podcast, our Data Reports, the "A Tale of Two Mortgages" webcomic, and LodeStar Report Newsletter.
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Data Reports
2025 Refinance Mortgage Closing Cost Data Report
The national average total closing costs for a refinance mortgage transaction were $2,207. This is an average of 0.67% of the refinance loan amount.
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A Tale of Two Mortgages
Something Not Right
Boris really, really, really likes title.
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Full Disclosure
June 2026 Full Episode
Summer is JUST around the corner, and we’re loving the sunshine and warmth as we discuss all things mortgage, housing, and title. Join Jim, Alayna, and Tim for the June 2026 episode of Full Disclosure!
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Deeper Thoughts
Why Data Management Matters
When Ron joined LodeStar two and a half years ago, the first order of business was instilling a sense of cohesion to the company’s fee management processes.
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A Better World Through PMI
This week’s guest is a new friend, Nomi Smith, Founder and CEO of PMI Rate Pro. She and Jim Paolino chat about Nomi’s amazing story, her journey into mortgage lending, and her expertise in the world of mortgage insurance.
A Tale of Two Mortgages
“Sea Turtle Dealership”
Octavia talks with a client about her upcoming closing.
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Key Takeaways from MBA 2023
Two hosts for the price of one! Jim and Alayna regroup at LodeStar HQ to recap MBA Annual 2023 in Philadelphia. They discuss key takeaways, shifts in focus in mortgage tech, and—of course—Philly food.
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How to Be Unbreakable
This week Lending Leaders features an awesome conversation between LodeStar’s own Alayna Gardner and Equity Capital Mortgage Group’s Rick Rucker on how to be unbreakable in tough times and tough markets.
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Leading with Authenticity
For this week’s Lending Leaders episode, Alayna talks with Meg Bennett, CMB®, AMP, on the struggle of getting those impressive letters behind her name. Meg is a champion of authenticity, and she brings that to every conversation and endeavor.