The decision to become a mortgage banker (lender) differs from starting a mortgage brokerage firm. Although a mortgage banker may sometimes offer a brokered loan product, they’re allowed to lend to prospective homeowners searching for home financing directly. The decision to become a mortgage banker (lender) differs from starting a mortgage brokerage firm. Although a mortgage banker may sometimes offer a brokered loan product, they’re allowed to lend to prospective homeowners searching for home financing directly.
You must obtain a special license to operate as a mortgage lender. Depending on your state of residence, the process involves a reasonably detailed application and approval process. If becoming a mortgage banker appeals to you, Key Property Management Las Vegas offers mortgage lending classes.
Apply to Your State Banking Office
Each state has an office that issues licenses to mortgage banking businesses. A representative from your state office can provide you with the application materials. Most states require a non-refundable fee to apply for a mortgage banker license.
Ask your state about the application fee. In Nevada, the cost of the mortgage banker’s license is approximately $2,600. Additional charges may be assessed for an FBI Criminal Background Check and credit report.
Before you submit a mortgage banker application:
• Consider your net worth. Most states require the applicant to have a minimum tangible net worth of $150,000 – $500,000.
• Consult an attorney or financial adviser, such as a CPA, to prepare your official balance sheet. This information is required to determine your ability to be bonded and insured.
• Check your credit reports. If you have late payments or judgments, your state licensing board may reject your mortgage banker license application. If you previously filed for Chapter 7, Chapter 11, or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you may need to reestablish your credit before applying. If your credit is less than perfect, submit letters to the licensing board to explain the reasons for your negative credit.
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Secure a Line of Credit
To operate as a mortgage banker, you must have access to capital to fund mortgage loans. If you don’t have capital in a bank account, you must secure credit lines with a reputable lender.
Many states require the mortgage banker to have minimum access of $250,000 – $500,000 in the capital. Your lender may be required to submit a “Letter of Credit” (LOC) verification to the state to verify your access to capital.
Select a Business Location
Most state banking offices require the mortgage bank business to have a separate business address. In other words, you may be required to have a business address that differs from your home address.
Select a business location that’s acceptable to the licensing agency before submitting the mortgage banker application.
Individual Licensing Requirements for Mortgage Bankers
Consider the state’s licensing requirements for individual mortgage bankers. Your state may require that all principals and loan officers are individually licensed. The state may also require the mortgage bank’s principals to have at least three to five years’ experience before a bank license approval is granted.
