How did you get your start in the mortgage industry?

NA: I began my career as a licensed appraiser in 1997. When the 2007 housing crash struck, I partnered with a title company to start an Appraisal Management Company (AMC). Although that venture was short-lived, it paved the way for me to join a national AMC in a sales role. Fast forward to 2020, I became the majority owner (51%) of Fastapp.

What does being a trailblazer mean to you?

NA: Being a trailblazer is about breaking barriers and creating pathways for others, especially in industries where women are often underrepresented.

As the CEO and majority owner of Fastapp, and through years of leading multiple businesses, I’ve experienced both the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. For me, it’s about demonstrating that women can lead with strength, resilience, and innovation while building successful enterprises.

Trailblazing comes with responsibility — to inspire, mentor, and foster a culture where others, particularly women, feel empowered to pursue their dreams and redefine what’s possible. It’s about paving the way and leaving a legacy that uplifts others.

Where do you see yourself and women in general in the industry over the next five years?

NA: Over the next five years, I envision leading Fastapp to new heights by focusing on innovation and exceptional service in the mortgage industry. My goal is to position the company as a leader in efficiency, transparency, and customer satisfaction.

For women in the industry, I see immense potential. Technological advancements and customer-centric solutions will drive significant shifts, and women are poised to be at the forefront of these changes. Women bring a unique and balanced perspective to the mortgage industry that has allowed it to grow and become a broader and more inclusive and influential part of the American economic engine.

What is your professional superpower?

NA: My professional superpower is the ability to anticipate what is next in our industry.

I have always had a keen eye for identifying trends and opportunities before they fully emerge. This skill has allowed me to position Fastapp and my previous businesses for success, even in the face of economic shifts.

Whether it’s leveraging cutting-edge technology or adapting to changing customer expectations, I pride myself on staying proactive and innovative. My ability to spot a product or service that will mesh seamlessly with our current processes and provide an improved and more efficient experience for our clients has and will continue to serve our business well as we move into the future.

Tell us something about your career in the mortgage industry that was pivotal to your achievements today.

NA: A pivotal moment in my career was during the 2007 housing crash. The appraisal industry faced significant uncertainty, but I saw an opportunity amidst the turmoil. With the impending changes brought by the Dodd-Frank Act, I shifted my focus to the AMC side of the industry, adopting a business model aligned with the new regulations.

Nicole in New York City for a 2024 Work Xmas Party. Right to left is: Jay, Crystal, Eileen, Mike (Nicole's business partner), herself, Ray, Taya, Michelle. Bottom row, John and Shane.

When the industry seemed to be burning in spots, there was a glitter of diamond in the ashes, and it was this that caught my eye. I realized that there was a niche to be filled, and it was one that could be transformative and profitable for all of us.

This decision taught me the importance of adaptability, foresight, and taking calculated risks. This moment not only shaped my career but also laid the foundation for my success as the leader of Fastapp.

What advice would you give to a woman entering or trying to move up in their mortgage career?

NA: My advice is simple: don’t give up. The mortgage industry is dynamic and competitive, but perseverance is key. Believe in yourself, educate yourself, and remain confident, even when faced with obstacles.

Surround yourself with mentors and peers who support your growth, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Trust your instincts and take risks when opportunities arise. Remember, you bring your own individual perspective and value to the table — own it. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with determination and resilience, you can break barriers and achieve incredible milestones.

If I could go back and give my younger self advice, it would be to try. Even if the odds are bad and there’s risk, try. You’ll either fail and learn or succeed. There are things that I would go back and try now if I could, so I know there are always more opportunities that we can see in any given stage of our lives.

What does success mean to you?

NA: Success, to me, is about happiness and fulfillment in both professional and personal aspects of life. While financial achievements are significant, true success lies in building something meaningful, leading with purpose, and positively impacting others.

It’s also about balancing ambition with gratitude, learning from challenges, and celebrating wins. Success is creating a life and career that align with my values and bring genuine contentment.

What do you enjoy doing outside of our industry?

NA: Outside of the mortgage industry, I cherish spending time with my family, who are my foundation and greatest source of joy.

I also have a passion for traveling and seeking new adventures. Exploring new destinations and trying daring experiences allow me to recharge and gain fresh perspectives. Adventure reminds me to live fully and stay curious.

How do you recommend navigating change in an industry that is always changing and growing?

NA: Navigating change requires a proactive mindset. My recommendation is to prioritize education and stay informed about laws, regulations, and industry trends. Knowledge is power, and staying ahead equips you to adapt confidently.

Nicole at a family wedding in Seattle with (left to right) her youngest son, Ryan with his wife Madi, her husband Aaron, herself, and her oldest son Scott.

Listening to your clients’ needs is equally important. The industry evolves with customer expectations, so staying attuned to their feedback is essential. Combining continuous learning with a client-focused approach ensures flexibility, innovation, and preparedness to thrive in a dynamic environment.

We are possibly going to have some challenging times ahead economically. My preparation for potential upheaval has been to keep our business as lean as possible so, should something unexpected occur, we can keep our staff employed and our doors open to our clients without having to stretch too far.

Do you think it’s important to have a mentor?

NA: Absolutely. Having a mentor is invaluable. They provide guidance, support, and insights to help you navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Mentors inspire confidence and encourage growth, often helping you step out of your comfort zone.

For me, mentorship has been instrumental in my journey. I encourage everyone to find a mentor whose values and achievements align with their goals — it can make all the difference.

I didn’t have a specific mentor, but I do have a person whose judgement I trust and to whom I reach out when I need to make a tough decision and require an experienced and impartial opinion. Having that backup gives me the confidence to move ahead or step back, depending on the situation.

What do you want to be remembered for in our industry?

NA: I want to be remembered as someone who led with integrity and passion. I hope my legacy reflects a person who made a positive impact on peers, clients, and the industry by staying true to my values.

Beyond building successful businesses, I aspire to inspire others to take risks, embrace change, and lead authentically. My goal is to uplift others and leave the mortgage industry better than I found it.

How do you find your voice?

NA: Finding my voice has always come naturally because I’ve never been afraid to speak up for myself or others. I learned early on the importance of standing firm in my beliefs and advocating for what’s right, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Over the years, I’ve realized that finding your voice is about trusting your instincts, being authentic, and having the courage to express your thoughts. It’s about using your voice to create change, empower others, and leave a lasting impact. Being unapologetically myself has been key to embracing my voice.

What’s your biggest fear and why?

NA: My biggest fear is being hungry. As a child, my family experienced extreme poverty, and the memory of not having enough to eat left a lasting impact on me. Even though I’ve built a successful career, that fear still lingers. I have reframed it as a motivator, but it will always be something that I remember and never want my kids to have to endure.

It’s a reminder of how fragile circumstances can be and fuels my passion for giving back to others in need. This experience shaped my resilience and drive, motivating me to create stability and security for myself and others.

How do we propel more women into leadership roles within our industry?

NA: To propel more women into leadership roles, mentorship and peer support are vital.

Women in leadership have a responsibility to mentor others, share experiences, and provide resources. Being a supportive peer — offering encouragement and advocating for each other’s growth — is equally important.

By creating a strong network of women supporting women, we can break down barriers, foster confidence, and inspire the next generation of female leaders. This collaboration will create lasting change across the industry.