In this episode of Closing Market Weekly, Phillip Hogan welcomes Tammy Ringeisen, Vice President of Compliance & Client Audit at Mortgage Connect. With 32+ years across title, closing, and appraisal, Tammy oversees regulatory compliance, client audits, and vendor risk management—and she breaks down how Mortgage Connect vets third-party vendors to keep client data safe.
Phillip and Tammy dive into today’s threat landscape, from bulk phishing and QR-code “quishing” to vishing, smishing, spear phishing, and clone phishing. Tammy explains why independent contractors are uniquely exposed, how AI is making scams harder to spot, and the practical routines that meaningfully reduce risk: segmenting email addresses, keeping software current, enabling multi-factor authentication, and slowing down to verify links and sender domains.
They also discuss the culture of training at Mortgage Connect, plans to extend phishing awareness to signing agents, and the mindset for operational excellence at the table. Tammy closes with timeless guidance: treat every closing like it’s your own—double-check before you sit down and before you leave.
Tune in now to learn how technology, compliance, and phishing defense intersect in today’s title and mortgage world—and what every professional can do to strengthen trust and protect clients.
Highlights of the episode:
01:00 – Guest intro: Tammy Ringeisen
02:30 – What is Mortgage Connect?
03:55 – Vendor risk platform for compliance
07:15 – Tech + compliance risks
08:00 – Phishing basics
09:15 – QR “quishing”
10:20 – Vishing & smishing
12:15 – Spear phishing
12:55 – Clone phishing
15:50 – Multiple email strategy
17:25 – Inbox hygiene
19:15 – MFA & software updates
23:00 – Verify links and domains
26:50 – AI’s role in phishing
28:55 – Training signing agents
31:00 – Final tip: treat closings like your own
31:45 – How to reach Tammy
Connect with Guest:
Website: https://www2.mortgageconnectlp.com/
Email: vmo@mortgageconnectlp.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-ringeisen/
#MortgageCompliance #PhishingPrevention #VendorRisk #TitleIndustry #CyberSecurity #NotarySigningAgent #RealEstateClosings #DataProtection #ClosingMarketWeekly
In this episode of Closing Market Weekly, Phillip Hogan welcomes Liz Olivar, President of Prosperous Title and Escrow LLC. With over 31 years of experience in financial services and title, Liz has built a career around people helping people, blending operational expertise with a service-first philosophy. From her start at GECU Federal Credit Union to leading Prosperous Title, Liz has consistently focused on building trust and protecting clients in every transaction.
Phillip and Liz dive into the fundamentals of title work, exploring why listening and communication matter as much as technology and compliance. Liz shares candid stories about mistakes in closings, the unique role of title insurance in protecting homeowners, and how Prosperous Title earned the First American “Top Agent” award by staying open and serving clients through the pandemic.
They also cover current market uncertainty, the importance of education for both staff and clients, and how networking and appreciation events build long-term relationships. Liz emphasizes that at the core of every deal is service—and the ability to truly put the customer first.
Tune in now to learn how service, resilience, and expertise define success in the title industry, and what every professional can do to build stronger client relationships.
Highlights of the episode:
00:55 – Guest intro: Liz Olivia, President of Prosperous Title and Escrow LLC
02:35 – The philosophy of “people helping people”
04:40 – Better customer service: listening and communication
06:50 – Biggest closing mistake: missing signatures and costing clients time
07:55 – Technology is overrated without human expertise
09:10 – Protecting homeowners by working backwards
11:00 – Winning the 2021 First American Top Agent Award during the pandemic
14:05 – Market uncertainty and the challenge of the “unknown”
15:20 – Educating clients and staff to overcome challenges
16:55 – The role of networking and peer relationships in growth
18:20 – Prosperous Title’s annual open house and showing appreciation
19:30 – Final tip: put your customer first in every transaction
20:55 – How to contact Liz Olivia
Connect with Guest:
Website: https://www.prosperustitle.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-olivar-6693a1194/
#NotaryLife #RealEstateClosings #SigningAgent #OperationalChallenges #ClosingSuccess #NotaryTips #RuralBusiness
In this episode of Closing Market Weekly, Phillip Hogan highlights Trina Miller—our Notary of the Month from Southwest Virginia. With a career that began in social work and transitioned into notary signing, Trina has completed over 1,700 signings since 2017 while building a reputation for precision, reliability, and problem-solving.
Phillip and Trina dig into the daily realities of managing multiple signings in rural areas—from planning efficient travel routes to handling limited cell service and navigating mountain roads. Trina shares stories of perseverance, including midnight signings, creative map hacks, and the importance of preparing documents the night before.
