America's Money: In their own words

Mortgage broker, 39, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

Given the current credit climate I am finding it more difficult every day to help people purchase their homes.
I was very fortunate to have built a business with a very strong referral base and originated over 80% of my loans in the "A Paper" markets, so I really did not ever do much "subprime" - but given these times I find it increasingly difficult to help even the pool of professionals (doctors, attorneys, corporate executives, etc.) to purchase their homes with reasonable terms.

The majority of homes in South Florida would fall in the "jumbo" market and the difference in rates and terms compared to the "conforming" market is so significant that people often feel as if we are not being honest with them when we quote them rates.

It seems that the lending institutions are so afraid to lend the money that they will continue to keep people from purchasing homes - even those that can afford the homes. Even though I continue to make a living, many of my colleagues are themselves facing foreclosure, facing bankruptcy and losing their businesses.

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