Burks emphasized how Zeitro is leveraging advanced technologies like optical character recognition (OCR), natural language processing (NLP), machine learning (ML), and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG).

“We’re seeing incredible outcomes,” Burks stated proudly. “Borrowers are pre-qualifying two and a half times faster, achieving 90% application completion rates and 85% accuracy in income calculations. It’s really exciting stuff.”

Yet, despite the compelling results, adoption within the industry remains slow. This hesitancy is a familiar obstacle — what Burks terms “workflow inertia.”

“We’ve all developed comfort with our existing processes,” Burks explained candidly. “I was guilty of this myself. There’s a reluctance to change or iterate, even when new solutions can significantly enhance our effectiveness.”

This inertia, he believes, stems partly from skepticism about AI’s capabilities and partly from the industry’s demographics. Lockard highlighted an important statistic: the average age of loan officers hovers around 57, presenting additional challenges in tech adoption.

Burks empathizes with those hesitant about AI. Reflecting on his own initial experiences, he recalls, “The first time I interacted with ChatGPT, I didn’t even know how to prompt it. But once I got past that initial uncertainty, I quickly became obsessed.”

Burks’ enthusiasm is infectious, and his message to those on the fence is straightforward: “Try it. Just take that initial step.”

Burks underscores that adopting AI isn’t merely about staying current; it’s about staying competitive.

“I realized immediately after adopting these technologies that if I hadn’t, I’d be at a clear disadvantage,” he said. “If you’re not using these tools and someone else is, you’re playing catch-up from the outset.”

AI doesn’t just streamline processes — it revolutionizes productivity. Tasks that once consumed hours, such as chasing down verification documents, are now handled swiftly and accurately by AI, freeing loan originators to concentrate on high-value tasks.

“It dramatically enhances efficiency,” Burks emphasized. “Instead of bogging down in routine tasks, originators can now spend their time connecting with more potential buyers and initiating those critical sales conversations.”

Lockard openly discussed the generational divide that frequently emerges as a barrier to technological adoption in the mortgage industry. Burks acknowledged this reality but offered a reassuring perspective.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the industry veterans who, despite initial reluctance, are diving into this technology,” he shared. “Yes, there is a learning curve, but the results speak for themselves. The willingness to adapt can lead to phenomenal outcomes.”

Burks champions education as the key to overcoming these barriers. His role goes beyond simply advocating technology — he actively teaches and encourages users to integrate these tools into their everyday workflows.

Burks passionately described the tangible benefits AI is delivering in the mortgage industry, highlighting the significant improvements in borrower pre-qualification times and the accuracy of applications.

“We’re literally changing how quickly and effectively loan originators can operate,” he enthused. “And that translates directly to more satisfied customers and better business outcomes.”

Yet, the broader impact is equally transformative. AI-driven efficiencies not only improve operational metrics but fundamentally enhance the customer experience by alleviating the notorious stress and confusion typically associated with the mortgage process.

Burks offered pragmatic advice for anyone hesitant to embrace AI technology: it’s about future-proofing one’s career.

“This isn’t about keeping up with trends,” he clarified. “It’s about positioning yourself for long-term success. Those who embrace AI today are setting themselves up for greater achievement tomorrow.”

He reiterated that AI should be seen not as a threat but as an essential tool. It supplements human capabilities rather than replacing them, allowing professionals to focus on creativity, customer interaction, and strategic growth.

The episode concluded with Lockard and Burks eager to continue the conversation in greater depth, reflecting the complexity and potential of these transformative technologies.

“This is just the start,” Burks affirmed. “The next couple of years will see revolutionary changes. It’s critical that we stay informed and engaged.”

✅ Technological Integration Is Essential: Tools like OCR, NLP, ML, and RAG offer substantial improvements in mortgage processing speed and accuracy.

✅ Overcoming Resistance: Familiarity and comfort with existing processes can create reluctance, but initial adoption quickly demonstrates the value of AI.

✅ Competitive Edge: Professionals who utilize AI significantly enhance their productivity, effectiveness, and market competitiveness.

✅ Generational Shift: Older industry professionals who embrace AI despite initial hesitancy report transformative results.

✅ Education Matters: Ongoing training and education are crucial for maximizing AI’s potential within the mortgage industry.

To dive deeper into Chris Burks’ insights and the exciting future of mortgage technology, tune into the full conversation on Max Convos. The transformation is here — don’t get left behind.