HousingWire Daily HousingWire Daily

Sue Woodard on where AI fits in the mortgage landscape

Apr 17, 2026 · 22m

Summary

Sue Woodard, Senior Advisor at Stratmore Group and new HousingWire advisor, discusses mortgage origination costs and technology adoption. She challenges the narrative that loan officers are lazy, attributing low tech uptake to human nature and poor user experience. Woodard highlights best practices for AI implementation, emphasizing employee engagement and maintaining human connection in customer journeys. She also analyzes the current market, noting the declining lock-in effect and the need for lenders to innovate and execute efficiently.

Topics discussed

Introduction of Sue Woodard and her new role at HousingWire Sue's career path from bank robberies to mortgage leadership Why mortgage origination costs remain high despite technology Debunking the 'lazy loan officer' narrative and human nature Tech hubris vs. industry reality and the need for respect Best practices for AI implementation and managing employee fear Balancing efficiency with humanity in the customer journey Current market challenges, the lock-in effect, and adaptation Conclusion and promotion of the HousingWire AI Summit
Listen ad-free on Castria