The Path To New Growth Is In Our Hands

Building momentum in 2025

The Path To New Growth Is In Our Hands
Loan Advisor

Growing Through Real Relationships

One of the cornerstones of my business is my commitment to genuine, lasting relationships with my clients. I call at least 20 clients a day just to check in. People always ask me, “What do you talk about in those calls?” My answer is simple: life. I’m here to listen to their stories, to hear about their kids, and to find ways I can genuinely help. My clients are part of my community, my “tribe.”

These personal connections go beyond phone calls. I host regular client events — everything from Halloween parties to annual vision board sessions. Every six to eight weeks, I’m inviting them to something. It’s my way of saying, “You’re not just a transaction to me; you’re a part of this journey.” The best part is that this connection naturally turns into referrals and return business because they know I’m genuinely invested in their lives.

Innovation and the Willingness to Adapt

As we step into 2025, I believe the people who thrive will be those willing to step outside their comfort zones. The mortgage industry isn’t static, and those of us who adapt will be the ones to succeed. Personally, I’m always learning. I invest in programs like Forward Academy, which keeps me updated on what’s trending and provides fresh strategies to reach clients effectively.

The truth is innovation is a necessity, not an option. If I just did the same thing year after year, I’d get bored, and so would my clients. I’m always on the lookout for new ways to engage and support them because I know that standing still isn’t an option.

Embracing the Challenges: Tackling Complex Loans and Expanding Product Knowledge

The mortgage industry has changed drastically over the last few years, and one of the biggest shifts has been in the complexity of the loans I’m handling. Today, more clients are in unique financial situations, and it’s essential for me to keep expanding my product knowledge, especially around Non-QM, 1099, and bank statement loans. These aren’t always straightforward deals, but I’ve learned that mastering these challenging products opens the door to help more people realize their dreams of homeownership.

Non-QM loans, for example, are invaluable in today’s job market, where many people hold multiple jobs or work as freelancers. I’ve had clients with as many as 12 different sources of income in two years! These loans require me to dig deep and think creatively, often involving multiple income sources, co-borrowers, or gift funds. The extra effort is worth it, though, when I see clients succeed who thought homeownership was out of reach.

To truly serve my clients, I can’t limit myself to the standard loan options. Learning how to work with alternative products, like 1099 and bank statement loans, is a must. These types of financing require more attention to detail, but they give me the flexibility to serve clients who wouldn’t otherwise qualify for a traditional mortgage. When I embrace these challenges, I’m able to help my clients find solutions that truly fit their unique financial situations.

Empowering People Through Financial Independence

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is helping clients gain financial control over their lives. I’ve seen how homeownership can transform someone’s confidence, and I have countless stories of clients who’ve overcome their doubts to achieve something amazing. I remember one immigrant client who came to me unsure if she could buy a home. Four years later, she’s a homeowner and running a successful business. Seeing that growth, knowing I was part of it, is everything to me.

I’m not just closing loans. I’m helping people see what’s possible. And I believe that when you genuinely care about someone’s success, they can feel it and they remember it.

Advice for My Fellow Mortgage Professionals

If there’s one thing I’d share with others in this industry, it’s this: Be real. Don’t be afraid to bring your true self into your work. It’s not about calling 200 people a day just to hit a quota. It’s about connecting with people in a way that’s meaningful. Show up, care about them, and let them see who you are. I may be a little quirky, but I care deeply about my clients and that’s what counts.

As I look ahead to 2025, I’m ready. Ready to adapt, ready to connect, and ready to empower others. The path to growth really is in our hands, and with a bit of resilience, creativity, and genuine care, I believe we can make a difference that lasts.

This article was originally published in Mortgage Women Magazine, during the week of January 2025.
About the author
Loan Advisor
Shannon Hoff is a Loan Advisor at American Pacific Mortgage, Roseville, California Branch, NMLS #190844. 
Published on
Jan 14, 2025
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