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I just attended the 32nd Annual Regional Conference of MBAs in Atlantic City, NJ and it seems things may be looking up for lending in the next few years.
The residential conference opened with an uplifting performance by Barry Habib, CEO of MBS Highway, singing the praises of a return of refinances, telling everyone to raise their ARMs (Habib). Barry’s act was followed by non-other than Regina Lowrie and her renowned Industry Leaders Group, featuring the likes of Peter Norden from HomeBridge, Teresa Bryce Bazemore from Radian, Garry Cipponeri from Traderoom Capital, Stan Middleman from Freedom Mortgage, Jennifer Whip from Fannie and Bill Cosgrove the MBA Chairman. As usual, they harmonized on the important issues facing lenders and the industry. Each of them brought their special insights and style to the room.
This was followed closely by the new Housing Policy group lead by industry standout, Brian Montgomery of the Collingwood Group and former Assistant HUD Secretary, supported by, not one, but two, former Ginnie Mae Presidents, Joe Murin of Chrysalsis Holdings and Rob Couch of Bradley Hunt. None other than yours truly was on backup and, sometimes, lead vocals. Seems, we’re looking at a little more of the same in the areas of enforcement, but at least now we have a better understanding of the rules. Stay compliant my friends.
The afternoon was highlighted by presentations by the TRID trio of Ken Markinson of the MBA along with Rich Andreano, Ballard Spahr, and Steve Gotthelm from ALTA. Better get ready to sing to the tune of the new required disclosures.
The day was closed out by the legend himself, Bob Levy, hosting a Regulator Roundtable sing along highlighting local state reps addressing their regs and rules. The party lasted through the day far into the night with attendees dancing in the aisles in the vast and informative exhibit hall, and later the many networking receptions and dinners. All capped off by LoanLogics’, Harrah’s Pool Party, with music and dancing into the night. What a day; a good time was had by all.
Thursday started with an eye-opening rendition on Vendor Management, rules and responsibilities, brought to us by Regina Lowrie of RML Advisors, this time together with the lovely and talented, Daniella of Offit Kuman.
The conference ended with the duet of Jack Konyk of WeinerBrodsky and the legendary Ken Markinson, Chief Legal at MBA, rocking everyone to the tunes of subjects near and dear to everyone, including audits, enforcements, fines and penalties. What to watch out for, why and how? Keep on truckin’.
It was a veritable rock concert for mortgage lending with top acts presenting top tunes, with some “oldies but goodies” sprinkled in. There was something for everyone. If you missed it, too bad! But, it comes each year in March in AC, NJ. Hope to see you there, next year.
Rock on my friends!
