The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, where the conference was held.
I got back last night from the NRMLA Reverse Mortgage conference in Orlando, and I am already in withdrawal. The conference was wonderful and far more exciting than Chicago. In addition, the weather was about 20-30 degrees warmer, and the hotel had a pool, a fake “beach,” and a talking macaw. While the setting was hard to beat, the information at the conference once again proved to be quite informative.
Some highlights:
– The session on “Making Counseling More Effective,” which pulled from a large variety of people. While the Q&A portion got pretty heated, the clarification of the new protocol (whenever it is finally released) was quite useful. More to come next week.
– The addition of Peter Fatizzi, of Realty XPerts, to the panel on HECM For Purchase led to wonderful insights on how realtors, builders, and lenders can work together. Peter’s relationship with Jourdan Hoover (of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage) I think put forth a good model for the way lenders can potentially build a client base through interacting with others in the real estate industry–and just how much the product can help their clients. However, the panel also inadvertantly pointed out the importance of clearly explaining the product, leading to questions about the ethical obligations of the industry to make sure a senior is financially stable after a reverse mortgage. This theme was echoed throughout the conference and especially in the counseling session.
– Amanda Norvell, of TRUE Marketing, and Tara Hornsby, of the Orlando Magic, shared some very creative ways their companies are using technology. While many of the comments did not directly relate to the reverse mortgage industry, it was a good catalyst to begin thinking creatively about the opportunities presented by facebook and twitter.
– It was quite enjoyable to tweet the conference (see @hecmgirl for tweets), leading NRMLA to start a twitter account at the end (@NRMLA). Look for twitter to play an increasingly large role in the industry.
– And finally, in the free stuff category, hats off to The Reverse Review for the fantastic cupcakes, as well as Customized Lenders Services, INC. for paddleball.
Looking forward to seeing everyone at the next event!