Speeding tickets should be tax deductible

    

I have been trying to obey the speed limit.  I admit to having a small problem with this in the past, but am now dedicated to being a law-abiding citizen.  Unfortunately, last week I was traveling back from a hike with my kids and dog and when I went from the Interstate to the Highway, I didn't notice the change in speed limit.  The highway patrol officer did. 

I must have a sign on my forehead that says, "No second chances.  She doesn't deserve it."  Because I NEVER get warnings.  My mother does.  My husband does.  I don't.  The officer also might of had a problem with my Chihuahua that really wanted to eat him.  Income from speeding tickets goes to fund government spending.  Donuts, coffee, etc.  And since, like taxes, we are required to pay our speeding tickets, they should be tax deductible.  I think I'll start a petition.

What does this have to do with mortgages?   Remember, I can relate pretty much anything to mortgages and marketing.  Our industry was on the interstate for many years.  Maybe even going a bit over the speed limit - but hey, we didn't get pulled over so it must have been ok.  Now we have been detoured to a one lane country road with potholes and roadkill.  It's a whole different game and if you don't pay attention to the rules, you will not make it to the end.

Every originator I talk with is feeling the frustration of changing underwriting guidelines and seemingly unnecessary conditions on loans.  You thought you had done everything right; you just didn't see the speed limit change a half mile back.  You can get upset, even yell at the underwriter; but I pretty much guarantee that you won't win.  The best piece of advice I can give right now is to be flexible and remember that this hasn't been easy for anyone.  Everyone is trying to survive.

Your ability to be flexible and likeable, even in stressful situations, will gain you more support and assistance than any argument you could come up with.  Yes, you still need to work hard for each client and loan, but do it in a kind and considerate manner.  And be glad you don't have to pay a fine for each underwriting condition... even though that would definitetly be tax deductible.

Comments

[Carol Boyd]

Today I am putting out a mailing to 200 people in my “sphere of influence." It is an awesome package with a letter including a handwritten note, a magnetic calendar with my bus card stuck at the top, a coupon worth $200 off at closing and my business card. It looks sooo good and I had to tell someone. I’ll track its success and let you know if it was worth it. Thanks for the motivation!

[Dayna K.]

I just found your blog and it is great! So sorry you got the ticket. Thank you for all your great ideas and the fun way you share them.