The National Association of Mortgage Brokers (NAMB) has been the only national voice for mortgage professionals since 1973. For over 50 years, NAMB has advocated for fair lending practices, pushing back against harmful policies and ensuring that our industry remains strong and operates within the highest ethical standards.

By standing up against predatory credit practices, advancing industry education, offering the industry’s best training and certifications programs and championing fair competition, NAMB continues to lead the way in protecting mortgage brokers, as well as their businesses and the consumers they serve.

A true membership-driven organization

Unlike other organizations, where leadership is controlled behind closed doors, NAMB is the only volunteer-led national association representing all mortgage brokers, originators and small businesses where members elect their leaders. Every member has a voice, a vote and the opportunity to shape the future of the industry.

At NAMB, we welcome all perspectives. We encourage our members to get involved, speak up and make their case. That’s what it means to be a volunteer-led, member-driven organization. The individuals who step up to lead do so not for financial gain, but for the satisfaction of ensuring that homeownership remains accessible and that mortgage professionals have the resources they need to thrive.

Over the past 51 years, NAMB has grown to over 56,000 members across all 50 states. While advocacy remains a core focus, NAMB has evolved into so much more.

Empowering members through education and innovation

Education is a pillar of NAMB’s mission. The organization continuously provides the resources and training mortgage professionals need to succeed. From required continuing education as an NMLS-approved course provider to specialized certifications in VA, FHA, credit and reverse mortgages, NAMB ensures that its members are equipped with the knowledge to stay ahead in an ever-changing industry.

Recognizing the growing importance of digital marketing and technology, NAMB has expanded its training offerings to include social media strategies, AI tools and the latest in mortgage technology. Through specialized technology, marketing and social media events, NAMB helps originators stay at the top of their game.

A legacy of advocacy: NAMB’s ongoing fight for mortgage professionals

Advocacy has been at the heart of NAMB since the early 1970s, when mortgage brokers united to push back against federal regulations that threatened to shut them out of the housing market. NAMB continues to be a powerful voice on Capitol Hill, working to educate legislators and regulators on the vital role mortgage brokers play in homeownership accessibility.

From successfully advocating for broker-friendly provisions in the SAFE Act to leading the charge against harmful policies like trigger leads, NAMB has employed grassroots efforts that have shaped industry regulations. Members from across the country engage directly with lawmakers through events like the NAMB Legislative & Regulatory Conference, ensuring that real-world broker perspectives influence policy decisions.

“Our advocacy is only as strong as our members’ voices,” says NAMB President Jim Nabors. “When mortgage professionals step up, engage with legislators and share their experiences, we can push for real change that benefits brokers and borrowers alike.”

Trigger leads: An unethical practice that must end

“One of the biggest challenges facing our industry today is the unethical and outrageous practice of trigger leads,” says Nabors.

To put it in perspective, I — the mortgage broker — am the credit bureau’s customer. I purchased a credit report from them. They deal directly with me, not the borrower. I pay them for their service. Yet after I purchase a credit report, they turn around and sell my lead to competitors. In what other industry is this allowed? Imagine buying an exclusive product, only to have the seller immediately resell your purchase to someone else. It’s an anti-consumer, anti-business practice that should have been outlawed long ago.

Despite bipartisan support and strong industry backing, the practice of trigger leads continues. In December, NAMB fought to have the legislation included in the National Defense Authorization Act, and while it was initially included, last-minute removals prevented its passage. Even with widespread support, opposition from certain groups has stalled progress.

“We aren’t giving up, ever,” says Nabors. “The entire mortgage industry is united in working to end this unethical practice, and we will continue to push for legislative action until trigger leads are curtailed once and for all.”

Looking ahead

As the mortgage industry faces new challenges and opportunities, NAMB remains steadfast in its mission to support mortgage brokers, advocate for fair lending practices and provide top-tier education and networking opportunities. Whether it’s fighting against trigger leads, which are unethical, or equipping members with cutting-edge tools, NAMB continues to lead the way.

If you’re not already involved, now is the time to join the fight. NAMB is your association — where every member has a voice, a vote and the opportunity to make a difference. For more information on how to get involved, visit NAMB.org.

Valerie Saunders is the chief executive strategist for the National Association of Mortgage Brokers.