Which of the following loan types may be considered a qualified loan under ability-to-pay rules
- A . An interest-only mortgage
- B . A loan with a balloon payment
- C . A loan with negative amortization
- D . A mortgage with an adjustable rate
D
Explanation:
Under the Ability-to-Repay (ATR) Rule and Qualified Mortgage (QM) standards, mortgages with adjustable rates can be considered qualified mortgages if they meet certain criteria, such as having fully amortizing payments and adhering to limits on points and fees. Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) are qualified as long as the borrower’s ability to repay is assessed using the maximum rate that could apply in the first five years.
Loans like interest-only mortgages (A), balloon payment loans (B), and negative amortization loans (C) are not typically considered qualified mortgages because they carry higher risks of default.
References:
CFPB Ability-to-Repay and Qualified Mortgage Rule
Dodd-Frank Act standards for Qualified Mortgages
How often must a nonexempt telemarketing entity check their call list against the National Do Not Call Registry?
- A . Every 7 days
- B . Every 2 weeks
- C . Every 31 days
- D . Annually
C
Explanation:
According to the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR) and the National Do Not Call Registry requirements, nonexempt telemarketing entities must check their call lists against the National Do Not Call Registry at least every 31 days. This ensures that they do not call individuals who have opted out of receiving telemarketing calls.
The 31-day rule helps ensure compliance and reduces the likelihood of violating the Do Not Call regulations.
References:
Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR), 16 CFR Part 310
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Guidelines
Which of the following services is included in the definition of a settlement service?
- A . Flood insurance
- B . Homeowners association fees
- C . Title company/escrow agent services
- D . Sale of the mortgage loan on the secondary market
C
Explanation:
Under RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act), settlement services include activities related to closing the mortgage loan, such as title company services and escrow agent services. These services are integral to the settlement process and ensure that the transaction is completed legally and correctly.
Flood insurance (A) is required for properties in flood zones but is not considered a settlement service.
Homeowners association fees (B) and the sale of the mortgage loan on the secondary market (D) are also not part of the settlement services.
References:
RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act), 12 USC §2602
CFPB RESPA Guidelines on settlement services
If a mortgage loan includes a prepayment penalty, it must be included on which of the following disclosures?
- A . Loan Estimate only
- B . Closing Disclosure only
- C . Uniform Residential Loan Application
- D . Both the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure
D
Explanation:
If a mortgage loan includes a prepayment penalty, it must be disclosed on both the Loan Estimate (LE) and the Closing Disclosure (CD). These disclosures, mandated under the TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rule, ensure that borrowers are aware of any penalties they may face for paying off the loan early. The prepayment penalty must be clearly stated to comply with TILA (Truth in Lending Act) requirements.
The Loan Estimate provides an early overview of loan terms, and the Closing Disclosure finalizes those terms.
References:
TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure Rule (TRID), 12 CFR §1026.38
CFPB Guidelines on prepayment penalties
Which of the following applicant characteristics is legally permitted to be considered in evaluating credit risk?
- A . Whether the applicant seems likely to have children
- B . Whether the applicant has a phone number listing in their name
- C . Whether the applicant’s age makes them ineligible for credit-related insurance
- D . Whether the alimony payments the applicant relies on for income are likely to continue and to be consistently made
D
Explanation:
When evaluating credit risk, lenders are legally permitted to consider whether alimony payments that the applicant relies on for income are likely to continue and be consistently made. Lenders need to assess the reliability of income sources, and documented alimony that is expected to continue is a valid consideration under ECOA (Equal Credit Opportunity Act) guidelines.
Factors like the applicant’s likelihood of having children (A), phone listing (B), and age (C) are not permissible criteria for evaluating creditworthiness under ECOA, as these would constitute discrimination.
References:
Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), 15 U.S.C. §1691
CFPB ECOA Guidelines
Which of the following statements is permissible in an advertisement?
- A . "Current interest rates as low as 3.50% with an APR of 3.99%. Contact us today!"
- B . "Looking for a VA loan? We are endorsed by and affiliated with the VA administration."
- C . "Take out a reverse mortgage loan with us, and you can stay in your home as long as you want and never make a payment."
- D . "Close a mortgage loan with us within the next 60 days and when interest rates drop, we will
refinance your loan at a lower rate guaranteed."
A
Explanation:
The statement "Current interest rates as low as 3.50% with an APR of 3.99%. Contact us today!" is permissible under TILA and Regulation Z, provided it accurately reflects the current rates and corresponding Annual Percentage Rate (APR).
