The mortgage industry stands at a crossroads. Regulatory uncertainty, shifting market conditions and technological disruption are reshaping how originators do business and how borrowers achieve homeownership.
In moments like these, the role of strong, experienced leadership has never been more critical. The National Association of Mortgage Brokers (NAMB), representing thousands of professionals who serve as the lifeblood of America’s housing finance system, is honored to step into this leadership role.
We have seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities that define our profession. What has never changed is our shared commitment to ensuring that mortgage professionals have the tools, resources and representation they need to succeed and to help families achieve the dream of homeownership.
Over the past five decades, NAMB has worked tirelessly to advocate for fair regulation, promote ethical business practices and protect the interests of both professionals and consumers. Looking toward the next 50 years, NAMB’s mission remains clear: to strengthen the mortgage industry from within while improving access and equity in housing for all Americans.
NAMB’s past presidents have helped guide the marketplace through several pivotal initiatives marked by advocacy wins and renewed momentum. In 2025 alone, NAMB championed the passage of the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, a landmark bill signed into law in September that safeguards consumer data and reinforces trust in the homebuying process. That victory reflects the kind of meaningful impact our association can have when we unite around shared values and clear priorities.
NAMB is grateful for every volunteer that has helped lead the organization while shaping the strong foundation its executive board has established. But the year ahead is not about maintaining the status quo or celebrating past wins. It’s about accelerating progress and adapting to a rapidly evolving landscape.
The association’s roadmap for 2026 will focus on an ambitious but achievable set of goals designed to elevate both the mortgage industry and the people within it.
Key initiatives include:
● Loan officer compensation reform: Ensuring fair, transparent and competitive compensation structures that reflect the realities of today’s market.
● Flood insurance improvements: Working with policymakers to modernize and expand coverage options, protecting homeowners and communities nationwide.
● Employment classification clarity: Addressing the confusion and inconsistency between 1099 and W-2 classifications to promote compliance and stability.
● Affordable housing access: Advocating for policies that make homeownership attainable for a broader segment of the population.
● Reduced cost of credit reports: Supporting efforts to make credit information more affordable and accessible for lenders and borrowers.
● VA loan modernization: Enhancing the Department of Veterans Affairs loan process to better serve our nation’s veterans.
● Mentorship and professional development: Launching Elevate, NAMB’s new mentorship program, and expanding certification offerings to attract, train and retain the next generation of mortgage professionals.
These aren’t just bullet points on an agenda; they’re commitments to action for everyone in the industry seeking paths to growth and leadership. They represent the issues many NAMB members and nonmembers face every day, from compliance challenges to client challenges. They will define the future strength of our profession.
As an outreach campaign over the next year, NAMB will be meeting face to face with members, industry partners and policymakers to listen, learn and collaborate. The mortgage business has always been a relationship business. By reconnecting with professionals on the ground who see the daily realities of lending and homeownership, NAMB’s advocacy will remain grounded in real-world experience.
These conversations will help shape NAMB’s strategy for years to come. They will also reaffirm what is already known to be true: that the strength of our industry lies in its people — the independent thinkers, problem solvers and community builders who make homeownership possible.
For every originator, NAMB is making a call to engage in change, growth and partnership. The association offers both an invitation and a challenge. Empowering the mortgage industry’s future depends not only on strong leadership but also on active participation. Whether through membership, mentorship or advocacy, every voice matters. NAMB’s success is measured by the impact it can create through its relationships.
As we move into 2026 and beyond, NAMB will continue to fight to be a powerful force for good by championing professionalism, protecting consumers and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in housing finance. The next chapter of our story is being written right now, and NAMB couldn’t be more honored to help lead it.
