Out With the Old & In With the New: Resolutions for Brokers in 2025

As we wrap up another year and look forward to 2025, it's only natural to look back and plan ahead. While most people think about personal resolutions such as going to the gym or watching what they eat, professional resolutions tend to get left behind. But here's the catch: as a broker, your professional development is as vital as your personal well-being. After all, your success has direct implications for your clients, your business, and your bottom line.

So why not take 2025 as a chance to up your game? Whether you are a residential mortgage broker, commercial mortgage broker, or referral partner, making professional resolutions can keep you ahead of the pack, foster stronger relationships, and expand your business. Here are some resolutions to make for the New Year—and how you can keep them.

1. Resolve to Pay More Attention to Your Clients

Let’s start with the basics: your clients. They are the lifeblood of your business, and their satisfaction should always be a top priority. But here's the question—do you really know what they want?

Why It Matters:

• Customer Retention: Happy clients are more likely to stick with you and refer others to your services.
• Business Growth: Understanding your clients’ needs can help you tailor your offerings and attract new business.

How to Do It:

• Conduct Client Surveys: Start the year by sending out a simple survey asking for feedback. Questions like, “What did we do well this year?” or “What could we improve?” can provide valuable insights.
• Listen Actively: When meeting with clients, focus on understanding their goals and challenges. This will help you offer solutions that truly meet their needs.
• Follow Up: Regularly check in with clients to ensure they’re satisfied and address any concerns promptly.

By putting your clients first, you'll not only build stronger relationships but also become a trusted advisor.

2. Resolve to Scope Out Your Competition

In the fast-paced world of real estate lending, it’s easy to get caught up in your own work and lose sight of what your competitors are doing. But here’s the truth: understanding your competition is key to staying ahead.

Why It Matters:

• Identify Gaps: Analyzing your competitors can help you identify areas where you can improve or differentiate yourself.
• Stay Relevant: Keeping tabs on industry trends ensures you’re offering the most up-to-date solutions.

How to Do It:

• Research Competitors: Take time to review your competitors’ websites, social media, and marketing materials. What are they doing well? Where are they falling short?
• Attend Industry Events: Conferences and networking events are great opportunities to learn about new trends and connect with peers. What types of loans are gaining traction? Which financing structures are in demand? Staying informed can help you offer the most relevant products to your clients.
• Ask for Feedback: Sometimes, the best insights come from your own clients. Ask them why they chose you over the competition and what you could do better.

By staying informed about your competition, you’ll be better equipped to adapt and thrive in a competitive market.

3. Resolve to Embrace New Technology

Let's be real—technology is revolutionizing the way we conduct business. From automated underwriting to artificial intelligence-powered customer service, digital solutions are automating processes and enhancing efficiency for lenders and brokers alike. If you haven't already, 2025 is the year to go digital.

Why It Matters:

• Efficiency: The right technology can streamline your workflows and save you time.
• Client Experience: Tech-savvy brokers can offer faster, more personalized service.

How to Do It:

• Identify Pain Points: Start by identifying the tasks that take up the most time or cause the most frustration. Then, look for tools that can help.
• Test Before You Invest: Many software tools offer free trials or demos. Take advantage of these to find the best fit for your business.
• Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to peers in your industry for their favorite tools and tips.

By embracing new technology, you’ll not only improve your efficiency but also enhance your client’s experience.

4. Resolve to Go Back to Basics

Although technology is crucial, it's not the answer to all issues. Sometimes, the greatest way to advance is to go back to the basics. The mortgage business is always changing, with new rules, financing products, and lending patterns developing yearly. To remain competitive, ongoing learning is necessary.

Why It Matters:

• Strong Foundations: Mastering the basics ensures you’re providing reliable, high-quality service.
• Client Trust: Clear communication and excellent customer service build trust and loyalty.

How to Do It:

• Communicate Clearly: Whether you’re explaining loan terms or discussing a client’s goals, clarity is key. Avoid jargon and be transparent about expectations.
• Be Accessible: Offer multiple ways for clients to reach you—phone, email, video calls, or in-person meetings.
• Focus on Customer Service: According to a survey by Dimensional Research, 95% of clients share bad customer service experiences, while 87% share good ones. Make sure you’re on the right side of that statistic.

By focusing on the basics, you’ll build a strong foundation for long-term success.

5. Resolve to Push Yourself Out of Your Comfort Zone

Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone. Whether it’s attending networking events, publishing content, or speaking at conferences, stepping outside your comfort zone can open up new opportunities.

Why It Matters:

• Professional Growth: Trying new things helps you develop new skills and gain confidence.
• Industry Credibility: Sharing your expertise positions you as a thought leader in your field.

How to Do It:

• Attend Networking Events: Even if it feels intimidating, networking is one of the best ways to build relationships and learn from others.
• Create Content: Start a blog, write articles, or share insights on social media. This not only showcases your expertise but also helps you connect with potential clients.
• Volunteer for New Projects: Take on tasks or projects that challenge you. This could be anything from leading a team to learning a new skill.

By pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, you’ll not only grow professionally but also inspire confidence in your clients.

Why Brokers Should Partner With RCN Capital

At RCN Capital, we know the special needs of real estate investors—and the brokers that serve them. Here's why brokers prefer to work with us:

• Flexible Programs: From fix-and-flip financing to long-term rental funding, we provide solutions to suit your client's requirements.
• Fast Closings: We can close loans in as few as 10 business days, helping your clients move quickly on opportunities.
• Broker-Friendly: We value our relationships with brokers and offer competitive commissions, fast approvals, and dedicated support.

By partnering with RCN Capital, you can provide your clients with the financing solutions they need to succeed in the competitive world of real estate investing.

Conclusion: Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet

As we move into 2025, sit down and think about your career aspirations and make resolutions for yourself to develop. Whether it's concentrating on your customers, adapting to new technology, or challenging yourself outside of your comfort zone, little changes can have large impacts.

And when it comes to funding, RCN Capital is here to guide you through it all. Whether your customers are flipping homes, constructing new builds, or investing in rentals, we've got the financing solutions to enable them to succeed.