Sometimes folding your cards and taking money off the table isn’t so bad. I know of many mortgage bankers who are losing significant amounts of money each month.  Nonetheless, they are still using the same model that they have been following for the last few years.  Isn’t that the definition of insanity? 

These onetime wealthy business people are so frozen that they can’t think outside of their current “boxes.”  What are the choices that they can use to put their net worth under glass? 

Sell the farm 

There are institutions out there that are actively seeking mortgage companies. The formula is the value of existing servicing+ a reimbursement of the cash in the company + the pipeline. Forget about an enterprise value.  That ended a long time ago plus the firms must have tickets to issue securities for the agencies and GNMA. It should be noted that the owner and key managers are encouraged to stay on and as an extra bonus have a chance to an upset as determined by a formula. 

Set up a MSR facility

There are many warehouse lenders who are just getting into this game. Each one has its own strengths and weaknesses. I deal with one bank that I believe is perfect for those companies with a net worth of $10- 40 Million.

Merge your company

There are many companies with a strong net worth, quality back room and QC that is cutting edge. This technique is great in that the owner and his key managers are usually able/encouraged to stay on.

Yes, we are going through a rough patch.  But that doesn’t mean mortgage companies don’t have options.  The only option not on the table, though, is standing pat.