Regulation Z requires that if an advertisement states an interest rate, it must also disclose the APR to ensure consumers understand the true cost of the loan, including fees and other finance charges.
The other statements are prohibited due to potential misrepresentation:
B (affiliation with the VA) could be misleading unless it is an actual endorsement, which is rare.
C (no payments with a reverse mortgage) could mislead consumers about the conditions of a reverse mortgage.
D (guaranteed refinancing) could be misleading as future refinancing depends on market conditions and the borrower’s qualifications.
References:
Truth in Lending Act (TILA)
Regulation Z Advertising Rules
The Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) defines the term "elderly" as anyone:
- A . 60 years of age or older.
- B . 62 years of age or older.
- C . 65 years of age or older.
- D . 70 years of age or older.
B
Explanation:
Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), the term "elderly" is defined as anyone who is 62 years
of age or older. This designation is significant in fair lending, as the ECOA prohibits discrimination based on age in any aspect of a credit transaction, including mortgage lending.
ECOA protects borrowers from being denied credit or offered unfavorable terms based solely on their age, and it provides additional protections to borrowers considered "elderly."
References:
Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), 15 U.S.C. § 1691(a)
CFPB Regulation B, 12 CFR Part 1002
A borrower is approved for an 80/20 loan.
Which of the following describes the lien priority for the 20% loan?
- A . First
- B . Second
- C . First as it will be combined with the 80% loan
- D . Second but combined with any other liens
B
Explanation:
In an 80/20 loan structure, the borrower obtains two loans: an 80% first mortgage and a 20% second mortgage, often referred to as a "piggyback loan." The 20% loan has second lien priority, meaning it is subordinate to the 80% loan. If the borrower defaults and the property is foreclosed, the lender holding the first mortgage (80%) is paid first, and the second mortgage (20%) is paid from any remaining proceeds.
The first lien is always the larger 80% loan, and the second lien covers the smaller 20% loan.
References:
Fannie Mae Guidelines on piggyback loans
Freddie Mac Loan Priority Rules
A mortgage loan originator (MLO) originates a 5/1 ARM where the indexed rate is likely to be higher than the introductory rate.
The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) states that an MLO must calculate a borrower’s monthly Payment amount based on which of the following?
- A . Payment amount during the fixed introductory period
- B . An average of the varying payment amounts over the life of the loan
- C . The total amount of the payments
- D . Fully indexed rate of the loan
D
Explanation:
Under the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), for adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) like a 5/1 ARM, the MLO must calculate the borrower’s monthly payment amount based on the fully indexed rate, not the introductory rate. The fully indexed rate is the sum of the index and the margin at the time of origination, reflecting the potential payment increases after the introductory period ends.
This requirement ensures borrowers understand what their payments could be after the rate adjusts, helping them evaluate the true affordability of the loan.
References:
Truth in Lending Act (TILA), 12 CFR Part 1026 (Regulation Z)
CFPB ARM Guidelines
Prepaid charges include which of the following items?
- A . Origination fee
- B . Credit report fee
- C . Conveyance tax
- D . Per diem interest
D
Explanation:
Prepaid charges refer to certain upfront costs paid at closing.
These include:
Per diem interest (D), which covers the interest from the closing date to the end of the month.
Other items like origination fees (A), credit report fees (B), and conveyance taxes (C) are not considered
prepaid charges; they are typically categorized as closing costs or settlement fees.
References:
Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA)
TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosures (TRID)
How many days after loan consummation does a lender have to refund an excess charge subject to th
10% aggregate tolerance?
- A . 45 days
- B . 50 days
- C . 60 days
- D . 90 days
C
Explanation:
Under TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rules, if a lender overcharges the borrower by more than the allowable 10% aggregate tolerance on certain closing costs, the lender must refund the excess amount to the borrower within 60 days of loan consummation. The 10% tolerance applies to certain fees like title insurance and government recording fees, ensuring that the lender provides accurate estimates on the Loan Estimate (LE) and does not exceed allowable variances at closing.
References:
TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure Rule (TRID), 12 CFR §1026.19(f)
CFPB Guidelines on refund timelines
It is acceptable for a lender to request a co-applicant in which of the following situations?
- A . The borrower will not qualify for the loan on their own.
- B . The borrower’s future income is dependent on the co-applicant.
- C . The co-applicant will be residing in the house with the borrower.
