The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds

How Much Home Should You Buy?

Just because you can afford a certain home doesn’t mean you should buy it. In this episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers Podcast, we break down the difference between what you qualify for and what’s actually comfortable for your budget and lifestyle. We cover the 28/36 rule, the hidden costs of homeownership, how interest rates impact affordability, and why buying at the top of your budget isn’t always the best move. Before you sign that mortgage, listen in and make sure you’re setting yourself up for long-term financial success!

Tax Season & Home Buying: Are You Setting Yourself Up for Success?

It’s tax season! But are you making the right financial moves to set yourself up for homeownership? In this episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officer Podcast, Stephen and Derick break down how tax returns impact your ability to qualify for a mortgage—especially if you're self-employed. They’ll cover the do’s and don’ts of income reporting, tax deductions, and how to use your tax refund strategically. Whether you're a W-2 employee or a 1099 contractor, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate tax season like a pro!

Insurance Secrets Unlocked: What Every Homeowner Should Know with Public Adjuster James Coyne

In this episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds, Derick and Stephen sit down with James Coyne, a seasoned Public Adjuster who once worked for one of the biggest insurance companies in Florida before switching sides to advocate for homeowners. With 5 years of experience and thousands of claims under his belt, James shares insider tips on how to navigate the complex world of property insurance. From common mistakes homeowners make when filing claims to how natural disasters impact policies, this episode is a must-listen for homeowners, real estate professionals, and loan officers alike.

The Good, The Bad & The Rent: Tere Alvarez on Residential Management

In this episode, we get Brutally Honest with Tere Alvarez, a seasoned residential manager, to dive into the challenges and insights of managing residential properties. From market trends to tenant relations, Tere shares valuable perspectives that every real estate professional needs to hear. Don't miss this one! 🎙️🏡 #BrutallyHonest #RealEstate #PropertyManagement #Podcast

January Recap & Spring 2025 Forecast: What’s Next for Buyers, Sellers, and Rates?

As January 2025 winds down, Derick and Stephen take a deep dive into the key trends shaping the housing and mortgage markets. In this episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers, they explore:
Why mortgage rates are staying near 7% and how that impacts buyers
The ongoing home shortage of 4.5 million properties and its effect on prices
Slowing home price appreciation in 2025—what buyers and sellers should know
Changes in buyer demographics: The rise of multigenerational homes and all-cash purchases
New tech in real estate: How AI, blockchain, and borrower portals are streamlining the process
What’s next for spring 2025: Regional price trends, rate expectations, and the affordability outlook
Tune in for brutally honest advice to help you navigate this evolving market with confidence!

What The Title? With Jillian Montague of Core Title

n this episode of "The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds," hosts Derick and Stephen sit down with his "sister from another mister," Jillian Montague, Director of Business Development at CoreTitle. With over a decade of experience in the title industry, Jillian brings a wealth of knowledge and a personal touch to the conversation. They'll delve into the intricacies of title insurance, share stories from the field, and discuss how CoreTitle's commitment to competence and hospitality sets them apart in the industry. Don't miss this engaging and informative chat with one of the leading professionals in the title business.

Meet Guardian Angel Inspections: Raising the Standard in Home Inspections!

In this heartfelt episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers, Derick and Stephen sit down with Ricky and Jessica Smith, the inspiring founders of Guardian Angel Inspections. From a family tragedy to creating a business that serves and protects families, the Smiths share their incredible journey. They discuss the importance of home inspections, the hidden risks they uncover, and why their personal story fuels their passion for keeping homeowners safe. It’s an episode full of resilience, family values, and practical tips for homebuyers and sellers alike.

James Hackman’s Cold Call Success

In this episode of “The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds,” Derick and Stephen sit down with James Hackman, a rising star in real estate who skyrocketed to success after getting licensed in 2021. James shares how his fearless approach to cold calling landed him a $3 million deal and the strategies he uses to stay consistent and motivated in a competitive industry. From building rapport with clients to overcoming rejection, James offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to level up their real estate game. Don’t miss this inspiring story of grit, determination, and making things happen!

Goals for 2025 – Write It, Achieve It!

In this reflective and forward-focused episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds, Derick Brown and Stephen Brock dive into the power of goal-setting just days before the new year. They explore why writing down your goals can increase your chances of success by 42%, backed by compelling research. The duo shares their own wins and lessons from 2024, including Stephen’s goal reflections and Derick’s journey of building diverse referral partnerships.
Whether it’s crushing professional milestones, improving personal habits, or leveling up in 2025, this episode provides actionable tips to turn aspirations into achievements. Tune in for inspiration, accountability hacks, and a brutally honest roadmap to start the new year strong.

2025 Mortgage Market Forecast: What Every Homebuyer and Loan Officer Should Know

n this episode of The Brutally Honest Loan Officers: The Unfiltered Mortgage Minds, Derick and Stephen take out their crystal ball to forecast the mortgage landscape for 2025. From economic shifts and interest rate trends to housing inventory and homebuyer demand, they tackle the key factors shaping the industry. Will rates stabilize? Will inventory challenges ease? What trends should loan officers and homebuyers prepare for? Tune in to hear their brutally honest insights, predictions, and strategies to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.