
General Session: Engaging the Next Generation of Home Buyers and Industry Professionals
Join us for an insightful discussion on how to effectively connect with and empower the next generation of home buyers and loan officers. The speakers will share their expertise on understanding the trends, behaviors, and cultural nuances of younger generations, including how to utilize social media and other digital tools.
Speakers
Speakers

Ally Carty, a 25-year-old "Gen-Z Guru," draws inspiration from her experience in the mortgage industry to shed light on the influential role of social media in connecting with potential Gen-Z homebuyers in her life. As a part of Guild Mortgage's marketing team running their national and local social media presence, she channels her passion for empowering young individuals to make informed decisions in their first home purchases. Carty brings a fresh perspective into the real estate finance sector, collaborating closely with loan officers to refine strategies, craft personalized approaches, and foster stronger connections with the next generation of homebuyers. Well-known for her generational expertise, she frequently takes the stage as a speaker at industry-leading events. Beyond live events, Carty shares her impactful insights as a contributor to HousingWire and “Rethink Everything You Know About Being a Next-Gen Loan Officer,” where she delves into effective methods of engaging Gen-Z homebuyers. She is also a member of the Women of ALICE, a non-profit organization dedicated to being champions of women in the mortgage finance industry. Carty’s overarching goal is to shape the future of homebuying, ensuring both loan officers and young homebuyers thrive in a dynamic market landscape.
Ashley Yarabinec, CMB, AMP is a respected leader in the mortgage banking industry with over a decade of experience in financial services. She began her career in 2014 at a prominent credit union, steadily advancing through operational and leadership roles, including overseeing operations and training during a major LOS implementation. In 2019, Yarabinec joined the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) and now serves as Director of Member Relations, managing a portfolio of top-tier residential lenders. In September 2023, she expanded her impact by leading the Residential MBA mPact Young Professional Networking Group, fostering initiatives that support and empower the next generation of mortgage professionals. A strong advocate for professional development, she earned her Accredited Mortgage Professional (AMP) certification in 2020, graduated from the MBA Future Leaders Program in 2024, and achieved the prestigious Certified Mortgage Banker (CMB) designation in 2022, demonstrating her deep industry knowledge and commitment to excellence. Yarabinec’s insights have been featured in HousingWire and Real Estate News, and she has shared her expertise on industry-leading platforms such as the Big Skip Energy Podcast and the Mortgage Minds Podcast. She is also a sought-after speaker, presenting at major events including the mPowering You Summit in October 2023, the mPact Summit in April 2024, and the upcoming NJ MBA Annual Conference and FL MBA Annual Conference. Additionally, she actively engages with state associations and other industry forums to further elevate the profession. Committed to driving growth, education, and engagement in the mortgage industry, Yarabinec continues to shape its future through leadership, mentorship, and impactful contributions.