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


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.
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:
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.
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.
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?”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?”
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.
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.



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

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
ALL Right Reserved. Copyright 2024.