Stewart in the Studio

Recorded live from MBA Annual 2025 in Las Vegas, this episode of Stewart in the Studio features Marvin Stone, TJ Harrington, and Rich Kuegler sharing insights from the industry’s largest event of the year. From AI governance to appraisal modernization and lender preparedness, the discussion captures the optimism and momentum building across the mortgage market.

Big changes are coming to the appraisal industry—and the clock is ticking. In this episode of Stewart In The Studio, Chief Appraiser Rick Garrie breaks down what UAD 3.6 really means, why it matters and what lenders, appraisers and AMCs should be doing now to get ready. 

Embracing hybrid appraisals is not just an upgrade—it’s a game-changing move that sets a new standard for efficiency and accuracy in property valuation. Lenders can partner with SVI to seamlessly integrate hybrid appraisals into their workflows, ensuring a competitive edge while delivering exceptional borrower experience.

• The ICE Experience 2025 conference is set to take place in Las Vegas, where mortgage lenders will discuss strategies and technologies to enhance their use of the Encompass Loan Origination System (LOS) amid challenging market conditions.
• Lenders are focusing on improving consumer experiences through innovations like borrower portals and diverse closing options, including mobile notary and e-closings, to expedite the loan process and improve decision-making efficiency.
• Stewart, a longstanding partner of ICE Technology, will be well-represented at the conference by its leadership and subject matter experts, discussing topics ranging from appraisal modernization to title and escrow services, with an emphasis on technology integration and process improvement.

Our discussion highlights the impact of climate change on mortgage servicing, revealing how data and technology are reshaping risk management strategies. We emphasize the importance of proactive insurance solutions, transparency in risk assessment, and the integration of advanced analytics in navigating these challenges. 
• Overview of the rising risks from natural disasters 
• Importance of data in informing consumer choices 
• Exploring advanced analytics for risk assessment 
• Enhancing insurance offerings to protect consumers 
• The transformative role of AI in disaster response 
• Compliance challenges in the evolving landscape 
• Call to action for servicers to adopt effective data strategies

Unlock the secrets of e-mortgage transformation and discover how to effectively embrace e-closings with insights from Brian, our expert guest who has extensive experience with major lending institutions. Learn how electronic closings can boost consumer satisfaction, speed up loan processing, and cut costs. Brian challenges the conventional wisdom of starting with a hybrid e-close, advocating instead for a process aligned with existing systems to minimize disruptions. With Notary Cam's done-for-you e-closing program, title agents are empowered, simplifying the transition for lenders and paving the way for a digital mortgage revolution.

The episode also sheds light on the automation of e-note generation and delivery, offering a streamlined process that slashes manual labor and enhances efficiency. Discover how lenders can leverage GSE-approved vendors and e-vaults provided by Notary Cam to ensure a seamless adoption of digital mortgage solutions. This done-for-you approach not only alleviates operational hurdles but provides title partners with a transformative advantage. Engage with your title partners and connect with us to spearhead this groundbreaking shift towards digital mortgages, setting yourself up for success in the evolving landscape.

In this episode of 𝙎𝙩𝙚𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙄𝙣 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙩𝙪𝙙𝙞𝙤, we take a forward look at reverse mortgages with Rob Awalt of ALLEGIANT REVERSE SERVICES a Stewart Company. Learn why lenders are looking at our changing demographics and what's needed to give these protected-class consumers a great closing experience.

Is it possible to slash mortgage origination costs by 40%? Today, we tackle that very question with insights from Freddie Mac's 2024 Cost to Originate Study. Join Marvin Stone, SVP of Strategic Initiatives at Stewart Lender Services, as he explores how some forward-thinking companies are already achieving loan origination costs at nearly half the industry average. Discover the transformative power of a fully digitized mortgage process and learn actionable strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce expenses from application to funding.

In this episode, we spotlight Stewart's innovative solutions designed to streamline operations and pass savings on to everyone involved. From cutting-edge credit and verification integrations by Stewart's Informative Research to instant title options and automated closing disclosures, we cover it all. Plus, learn about Stewart's Allegiant Reverse Services and their leading role in home equity conversion mortgages. With comprehensive title, settlement, and appraisal solutions, Stewart is equipped to support lenders in scaling operations from Main Street to Wall Street. Tune in for an insightful discussion packed with practical tips to optimize your mortgage lifecycle.

What if you could revolutionize property appraisals with the power of technology? Join us on "Stuart in the Studio" as Matt from Stewart Valuation Intelligence (SVI) reveals how computer vision is transforming the property appraisal industry. Discover how SVI leverages cutting-edge computer vision algorithms to enhance accuracy and efficiency in property valuations. From operational integration in quality control and form fulfillment to the groundbreaking Validity Pro app that automates property inspections, this episode is packed with insights on how this technology minimizes the need for re-inspections and ensures comprehensive assessments.

Uncover the role of computer vision in promoting fairness and objectivity in property appraisals. Matt explains how the Validity Pro app blurs out potentially biasing elements like religious artifacts and photos, ensuring unbiased evaluations. We also examine the technology's role in comparing MLS images with appraisal photos to maintain accurate condition assessments. Learn how these advancements support the modernization initiatives by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, ultimately delivering standardized and precise property assessments that benefit lenders. Tune in for a fascinating glimpse into the future of property appraisal and the technologies driving its evolution.

Uncover the hidden strategies to slash loan origination costs in today's volatile real estate market with TJ Harrington from Stewart. This isn't just about saving money—it's about transforming the industry. TJ dives into the critical innovations like title data, e-signatures, and e-closings that are already making a tangible impact. However, the path forward isn't without obstacles. From the lack of uniformity across 3,300 counties to the rising threats of fraud and money laundering, TJ highlights the complexities that still need addressing. Plus, learn why alternative title products such as waivers and Attorney Opinion Letters (AOLs) might backfire, sometimes leading to higher costs and failing to serve those who need help the most.

Looking ahead, we explore the future of risk management and how it can shape a more efficient and secure business environment. TJ provides a compelling analysis of how past manufacturing processes influence today's global business landscape and underscores the necessity of continuous innovation in mitigating risks like fraud and wire prevention. This episode also critiques the short-sighted approach of some cost-cutting measures and emphasizes the importance of a uniform data set and robust partnerships in anti-money laundering efforts. Get ready for an enlightening discussion that promises to equip you with insights to navigate and improve the title industry’s challenging terrain.