They also cover lessons from mistakes (like leaving a check behind), why routines and presentation matter at the table, and how flexibility often wins repeat business. Trina’s advice for newer notaries is simple but powerful: combine creativity with consistency, and never underestimate the value of preparation.
Tune in now to learn how an experienced notary tackles operational hurdles, maintains high standards, and closes deals even in the toughest conditions.
Highlights of the episode:
00:55 – Guest intro: Notary of the Month, Trina Miller
02:20 – 1,700 signings since 2017
03:45 – First closing mistake
05:25 – Routine and preparation
06:25 – Paper vs. digital preference
07:00 – What’s overrated in the industry
08:20 – Operational challenges
10:00 – Midnight signing in the National Forest
12:30 – Advice for new notaries
14:20 – Entrepreneurial lessons
15:30 – How to contact Trina
Connect with Guest:
Email: trinanotary09@gmail.com
#NotaryLife #RealEstateClosings #SigningAgent #OperationalChallenges #ClosingSuccess #NotaryTips #RuralBusiness
In this episode of Closing Market Weekly, Phillip Hogan sits down with Jamar Bates—Marine Corps veteran, broker-owner, and mortgage founder—to unpack how vertical integration, technology, and disciplined follow-up drive closing success. From launching Bates Realty Group to expanding into Bates Mortgage Group, Jamar shares why he built a one-stop shop and how that decision improved client experience and control over the deal flow.
Jamar and Phillip dig into the real day-to-day levers: CRMs, social and podcast distribution, and compliant marketing mechanics (NMLS, APR, audits, bonds). Jamar lays out the operational tradeoffs of being licensed in 35 states, the reality of state audits, and why he ultimately narrowed his footprint to the markets that made business sense.
They wrap with a playbook for higher close rates that’s as simple as it is rare: consistent prospecting and impeccable lead follow-up with copious notes and right-on-time callbacks—plus the mindset shift of working on the business, not just in it.
Tune in now to learn how to use tech without losing your edge, stay compliant at scale, and turn pipeline into funded deals.
Highlights of the episode:
00:55 – Guest intro: Jamar Bates, CEO of Bates Morgan
03:25 – Why go vertical: building a “one-stop shop” for clients
05:00 – First closing experience: from academics to a smooth client outcome
07:50 – Rapid fire: mistake you never forget — don’t spend before it closes
08:25 – Tool he swears by: Top Producer (CRM)
09:00 – Paper vs. digital: all-in on digital
12:10 – Ttech for prospecting, social, and podcast targeting
17:00 – Narrowing from 35 states to ROI-positive markets
18:00 – Testing a market: when to extend/cut
20:05 – Keep a pulse; work on the business vs. in it
22:30 – Close more with impeccable lead follow-up
26:00 – How to contact Jamar
Connect with Guest:
Website: https://jamarbates.com/
Email: jamar@batesmortgage.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamar-bates-52b873152/
#MortgageCompliance #RealEstateTech #LeadFollowUp #CRMs #VerticalIntegration #VeteranEntrepreneur #ClosingSuccess #MortgageMarketing
In this episode of Closing Market Weekly, Phillip Hogan welcomes Tisha Mitchell, a highly respected real estate strategist, trainer, and speaker with over two decades of experience in sales, new construction, and wealth preservation. From her beginnings in new home sales to becoming a trusted advisor for high-stakes transactions, distressed properties, and clients navigating major life transitions, Tisha has built a reputation for blending financial savvy with a client-first approach.
Phillip and Tisha dive into the lessons learned across her career—from selling her very first homes armed with taped-together map books, to developing strategies that protect clients from costly mistakes at the closing table. Tisha shares her perspective on the importance of trust, process, and preparation, highlighting how sellers can navigate a challenging market by planning their next move before listing their current home.
They also discuss the balance between digital tools and real-world relationships, why networking remains essential, and how trust and professional maturity guide every deal. With personal insights on delegation, strategy, and long-term client relationships, Tisha’s story underscores how determination and vision can lead to both financial and professional success.
Tune in now to learn how to prepare for selling in any market, the strategies that build lasting trust, and the mindset shifts that set successful agents apart.
