John G. Stevens is a man on a mission. For the past several years, that mission has included being a leading advocate for his profession—the mortgage brokerage industry. His profession has been under unprecedented assault from regulators and the media alike in the wake of the mortgage crisis. But Stevens has fought to make it clear that the problems that led to the mortgage crisis did not begin with mortgage brokers. Moreover, regulations created in the aftermath of the crisis would do a disservice to consumers if they eliminated the advantages mortgage brokers bring to the mortgage marketplace.
Having succeeded in preserving the viability of the mortgage broker model, Stevens is preparing to launch an effort to preserve and protect other things he values by running for the Utah State House of Representatives.
National Mortgage Professional had a chance to sit down with John recently to discuss how his industry advocacy has led him to want to expand his influence.
You have been a leader for NAMB—The Association of Mortgage Professionals. Why did you decide to get so involved in the organization?
Our industry, as a whole, and our part of the industry, in particular, were under attack. We were being unfairly blamed for the crisis and mischaracterized in the media. Not only was our way of making a living being jeopardized, but more importantly, an essential component of an affordable housing finance system was being threatened. That impacts not just me and my family, but the company I work for and all of our society. The ability to find affordable financing for a home is a crucial part of the American Dream—that eternal goal of building a self-sufficient life for our families and giving our children the opportunity to do the same in the future.
NAMB gave me an outlet to share my beliefs on this subject. Through the hard work of many colleagues, we have made a difference. The fight is not over by a long shot, yet we have prevailed in keeping mortgage brokerage a viable piece of the home financing market.
You are now embarking on a leadership role beyond the mortgage industry. Why is this campaign for a seat in Utah State House of Representatives so important to you?
I have learned that not everyone sees the world the same way. That’s okay of course, but it also means that if you believe strongly about something, you must be willing to step up and fight for it. I have experienced, first-hand, the great benefits our American society and economy can offer. I know how great a place Utah and Pleasant Grove—my hometown—is to live, work and raise a family. But I also see risks developing that could harm my friends and neighbors if not confronted. I believe firmly that I can do a better job in preserving and protecting our community than the incumbent representative in my district. It is really that simple, and I am willing to step up and be counted.
Your campaign has received a great deal of support from colleagues and even competitors in the mortgage industry. How does this make you feel?
I am humbled and blessed to have earned the support of people whom I’ve worked with and even competed against in the business world. To me, it is simply a sign that there is more that unites people of good will than there is that divides us. I believe it also is an endorsement from folks who have seen how hard I will work to make things better and want that in a State Representative.
How can our readers learn more about your campaign?
By visiting www.JohnGStevens.com. I would welcome an opportunity to share my views on the issues and; of course, I would appreciate the endorsement and financial support of my industry colleagues.
David J. Coster is senior editor of National Mortgage Professional Magazine. He may be reached by phone at (919) 559-2171 or e-mail
[email protected].
