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Host JP Hussey sits down this week with Atrion Faiola of NorthPort Funding. Atrion has spent almost 20 years in the industry, and has worked on both sides of the aisle. The two discuss making the most of the recent downturn, the cyclical nature of the mortgage channel, and the need to keep your foot on the gas even when times are tough.

Atrion joined the mortgage channel right out of high school. As a teen, a next-door neighbor hired him on to his brand new mortgage business. He began at the very bottom: making cold calls. Eventually, during the recession, he left to join a major bank. He went through their LOA training program and found a niche in physician lending. Atrion was eventually appointed branch manager, a position he held for a number of years. When the branch folded, he used the severance payout to start his own shop.

Atrion has seen it all in the industry, a fact that he uses to keep himself grounded. “I’ve been through so many cycles,” he says. “I remember when they invented the trigger lead… now the trigger lead is basically useless.” He points to a willingness to adapt and a motivation to overcome as crucial to his success. The downturn the industry is going through, he says, is just another in a long line. “It’s a blessing in disguise for brokers. We’re faster, more flexible, and we can hunt different opportunities.” 

Atrion was initially attracted to the independent wholesale channel because of that indomitable spirit. He says that after watching Mat Ishbia and Anthony Casa speak at a Fuse event, he knew he had to make the switch. “You can’t take your foot off the gas – stay motivated, believe in what you do, and use your downtime.” 

When asked what advice he would give to brand new brokers, Atrion was quick to answer with some powerful words of wisdom. “1) Call financial advisors over real estate agents. 2) Align with real estate agents who match your personal style. 3) Never stop adding value – have an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, and share that knowledge with everyone you know.”

Times: 

2:00 – Background

6:00 – How is this downturn different?

10:00 – Why did you become independent? 

17:00 – Asking powerful questions

25:00 – Process

33:00 – Closing advice

This Episode is Sponsored By EPM Wholesale