Eagle Nexus Lending

Your Journey to Homeownership

starts Right HERE!!

Smart Lending, Simple Solutions

Right Property, Right Mortgage


At Eagle Nexus Lending, we simplify the journey to homeownership by offering personalized loan solutions tailored to your needs. From pre-approval to closing, our expert team will guide you through every step, ensuring you secure the right financing with our lenders who offer competitive rates and flexible terms. Whether you're a first-time buyer, upgrading, or investing, we provide the expertise and support to make your dream home a reality.

Let’s find the perfect loan for you—because the right home starts with the right financing.

Top 3 Reasons to Choose

Eagle Nexus Lending

for Your Home Loan

Personalized Loan Solutions

We understand that every buyer’s financial situation is unique. Our expert team works closely with you to identify the best loan options, whether you're a first-time homebuyer, upgrading, or investing in real estate.

Competitive Rates & Flexible Terms

With access to a wide range of loan programs, we offer competitive interest rates and flexible terms to ensure you get financing that fits your budget and long-term goals.

Expert Guidance & Seamless Process

From pre-approval to closing, our dedicated professionals simplify the mortgage process, providing clear communication, fast approvals, and hands-on support to make home financing stress-free.

The Perfect Loan

Eagle Nexus Lending

Rick Raanes

NMLS #2475226

Loan Options

  • Conventional

    • 5% Minimum Down Payment

  • FHA

    • 3.5% Down Payment

  • VA Loans

    • Available to Eligible Veterans

  • USDA

    • 0% Down Payment in Rural Areas

STILL NOT SURE?

Frequently Asked Questions

Top 5 Questions Buyers Ask their Lender (And, Best Answers)

Question 1: How much can I afford?

We determine your affordability based on your income, credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment. Getting pre-approved is the best first step, as it gives you a clear idea of your budget and strengthens your offer when house hunting.

Question 2: What loan options do I have?

We offer a variety of loan programs, including conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. The right option depends on your financial situation, down payment, and long-term goals. We’ll guide you through the best choices tailored to your needs.

Question 3: How much do I need for a down payment?

Down payments vary by loan type—conventional loans typically require 3-20%, FHA loans start at 3.5%, VA and USDA loans offer 0% down for eligible buyers. We’ll help you explore down payment assistance programs if needed.

Question 4: What will my monthly mortgage payment be?

Your monthly payment includes principal, interest, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and possibly mortgage insurance. We’ll provide a detailed estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and local tax rates.

Question 5: How long does the loan approval process take?

The process typically takes 30-45 days, but it can vary based on loan type and required documentation. Getting pre-approved early helps speed up closing and ensures a smoother experience.

Rick Raanes - Mortgage Loan Originator

NMLS #2475226

n

Nexus Blog

Rick and Brian in the Morning: Episode 2

September 18, 20254 min read

Eagle Nexus News


Welcome to “Rick & Brian in the Morning,” your new favorite weekly check-in for real estate insights, team-building tips, and business growth strategies—all powered by the Eagle Nexus ecosystem. In this episode, Rick and Brian dive into the benefits of a strong 4th quarter game plan. Remember, Massive Action beats perfect planning every day.

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🎯 Finish Strong or Launch Ahead: Q4 Strategies for Real Estate Agents

Welcome back to the grind! As we head into the fourth quarter, many agents are tempted to slow down. But if you’re part of the Eagle Nexus family—or just someone determined to grow—this is the time to lean in.

“If you take time off in the fourth quarter, just remember your first quarter is going to suck.” – Rick Raanes

The truth is, Q4 can make or break your next year. Here's how to make it work for you:


🧠 Find Your Swing (Like Golf… But with Real Estate)

Whether you're teeing off for the first time or you're a seasoned pro, success in this business is about rhythm and intentionality. Even top producers struggle with tempo—and that’s okay. What matters is showing up, adjusting, and swinging with purpose.

Just like golf, real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all. You don’t have to be perfect—you just need to play your game consistently.


