Originator Connect 2024: A Showstopper in Las Vegas

Las Vegas set the stage for another spectacular Originator Connect Conference in 2024, and it was nothing short of a game-changer for mortgage professionals. Held at the vibrant Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, the event brought together scores of attendees from across the nation, all eager to dive into the future of mortgage origination.

This year’s event saw returning originals, like the Non-QM Summit and Build-A-Broker course, but also featured new additions like OriginatorTech, helping originators and brokers navigate the constant change in tech and the future of AI in mortgage. With 3 days of non-stop activity and networking opportunities, plus a free NMLS renewal class, attendees were abuzz on social media, sharing their excitement and letting their clients know they are working on themselves to be better for their borrowers.

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Mega Brokers Go Head-To-Head

On Friday afternoon, we hosted the return of the Mega Broker Brawl, featuring some of the nation's largest broker owners and former top originators going head to head, showcasing their passion for the broker model. Each contender shared why  each of them feels their platform is best for originators and their borrowers. Our contenders this year were

Tom “The Guardian” Ahles, Chief Growth Officer and Co-Owner, Edge Home Finance; Daniel “The Commander” Iskander, CEO, West Capital Lending; Mike “The Bull” Kortas, CEO, NEXA Mortgage; Thuan “The Titan” Nguyen, CEO, Loan Factory; and refereed by Dave Savage, Chief Innovation Officer at Trust Engine & Founder of Mortgage Coach.

Mike Kortas stole the show, and the Broker Brawl Belt, when attendees voted him as the 2024 Broker Brawl Champion.

While the Broker Brawl is a lot of fun, we also wanted to put this energy and competitive spirit to good use. In order to declare a winner of the brawl, attendees needed to cast votes in the form of a donation to Homes For Our Troops, an organization that designs and builds homes specifically for severely injured veterans. Broker Brawl was able to raise over $8,000 with another $20,000 pledged by the Originator Connect broker community for Las Vegas native and Navy veteran Adrian Walker, who lost both of his legs during his service in Afghanistan.

But why stop there? We're proud to say the broker community gives back to our nation's veterans, if you would like to contribute you can do so here. And, next year, we'll welcome Adrian to the Originator Connect main stage to show him our support and thank him for his service to our country.

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It's A Mortgage Roundup, Yall

There ain't no party like an Originator Connect party! After Broker Brawl, we moved into The Gallery nightclub in Planet Hollywood, which we converted into our very own Neon Rodeo. Featuring a neon cowboy on stilts, light-up saloon dancers, dancing robots, a lasso performance, and plenty of food, drinks, dancing, and fun. There's no better way to cap off an incredible day than with a great party!

On Saturday, attendees came back bright and early (but not too early!) for the penultimate day of the Originator Connect Conference. Saturday featured educational sessions and keynote speakers including Mike Fawaz, Executive Vice President of Wholesale at Rocket Pro TPO, Mike Kortas, CEO of NEXA Mortgage, and Pavan Agarwal, CEO of Sun West Mortgage Company and Founder of Celligence, before moving into the ultimate exhibit hall experience.

The exhibit hall was buzzing with activity, as vendors showcased the latest products and services tailored to help originators stay ahead of the curve. The networking events, including the much-talked-about poolside mixer, provided ample opportunities to build lasting relationships with peers and industry influencers.

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Broker Business Is Built Here

Throughout the event, the focus was on providing originators with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to succeed in an ever-changing market. From specialized training to cutting-edge marketing strategies, Originator Connect 2024 delivered on its promise to be the must-attend event of the year for mortgage professionals.

As attendees left Las Vegas, the buzz of excitement was palpable, with many already looking forward to next year’s event. Originator Connect 2024 not only met but exceeded expectations, solidifying its reputation as the premier conference for mortgage originators.

We'll see you in 2025!