Most respondents expect business to grow next year, with 84.5% forecasting increased activity. Brokers cited stronger referral networks (38.5%), expanded non-QM offerings (30.4%) and improvements in the borrower experience (11.7%) as the primary drivers of growth. Brokers said the biggest challenges in 2025 were external. About 67.8% pointed to broader economic and market conditions, while 43.5% cited rate volatility. Client acquisition challenges were noted by 31.4% of respondents. Internal or operational issues, such as tools or regulatory changes, were cited far less frequently.
"If I had to go back to square one, I'd jump right into building something online that solves a real world problem," said Kirksey. He explained he wouldn't waste any time chasing trends or products that might work. "I'd hit the ground running with SEO and digital marketing services, because they're something everyone will always need no matter what the economy is like," according to Kirksey.
One channel that has quietly become a game-changer is podcasting. Once seen as a niche hobby, podcasts are now a mainstream platform where thought leaders, brands, and professionals share insights.
Marketing drives attention. But intake converts that attention into action. Without a well-oiled intake system, even the most sophisticated marketing will bleed opportunity.
