Bringing Lenders Together

The Community Home Lenders Association (CHLA) is the distinctive voice in Washington for independent mortgage bankers (IMBs). CHLA is fighting for federal mortgage policies that promote consumer access to mortgage credit and are fair to smaller IMBs.

Benefits of Membership

Having an Impact in Washington

In 2019 CHLA led the fight to preserve FHA and Ginnie Mae's role in our mortgage markets and to protect IMB access to those important programs.

Access to Top Policy Makers

Our DC conferences give members unparalleled one-on-one access to senior federal agency mortgage officials and Members of Congress.

Productive Relationships with like-minded community IMBs

Our member-centric weekly calls and agenda give CHLA Members the chance to discuss challenges and ideas with principals of similar IMB firms nationwide.

CHLA Initiatives

For 5 years, CHLA has been proposing a comprehensive administrative reform plan for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac that protects small lender equitable cash window and securitization access; opposes new GSE charters that allow vertical integration by Wall Street banks; and minimizes transition risk. Read the latest version of CHLA’s plan.

Why Our Members Belong to CHLA

“CHLA is the distinctive voice in representing community-based independent mortgage banks in our nation’s capital. We drafted the mortgage loan originator (MLO) temporary authority legislation and doggedly lobbied industry groups and legislators to win its passage.”

“CHLA conferences provide small independent mortgage bankers access to top policymakers to ensure the impact on local communities is considered when making critical decisions about the future of housing finance. It provides vital insight not provided by large IMBs or depository institutions.”

“You don’t have to be a long-time association member to gain access to Washington’s decision makers. Shortly after I joined, I was asked to lead CHLA’s efforts to fix what is wrong with LO Comp rules. Subsequently, I’ve twice met with the Director of the CFPB and authored an op-ed article in a leading industry publication.”

“CHLA’s deep connections to leading mortgage officials in Washington helped solve a critical issue my firm had with state-specific USDA underwriting issues. When our members have issues specific to their business, CHLA is the first place we turn for assistance.”

“What makes CHLA unique among other trade groups is the regular exchange of knowledge and challenges that members and staff share on a weekly basis. Our weekly conference calls are timely and efficient and give me the opportunity to compare notes with my peers across the nation on issues facing their firms and mine.”

“Hallmark Home Mortgage is a better institution because of what I have learned from my fellow CHLA members. Our interactions with each other – and with government officials throughout Washington – enables me to be on the leading edge of knowledge in our industry.”

“After many years of involvement in many mortgage trade groups, my CHLA membership has proven to be the most effective! The insight that I receive keeps proving to be invaluable. As an IMB, we need parity of access in our credit markets. This is especially true as IMBs often represent low-to-moderate borrowers or community folk. Even in today’s virtual world, because of the CHLA, I feel connected to industry leaders, my peers and our government officials. Most importantly, I see that my involvement is helping to shape our futures”.