Article: Seven states join online mortgage broker tracking

WASHINGTON -- Seven states on Wednesday launched a standardized and mandatory process to more thoroughly license and track tens of thousands of mortgage brokers.

The effort could be expanded upon by Congressional Democrats, who are expected in 2008 to continue pushing for tighter national standards. Mortgage brokers have come under scrutiny over the past year as home loan defaults grew and housing market troubles worsened.

Experts say loose licensing standards made it easy for shady operators -- even those with criminal records -- to work in the business.

While mortgage regulations vary dramatically from one state to another, the new system creates a uniform application for mortgage ...

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