Highlights of the episode:
00:34 – Guest intro: Tisha Mitchell, real estate strategist, trainer, and speaker
04:15 – Tisha’s first real estate transaction and lessons from the field
07:10 – The strategist’s role: cutting through noise and guiding clients
08:00 – Biggest closing mistake and why pre-approvals matter
10:05 – Systems, delegation, and scaling in real estate
11:30 – Paper vs. digital tools and finding balance
14:00 – The importance of networking and in-person connections
15:05 – Seller preparation in a challenging market: planning the next move
17:45 – Equity, strategy, and financial positioning for sellers
21:00 – Understanding value, pricing, and buyer motivations
23:05 – Focusing on process to avoid unknowns in transactions
26:00 – Trust between agents and clients—and knowing when to walk away
28:30 – Professional maturity and working with the right clients
30:55 – Final advice: know yourself, be humble, and keep learning
32:55 – How to contact Tisha Mitchell
Connect with Guest:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tishamitchell/
Email: tcurry@kw.com
#RealEstateStrategy #HomeSellingTips #SellerPreparation #RealEstateSuccess #TrustInRealEstate
In this episode of Closing Market Weekly, Phillip Hogan welcomes Jacquin Gilchrist, President of Gilchrist Law Firm, to share his journey from military JAG attorney to federal real estate contractor and industry leader. With experience spanning private practice, title insurance, and government contracting across nine federal departments, Quin offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the government buys, sells, and manages property—and how his firm carved out a niche supporting agencies like the USDA, Department of Defense, and Department of Interior.
Quin and Phillip discuss the unique world of government real estate transactions, the role of conservation easements, and how federal acquisitions shape local communities. Quin also opens up about the entrepreneurial leap of leaving big law, winning his first government contracts, and scaling to award-winning recognition as SBA Prime Contractor of the Year and Veteran-Owned Business of the Year.
Packed with insights on title law, government procurement, and business growth, this episode is a must-listen for title professionals, contractors, and anyone curious about building a lasting career at the intersection of real estate and public service.
Tune in now to learn how Quin turned military service into a thriving law practice, the opportunities inside federal contracting, and what it takes to deliver excellence in high-stakes closings.
Highlights of the episode:
00:34 – Guest intro: Jacquin Gilchrist, President of Gilchrist Law Firm
04:00 – From JAG attorney to real estate law and title insurance
06:00 – Working with nine federal departments, from DoD to USDA
09:15 – Government as a real estate buyer and the role of acquisitions
10:35 – Easements, conservation programs, and preserving land use
12:30 – Memorable closing stories that changed lives
15:00 – The leap into entrepreneurship and starting a federal contracting firm
19:40 – Winning first government contracts in Georgia and Alabama
21:10 – Bootcamp lessons from contracting officers
23:30 – Following the market and pivoting from federal to state procurements
25:55 – USDA as a lender and the role of government in financing
27:05 – Navigating local vs. federal procurement processes
28:20 – Awards: SBA Prime Contractor of the Year & Veteran-Owned Business of the Year
31:00 – Reflections on recognition, the White House experience, and blessings of the journey
32:45 – How to contact Quin Gilchrist
Connect with Guest:
Website: https://jpgilchristlaw.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquin-gilchrist-3772a312/
#RealEstateClosings #GovernmentContracts #TitleIndustry #Entrepreneurship
In this episode of Closing Market Weekly, Phillip Hogan sits down with Carmalon Batiste, Vice President of Operations at Traditional Mortgage Acceptance Corp (TMAC), to unpack over two decades of expertise in both forward and reverse mortgage lending. From optimizing underwriting workflows to navigating compliance requirements, Carmalon brings deep industry insight shaped by years of leadership roles and advocacy work with the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association.
Phillip and Carmalon explore the fundamentals of reverse mortgages, operational hurdles lenders face, and the unique needs of senior borrowers. They discuss real-life closing scenarios—including title challenges, trust agreements, and unexpected vesting surprises—that reveal the importance of due diligence and creative problem-solving. Carmalon also shares how counseling sessions can turn skepticism into understanding, and offers practical advice for professionals looking to enter the reverse mortgage space.
Packed with insider knowledge, compliance tips, and memorable stories from the field, this episode is a must-listen for mortgage professionals, title partners, and anyone curious about the realities of reverse lending. Tune in now to gain actionable strategies, avoid costly mistakes, and deliver a higher level of service that stands out in every closing.
