The Certified Mortgage Lender (CML) Designation

Raise Your Professional Bar

What is a Certified Mortgage Lender?

CMLA lender members - meaning mortgage bankers and brokers - demonstrate their commitment to integrity-based lending through voluntary membership with CMLA and by abiding by the association's Code of Ethics. CMLA members are encouraged to have ongoing involvement in educational events and community initiatives.

Lenders who have industry experience and who have demonstrated professional aptitude may obtain the designation Certified Mortgage Lender (CML). As a mortgage lender, achieving the CML designation reflects a commitment to mortgage lending as a career and the initiative to excel. In order to receive the CML designation, an applicant must certify that they have not been convicted of a felony an that they are not listed on the Fannie Mae Excluded Parties List or HUD Limited Denial of Participation (LDP) lists.

Once each month, the CML Review Committee meets to consider applicants for the CML designation. The Committee is comprised of CMLA Former Chairmen and members of the CMLA Education Committee.

How do I apply?

Applicants must submit a $150 processing fee along with a completed Application for CML Designation. Applications are judged according to a rating system that grants points for experience, education, related certifications or licenses, and participation in mortgage-lending trade associations. See the Requirements for Certified Mortgage Lender (CML)

Applicants who are approved for the CML designation receive a certificate as evidence of their certification. Applicants who are not accepted due to a lack of earned points will receive a refund of $125. (CMLA retains $25 for processing the application.)

Click here to download the CML Application

Renewals

Certification is good for three years. CML designees must complete and submit the CML Renewal Form to the CMLA office with a check for $100 if you want a renewed certificate or $140 for a renewed certificate and plaque.

CMLA encourages consumers to include CMLA members in their shopping efforts, especially those individuals who hold the designation Certified Mortgage Lender.

Click here to view a list of Certified Mortgage Lenders (CMLs)

Recognition of CMLs

CMLA recognizes our Certified Mortgage Lenders (CMLs) in the following ways:

  • Two-page ad listing all CMLs in the Colorado Association of Realtors' 2007 Convention brochure
  • Regularly feature in CMLA's online newsletter, Interest Notes
  • CML plaques presented at the annual Convention and at each Denver and chapter luncheon events

*Current Certified Mortgage Lenders may obtain CML brochures for 50 cents each by calling the CMLA office at (303) 773-9565 x4. These tri-fold brochures explain what having the CML designation means and the peace of mind it brings to builders, Realtors, and their customers.