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If you're considering a career as a mortgage loan originator, a mortgage broker school is a great place to start.
To become a mortgage loan originator, you'll need to complete a minimum of 20 hours of pre-licensing education, which typically includes courses on mortgage regulations, ethics, and finance.
A mortgage broker school will help you prepare for the licensing exam by providing in-depth training on these topics.
The mortgage broker school curriculum will also cover the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA) and the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure forms.
Mortgage Broker Education
To become a mortgage broker, you'll need to complete a certain amount of education. The required hours vary by state, but all 50 states require 20 hours of mortgage education from an NMLS-approved mortgage school.
You'll need to enroll in the 20-hour SAFE course, which includes two hours of state-specific content. This is in addition to any state-specific educational requirements.
The NMLS is the system used to process mortgage broker licenses in most states, including Texas. To become a mortgage broker in Texas, you'll need to complete 23 hours of pre-license education if applying through the Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending, or 20 hours if applying through the Office of the Consumer Credit Commission.
You'll also need to check with each agency about their specific requirements, as they may have additional course topics that need to be included.
Here are the state-specific education requirements:
In Texas, you'll also need to complete an additional 630 credit hours of TREC-approved continuing education courses or qualifying education classes.
Mortgage License Requirements
To become a mortgage broker, you'll need to meet the licensing requirements, which vary by state. In Michigan, for example, you must register with the NMLS and obtain a unique ID number, complete a 20-hour pre-license course, and pass a national background check.
To complete the pre-license course, you'll need to check the state-specific requirements, as some states have additional content. The 20-Hour SAFE Comprehensive Principles of Mortgage Lending course does not include state-specific requirements, so be sure to check the NMLS state requirements page.
Here are the general steps to become a mortgage broker, as outlined by the NMLS:
- Register with the NMLS and obtain an ID number
- Complete the required education hours (20-23 hours, depending on the state)
- Pass the NMLS SAFE mortgage licensing exam
- Apply for your license and complete background checks
- Find an employer and associate your NMLS account ID with them
Is MLO Right for Me?
Cost is a significant factor to consider when thinking about becoming a Mortgage Loan Officer (MLO). Most states have education courses for a licensed loan officer that are under $500.
Education requirements are relatively short, with most states requiring less than 30 hours of training. You can choose between online or in-person mortgage lender school.
You can become a Mortgage Loan Officer in your free time if you choose the online schooling option. Courses start nearly every day and can be scheduled to fit your time constraints.
The potential income for MLOs is extremely high, with no salary cap. Top MLOs can earn income that far exceeds professionals with 10+ years of college and postgraduate schooling.
As a lender, you'll be in high demand, as most buyers need a loan to buy a property. This means you can work in a variety of locations and have a consistent flow of clients.
Many MLOs work from home, which can be a huge perk for those who value flexibility. You can balance your hours around your other obligations and work in as many states as you wish to get licensed in.
Nationwide Licensing System
The Nationwide Licensing System, also known as the National Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS), is a crucial part of the mortgage licensing process in the United States. The NMLS is used to process mortgage licensing requests across all 50 US states.
To become a mortgage broker, you must first create an NMLS account, which is a simple process that should only take a couple of minutes to complete. You can request an NMLS account through the online registration portal and choose the individual option.
The NMLS requires you to provide the necessary information and submit the application. Once you have created an NMLS account, you can prepare for pre-license courses.
Here are some key facts about the NMLS:
- The NMLS is used to process mortgage licensing requests across all 50 US states.
- You must create an NMLS account to become a mortgage broker.
- The NMLS requires you to provide the necessary information and submit the application.
- You can request an NMLS account through the online registration portal and choose the individual option.
The NMLS is managed by State Regulatory Registry, LLC, and can be contacted at 1155 Connecticut Ave. NW, Fifth Floor, Washington, D.C. 20036-4307. If you have a question concerning a state's licensing requirement or how to use NMLS to meet your state's licensing requirements, you can click here to contact the NMLS resource center.
Additionally, the NMLS has a resource center that provides information on state-specific licensing requirements. You can check the NMLS state requirements page to see if state-specific content is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to be a mortgage broker?
Becoming a licensed mortgage broker typically takes around 45 days to complete. Learn more about the requirements and process to become a mortgage broker.
Is it hard to start as a mortgage broker?
Starting as a mortgage broker can be challenging due to the complexity of the industry. Having guidance from an experienced professional can significantly accelerate your success.
How to become a mortgage broker in IL?
To become a mortgage broker in IL, you'll need to complete NMLS-approved pre-licensure education, pass the SAFE Mortgage Loan Officer Test, and obtain state and FBI background checks. Start by requesting an NMLS account and securing employer sponsorship to begin the licensing process.
Sources
- https://www.americanrealtyacademy.com/mortgage/texas-mortgage-license-course-online/
- https://capeschool.com/mlo-mi-pre/
- https://www.mpamag.com/us/mortgage-industry/guides/how-to-become-a-mortgage-broker-in-florida/461392
- https://www.americanrealtyacademy.com/mortgage/ohio-mortgage-license-course-online/
- https://www.mpamag.com/us/mortgage-industry/guides/how-to-become-a-mortgage-broker-in-texas-follow-these-steps/459789
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