Breaking Through Hesitation
Burks empathizes with those hesitant about AI. Reflecting on his own initial experiences, he recalls, “The first time I interacted with ChatGPT, I didn’t even know how to prompt it. But once I got past that initial uncertainty, I quickly became obsessed.”
Burks’ enthusiasm is infectious, and his message to those on the fence is straightforward: “Try it. Just take that initial step.”
Burks underscores that adopting AI isn’t merely about staying current; it’s about staying competitive.
“I realized immediately after adopting these technologies that if I hadn’t, I’d be at a clear disadvantage,” he said. “If you’re not using these tools and someone else is, you’re playing catch-up from the outset.”
AI doesn’t just streamline processes — it revolutionizes productivity. Tasks that once consumed hours, such as chasing down verification documents, are now handled swiftly and accurately by AI, freeing loan originators to concentrate on high-value tasks.
“It dramatically enhances efficiency,” Burks emphasized. “Instead of bogging down in routine tasks, originators can now spend their time connecting with more potential buyers and initiating those critical sales conversations.”
Overcoming Generational Barriers
Lockard openly discussed the generational divide that frequently emerges as a barrier to technological adoption in the mortgage industry. Burks acknowledged this reality but offered a reassuring perspective.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the industry veterans who, despite initial reluctance, are diving into this technology,” he shared. “Yes, there is a learning curve, but the results speak for themselves. The willingness to adapt can lead to phenomenal outcomes.”
Burks champions education as the key to overcoming these barriers. His role goes beyond simply advocating technology — he actively teaches and encourages users to integrate these tools into their everyday workflows.
