Last week, many of us gathered for the newly reinvented CMLA Lenders’ Rally. It was a day of inspiration and a day of motivation. The enthusiasm and energy from all of you was palpable, and it was truly inspiring to see everyone coming together to support each other's aspirations.
After the event, I began to reflect a bit on my journey that led me to the Colorado Mortgage Lenders Association. I don't think it is an accident that I ended up leading an association of professionals that help people achieve the ultimate American Dream.
I was raised by a single mother who really struggled to make ends meet. She had 2 kids before her 20th birthday. My father left before I turned 4 and we moved from apartment to apartment, chasing the lowest rents possible. I was a “latchkey” kid when I was 5 and my brother was 9. We were nourished each month with “government issued” cheese and milk. My mother was working very hard to improve her financial situation. She was going to Nursing School at night to become a Registered Nurse. She dreamed and talked frequently about buying a home once she was able to work at a hospital full time. The dream of homeownership finally looked like it might be a real possibility for her. Unfortunately she passed away 2 months before she graduated, when I was a mere 13 years old.
I made it my mission to achieve the dream my mother so wanted. I worked very hard in school and as an athlete. I was fortunate enough to receive almost a full ride to college on Athletic and Academic Scholarships. I became the first person in my family to graduate from college!
Then at the age of 26 I became a homeowner for the first time! This also marked a first for my family, and I remember the day well filled with a whirlwind of emotions. Initially I felt excitement and accomplishment as I took the step towards homeownership, fulfilling a long-held dream. Alongside the thrill, there was a hint of nervousness or apprehension, realizing the weight of the financial commitment I was undertaking. As I put pen to paper, I felt a surge of pride and empowerment knowing that I was investing in my future and laying down roots in a place to call my own. I remember my Loan Officer, Katy, helped me through the entire process. I did not have a clue what I was doing, and Katy walked me through and made it all so simple. Without her, I would have been lost!
Homeownership is something that was always important to me, and something I always yearned for after watching my mother sacrifice so much to achieve this dream. Twenty-six years after I signed my first mortgage, I am so proud to be the Executive Director of the Association of Mortgage Lenders that make homeownership a reality in the state of Colorado!
Our industry provides individuals with the ultimate American Dream. A very small percentage of individuals would be able to own a home without the mortgage industry. As an industry, we make dreams come true every single day! We guide individuals through the process of securing financing for their homes which brings a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. Whether it's assisting first-time buyers in navigating the complexities of mortgage options or helping families refinance to save money, being part of the journey towards homeownership is rewarding.
Owning a home instills a sense of pride and empowerment, as individuals take ownership of their destinies and invest in their futures. It fosters a sense of belonging and community, as homeowners become stakeholders in their neighborhoods and actively contribute to the social fabric of society.
Navigating the process of securing a mortgage can be daunting, but your professionalism and guidance make all the difference. You go above and beyond to ensure that each client receives personalized attention, tailored solutions, and peace of mind throughout the journey. Your patience, empathy, and willingness to answer questions and address concerns are invaluable, instilling confidence and trust in your clients every step of the way. Your role extends far beyond processing paperwork; you ARE agents of hope, empowerment, and opportunity, helping to turn dreams into reality.
I want to end this letter by simply saying “Thank you for being the guiding light that helps so many achieve the dream of homeownership.” I know my story is not the only story like this. You know the stories better than me. If nothing else, I hope last week’s event “inspired the fire” in you to remember that what you do is way beyond a job!
Betty Knecht
CMLA Executive Director