Especially in today's present economic environment, it's crucial that a lender has the information and tools on hand to educate and enlighten the public regarding credit, debt management, lending and mortgage planning. Technology and the internet provide important support to this endeavor, with personal websites being almost a "must-have" for the communications now required and demanded by consumers.
Having been in the mortgage industry pre-technology, and now enjoying the benefits that those modern technologies offer, I can say that the speed, efficiency and convenience with which I can provide se
rvice to my customers versus the past has vastly improved. You can work almost anywhere anymore. Responses to inquiries are virtually instantaneous and information contained more in-depth and detailed. For the most part this is an advantage, but it also can cause more questions to arise during the processing of an application.
That is where the good, old-fashioned forms of communication come into play. Telephoning can help, but for me nothing totally replaces the benefits of a one-on-one, face-to-face meeting. Both parties, client and lender, gain a better sense of one another during these meetings. The nuances of such a meeting can offer great insight into the personality and character of each. Trust is deepened and relationships become more solid. With first-time home buyers this is crucial. Never having been through the process before, they need a lender that will offer patience, special care, and more time spent with them and on their behalf.
Although it is very possible to conduct business without this personal touch, I miss it greatly when it does not occur. I always feel an important element is somehow missing. Great efforts are made to promote and host these events, whether it be in the traditional office setting, a client's home, realtor or attorney's office, or workplace. For me, it is worth any extra effort it takes.
I never wish to go back to doing business without all the bells and whistles of today's modern offices. I'm too spoiled for that and I gain way too much from their existence. But, neither do I wish to completely abandon the benefits derived from personal meetings. It is these personal elements that are the most fulfilling and rewarding aspects of my profession. Lenders that do not retain them within their profession miss out on alot.
Gene Mundt, www.genemundt.com
Gene Mundt, Sr. Vice President
Personal NMLS #216987
The Federal Savings Bank
1823 Centre Point Circle, Naperville, IL 60563
Skype! 630-219-1316
I totally agreed with you. I missed being in the office and building the connections with all the people there.I learned so much from my association with the guys and gals down at the office and miss all the good times that we had together.
Today's technology is best complemented with face to face communication. However, some have gotten so involved in the technology it's become a replacement. I think once we all 'get used to it' it will balance out again.
SmartHippo: Thanks for the comment! Although I prefer the old-fashioned way of the face to face ... I truly believe that I am beginning to relax and emote better through my technology! What is ideal is ... there's a way of communicating for everyone, no matter their preference.
If I can be of any assistance to you personally or within your website, please let me know.
Gene Mundt, Professional Mortgage Banker www.genemundt.com Chicago Bancorp