Highlights of the episode:
00:34 – Guest intro: Carmalon Batiste, VP of Operations at TMAC
06:00 – Forward vs. reverse mortgages: how the money flows
07:10 – Why reverse mortgages could have helped her own family
07:30 – Rapid fire: A closing challenge you’ll never forget
10:00 – Tools and systems for underwriting and borrower benefit analysis
11:50 – Technology in reverse lending: paper nostalgia vs. digital efficiency
14:20 – Finding ways to “score a touchdown” in challenging closings
18:30 – Trends in the reverse mortgage space
21:10 – Protecting senior borrowers from bad deals
22:45 – Counseling sessions as a game-changer for understanding the product
25:35 – Real stories: trusts, required signatures, and even a pet cat on title
30:20 – Tip of the week: Getting started in the reverse mortgage industry
32:35 – Industry resources, training, and partner relationships
33:40 – How to connect with Carmalon Batiste
#ReverseMortgage #MortgageOperations #SeniorLending #RealEstateClosings
In this episode of Closing Market Weekly, Phillip Hogan welcomes Joleana Singleton, Signing Services of America’s Notary of the Month and a seasoned notary signing agent with over a decade of experience. Joleana shares her journey from working at a national bank to becoming a trusted mobile notary commissioned in four states, closing nearly every type of loan imaginable. With a career built on professionalism, client comfort, and attention to detail, she offers practical tips that can help notaries and real estate professionals alike improve their closing success rates.
Phillip and Joleana discuss her most memorable first signing, the importance of making clients feel at ease during closings, and common operational challenges—especially when working with trusts, powers of attorney, or commercial transactions. Joleana explains how to avoid redraws by confirming signature formats in advance, the value of a well-prepared cheat sheet, and why thorough document review at the signing table is a game-changer.
Tune in now to learn from Joleana’s real-world experiences, gain actionable strategies for avoiding costly mistakes, and discover how to deliver a higher level of service that clients and partners will remember.
Highlights of the episode:
00:34 – Guest intro: Joleana Singleton, Notary of the Month
02:10 – Joleana’s first signing experience after leaving the bank
05:15 – Why presentation and reassurance matter in the signing process
05:20 – Rapid fire: A closing mistake you’ll never forget
06:00 – Rapid fire: Tools and systems Joleana swears by
06:40 – Rapid fire: Paper vs. digital and what “wet state” means
07:15 – Operational challenges and detailed instructions
09:40 – Why confirming signature formats before the appointment is critical
10:50 – Challenges when working with out-of-state title companies
11:50 – Signature requirements in commercial and business closings
12:55 – How Joleana built her expertise and staying up-to-date
13:45 – Joleana’s top advice for improving closing success rates
14:35 – The “cheat sheet” every notary should have
15:45 – Why representing yourself, the hiring company, and the lender matters
16:35 – Final thoughts
Connect with Guest:
Email: singletonsnotaryservice@gmail.com
#NotaryLife #LoanSigningAgent #ClosingSuccess #RealEstateClosings #ClosingMarketWeekly
Welcome to the first episode of Closing Market Weekly! Phillip Hogan kicks off the show with special guest Bernie Del Hierro, President of West Star Title, to discuss the ever-changing landscape of real estate closings. With over 26 years of experience in commercial real estate and eight years in the title industry, Bernie shares how mentorship guided his path, the challenges and opportunities facing title professionals, and why responsiveness is the cornerstone of successful closings.
In this episode, Bernie and Phillip cover everything from shifting regulations and compliance requirements to the rise of AI in real estate transactions. They discuss lessons learned from closing mistakes, how technology is reshaping the industry, and what professionals can do to stay ahead of rapid changes. This first episode sets the tone for Closing Market Weekly, offering practical advice, insider knowledge, and thought-provoking conversations for everyone involved in real estate services.
Tune in now to gain valuable insights into title operations, leadership in a service-driven business, and how to future-proof your closing process in a transforming market.
Highlights of the episode:
00:34 – Guest intro: Bernie Del Hierro, President of West Star Title
02:00 – From tennis pro to commercial real estate
04:50 – How mentorship led him into the title industry
05:45 – Why title is a niche business and how people “get talked into it”
07:55 – Tools and systems that keep title operations efficient
08:50 – Going fully digital in the closing process
10:45 – Insights from the Texas Land Title Association Conference
13:00 – FinCEN reporting rules and what they mean for title companies
16:35 – Global scrutiny, foreign ownership, and closing loopholes in transactions
18:45 – Rising complexity in deals despite lower title premiums
19:45 – How AI is transforming document processing and closings
23:15 – Why podcasting is a powerful tool for industry networking and education
27:55 – The importance of responsiveness for everyone in a transaction
28:55 – Where to connect with Bernie online
30:35 – Final thoughts on networking, education, and closing deals “one episode at a time”
Connect with Guest:
Website: https://www.weststarbank.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernie-del-hierro-b442589/
#ClosingMarketWeekly #RealEstateClosings #TitleIndustryInsights #FinCENCompliance #AIinTitle
