As the new year approaches, brokers nationwide are sharpening their strategies and preparing for a competitive 2026.
With evolving market conditions, shifting borrower needs, and technology reshaping the lending landscape, the most successful brokers will be the ones who adapt early and strategically.
Here are 4 key areas where brokers can position themselves to win more business in the year ahead.
1. Let AI and Automation Work for You
Speed, accuracy, and accessibility are now non-negotiable in modern lending.
As borrower scenarios become more complex, especially across DSCR, Non-QM, and investor-focused programs, brokers who lean into AI tools will respond faster, reduce friction, and earn more client trust.
This is where Dominion Financial Wholesale’s AI assistant, Donna, becomes a true advantage.
Trained on Dominion’s full suite of DSCR, Non-QM, Closed-End Second, and RTL guidelines, Donna gives brokers 24/7 access to accurate, program-specific information. Instead of waiting for office hours or digging through documents, you can instantly:
– Verify requirements
– Double-check documentation standards
– Clarify qualification rules across products
AI isn’t replacing the broker; it’s elevating the broker experience. And in 2026, efficiency will be one of your greatest competitive edges.
2. Stay Ahead of the Non-QM Surge
Non-QM demand is accelerating, fueled by a surge in investor activity and the affordability challenges keeping many traditional buyers on the sidelines. With nearly one-third of U.S. home purchases expected to be made by investors in 2025, the market is relying more heavily on products like DSCR loans, Fix & Flip financing, and Construction loans.
For brokers, this shift represents a significant opportunity. As private lending expands and agency volume softens, staying educated on Non-QM trends allows you to guide clients toward the solutions they truly need. Understanding where the market is heading not only keeps you competitive; it positions you as the trusted advisor your clients depend on in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Dominion Financial Wholesale supports that role with a full suite of Non-QM options for investor clients, including DSCR Cash Flow Loans, Fix & Flip Loans, and Ground-Up Construction Loans.
But Non-QM isn’t just for investors. It’s also filling a major qualification gap for borrowers who fall outside traditional guidelines. Whether your clients are self-employed, high–net–worth, or looking for alternative ways to document income, Dominion Financial Wholesale offers solutions such as Bank Statement, 1099-Only, Written VOE, and Asset Depletion programs, ensuring you have the right product for every scenario.
3. Build a Strong, Consistent Brand
Your brand is more than a logo; it’s the promise clients associate with your expertise.
In a crowded market, the brokers who communicate clearly, differentiate themselves, and consistently show up for their audience will see stronger referral pipelines and deeper loyalty.
With more borrowers turning to alternative financing, a strong brand can help you stand out as a provider of solutions, not just products. Dominion Financial Wholesale supports this effort through 100% white-label marketing materials, allowing you to present DSCR, Non-QM, and investor programs under your own brand. Your client sees you, not the lender, preserving the relationships you’ve worked hard to build.
2026 will reward brokers who invest in their reputation and stay top-of-mind through consistent, value-driven messaging.
4. Partner With a Lender That Supports Your Growth
Behind every successful broker is a lender who makes their job easier, not harder.
Dominion Financial Wholesale is built on a broker-first model: fast turn times, competitive pricing, and a wide product suite designed for today’s borrower: investors, foreign nationals, self-employed clients, and those who need creative, flexible financing solutions.
With national coverage and the backing of Dominion Financial’s 20+ years of lending experience, brokers gain a partner who helps them take on more scenarios, close more deals, and deliver more solutions in 2026.
The Bottom Line
2026 will be a year of opportunity for brokers who embrace technology, define their brand, stay educated, and choose lending partners who elevate their business.
With AI tools like Donna, white-label marketing support, market insights, and a comprehensive suite of investor-focused products, Dominion Financial Wholesale gives brokers the tools they need to grow confidently in the year ahead.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Will Fisher
With more than 20 years of senior leadership experience in mortgage lending, William Fisher brings a proven track record of driving growth, scaling operations, and launching successful non-QM and Jumbo loan programs. As Director of Wholesale Sales at Dominion Financial Wholesale, he is responsible for expanding the company’s national footprint in the non-QM lending market. Before joining Dominion, William led one of the industry’s most successful launches of a non-QM TPO business unit and has held multiple strategic leadership roles across wholesale and correspondent lending. His expertise in building high-performing sales teams and delivering innovative lending solutions makes him a key driver of Dominion’s continued growth.