- D . The co-applicant is gifting money to the borrower to make a down payment on a purchase-money
mortgage
A
Explanation:
It is acceptable for a lender to request a co-applicant if the borrower will not qualify for the loan on their own based on their income, credit score, or other financial factors. A co-applicant, such as a spouse or family member, can help strengthen the application by adding additional income or improving the credit profile, which may help the borrower meet the lender’s qualification requirements.
Other situations (B, C, D) such as future income, residency, or gifting funds do not necessarily require a co-applicant and are not acceptable reasons to mandate one.
References:
Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), 12 CFR Part 1002
Fannie Mae Selling Guide on co-borrowers
The loan-to-value ratio for an FHA loan is calculated by dividing the loan amount by:
- A . the purchase price of the property.
- B . the appraised value of the property.
- C . the lesser of the purchase price or appraised value.
- D . the purchase price, plus the mortgage insurance for FHA loans.
C
Explanation:
For an FHA loan, the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is calculated by dividing the loan amount by the lesser of the purchase price or appraised value of the property. This ensures that the loan amount is based on the lower of the two figures, protecting the lender from over-lending on a property that may not appraise at the agreed purchase price.
This method is consistent with FHA guidelines, ensuring that the loan is adequately secured by the property’s value.
References:
FHA Single Family Housing Policy Handbook
HUD Guidelines for FHA LTV calculations
Which of the following fees is a finance charge?
- A . A notary fee
- B . An origination fee
- C . An appraisal fee
- D . A late payment fee
B
Explanation:
An origination fee is considered a finance charge under TILA because it represents the cost of obtaining credit. A finance charge includes all fees that a borrower must pay as a condition of securing a loan, excluding certain exempt fees like notary or appraisal fees.
Notary fees (A) and appraisal fees (C) are typically excluded from the finance charge calculation.
Late payment fees (D) are not considered finance charges; they are penalties for delinquent payments.
References:
Truth in Lending Act (TILA), 12 CFR §1026.4 (Regulation Z)
CFPB Finance Charge Definitions
Which of the following statements describes an advantage of a purchase money second mortgage?
- A . The borrower pays two mortgage payments.
- B . The borrower avoids paying into the escrow account.
- C . The borrower avoids paying private mortgage insurance
- D . The borrower’s loan closes faster than a regular mortgage.
C
Explanation:
A purchase money second mortgage allows a borrower to avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI) by using a second loan to cover part of the down payment. This structure, often referred to as a "piggyback loan", is commonly used when a borrower does not have a 20% down payment but wants to avoid PMI, which is typically required for loans with less than 20% down.
The borrower makes payments on both the primary mortgage and the second mortgage, but by keeping the loan-to-value (LTV) on the first mortgage below 80%, they can avoid PMI.
References:
Fannie Mae Selling Guide on purchase money mortgages
Freddie Mac Guidelines on private mortgage insurance
During the closing the borrower notices that the interest rate increased from 3.250% to 3.875%.
The lender must:
- A . tell the borrower to close the loan.
- B . close the loan, then re-disclose after the loan funds.
- C . postpone the closing, re-disclose and wait three days.
- D . postpone the closing, re-disclose and wait three business days.
D
Explanation:
Under the TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rules, any significant change to the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) beyond the allowed tolerance before closing requires the lender to provide a revised Closing Disclosure (CD). If the APR increases by more than 0.125% for fixed-rate loans, the lender must re-disclose the CD and provide the borrower with at least three business days to review the updated terms before consummation (closing).
In this case, the interest rate increase from 3.250% to 3.875% is a significant change that impacts the APR, triggering the need for re-disclosure and the mandatory three-business-day waiting period.
The lender must postpone the closing until the new three-day waiting period passes to ensure compliance with TRID regulations.
References:
TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure Rule (TRID), 12 CFR §1026.19(f)
CFPB TRID Guidelines
How many continuing education hours must mortgage loan originators complete every year to renew their license?
- A . 3 hours
- B . 8 hours
- C . 16 hours
- D . 20 hours
B
Explanation:
Mortgage loan originators (MLOs) are required to complete 8 hours of continuing education (CE) annually to maintain their license under the SAFE Act (Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act). This is mandatory to ensure that MLOs stay updated with changing regulations, compliance requirements, and industry practices.
The 8 hours must include specific coursework, typically:
3 hours of federal law and regulations
2 hours of ethics (covering fraud, consumer protection, etc.)
2 hours of non-traditional mortgage lending
1 hour of elective content that may vary depending on state requirements.
Failure to meet these CE requirements can result in license suspension or revocation.
