What will happen when the new FinCEN reporting rule takes effect Dec. 1, 2025? Industry veteran Ruth Dillingham, Esq. had no shortage of invaluable insight for attorneys, title & settlement agents, estate planners, financial planners, trust officers, Realtors and more about their role in accordance with the cascade of reporting responsibilities outlined in the rule. They also explore the implications for builders, developers, trusts, estate planning and even transactions involving cryptocurrencies. The conversation also delves into data privacy and security considerations, and what industry leaders will need to pay attention to in the months ahead to be in compliance.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to FinCEN Reporting

05:32 Understanding the USA PATRIOT Act and Money Laundering

08:14 Implications for Estate Planning and Trusts

11:01 For Real Estate Agents and Attorneys

19:12 The Cascade of Reporters

21:50 Settlement Agents vs. Title Underwriters

24:15 Practical Tips for Compliance

29:43 Addressing Client Concerns and Objections

39:51 The Importance of Early Data Collection

42:03 Managing Personal Information in Real Estate

42:53 Understanding Reporting Requirements and Data Retention

46:15 Vendor Management and Data Security

58:33 Cryptocurrency Transactions and Reporting

01:01:50 Understanding Reporting Errors and Penalties

01:05:46 Preparing for Efficient Reporting Processes

01:08:35 Cost Considerations in Reporting Compliance

For more on this guest and topic:

Ruth’s guest blog article: https://www.octoberresearch.com/blog

Learn more about our publications: https://www.octoberstore.com/publications

Sign up for free eNews: https://www.octoberresearch.com/october-research-publications

Get In Touch…

Via Email:

Ruth Dillingham (Guest) [email protected]

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com

In Part 2 of our interview with Bill Conerly, we dig in deep to discuss what business leadership really need to understand about the current state of the U.S. economy. Interest rates, tariffs and recession talk can all be intimidating subjects for business leaders. That is, unless they know how to stay ahead of the game with proper planning for a variety of scenarios, whether good or not so much. What can we in the real estate game learn from companies that have weathered past economic storms? Conerly discussed the importance of building strong foundations for a future that could look very different from the present. What will retention and recruiting strategies look like as the labor market gets smaller in the years ahead and artificial intelligence (AI) becomes a massive potential driver of productivity? Conerly covers many of the challenges and opportunities awaiting business leaders all here in this episode!

Chapters:

0:00 Leaders: Be Prepared for any Situation

2:04 Looking Ahead: Key Economic Indicators

3:55 Modernizing Approaches for Today’s Labor Force

9:30 Building Stronger Foundations for the Future

11:43 Strategies for Navigating a Tight Labor Market

13:05 The Impact of AI on Productivity and Employment

19:10 Building Human Connections in an Age of Robots

21:15 How a Successful Business Navigates Uncertainty

26:05 Thriving in a Boom/Bust Economy

30:50 Insights for Business Leaders in Challenging Times

For more on this guest and topic:

Website: www.ConerlyConsulting.com

Newsletter information: https://conerlyconsulting.com/newsletter/

Book, The Flexible Stance: Thriving in a Boom/Bust Economy: https://www.amazon.com/Flexible-Stance-Thriving-Boom-Economy/dp/0996765719

Get In Touch…

To email the host:

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com

Confused about the economy? It’s a topic to follow closely, especially right now. Dr. Bill Conerly keeps things straight forward and to the point in his discussion with Mary Schuster about how impact the rollercoaster economy is having on the housing market, touching on key factors, such as GDP, interest rates and, of course, tariffs. More than merely speculate about when the Federal Reserve may cut rates, Dr. Conerly dives into the logic underpinning those decisions so anyone watching at home can have a clearer idea of how the folks in charge of monetary policy view the current state of affairs. Listen along and gain a bit more certainty about these uncertain times.

Chapters:

00:00 Current State of the US Economy

05:31 Interest Rates and Federal Reserve Policies

10:43 Tariffs and Their Impact on Housing

14:10 Future of Residential Real Estate

23:29 Commercial Real Estate Trends

28:54 Shifts in Consumer Behavior

29:48 Mortgage Market Dynamics

For more on this guest and topic:

Website: www.ConerlyConsulting.com

Newsletter information: https://conerlyconsulting.com/newsletter/

Book, The Flexible Stance: Thriving in a Boom/Bust Economy: https://www.amazon.com/Flexible-Stance-Thriving-Boom-Economy/dp/0996765719

Get In Touch…

To email the host:

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com

It’s no secret professionals often are hesitant to engage directly with regulators at industry events or in other forums. In this episode, we discuss why that sort of engagement is so important with a pair of incredibly personable leaders of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), which regulates the title insurance industry. Chuck Myers and Connie Van Slyke offer insights into the aim of the NAIC’s working group intended to enhance industry participation to help regulators address existing issues and challenges. They dug into the historical context of title insurance regulation and the vital role open communication can play in addressing industry concerns, including current issues in title insurance and the future directions for the industry.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to NAIC and Title Insurance

