DS News

2 You Can't Stop Change e past few months have been all about change in the U.S. A new administration has taken over, a number of new policies have taken foot, and the housing market has already begun to respond. In fitting with this ever-evolving America, this month's DS News is all about change— change in the technology we use, change in the regulatory environment that surrounds us, and even change in how we do business as a whole. We start off with Jenn Goddu's cover story, "Moniker as Mantra," which takes a look at an industry company that has managed to evolve and changes with the shifting housing market, Alacrity Services. A unique organization that brings together contractors, insurers, warrantors, and more, Alacrity has sped up the insurance claim process on both ends of the spectrum, helping homeowners and insurers alike. Next up is Joe Pensabene's "Shooting Down Stereotypes," which gives readers a new perspective on real estate investors—particularly those who purchase distressed portfolios. Many of these investors, Pensabene says, aren't the money-hungry, foreclosure-seekers you've be warned about for decades. ey're actually here to help, offering homeowners loss mitigation options and looking for ways to fight community blight from the ground up. Speaking of, in "Tech + Teamwork," Michael Harris posits a potential solution for community blight: a powerful blend of technology and local partnerships between investors, non-profits, community organizations, rehabilitation companies, and construction professionals. is, Harris says, is what will bring resources, capital, and real power to change to our communities. Finally, we also take a look at how the regulatory environment is shifting from that of years past. In "Around the Bend," Rich Gagliano looks ahead at what potential changes to the CFPB, TRID, and HMDA could look like in the world of President Trump—and how that could impact the industry for all of us. ough change is already afoot, the year has just begun. I hope this issue gives you a small glimpse of what the rest of 2017 might hold. Best, Rachel Williams Editor-in-chief FROM OUR DESK default servicing | in print and online VOL. 15 NO. 3 No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. ©2017 REO Publishing LLC All Rights Reserved This publication is intended to provide accurate, authoritative, and detailed information in regard to the subject matter covered. All written materials are disseminated with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal advice or other professional services. Under no circumstance should the information contained herein be relied upon as legal advice as it is designed to be a source of information only. strongly encourages the use of qualified attorneys or other qualified experts with regard to the subject matter covered. does not guarantee the accuracy of the information, and is not liable for any damages, losses, or other detriments that may result from the use of these materials. PUBLISHER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DESIGN DSNEWS.COM VIDEO EDITOR STAFF WRITERS COPY EDITORS ADVERTISING PHOTOGRAPHY Mark Hulme Rachel Williams Jonathon Won Jordan Funderburk Mirasha Brown, Scott Morgan Krista Franks Brock, Haley Owens, Alison Rich Suzanne Andresen: 207.443.3314 Robyn Clayton: 214.525.6716 Veronica Guerrero: 214.525.6784 Kevin McCrea: 214.525.6756 Jason Myers: 214.525.6760 Robert Rakowski: 214.525.6783 David Sulwer Photography Follow DSNewsDaily on CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING DESIGN Mark Hulme Ed Delgado John Harrison Ernest Gillespie Sean Walker Jason Stone Jonathon Won

• Cover