Hey HW Magazine readers! Since joining HousingWire back in 2016, I have worked in various capacities on HW magazine. Now, I was recently promoted to Associate Editor, which basically means it’s my job to make sure this reaches you every month. As I take over the production of HW Magazine, I would love to hear from you! Do you have comments? Suggestions? Are you an industry leader and want to know how to make your voice heard? Give me a call, email me or DM me, I’d love to hear from you! 

This edition finishes out our year and begins the next one, and what better way than with the recognition of some of the mortgage industry’s greatest leaders. HousingWire Vanguard winners are recognized for their outstanding personal accomplishments and the impact they’ve had on the housing industry. These editorial awards are peer-reviewed and hand-picked through a competitive selection process that recognizes only the best. Flip through to get to know them. 

But as we peak into 2019 there are murky waters ahead. The lending environment is about to get rough, and some experts predict only the best lenders will survive. Rising interest rates and high home prices are making competition fierce, and layoffs at mortgage companies have already begun. Our feature story from Pamela Herrmann gives lenders a few tips on how to manage the storm that is about to come, and minimize the number of layoffs that are necessary.