03:11 Historical Context of Title Insurance Regulation

05:48 Challenges in Title Insurance Regulation

09:05 Transition from Task Force to Working Group

11:58 Encouraging Industry Participation

15:10 Addressing Industry Concerns and Misconceptions

18:00 Current Issues in Title Insurance

21:00 Engagement and Communication with Regulators

23:45 Future Directions and Innovations in Title Insurance

Get In Touch…

For more on this topic, follow these links:

NAIC: https://content.naic.org/committees/c/title-insurance-wg

NS3: https://www.ns3thesummit.com/agenda

To email the guest or host:

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com

Jaime Kosofsky knows how to spot a fake ID. It’s not a skill he acquired as a club bouncer or a police officer. He is a seasoned real estate industry pro who has learned that being able to spot a fake is a vital and often overlooked tactic for avoiding costly and all-too-common real estate scams. Listen as he relays lessons he’s learned through personal experience with host Mary Schuster, which prompted him to become well-acquainted with the security features of driver’s licenses and the technology available to help other industry professionals ID verification. The real-world insight he shared could save industry professionals and their clients a lot of money and heartache in the ongoing battle against fraudsters. You can catch Jaime at the 2025 National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) in Pittsburgh, where he will have plenty more insights to share to help safeguard your business.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Real Estate Fraud and Notarization

03:04 The Journey into ID Fraud Investigation

05:59 Understanding Fake IDs and Their Impact

09 :11 Security Features of Driver's Licenses

11:59 The Evolution of Driver's License Security

15:12 Identifying Valid vs. Fake IDs

18:04 The Role of Technology in ID Verification

21:00 Lessons Learned from Personal Experience

23:56 The Future of ID Verification in Real Estate

25:32 Navigating Security in Travel

30:37 Understanding ID Verification Technology

35:48 The Importance of ID Knowledge

39:11 Fraud Prevention Strategies

43:04 Enhancing Awareness in the Industry

Get In Touch…

For more on this topic, follow these links:

NS3 Info: https://www.ns3thesummit.com/

To email the guest or host:

Jaime Kosofsky (Guest), [email protected]

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com

Ever wonder how this artificial intelligence stuff works? You’re not alone! Author and Futurist Brian Carter offered a taste of what NS3 attendees can expect during his keynote address next month with some of the most candid insights about the biggest tech revolutions in decades and how it is definitely more than just hype. He and host Mary Schuster discuss how the inner workings of AI models remain a mystery even to many of the people who use them on a daily basis while emphasizing the importance of understanding both its capabilities and limitations when applying it in your business operations. The time where humans can set it and forget is still a long way off. Listen as they explore the evolving relationship between humans and AI, discussing the psychological implications, changing communication dynamics and the future of work as this technology becomes more and more integrated into our daily lives.

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to AI in Real Estate

2:00 Understanding AI's Capabilities and Limitations

4:59 The Role of Human Oversight in AI

6:30 Change Management and AI Integration

9:28 Data Privacy and Compliance Challenges

12:47 Auditing AI Algorithms

15:04 The Intuition Behind AI Responses

17:21 Monitoring AI Performance

19:04 Overcoming Intimidation in Learning AI

20:32 AI vs. Traditional Search Engines

21:19 The Evolution of AI and Human Interaction

26:48 Social Skills in the Age of Technology

31:39 The Impact of AI on Human Relationships

38:41 Navigating AI in Business Operations

Get In Touch…

For more on this topic, follow these links:

NS3 Info: https://www.ns3thesummit.com/

To email the guest or host:

Speaker website: KeynoteSpeakerBrian.com

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com

No one saw that coming! That was industry’s response when the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) reversed its stance on a discrimination case it had already settled. The change of heart was directly connected to the change in leadership at the bureau under the Trump administration. Garris Horn LLP Co-Managing Partner Rich Horn was one of the lead defense attorneys in the years-long case against Townstone Financial. Listen as Horn dives into the legal depths of one of the bureau’s most high-profile cases that drew no shortage of headlines. Horn’s insider knowledge of the facts and legal arguments provide an eye-opening perspective on the matter and the implications of reopening a case that had already been settled – an unprecedented move for a federal agency.

Chapters:

00:00 The Townstone Financial Case Overview

03:14 Legal Arguments and Court Decisions

06:00 Settlement Negotiations and Outcomes

09:09 Reopening the Case: New Developments

11:48 CFPB's Changing Leadership and Its Impact

15:11 The Role of Subjectivity in Regulatory Actions

18:00 Consumer Testing and Its Implications

20:53 The First Amendment and Political Speech

24:03 Statistical Analysis in Discrimination Cases

26:46 The CFPB's Enforcement History

30:11 Future of CFPB and Regulatory Changes

32:59 Final Thoughts and Future Outlook

Get In Touch…

For more on this topic, follow these links:

October Research’s Townstone Articles Bundle: https://www.respanews.com/rn/articlesrn/breaking-news-cfpb-asks-to-vacate-settlement-with-94005.aspx

Declaration of Dan Bishop: https://www.consumerfinancialserviceslawmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/880/2025/03/Dan-Bishop-Declaration.pdf

