Episode 95 | Part Two: Mike Loftin, Chief Executive Officer, Homewise

ChangeMakers with Katie Goar

In the second half of this inspiring conversation, Mike Loftin dives deeper into the long-term impact and vision behind his pioneering work at Homewise. During part one, Mike discussed leveraging HUD and FHA programs to open up homeownership opportunities for underrepresented groups that have historically faced barriers to achieving this core aspect of the American dream. Katie presses Mike further, asking, "What specific policies or actions would need to be implemented at a broader level to truly achieve those goals of increasing homeownership equity?" Mike draws upon his decades of experience and deep understanding of housing policy to outline potential solutions. From reforming creditworthiness criteria to developing more low-cost financing options, he provides an inside look at the systemic changes needed to level the playing field. Don't miss this candid discussion that gets to the heart of what it will take to make the dream of homeownership a reality for all families, regardless of their background or circumstances. Mike's wisdom and innovative ideas will inspire you and could serve as a blueprint for real, lasting change in increasing access to affordable housing nationwide.
About Mike Loftin: Mike joined Homewise in 1992 and provides strategic leadership for the company by working with the board of directors and the executive management team to drive the long-term vision, strategy, goals, and financial well-being of Homewise.With over 35 years’ experience in community and homeownership advocacy, Mike led the creation and implementation of Homewise’s customer-centric, comprehensively integrated homeownership business model. Mike drafted and led the campaign to pass Santa Fe’s inclusionary zoning law, one of the most ambitious in the country and which has served as the model for similar ordinances in other municipalities.More recently, he spearheaded the creation of Homewise’s catalytic community development strategy to revitalize targeted disinvested neighborhoods in Albuquerque and create new mixed-use, mixed-income communities in Santa Fe.Mike serves on the board of Excellent Schools New Mexico and previously served on the boards of the University of New Mexico Anderson School of Management Foundation and the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority. Mike holds a BA in History from Northwestern University.