Dear Mortgage Women,

It has only been four months since our last issue was published (we missed you all!), but in so many ways, it feels like it has been a lifetime. When I look back at that issue, which was finished at the end of February, not one word was uttered surrounding the pandemic. In addition to COVID-19 still being a global threat, our country is dealing with civil unrest, discussions are taking place that are seeking to further divide our citizens, all while we are gearing up for one of the most polarizing presidential elections we have ever experienced in our lifetime. 2020 will be a year that historians will be talking about for generations to come.

Without sounding redundant, it really is hard to believe that at the beginning of this year, we had no idea what was to come. During so much turmoil, uncertainty, pain and disruption, it is no surprise that we have all had to make concessions and difficult choices in order to ensure survival and sustainability. This is not only present in our personal lives, but also in our places of business, relative industries and even future decisions that we make.

For so many, the only safe haven we can find right now is through the comfort and reliability that comes from having a place to call “home”. Our homes have not only become our sanctuary and our primary location for isolation, it has also been transformed into a defacto office for millions. While housing finance has been the bedrock of our economy for decades, the need for sustained access to stable housing is now more important than ever, and our industry has risen to the occasion.

In this issue, we wanted to highlight what women in housing have done to answer the call, and our contributors did not disappoint. From actionable tips on how to improve your originations game, to what is being done to combat a potential servicing crisis, this issue is packed with content that will help us all continue to bring our “A Game”, while keeping our eyes on the future.

While I miss attending conferences and having the kind of interactions with my peers that can only be best conducted in-person, I have been impressed and amazed with how we have quickly adapted to having these interactions in a digital setting. I am grateful to have the opportunity to continue to advocate for sensible housing reform and strong policies that help the American people keep their homes, all while doing it from the comfort and safety of my own house.

The professionals in our industry continue to amaze me with your strength, enginuity and passion during this time. We will get through this, as long as we remain a unified front and stay positive. I can’t wait to see you all again and give you all so many hugs….soon.

Best-

Leora A. Ruzin, CMB