We are currently all immersed in change. It is one thing we can all be certain of. But, have you considered that change has always occurred? We have seen what we consider major changes and it makes me think of my grandmother telling me about one her most vivid memories, the first time she saw a car. Her father was sure it would be the downfall of the country. They were noisy, smelled bad, scared good-working horses, and were expensive … how could anyone afford them? My grandmother thought they held excitement and fear, but that a car was a key to a new future she wanted to be a part of.
You may wonder how this has anything to do with mortgages and certification. We too are seeing many things that are very different and difficult to handle, even often seem impossible to work with in our industry right now. Many legislators openly attack us without even understanding who we are or what we do in our communities. We are left to struggle, inform and fight for our lives as we know them.
But consider what we can do and how we should do it. We are entrepreneurial Americans. By nature, strong, hard-working, honest individuals with values and codes of conduct. We obtain strength through education and that education leads to certification and licensing as our answer today. Ignorance is combated by knowledge, sometimes not immediate, but it does prevail. Your customers return to you because they trust your experience and knowledge. They know your commitment to being the professional they can rely on for the answers their families need. They admire your commitment to being a part of your state and local associations, and dedication to volunteering in your communities.
You make a difference and provide the choices that consumers need. Just as my grandmother was ready to see what lied ahead, you too must take the steps to get yourself ready for what lies ahead. Knowledge through education can never fail. Growth and commitment to becoming involved is vital to success. Make your choice today to become involved and certified for your future.
Pava J. Leyrer, CMC, CRMS, is president and owner of Heritage National Mortgage Corporation in Grandville, Mich., and Certifications Committee chair for the National Association of Mortgage Brokers. She may be reached by phone at (616) 534-4993.
