Val's Vibe

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 The credit reporting industry is experiencing significant price hikes, with costs trickling down through the reseller market—but why? In this episode, Valerie dives into the key factors driving these increases, from FICO and credit bureaus to the new VantageScore model.

💡 Key Takeaways:
✔️ Why mergers and declining loan volume are driving up credit report costs
✔️ The potential shift to VantageScore and bi-merge reports – what it means for lenders
✔️ Why the industry should advocate for single bureau reports to cut costs
✔️ How trade associations and professionals can push for real reforms

🔜 Next Week: Valerie breaks down AI’s impact on mortgage lending with insights from the NMLS User Conference in Atlanta.

🎧 Tune in now and stay ahead in the mortgage industry! 

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In this must-listen episode of Val’s Vibe, Valerie Saunders breaks down the National Association of Mortgage Brokers’ (NAMB) key legislative initiatives for 2025. From fighting to regulate trigger leads and advocating for Gold Star Spouse benefits to modernizing VA home loans, addressing flood insurance reauthorization, and tackling the skyrocketing cost of credit reports—Valerie covers it all!

Plus, learn how you can get involved and make an impact at NAMB’s upcoming Legislative & Regulatory Conference in Washington, D.C., from March 31 to April 2. Tune in to stay informed, protect your business, and help shape the future of the mortgage industry!

🎧 Listen now and be part of the movement! #ValsVibe #NAMB #MortgageLegislation #TriggerLeads #VAHomeLoans #FloodInsurance #CreditReportReform 

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In this episode, Valerie Saunders, a dedicated mortgage broker and passionate advocate, dives deep into the importance of advocacy in the mortgage industry. She breaks down how the National Association of Mortgage Brokers (NAMB) plays a crucial role in protecting both industry professionals and consumers. Valerie highlights key regulatory changes NAMB has been pushing for—from loan level pricing adjustments and income thresholds to refinancing rules and credit report costs—all aimed at making homeownership more accessible.

She also shares why getting involved in advocacy matters and encourages listeners to join her at NAMB’s upcoming Legislative and Regulatory Conference in Washington, DC. If you’re in the mortgage space, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Tune in and get inspired to make a difference in the industry. 🎙️🏡✨ 

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In this episode of Val's Vibe, host Valerie Saunders dives into the impact of President Donald Trump's second term on the housing and mortgage industry. From his inaugural day packed with executive orders targeting inflation and housing costs, to his bold plans for privatizing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, there’s a lot to unpack.

Val explores the implications of these policy shifts, including potential disruptions in the housing finance system, changes in mortgage rates, and how Trump's broader economic agenda might shape the industry. She also discusses Bill Pulte's nomination to lead the Federal Housing Finance Agency, reflecting on her own experience with outgoing director Sandra Thompson and what this leadership change could mean for the future.

With 2025 poised to be a year of volatility and change, Val emphasizes the importance of staying informed and engaged—whether through podcasts like this or active participation in trade associations like the National Association of Mortgage Brokers.

Tune in to hear Val’s insights and predictions for the road ahead, and don’t miss her next episode for even more on the evolving mortgage landscape!

🌐 Stay connected: Visit namb.org to learn more about joining the National Association of Mortgage Brokers. 

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In Episode 8 of Val’s Vibe, we’re diving into the heart of leadership with Valerie Saunders, Chief Executive Strategist and trailblazer in the mortgage industry. Joined by Laura Brandao and Linda McCoy of the Inspire Women’s Mentoring Group, Valerie shares her transformative journey through the challenges of leading in a traditionally male-dominated field. Drawing from her chapter in the book Leadership Matters, Valerie unveils her "10 Power Moves for Driving Leadership Success" and offers actionable insights to empower women to rise, lead, and inspire the next generation.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion filled with resilience, mentorship, and bold leadership strategies that will leave you ready to conquer your own professional challenges! Don't miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with a vibrant community of leaders. 

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 Welcome to the kickoff of 2025 with Val's Vibe! Hosted by Valerie Saunders, this podcast dives into the mortgage industry, personal growth, and professional insights. Valerie, a seasoned industry expert and advocate, shares her thoughts on industry trends, stability predictions, and opportunities for growth in 2025.

This episode reflects on her journey, professional highlights, and key industry forecasts, including interest rate stabilization, evolving technology, and upcoming regulatory changes. Whether you're a mortgage pro or simply curious about the industry, tune in for actionable insights, inspiration, and real talk.

Want to join the conversation? Reach out and be part of Val's Vibe! 

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In Episode 6 of Val's Vibe, we’re thrilled to welcome Kimber White, partner at RE Financial Services and President-Elect of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers. 

Join us as we explore the dynamic world of the mortgage industry, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of 2024 and casting an optimistic eye toward what 2025 holds. 

Kimber also shares valuable insights into NAMB Focus, the much-anticipated event shaping conversations and strategies for mortgage professionals nationwide. 

Whether you’re in the industry or just curious about the trends influencing homeownership and lending, this episode delivers expert perspectives and forward-thinking dialogue you won’t want to miss!

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In this heartfelt episode, I take a walk down memory lane and reflect on the rollercoaster that was 2024. From navigating challenging times to celebrating the wins—big and small—this year brought its share of growth and lessons. I’ll share personal highlights, the moments that tested my resilience, and the incredible people and experiences that made it all worth it. Tune in for an honest, uplifting vibe check as we close out the year together. 💛

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In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Laura Brandao, CEO of Lighthouse Advisors, as she shares her journey launching her new company and the why behind it. Laura dives into what makes Lighthouse Advisors a game-changer, her vision for the future, and the importance of setting strong, achievable expectations for 2025.

If you're looking for inspiration, leadership gems, and some real talk about what it takes to build something meaningful, you don’t want to miss this one!

✨ Tune in, and let’s keep the vibe going! 🎧 

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 This week, Val sits down with the incredible Paige Hernandez (https://www.facebook.com/paigehernandez), founder of Notorious (https://www.facebook.com/groups/451036700971559), a game-changing group that’s all about shaking up the industry and empowering underrepresented voices. 🌟 Paige shares her journey from dreamer to founder, the challenges she’s faced, and the wins that keep her going. Expect raw conversations, inspiring insights, and all the positive vibes you love from Val’s Vibe. Don’t miss this empowering episode—it’s one for the books! 💪✨