💬 Dig into Your Sphere (Especially Now)

The holidays are GOLD for relationship building. Don’t overcomplicate this. Engage with your SOI using what Rick and Brian call the FORD Method:

  • Family: “What are your plans for the holidays?”

  • Occupation: “How’s work this time of year?”

  • Recreation: “Any fun Holiday plans?”

  • Dreams: “What’s your dream home look like today?”

It’s not about pitching—it’s about connecting. And guess what? Real estate will naturally come up.


📈 Your CRM Isn’t Optional

Daily CRM engagement is non-negotiable. Whether you're using Lofty, Fello, or something else:

  • Open your CRM daily.

  • Take notes on conversations.

  • Schedule the next touch point before ending a call.

Pro tip: Ask, “When would be a good time for me to check in again?”


📩 Create Short, Personal Outreach

You don’t need a 400-word email. You need seven powerful words:

“Hey, I’ve been thinking about you. How are you?”

Want something more direct?

“We have new tools—want to check them out?”

Keep it simple. Keep it consistent. Like Chris Smith teaches—short emails = higher response rates.


🏡 Holiday-Themed Open Houses = Opportunity

Don’t pull back from open houses during Q4—lean into them creatively:

  • Halloween: Spooky décor, candy stations, costume contests.

  • Thanksgiving: Pumpkin pie samples or gratitude boards.

  • Christmas: Tree placement ideas or holiday-themed staging.

These aren’t just showings—they’re events. People remember events.


⚠️ Build Urgency Through Marketing

Q4 is the perfect time to ask:

“Do you want to sell or buy before year-end for tax or timing reasons?”

Promote specific opportunities:

  • "Seller needs a contract in 7 days."

  • "We’re looking for a 3-bed under $350K—know anyone?"

Urgency creates action.


💥 Touch Your Database—A LOT

Worried about bothering people? Stop.

Mattress Mack sends 300+ touches per year. Why? Because it works.

Rick’s take:

“People want to hear from you—ask them how often they want to hear from you!”

And remember, most clients aren’t in the email overwhelm like we are. They’re checking their inbox, waiting for value.


🧰 Be a Resource, Not Just a Realtor

Offer value beyond the sale:

  • Home valuation tools via Fello

  • Contractor referrals

  • Holiday events in their neighborhood

  • Home prep tips for winter

Be top-of-mind by being helpful.


💪 10 Conversations a Day = $30K+ by Year-End

Set a goal:

  • ✅ Rick’s goal: 10 meaningful conversations/day, 4 days/week.

  • ✅ Newer agent? Try 25-30/day for momentum.

Track conversations, uncover opportunities, and document the needs of buyers and sellers.

“I’m a matchmaker—how can I help put a deal together?”


🚀 Final Thought: Massive Action Beats Perfect Planning

You don’t need a perfect plan.

You need massive, consistent action.

Start conversations. Send emails. Host open houses. Use your tools. Lean into your community.

Finish strong or launch ahead. Or do both.


🎥 Want to Be on the Show?

Rick and Brian are looking to feature agents across the country. Got a story to share or a topic you want covered?


📩 Email: [email protected]


Ready to go under the hood of your business?
Explore our platform at www.TheEagleNexus.com and discover how we’re helping agents turn knowledge into action—and action into results.

Rick and Brian in the Morning

LPT Realty

Navy Eagle Nexus Logo

www.theeaglenexus.com | 281-960-1900 | 4576 Research Forest Drive, Suite 200, The Woodlands, TX

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Eagle Nexus Real Estate Group

About Us

We are a team of passionate and dedicated real estate agents. With 50+ years of experience in the industry, we have built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional service and results to our clients. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or looking to sell your property, we are committed to guiding you through the entire process with professionalism, integrity, and personalized attention.

We understand that buying or selling a home is one of the biggest decisions in your life, and we are here to ensure that you have a seamless and stress-free experience. With a deep understanding of local market trends and a vast network of resources, we will go above and beyond to help you achieve your real estate goals.

4576 Research Forest Dr. Suite 200

The Woodlands, TX 77381

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