loyalty. 8. 🎉 To Have Fun At the end of the day, people want joy and meaning. Create memorable, engaging, and even fun experiences. When clients feel good working with you, they’ll remember you and refer you. How to Apply This in Business and Life Here’s the secret: most people are primarily driven by two or three of these motivators. Your job as a professional is to listen carefully, identify which ones drive your client or team member, and then speak directly to those motivators. If your client values wealth and security , emphasize financial outcomes and predictability. If they want free time and fun , show them how your service is efficient and enjoyable. If they’re motivated by popularity or looking good , highlight recognition, prestige, and confidence. The key is personalization. Once you know someone’s motivators, you can connect with them authentically and build stronger, lasting relationships. Final Takeaway Human beings aren’t complicated—we’re consistent. We all want more wealth, health, security, recognition, joy, and time. But each of us is moved by different priorities at different times. When you master the art of spotting these motivators, you’ll gain influence, build loyalty, and grow your results in business and in life. 📅 To schedule an appointment with Garrick visit: 👉 https://freshhomeloan.com/schedule-a-meeting/ Garrick Werdmuller President & CEO Fresh Home Loan Inc 📱 510.282.5456 call/text NMLS 242952 🌐 www.FreshHomeLoan.com Socials: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube For more information give me a call at 📞 510.282.5456 or visit 👉 Schedule a Meeting
By Garrick Werdmuller August 26, 2025
We’ve all been there—you log into Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram planning to “do some marketing,” and 20 minutes later you’re scrolling competitor posts, your cousin’s vacation pics, or your ex’s new relationship. Even worse, you trick yourself into thinking that liking random posts or debating in a Facebook group is prospecting.  🎧 Subscribe on Spotify & leave us ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: https://open.spotify.com/show/6WcBRy68pmw3VOoopHqqFT Here’s the truth: social media can be the biggest time-suck in your business— unless you use it with intention. That’s where the 30-10-5-5-3-1 Rule comes in: ✅ 30 minutes of focused social media (timer on, plan ready) ❤️ 10 likes (“harvest” engagement in your network) 🤝 5 new connections (referral partners, clients, vendors, locals) 💬 5 real comments (genuine, personal, memorable) 📩 3 direct messages (relationship-driven conversations) 📢 1 post of your own (tip, story, listing, insight, or win) This system keeps you out of doom scroll mode and in relationship-building mode. Do it daily and you’ll see more engagement, warmer relationships, and real leads. 👉 Want more strategies like this? Tune in to the D&G Loan Officer Realtor Motivational Business Mindset Podcast for practical tips that help you win in today’s market. 🎶 Music powered by Renegades Worldwide, The Five1Hero & Fresh Cut Wax LLC. #RealEstateMarketing #LoanOfficerLife #MortgageBroker #IndependentBroker #FreshHomeLoan #RealtorTips #RealtorLife #CaliforniaRealEstate #SocialMediaStrategy #SocialSelling #BusinessGrowth #ClientRelationships #DigitalProspecting #IntentionalMarketing #GrowYourBrand #ContactsToContracts #BeastModeProspecting #DGPodcast #BusinessMindset #MotivationForSuccess #DailyDiscipline #ConsistencyWins
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By Garrick Werdmuller July 23, 2025
Non-Warrantable? No Problem. We’ve Got the Loan