Overview:
In this episode of Loan Officer Life: Hustle, Heart & Homeownership, host Brian Vieaux (President & COO, FinLocker, CMB) sits down with Kristin Messerli, Executive Director of FirstHome IQ and Publisher of the NextGen HomeBuyer Report, to unpack the 2025 NextGen Financial Literacy Report.

This year’s study goes beyond knowledge gaps to reveal the psychological and behavioral roadblocks facing Gen Z and Millennial buyers. From the persistent 20% down payment myth to the explosion of AI-driven education, Kristin shares the data every loan officer needs to reframe their strategy for first-time buyers.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why only 8% of respondents knew the correct minimum down payment for a conventional loan—and what that means for your pipeline.

• How financial overwhelm and complexity paralyze buyers—and the opportunity for LOs to lead with clarity.

• The massive trust shift: why young buyers trust influencers and peers more than lenders.

• AI’s new role in homebuyer education: how Gen Z is using ChatGPT before they ever call an originator.

• The FirstHome IQ Quiz: how LOs can use this tool as a lead generator and education platform.

• Building trust earlier: aligning findings with J.D. Power’s origination satisfaction research.

• Practical ways loan officers can “show up” as educators, not just application takers.

Why Listen:
If you’re a loan officer navigating shrinking trust, shifting buyer expectations, and increasing competition, this episode provides actionable steps to:
✓ Bust common myths that stall first-time buyers.
✓ Design simple, visual, and inclusive education strategies.
✓ Leverage AI collaboration instead of competing against it.
✓ Build lifetime clients by engaging buyers earlier in their journey.

Resources Mentioned:

• Download the 2025 NextGen Financial Literacy Report: FirstHomeIQ.com/2025-report

• Learn more about FirstHome IQ and its Ambassador program: firsthomeiq.com

• Explore the KeySteps app powered by FinLocker: finlocker.com