NS3 Info: https://www.ns3thesummit.com/

To email the guest or host:

Rich Horn (Guest), [email protected]

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com

Recruiting top talent is only half the battle — keeping them is just as critical. In this episode, we dive into best practices for hiring, training, and retaining employees in today’s competitive market. From crafting compelling job offers to fostering a culture of growth, we explore what it takes to build a strong, long-lasting team. Listen and learn with host Mary Schuster and her guests Mary Anne Harris, founder of Real Estate Closing Path, and Donna Anderson, VP & agency development manager as they explore the positive impact of thoughtful communication,

Chapters:

0:00 Navigating Recruitment Challenges Post-COVID

2:59 Creative Strategies for Attracting Talent

8:57 Hiring for Character Over Experience

11:48 Effective Screening Techniques for Candidates

14:56 Onboarding: Setting New Employees Up for Success

17:51 Building a Supportive Company Culture

21:06 Engaging Remote Employees Effectively

28:35 Empowering Employees Through Education and Development

34:20 Building Confidence and a Supportive Environment

37:15 The Importance of Cross-Training

39:14 Addressing Underperformance and Retention

43:40 Creating a Positive Work Environment

49:30 Self-Reflection and Avoiding Micromanagement

Get In Touch…

Donna Anderson (Guest), [email protected]

Mary Anne Harris (Guest), [email protected]

CATIC’s website: https://catic.com

Positively Balanced LLC website: https://www.positivelybalanced.com

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com

The evolving mortgage regulatory landscape, particularly changes within the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and proposed RESPA reforms to RESPA have major implications for the mortgage industry. Loretta Salzano, founding partner of Franzen-Salzano, joined October Research Chief Knowledge Officer Mary Schuster to discuss the importance of modernizing marketing practices, and the need for clearer regulations to support compliance and consumer protection. The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise from these regulatory shifts, emphasizing the need for a more industry-friendly dialogue and practical solutions. What can be done to alleviate confusion that arises from both regulated entities and regulators? Listen as Mary and Loretta discuss the nuances of marketing and advertising within the framework of RESPA, the evolving landscape of state enforcement, and the challenges businesses face in maintaining compliance amidst changing regulations.

Chapters:

00:00 The Changing Landscape of Mortgage Regulation

04:12 RESPA Reform: A Timely Discussion

06:38 Key Components of RESPA Reform

13:34 Modernizing Marketing Practices in Mortgage

20:45 Navigating Marketing Regulations and Compliance

27:55 Understanding RESPA Compliance Confusion

34:18 State Enforcement and RESPA: A Renaissance?

40:39 Navigating Compliance in a Changing Landscape

44:32 Rapid Fire: Insights on RESPA and Industry Trends

Get In Touch…

Loretta Salzano (guest), [email protected]

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

For more on this topic:

https://www.mba.org/news-and-research/newsroom/news/2024/10/24/mba-white-paper-reforms-needed-to-respa-section-8-to-better-serve-consumers-mortgage-market

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com

Real estate businesses are no strangers to the need for resilience in the face of adversity. While most may have a gameplan for dealing with unfavorable market conditions or regulatory uncertainty, how many are prepared to weather adversity caused by Mother Nature? In this episode, October Research Chief Knowledge Officer Mary Schuster spoke with Mike LaRosa and Aaron Davis of the Florida Agency Network about their first-hand knowledge of the importance of being prepared for a crisis, having managed to maintain operations through two hurricanes in short succession. The experience of helping clients complete closings on their new homes while they and many of their staff were temporarily displaced from theirs was harrowing, to say the least. Fortunately, they received help as well from the close-knit title business community. Learn from their ordeal how proactive strategies and communication proved crucial to navigating unprecedented challenges.

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating the Storm: Initial Reactions and Preparations

09:50 Lessons Learned: Adapting Disaster Plans for New Challenges

17:29 Financial Resilience: Preparing for Revenue Losses in Crisis

18:53 Preparing for Financial Challenges in Crisis

20:20 The Importance of a War Room

24:43 Community Response and Relief Efforts

25:04 Navigating Post-Disaster Real Estate Challenges

30:07 Long-Term Impacts on the Real Estate Market

33:29 The Role of Communication in Crisis Management

36:29 The Importance of Disaster Preparedness

37:28 Resources for Effective Planning

Get In Touch…

For more on this topic, provided by the Florida Title Network, follow these links:

https://flagency.net/must-know-list-before-a-hurricane-strikes/

https://flagency.net/tips-for-closing-on-your-home-during-a-hurricane-or-tropical-storm/

Mike LaRosa (guest), [email protected]

Aaron Davis (guest), [email protected]

Mary Schuster (Host), [email protected]

To find more episodes of “Keys to Real Estate” or learn more about October Research – the nation’s leading independent provider of market intelligence, industry news, expert analysis and regulatory information for professionals in the real estate, title, financial and settlement services industries – visit www.OctoberResearch.com.

Episode sponsored by Closinglock – https://www.closinglock.com

Episode produced by October Research – https://www.octoberresearch.com