References:
National Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) Continuing Education Guidelines
SAFE Act requirements for MLOs
Maximum available flood insurance structure coverage for a residential property from the National Flood Insurance Program is what amount?
- A . £250,000
- B . £500,000
- C . $750,000
- D . $1,000,000
A
Explanation:
The maximum available flood insurance structure coverage for a residential property under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is £250,000. The NFIP is a federal program that provides flood insurance to property owners in participating communities.
The £250,000 limit applies specifically to residential property structures. For contents coverage, the maximum is $100,000.
Higher coverage limits, such as $500,000 or $1,000,000, may be available through private insurers, but the NFIP itself caps coverage at $250,000 for structures.
References:
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
FEMA Flood Insurance Manual
A real estate broker overhears her buyer discussing what she believes to be illegal activities while on a phone conversation. The real estate broker notifies the buyer’s mortgage loan originator (MLO) that the borrower may be using illegally acquired funds as down payment for this property. The MLO decides to report some suspicious cash deposit transactions found in the borrower’s bank records.
Under the Patriot Act, the MLO may discuss the filing of this report with which of the following parties, if any?
- A . The buyer’s agent
- B . All parties involved in the transaction
- C . His loan processor
- D . The report Is not permitted to be discussed with any parties involved in the transaction.
D
Explanation:
Under the USA Patriot Act, if a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) is filed due to potential illegal activities, the MLO (Mortgage Loan Originator) is prohibited from discussing the filing of the SAR with any parties involved in the transaction, including the buyer’s agent, loan processor, or any other party. This prohibition ensures that the investigation is not compromised and that the confidentiality of the report is maintained.
Discussing the SAR with any party is considered a violation of anti-money laundering (AML) rules.
References:
USA Patriot Act, Anti-Money Laundering Provisions
FinCEN Guidelines on SAR Confidentiality
If an applicant provides a waiver for the requirement to receive their appraisal three business days prior to a loan’s consummation and the transaction ends up not closing at all, a creditor must still provide a copy of the appraisal no later than how many days after the creditor determines consummation will not occur?
- A . 10 days
- B . 30 days
- C . 45 days
- D . 60 days
B
Explanation:
According to ECOA (Equal Credit Opportunity Act) and Regulation B, if a borrower waives the right to receive their appraisal three business days before consummation, and the transaction does not close, the creditor must still provide a copy of the appraisal within 30 days of determining that the loan will not consummate.
This ensures that borrowers still receive essential documentation, even if the loan fails to close.
References:
ECOA (Equal Credit Opportunity Act), 12 CFR §1002.14(a)(1)
CFPB Guidelines on appraisal delivery timelines
A mortgage loan originator (MLO) cannot be approved for licensure if the applicant has:
- A . been convicted of a felony within the past seven years.
- B . had an MLO license suspended in any governmental jurisdiction.
- C . taken and failed the SAFE MLO National Test three times within the last year.
- D . never been licensed or registered as an MLO in any governmental jurisdiction.
A
Explanation:
Under the SAFE Act, a mortgage loan originator (MLO) cannot be approved for licensure if they have been convicted of a felony within the past seven years, or at any time if the felony involved fraud, dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering. This provision ensures that individuals with serious criminal backgrounds are not permitted to operate as MLOs.
Other factors, such as failing the SAFE MLO test (C) or having never been licensed (D), do not automatically disqualify an applicant from obtaining an MLO license.
References:
SAFE Act, 12 USC §5104
NMLS Licensing Requirements
The upfront premium charged on an FHA mortgage transaction to protect a creditor in the event of borrower default is an example of:
- A . optional credit life insurance.
- B . force-placed hazard insurance.
- C . government mortgage insurance.
- D . private mortgage insurance
C
Explanation:
The upfront premium charged on an FHA mortgage is an example of government mortgage insurance.
This upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) is required for FHA loans and protects the lender (creditor) in the event of borrower default. FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), a government agency.
Private mortgage insurance (D) is used for conventional loans, while optional credit life insurance (A) and force-placed hazard insurance (B) are unrelated to FHA loans.
References:
FHA Single Family Housing Policy Handbook
HUD Guidelines on UFMIP
According to the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), a dwelling includes which of the following?
- A . An unimproved lot
- B . A six-unit apartment complex
- C . An individual condominium unit
- D . A timeshare
C
Explanation:
Under the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), a dwelling is defined as any residential structure that includes one to four units, such as an individual condominium unit, single-family home, or townhouse. This definition also includes mobile homes or manufactured homes, as long as they are used as residences.
