VMBA Convention Kickoff Party
Havana 59 - 16 N 17th Street, Richmond, VA
Hosted by the Richmond Mortgage Bankers Association, join all your VMBA friends and kickoff the 2026 VMBA Annual Convention. Generously sponsored by Atkinson Insurance Agency, Enact MI, Karis Management Group, Safe Harbor Title Company, and United One Resources.

General Session | Three Systems That Will Create More Leads, Higher Close Rates and New Referral Partners Today
Tim Braheem, Loan Atlas

Today’s market may be challenging, but there are still plenty of loans to be found—you just need the right systems to create them. Tim Braheem will share three proven systems to help you generate more leads, convert more opportunities into closed loans, and develop new referral partners. You’ll leave with practical, actionable strategies you can put to work immediately to create more business in any market.
 

General Session | Driven to Lend: Leading through Change, Challenge & Opportunity
Mickey Schilling, CMB

Drawing on nearly three decades in mortgage banking, Mickey Schilling, CMB shares lessons learned from leading through some of the industry’s most challenging and transformative cycles. This session explores what it takes to lead when markets shift, technology evolves, and the path forward isn’t always clear. Through personal stories and practical insights, Mickey will challenge mortgage professionals to embrace change, remain resilient, recognize opportunity, and lead with confidence, authenticity, and purpose.

A quick look at how younger first time buyers are approaching homeownership and what that shift means for the people trying to reach them. We'll cover how Gen Z is differentiating the marketplace.

Networking Break

General Session | Secondary 101 - What Loan Officers Need to Know
James Baublitz, First Home Mortgage Corporation & Michael Ullmann, Movement Mortgage

Secondary Marketing is at the core of how lenders create their rates and prices, as well as which programs they offer. But, when industry professionals are asked, secondary is often cited as one of the least understood components of the loan origination process. Join us for a candid conversation between James Baublitz, a secondary marketing professional and educator, and our Convention Chair, Michael UIlmann, of Movement Mortgage. This session will focus on demystifying all things secondary marketing and will give participants a look behind the curtain at what goes into capital markets strategy. Attendees will come away with a deeper understanding of the landscape of the secondary market and will gain new insights they can bring to their business.

Talladega Nights Party & Silent Auction to benefit VAMPAC
River City Ballroom - Hilton Richmond DowntownSuit up in your Nascar race attire (driver or spectator!), participate in racing games and explore our exciting silent auction items. All in support of VAMPAC!

*Unable to join us for the entire convention but don't want to miss the fun? Register for a Talladega Silent Auction ONLY ticket!*

 Click here if you'd like to contribute an item for the silent auction!

Breakfast 

Calling all CMBs and future CMBs!
Bob Niemi, CMB, Weiner Brodsky Kider PC

This networking and educational event is designed for Certified Mortgage Bankers and professionals interested in earning the CMB designation. Bob Niemi, CMB Society Past Chair, will share insights on the designation process, answer questions, and help attendees connect with local CMBs and potential mentors as they take the next step in their CMB journey. You may also see the actual CMB tattoo as well!

A working session focused on your actual social networking accounts. We'll walk through what a buyer sees when they land on your profile, what to fix first, and how to build an Instagram reel that you're proud about. Bring your phone, please download the "Edits" app from the app store. Roughly 45 minutes of walkthrough, then time at the end for questions and a look at your own setup.