Episode 22 - How to Build Mortgage Social Success

In this energetic episode of Minds of Mortgage, I sat down with Denise Panza, a dynamic loan officer from Naples, Florida, who has become a standout presence on LinkedIn. With 28 years in the mortgage industry, Denise brings a refreshing perspective on authenticity and relationship-building in an increasingly digital world. Her journey from a criminal justice student to a mortgage professional began with an unexpected twist, involving a failed college course and a chance opportunity at a mortgage company where her father had previously worked.

Denise shared her candid experiences as a single mother navigating the demanding world of mortgage lending, including the challenges of balancing a 100% commission career with raising two children. Her honest reflections on the guilt and sacrifices that come with being a working mother in a 24/7 industry provided valuable insights for other professionals struggling with similar challenges. She discussed how she has learned to find grace in her choices and the unexpected lessons her work ethic has instilled in her children.

Our conversation delved into the current state of the Florida real estate market, where Denise is licensed in 15 states and witnesses firsthand the dramatic differences between markets. She provided fascinating insights into how insurance costs are impacting affordability in Florida, and how this contrasts sharply with the competitive markets she still serves in Connecticut and New York.

Denise’s approach to social media marketing, particularly on LinkedIn, offers a masterclass in authentic professional networking. She explained how she moved from traditional platforms to LinkedIn, not to find employment, but to avoid “annoying” her friends and family with mortgage content. Her strategy of mixing professional insights with personal moments has led to genuine friendships and business relationships that extend far beyond the digital sphere.

Throughout our discussion, Denise maintained an infectious optimism about the mortgage industry despite the challenging market conditions of recent years. She encourages newcomers to enter the field now, viewing current market difficulties as opportunities for those willing to learn and persist. Her perspective on serving first-time homebuyers and the joy she finds in celebrating clear-to-close moments reveals the passion that has sustained her through nearly three decades in the business.

The episode concluded with valuable insights about the power of vulnerability and authenticity in professional settings. Denise’s philosophy of “getting comfortable being uncomfortable” and her willingness to show her genuine self online have not only built her business but enriched her personal life with meaningful relationships. Her story illustrates how being authentic and relatable in a digital world can foster connections that transcend business and evolve into lasting friendships.