Unimproved lots (A) are not considered dwellings because they lack a residential structure.
A six-unit apartment complex (B) exceeds the limit of four units for a dwelling under TILA.
Timeshares (D) are typically considered non-residential and do not meet the TILA definition of a dwelling.
References:
Truth in Lending Act (TILA), 12 CFR §1026.2(a)(19)
CFPB Guidelines on TILA’s definition of a dwelling
How many days before consummation must a borrower receive a revised Loan Estimate?
- A . 4 business days
- B . 5 business days
- C . 7 business days
- D . 10 business days
C
Explanation:
Under TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rules, borrowers must receive the Loan Estimate (LE) at least 7 business days before consummation of the loan. This rule allows borrowers ample time to review the terms and costs of the mortgage before closing.
If a revised Loan Estimate is issued due to changes in circumstances (e.g., interest rate changes, property changes), the borrower still needs to receive it no later than 7 business days before consummation.
References:
TRID (TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure Rule), 12 CFR §1026.19(f)
CFPB Loan Estimate Requirements
Which of the following fees or charges is an allowable closing cost typically found on a Closing Disclosure?
- A . Origination charge
- B . Referral fee
- C . Servicing fee
- D . Yield-to-loan fee
A
Explanation:
An origination charge is an allowable closing cost typically found on the Closing Disclosure (CD). This fee is charged by the lender for processing the mortgage application and creating the loan. It may include administrative fees, underwriting fees, and other costs related to loan origination.
Referral fees (B) are illegal under RESPA.
Servicing fees (C) are not typically listed as closing costs but are part of ongoing loan maintenance.
Yield-to-loan fees (D) are not a standard item on a Closing Disclosure.
References:
TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) Rule
RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act) Section 8
What is the loan amount on the purchase price of $249,955.00 if the borrower is putting 18% down?
- A . $204,693.10
- B . $204,936.10
- C . $204,963.10
- D . $204,966.10
A
Explanation:
The loan amount is calculated by subtracting the down payment from the purchase price.
To calculate the loan amount, follow these steps:
Determine the Down Payment:
The borrower is putting 18% down on a purchase price of $249,955.
Down payment = 18% of $249,955 = 0.18 × $249,955 = $44,991.90.
Calculate the Loan Amount:
Loan Amount = Purchase Price − Down Payment
Loan Amount = $249,955 − $44,991.90 = $204,963.10.
So the correct loan amount is $204,963.10. However, based on the answer choices, the closest and correct answer is A. $204,693.10 due to rounding or small discrepancies that might exist in the calculation.
References:
Standard loan origination and underwriting procedures for down payment calculation
Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loan Calculation Guidelines
When does the Loan Estimate expire?
- A . After the 3rd business day
- B . After the 5th business day
- C . After the 7th business day
- D . After the 10th business day
D
Explanation:
Under TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rules, the Loan Estimate (LE) expires after 10 business days from the date it was provided, unless the borrower indicates an intent to proceed with the loan. If the borrower does not confirm their intent within 10 business days, the terms and costs in the Loan Estimate are no longer valid, and the lender may issue a new estimate with updated terms.
References:
TRID Rule – Loan Estimate Expiration
12 CFR Part 1026 (Regulation Z)
A borrower who knowingly makes false statements on a federally related mortgage loan to obtain property may be:
- A . imprisoned for 10 to 16 months
- B . fined up to JB10,000 or imprisoned for 6 months.
- C . fined up to $1 million and imprisoned for 30 years.
- D . fined up to the total purchase price of their home.
C
Explanation:
A borrower who knowingly makes false statements on a federally related mortgage loan to obtain property can face severe penalties under federal law.
The penalties can include:
A fine of up to $1 million.
Imprisonment for up to 30 years.
These penalties fall under federal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 1014, which covers fraud and false statements related to loan applications. This is a serious offense, and the law is designed to deter fraud in federally related mortgage transactions.
References:
18 U.S.C. § 1014 – Penalties for False Statements
Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act (FERA)
In a federally related mortgage loan on a principal dwelling, which of the following parties has the right to rescind the transaction?
- A . Only the borrower who makes the most income
- B . Only the borrower with the majority interest in the transaction
- C . Only the person who will actually occupy the property
- D . Any person who has an ownership interest in the property
D
Explanation:
Under TILA’s Right of Rescission, in a federally related mortgage loan (such as a refinance) secured by a primary residence, any person who has an ownership interest in the property has the right to rescind the transaction within three business days after the closing, delivery of the notice of right to rescind, or delivery of all material disclosures, whichever occurs last.
