is there a way to check lender licenses?

The NMLS # is NOT a license per-say... It is simply a tracking number each lender and loan officer is required to have. You can check out a loan officer or company by going to www.NMLSConsumerAccess.org. When looking at the persons page, if it says ACTIVE, then they are legally allowed to do mortgage loans. But go a step further... Look at the bottom. Under Licenses/Registrations. If it says one or more states, that person has an individual license, and has to take classes, pass state and federal exams, and take continuing education each year to do loans. If it says Federal Mortgage Originator, that person does NOT have a personal license and is simply registered. While both are legal to do loans - do you want an unlicensed application clerk, or a licensed mortgage professional handling your largest financial transaction?

go to: nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

All loan originators should be licensed by the National Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) like Dave mentioned Ohio loan originators must have a State License as well. You can search here https://elicense2-secure.com.ohio.gov on the left click license look up. If you don't have that warm fuzzy feeling then you may want to talk with someone else. A mortgage is one of the most important decisions you'll make you should feel comfortable with whomever you're working with. If I can answer any other questions, I'd be happy to help. Best wishes otherwise, Kimberly Lawson, Ohio Licensed mortgage loan originator. Contact and licensing information can be found on my profile.

You can check the NMLS Registry with the NMLS number at nmlsconsumeraccess.org. You can also check your State's website.

http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/