Mortgage Marketing Radio: "Target Smarter, Close Faster: The New Way to Grow Agent Referrals"

Release Date: April 23, 2025

Introduction

In the April 23, 2025 episode of Mortgage Marketing Radio, host Jeff Zimfer delves into a pressing challenge faced by Mortgage Loan Originators: optimizing agent referrals to grow business efficiently. Titled "Target Smarter, Close Faster: The New Way to Grow Agent Referrals," the episode features a conversation with Eric Levin, co-founder of Model Match. Model Match is a pioneering platform designed to revolutionize business development for mortgage professionals by leveraging data and intelligent matchmaking.

Understanding Model Match

Eric Levin begins by outlining the essence of Model Match, describing it as a comprehensive solution for full-funnel business development in the mortgage and real estate sectors. He explains,

“Model Match, I mean, I like to describe it as full funnel business development... from identification of opportunities through engagement, through a process of action, steps through better conversion, reporting, visibility, collaboration, all of the above.” ([02:44])

Levin emphasizes their background in recruitment and business development, which informed the creation of a platform that simplifies and enhances the process of finding and nurturing referral partnerships.

The Importance of Data and Intelligence

Jeff Zimfer highlights the platform's reliance on data as a form of intelligence, comparing it to the loan origination process:

“When you identify someone through intelligence... it's like a pre qual if I'm looking at it like alone, you know?” ([04:50])

Levin concurs, discussing how Model Match integrates vast datasets, including NMLS and real estate data, to provide actionable insights. This integration allows loan officers to pinpoint agents who not only align with their business goals but are also actively contributing to their referral pipeline.

AI and Curating Information for Efficiency

The conversation shifts to the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing the platform's capabilities. Levin explains how AI helps in curating and delivering relevant information without the user having to perform extensive searches:

“What it tells a story that you can then go tell to help either convert that agent into a new relationship or better yet, pick up more market share with someone you already have a connection with...” ([08:46])

He provides an example where a user inputs their NMLS ID, and the system identifies agents with direct or indirect connections, streamlining the outreach process.

Real-World Use Cases and Examples

Levin shares compelling use cases demonstrating the platform's effectiveness. One notable example involves a loan officer who discovered through Model Match that a top-producing agent was inadvertently sending government loan business to competitors:

“I said, well, I'm in Model Match right now, and I can see clearly that I don't get all of your business... ‘I didn't know that you wanted that business.’” ([14:10])

This revelation allowed the loan officer to address the issue directly, leading to improved referral flows and strengthened partnerships.

Another instance highlights a user who needed to refer a disabled veteran to a suitable agent. By using Model Match’s geographic and specialty filters, the user identified agents proficient in VA lending within the desired neighborhood, resulting in new referrals and expanded business relationships. Levin states:

“He ended up getting obviously an agent, a new referral, but he made a connection with two others that are now referring him business.” ([12:36])

Data Management and CRM Integration

Jeff raises the critical aspect of data management post-identification of potential referral partners. Levin explains how Model Match integrates seamlessly with existing CRMs and offers robust contact management features:

“You can filter, you can sort, you can report by any number of things... fully integrated with Gmail, with Outlook.” ([24:28])

This integration ensures that loan officers can manage their outreach and maintain organized records within a single platform, enhancing productivity and reducing the likelihood of missed opportunities.

Platform Features and Roadmap

Looking ahead, Levin outlines upcoming enhancements to Model Match, focusing on increased efficiency and deeper data integration:

“Everything we do moving forward is another step towards greater efficiency... we're pulling in over 400 million transactions into Model Match right now.” ([27:05])

Planned features include advanced geographic property searches, life event tracking, and expanded reporting capabilities that allow for comparative market analyses. These developments aim to provide users with even more precise tools to identify and engage with high-potential referral partners.

Conclusion

As the episode concludes, Jeff encourages listeners to explore Model Match by visiting modelmatch.com. He underscores the platform’s ability to streamline agent outreach, enhance data-driven decision-making, and ultimately drive business growth. Levin adds a final note on the platform's commitment to continuous improvement based on user feedback:

“I lean on people like you... a lot of times I find out that the answer is well we actually do that.” ([31:31])

Key Takeaways

• Model Match offers a data-driven approach to identifying and nurturing agent referrals, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.
• AI Integration allows for intelligent curation of relevant agent connections, minimizing manual search efforts.
• Real-world use cases demonstrate significant improvements in referral flows and business growth through targeted outreach.
• Seamless CRM Integration ensures that data management and communication are streamlined within the user’s existing workflows.
• The platform continues to evolve with a roadmap focused on increased efficiency, deeper data insights, and expanded functionality.

For Mortgage Loan Originators seeking to optimize their referral strategies and grow their business intelligently, Model Match presents a robust solution backed by comprehensive data and innovative technology.

Learn More

To explore how Model Match can transform your mortgage marketing efforts, visit modelmatch.com and take advantage of their 14-day free trial to experience the platform’s capabilities firsthand.