The Week in Review

Exactly one year ago, two formidable entities, CMLA and CHLA, united their strengths, birthing what is now known as the Community Home Lenders of America. This past year has witnessed a remarkable transformation, with CHLA ascending as the indisputable voice for independent bankers and their consumers.

Guided by the capable stewardship of Scott Olson , our assembly of advocates has exceeded expectations. From face-to-face engagements with the most influential figures in the mortgage arena—Presidents, CEOs, Directors, and Commissioners of Federal Agencies and Enterprises—our resounding message has resonated at the highest levels of government deliberations. In a mere 12 months, we ensured the exemption of smaller sellers/issuers from the onerous Fannie/Freddie/Ginnie capital reserve mandate, curbing it by 75% for lenders surpassing the $1 billion threshold. Our tenacious advocacy contributed to the reversal of the ill-conceived 41 DTI LLPA, reinforcing our commitment to empowering lenders. Notably, we advocated?to further protect our members from the further consolidation and monopolization of the already dominant technology providers we rely upon as originators.

Entering our sophomore year, our trajectory is one of expansion and amplified influence. At the forefront of our agenda stands the Consumer Mortgage Bill of Rights, emblematic of our mission to bridge gaps in consumer safeguards. The landscape ahead is dotted with formidable challenges that reverberate across lenders and borrowers alike—Triggers Leads, Vendor Monopolies, IMB CRA, Dual Comp, the list goes on. The upcoming year will witness our steadfast dedication in tackling these issues and beyond.

Speaking as President, I have immense pride for the strides we've taken and the force CHLA has evolved into. I am privileged to spearhead many of these noble pursuits, and I am grateful for the existence of CHLA. As we gear up to confront the challenges ahead, my enthusiasm remains unwavering, steeled by the resolve to navigate our next agenda items head-on.

In this spirit of achievement and aspiration, we encourage you to attend this year’s fly-in. The CHLA fly-in is scheduled for?September 18?and 19 in Washington, DC. This gathering will allow members will converge and deliberate upon issues central to their companies and the industry at large. This event promises a platform for candid discourse, creative ideas, and strategic collaborations.

As we mark our first anniversary, we invite you to join us in shaping the trajectory of CHLA and the mortgage landscape. We eagerly anticipate your presence, your insights, and your camaraderie in this important gathering.

- Taylor Stork, CMB , President of CHLA?