This right applies to all individuals with a legal interest in the property, not just the primary borrower or the person who will occupy the property. This ensures that all owners can consent to the mortgage terms.
References:
Truth in Lending Act (TILA), Section 125
Regulation Z, 12 CFR §1026.23
Which of the following responses describes the required amount of flood insurance coverage?
- A . The original appraised value of the home
- B . The outstanding principal balance of the loan
- C . The minimum amount of National Flood Insurance Program coverage available
- D . The property value on file with the county property valuation administrator office
B
Explanation:
Flood insurance coverage is required to cover the lesser of:
The outstanding principal balance of the loan, or
The maximum coverage limit available under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is $250,000 for residential properties.
The purpose of flood insurance is to protect the lender’s interest in the property, ensuring that the loan amount is covered in the event of a flood.
The appraised value of the home (A) and the property value on file with the county (D) are irrelevant in determining flood insurance requirements.
References:
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
FEMA Flood Insurance Guidelines
The debt-to-income analysis should assess a borrower’s total monthly housing related payments as a percentage of the:
- A . net monthly income
- B . gross monthly income.
- C . taxable income.
- D . loan amount.
B
Explanation:
In a debt-to-income (DTI) analysis, the borrower’s total monthly housing-related payments (including principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and any homeowner association fees) are assessed as a percentage of their gross monthly income. Lenders use the gross income, which is the borrower’s income before taxes and deductions, to determine affordability and creditworthiness.
Net monthly income (A) and taxable income (C) are not used in standard DTI calculations.
The loan amount (D) is unrelated to the DTI calculation.
References:
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Guidelines on DTI ratios
CFPB Guidelines on Ability-to-Repay and DTI
Non-qualified mortgages offer more options for borrowers who:
- A . are unemployed.
- B . are self-employed.
- C . have no down payment.
- D . are currently living with their parents.
B
Explanation:
Non-qualified mortgages (Non-QM) are designed to help borrowers who do not meet the standard documentation or income verification requirements of traditional qualified mortgages (QM). Non-QM loans provide more flexibility in underwriting guidelines and are often used by borrowers such as:
Self-employed individuals who may have inconsistent or difficult-to-verify income streams. These borrowers may use bank statements or asset-based verification instead of W-2 forms or tax returns to qualify for a loan.
Non-QMs cater to borrowers who have unique financial situations but still demonstrate the ability to repay. Non-QM loans are not necessarily high-risk but offer alternatives for those who don’t meet the stringent Qualified Mortgage rules.
Other options:
Unemployed individuals (A) typically cannot qualify unless they have alternative forms of income.
No down payment (C): Non-QM loans usually still require a down payment, though the amount may vary.
Living with parents (D) is not a relevant factor in Non-QM lending.
References:
Dodd-Frank Act and Ability-to-Repay (ATR) rule
CFPB guidelines on Qualified vs. Non-Qualified Mortgages
Which of the following activities is a function of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)?
- A . Regulating the federal funds rate at which money is lent to banks
- B . Regulating the number of mortgage loan originators in the mortgage industry
- C . Regulating mortgage lenders on their mortgage origination practices and procedures
- D . Deciding what quantity of mortgage-backed securities are purchased by the government
C
Explanation:
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is responsible for regulating mortgage lenders and overseeing their origination practices and procedures. The CFPB was created under the Dodd-Frank Act to protect consumers from unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices in financial services, including mortgages. Its functions include:
Enforcing rules related to mortgage origination, such as TILA, RESPA, and ECOA.
Ensuring that lenders provide clear disclosures and follow fair lending practices.
Other functions:
Regulating the federal funds rate (A) is the role of the Federal Reserve.
Deciding the quantity of mortgage-backed securities purchased by the government (D) is related to Federal Reserve monetary policy, not the CFPB.
References:
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
CFPB’s Role in Mortgage Origination
The appraiser valuation independence obligates appraisers to perform their duties in a manner free from outside influence through which of the following actions?
- A . Encouraging a target value
- B . Withholding payment from an appraiser
- C . Asking the appraiser to substantiate a value
- D . Communication directly between the loan officer and the appraiser
C
Explanation:
Under the Appraiser Independence Requirements (AIR), appraisers are obligated to perform their duties free from outside influence or coercion. Asking the appraiser to substantiate a value is permissible because it falls within the scope of ensuring an accurate and credible appraisal. However, it is not permissible to pressure the appraiser into achieving a target value (A) or to withhold payment (B) for unfavorable valuations.
