Why Strategy Beats Speed in Lending — Every Time
Because the fastest loan isn’t always the smartest move — and smart wins.
This post is adapted from an interview with Eli Ajzenman, founder of Lenders Domain, featured on the podcast “Beyond the Margin” with Riley Sharpe.
Most borrowers think they need a loan. What they actually need is a better lens.
Strategy comes first. Product comes third. And if you get the order wrong — you’ll pay for it, one refinance at a time.
“People come to me thinking they need a loan. What they really need is a better strategy.”
-Eli Ajzenman
Access Isn’t Strategy
Most brokers lead with “access” — more banks, more products, better rates.
But that was never the value.
It’s like walking into a restaurant and asking the chef how many ingredients he’s got in the fridge.
Who cares?
What matters is whether he knows what to cook with them.”
At Lenders Domain, product choice is step three — never step one.
Because a long menu doesn’t matter if the structure behind it is wrong.
More Options ≠ Better Outcomes
Most people think the more loan options they have, the better off they'll be.
But more choice doesn’t fix the wrong structure — it just gives you more ways to get it wrong.
The Strategy Comes First
Most brokers start with a product.
We start with the person — their structure, timing, exposure, goals, and pressure points.
That’s where the real opportunity lives. Because the loan is never the first move.
It’s the third.
Strategy first. Structure second. Product last.
WANT A SMARTER LENDING CONVERSATION?
Let’s talk strategy — not rates.
Final Thought
The clients who find me? They’re not shopping — they’re stuck.
They’ve been overpromised and understructured.
I don’t need to outshine the noise. I just need to be a clear signal — for the people who know what to listen for.
