AI, Optimism and Opportunities: Key Takeaways From MBA Annual25

Market outlook, macroeconomics and artificial intelligence took center stage at the Mortgage Bankers Association’s conference in Las Vegas this past October. Promoted as “the largest annual gathering of real estate finance professionals,” MBA^® Annual25 drew thousands eager to learn from experts, collaborate in workshops and network with peers and vendors. We share some of the key takeaways from the event.

As an MBA Premiere Member and exhibitor, National Van Lines was proud to participate in the conference, continuing our commitment to supporting growth and innovation across the mortgage and real estate sectors. Many attendees stopped by our booth to connect, learn about our legacy of service and register as NationalExpress Move Affiliates.

Housing Supply and Mortgage Origination Volume Expected to Rise in 2026
MBA Chief Economist Mike Fratantoni and his team announced their forecast for the remainder of 2025 through 2026. With current inflation and a weak job market, they anticipate the Federal Open Market Committee will cut interest rates before the end of the year. 

Frantantoni noted that lower rates could spur an increase in refinance activity, echoing patterns seen earlier in 2025. The team also projects that the falling rates and a greater housing supply will push total single-family mortgage origination volume from $2 trillion in 2025 to $2.2 trillion in 2026. 

In response to the Fed’s announcement, President of National Van Lines Mark Doyle said, “If the Fed does move to lower interest rates and we see increased refinancing, everyone benefits — from families to REALTORS® to vendors. For movers, it means helping people relocate with confidence. National Van Lines stands ready to support that movement with full-service moving, packing, and storage solutions for all our residential and commercial relocation clients. 

A “Historic” Year for Mortgage Legislation and Industry Advocacy
Calling 2025 a “historic” year, MBA President and CEO Bob Broeksmit highlighted the association’s advocacy and its impact on shaping legislation. He shared that the MBA has influenced nearly 10% of all laws passed by Congress to date, including the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act and a major tax spending bill. 

Addressing thousands in attendance, he added, “Now you have the stability and relief you deserve.” 

Introducing the new 2026 MBA Chair: Christine Chandler Takes the Helm
A hallmark of the annual conference is the swearing in of the new MBA chair. Christine Chandler, executive vice president and chief operating officer of M&T Reality Capital Corporation, will assume the role in 2026. A longtime MBA member and industry advocate, Chandler shared that her focus as chair will be to cultivate the next generation of leaders, expand access to affordable housing, and encourage MBA members to participate actively in advocacy efforts.

“What makes the MBA so important [is that] we recognize a fundamental truth: We’re stronger together,” she said. “And right now, we have some amazing opportunities to move forward together.” 

A Mix of Emotion: AI Technology and Keynote Inspiration
Cybersecurity, tech-stack optimization and training strategies were among the technology topics covered at MBA Annual25. But artificial intelligence was front and center with breakouts, roundtables, boot camps, demos in the HUB and general sessions. 

Many attendees left the conference inspired and equipped to write powerful AI prompts, streamline operations and save time and money. Others expressed uncertainty about the rapid changes that continue to come with the technology. 

Addressing the emotional impact of AI’s disruption, keynote speaker and journalist Maria Shriver encouraged attendees to embrace “this moment” of transformation. 

“You are capable of unbelievable things,” she said. “You might not even know of them yet, but you have all the strength you need to get through whatever life is going to throw at you. And community and friends and relationships are what carries you.”

Looking Ahead to MBA Annual26 in Chicago
MBA^® Annual26 is already open for registration. Set to take place in Chicago, not far from our offices in Broadview, Illinois, you can count on National Van Lines to be there — once again connecting, collaborating and celebrating innovation across the mortgage and real estate industries. 

NationalExpress Manager Erin Doyle shared her excitement about the event:

“There was great energy at the annual conference in Las Vegas! Our team enjoyed engaging with vendors and partners across the industry … exciting things are ahead!