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Mortgage Brokers & Lenders

The money side of the move, from people you can actually call.

How to shop a mortgage

A lender loans its own money; a broker shops your file to many lenders; a loan officer is the person you actually work with at either. Collect two or three quotes on the same day, since rates move daily, and compare APR and total closing costs rather than the teaser rate alone.

Every loan originator is licensed through the national NMLS system and overseen in Pennsylvania by the Department of Banking and Securities. Their NMLS number should be on every email and ad; look it up on NMLS Consumer Access to see licenses and any actions.

Local matters at the offer stage: listing agents call lenders they trust to test how solid your pre-approval is. First-time buyers should also ask any lender about PHFA programs, which can cover down payment and closing-cost assistance on homes in our counties.

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Licensing & resources

Pro Corner

For loan officers and mortgage brokers

Licensed through NMLS, regulated in Harrisburg, and built on local referral relationships.

Getting licensed as an MLO in Pennsylvania

  1. 1Complete 20 hours of NMLS-approved pre-licensing education
  2. 2Pass the SAFE mortgage loan originator test
  3. 3License through NMLS under the PA Department of Banking and Securities
  4. 4Keep current with 8 hours of NMLS continuing education each year
NMLS Resource CenterThe licensing system itself: education, testing, and filings.PA Department of Banking and SecuritiesThe state regulator for mortgage originators and brokers.NMLS Consumer AccessThe public lookup where clients verify your license.

Courses & continuing education

The CE Shop: NMLS-approved mortgage educationPartner20-hour pre-licensing, SAFE test prep, and annual CE.

Partner links support The Cardinal at no extra cost to you.

Work in this field? Teach a short course, speak on a Cardinal Live webinar, or co-host a meetup for local pros. We supply the audience; you bring the expertise.

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Lenders: featured placement here reaches every reader pricing a purchase or refinance.