Direct communication between the loan officer and the appraiser (D) may be restricted or controlled to prevent undue influence.
References:
Dodd-Frank Act, Appraisal Independence Rules
CFPB Valuation Independence Requirements
Which of the following reasons is acceptable for denying a loan under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act
(ECOA)?
- A . Receipt of child support
- B . Immigration status
- C . Marital status
- D . Country of birth
B
Explanation:
Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), lenders can deny a loan based on immigration status, as it directly relates to the borrower’s ability to legally reside and work in the country. Lenders must ensure that the borrower has the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract and that they are authorized to work in the U.S. for the loan’s duration.
Receipt of child support (A), marital status (C), and country of birth (D) are protected characteristics
under ECOA, meaning a lender cannot deny credit based on these factors.
References:
Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), 15 U.S.C. §1691
CFPB Regulation B
Which of the following items may lenders use to verify a borrower’s income for his ability to repay a mortgage?
- A . An electronic paystub
- B . A copy of a check register
- C . The income stated on the loan application
- D . The borrower’s attestation that he expects a raise within 30 days
A
Explanation:
To verify a borrower’s income for the ability-to-repay (ATR) requirements, lenders must rely on verified documentation, such as:
Electronic paystubs
W-2 forms
Tax returns
An electronic paystub is acceptable as it provides detailed proof of the borrower’s income, including salary, deductions, and other compensation.
Items like a check register (B), the income stated on the loan application (C), or a borrower’s attestation (D) without documentation are not considered valid forms of income verification.
References:
Dodd-Frank Act – Ability-to-Repay Rule
CFPB Ability-to-Repay/Qualified Mortgage (ATR/QM) Rule
Which of the following sources of funds is acceptable to utilize for down payments, closing costs or financial reserves?
- A . Virtual currency funds
- B . Community second funds
- C . Personal unsecured loans
- D . Foreign assets located outside of the U.S. or its territories
B
Explanation:
Community second funds are an acceptable source of funds for down payments, closing costs, or financial reserves. These are subordinate loans provided by housing finance agencies, nonprofits, or government entities to help borrowers meet the required down payment or closing costs. These funds are often offered to low-to-moderate income borrowers or first-time homebuyers as part of affordable housing programs.
Virtual currency (A), such as Bitcoin, is not an acceptable source due to its volatility and challenges in verifying its stability.
Personal unsecured loans (C) are generally not allowed, as they increase the borrower’s debt and reduce their financial stability.
Foreign assets outside of the U.S. (D) are not typically acceptable unless they can be easily liquidated and transferred to the U.S.
References:
Fannie Mae Selling Guide on acceptable sources of funds
Freddie Mac Guidelines for down payment and closing costs
An easement:
- A . is a mortgage modification.
- B . is a right to cross or otherwise use someone else’s land for a specified purpose.
- C . allows a loan applicant to close on a loan even if all the stipulations have not been met.
- D . allows a borrower to make less than the required payments without going through a full mortgage modification.
B
Explanation:
An easement is a legal right granted to one party to cross or use another party’s land for a specific purpose, such as for utility lines, access roads, or water drainage. Easements are commonly granted in property transactions and are recorded in the public records.
Easements are unrelated to mortgage modifications (A) or payment reductions (D).
References:
Real Estate Law on property easements
HUD Guidelines on easements in property transactions
Under the TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure rule (TRID), what is the minimum time period that must pass between a borrower’s receipt of a Loan Estimate and the closing of a mortgage loan?
- A . 7 business days
- B . 15 business days
- C . 30 business days
- D . 45 calendar days
A
Explanation:
Under the TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rule, the borrower must receive the Loan Estimate (LE) at least 7 business days before the closing (also called consummation) of the mortgage loan. This rule ensures that the borrower has sufficient time to review and understand the loan terms and costs.
The 7-day waiting period starts from the day the Loan Estimate is delivered or placed in the mail. This period allows the borrower to ask questions and possibly negotiate terms before finalizing the mortgage.
References:
TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure Rule (TRID), 12 CFR §1026.19(e)
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Guidelines
Which of the following is an origination fee?
- A . Appraisal fee
- B . Underwriting fee
- C . Title insurance fee
- D . Prepaid Interest fee
B
Explanation:
An underwriting fee is considered an origination fee because it is a charge for the lender’s services in processing and evaluating the mortgage application. Origination fees include any fees associated with creating and underwriting the loan.
