@Marc Shin - Probably a national bank like bank of america where they have branches everywhere is easiest if you are trying to keep it simple. 

Having been a branch manager at a mortgage bank and then crossing over to Mortgage broker side, I can tell you a mortgage broker typically has significantly better rates than a mortgage bank.

As far as I know, no state legislature (via statutory action) or county recorder of deeds, in the US, has adopted blockchain as the "solution" for their chain of title.

I worked for IHG, the hotel chain, and if you are a franchisee, the home company can easily remove your status as a franchisee. 

Dozens of branch/market offices throughout US of which I am out of national HQ.

I own two homes in San Diego and one in Scottsdale - do I branch out or stick to what I know?

There is enough room for both - this chain has been a great for perspective.

I stop doing NPN because of the super long daisy chains.

I use a smallish local bank (about 30 branches) and have a great relationship with the VP in charge of residential loans and the VP in charge of commercial loans.

I believe branch managers at the bank still get paid even with rates are low or zero, as management doesn't stop because of the cycle.I respect your opinion, and you may be correct on a few of your points.