From the Instructor’s Desk
Practical insights, compliance guidance, and personal reflections from a national mortgage instructor— helping you stay sharp in a fast-changing industry.
Are BSA/AML “Self-Audits” Allowed for Mortgage Companies?
At Mortgage Education Institute, we get these questions a lot. “Why do I need a BSA/AML Annual Audit?” Why can’t I do the BSA/AML Annual Audit myself?” Companies feel they are too small and can’t afford to have a BSA/AML Annual Review and Audit by a third-party vendor and often feel that a “self-audit” will…
Why Compliance Training Is a Top Priority for Mortgage Companies in 2025
The mortgage industry continues to evolve in response to shifting regulatory priorities, rising consumer expectations, and increased scrutiny of lending practices. In 2025, regulators are placing a renewed focus on accountability, data protection, and equitable lending, making staff compliance training more critical than ever. Regulators Are Watching Closely With the shift in compliance from the…
Best Practices for Mortgage Professionals on Social Media: Staying Compliant While Building Your Brand
As mortgage professionals we are all trying to learn the nuances of social media, and how to best reach our clients while staying compliant with all the mortgage rules and regulations that govern marketing and advertising in the mortgage space. Social media can be an effective way to reach potential borrowers, share updates on mortgage…
The Critical Role of Compliance Training in the Mortgage Industry
Compliance training is important for the company to maintain the level of support from team members as much as it is to meet the regulatory requirements. All team members including managers, mortgage loan officers, loan processors, administrative staff, every team member plays a part in maintaining your company’s compliance culture and avoiding costly violations. Comprehensive…
Why a Third-Party BSA/AML Annual Review Is Critical to Your Mortgage Business
In today’s regulatory landscape, compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements is not just a legal obligation—it’s a vital component of risk management and business integrity. One of the most effective ways to ensure ongoing compliance is by conducting an annual BSA/AML review or audit, and more importantly, having it…
The Importance of Record Retention by Mortgage Companies
In the mortgage industry, proper record retention isn’t just a best practice—it’s a regulatory requirement and a key component of operational integrity. Mortgage companies manage vast amounts of sensitive information. From initial loan applications to final payoffs, each document plays a role in ensuring compliance, protecting client interests, and supporting business continuity. Why Record Retention…
Why Choosing the Right Continuing Education Matters for Your Mortgage License
As a licensed mortgage professional annual CE is not optional it is required. As you review your CE options, what do you consider? The cheapest, the most convenient, or where you will learn the most? In today’s mortgage environment the more you know the more you can help your clients navigate the ever-changing landscape in…
The Importance of Keeping Mortgage Policies and Procedures Up to Date
In the mortgage industry compliance policies and procedures are required, but many companies initially created the documents and then set them on a shelf to collect dust. Outdated policies and procedures are not only inefficient — they are risky. Regulatory agencies, mortgage investors, and state examiners all expect mortgage companies to operate with current and…
From the Instructor’s Desk Memo June 27, 2025
In a press release from FHA on June 27, 2025, a significant number of policies were rescinded that were impacting the affordability and accessibility of homes for many Americans. Let’s take a deep dive into the changes and how it will impact your mortgage origination activities. FHA is cutting red tape to more effectively deliver…