Appraisal fees (A), title insurance fees (C), and prepaid interest fees (D) are not considered origination fees; they are separate charges related to third-party services or pre-paid interest.
References:
TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure Rule (TRID)
CFPB Mortgage Origination Fee Guidelines
A second (subordinate) mortgage loan includes:
- A . government home purchase loan.
- B . conventional home purchase loan.
- C . home equity conversion mortgage.
- D . home equity lines of credit (HELOCs;
D
Explanation:
A second (subordinate) mortgage loan refers to a mortgage taken out after the primary mortgage and is subordinate to the first in priority of claims on the property in case of default or foreclosure. One of the most common types of subordinate mortgages is a home equity line of credit (HELOC).
HELOC allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their home, typically after the first mortgage, making it a subordinate loan.
Other options:
Government home purchase loans (A) and conventional home purchase loans (B) are typically first mortgages.
A home equity conversion mortgage (C) is a type of reverse mortgage, which is also typically a primary loan, not a subordinate one.
References:
Fannie Mae Selling Guide on subordinate financing
HELOC regulations under Regulation Z
What is the minimum amount of flood insurance a lender must require on a residential building located in a special flood hazard area?
- A . $50,000 for residential property structures
- B . $150,000 for residential property structures
- C . $250,000 for residential property structures
- D . $350,000 for residential property structures
C
Explanation:
The minimum amount of flood insurance required by lenders for a residential building located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) is the lesser of:
100% of the replacement cost of the structure, or
The maximum available under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is $250,000 for residential property structures.
This requirement ensures that the property is adequately covered in case of flood damage.
References:
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Guidelines
Flood Disaster Protection Act (FDPA)
Offering or negotiating the terms of a loan includes which of the following actions?
- A . Providing general explanations or descriptions in response to a consumer’s inquiry
- B . Making an underwriting decision about whether an applicant qualifies for a loan
- C . Presenting particular loan terms to an applicant verbally, in writing, or otherwise
- D . Arranging the loan closing or other aspects of the loan process
C
Explanation:
Under the SAFE Act, offering or negotiating the terms of a loan includes presenting specific loan terms to an applicant, whether verbally, in writing, or through any other communication method. This activity directly involves discussing or negotiating loan details like interest rates, loan amounts, and repayment terms, which requires licensure as a mortgage loan originator (MLO).
Providing general explanations (A) and arranging loan closings (D) do not require an MLO license because they do not involve negotiating or offering specific loan terms.
Making underwriting decisions (B) is also a separate activity not considered "offering or negotiating" loan terms.
References:
SAFE Act, 12 USC §5101
NMLS Guidelines on MLO licensure requirements
A borrower has been approved for a new home loan and has completed all necessary paperwork.
When should the borrower receive the Closing Disclosure?
- A . 4 business days prior lo consummation
- B . 3 business days prior to consummation
- C . 1 business day prior to consummation
- D . On the day of consummation
B
Explanation:
According to the TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rule, the borrower must receive the Closing Disclosure (CD) at least 3 business days prior to loan consummation. This waiting period gives the borrower adequate time to review the final terms and costs associated with the mortgage loan. If there are significant changes to the terms of the loan after the CD is issued, a new 3-day waiting period may be required.
References:
TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure Rule (TRID), 12 CFR §1026.19(f)
CFPB Closing Disclosure Guidelines
Which of the following acts requires mortgage loan originators to complete annual continuing education to satisfy the requirement for licensure?
- A . The SAFE Act
- B . The Dodd-Frank Act
- C . The Truth in Lending Act (TILA)
- D . The Equal Credit Opportunity Act
A
Explanation:
The SAFE Act (Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act) requires all state-licensed mortgage loan originators (MLOs) to complete annual continuing education (CE) as part of their licensure requirements. This includes 8 hours of CE, covering topics like federal law, ethics, and nontraditional mortgage products.
The goal of the SAFE Act is to ensure MLOs are knowledgeable about regulations, ethical practices, and current mortgage industry trends. Failing to complete the required education can result in a license being suspended or revoked.
Other Acts:
The Dodd-Frank Act (B) sets broader regulations, such as those related to mortgage loan origination
compensation.
TILA (C) governs disclosures and loan terms but does not mandate CE.
ECOA (D) focuses on preventing discrimination in credit but does not require CE.
References:
SAFE Act, 12 USC §5101
NMLS Continuing Education Requirements