1 Hour FL SAFE 2025 State Law Course

This course on Florida-specific education for MLOs fulfills 1 hour of annual continuing education for licensed professionals in the state. A total of 8 hours must be completed each year before renewal is possible, which includes 3 hours of federal law, 2 hours of non-traditional mortgage lending, 2 hours of ethics (including  fraud, consumer protection, and fair-lending issues), and 1 hour of state-specific education.  

The course begins with an overview of what is covered, and then explores the Office of Financial Regulation, the NMLS, and provides a review of the Florida Mortgage Brokerage and Mortgage Lending Act of 2009. Loan originators and mortgage brokers continue the course, with a discussion of compliance filings, examinations and audits, records, financial statements, and reports. Net worth requirements and escrow and trust accounts are detailed. The course continues with prohibited advertising and associated record requirements, expressed interest rates, violations, prohibited practices, and administrative fines and penalties for violations. 

The next portion of the course discusses conditions and limitations of certain mortgage transactions, MLO license renewal, loan originator and processor employment and fees paid, loan modifications, and the borrower’s right of cancellation. Continuing, the Mortgage Guaranty Trust Fund is discussed, including payment of fees and claims. Enforcement of laws and rules for mortgage brokerages, organization of the Florida Administrative Code, the effect of law enforcement on MLO applications for licensure, fees and commissions standards, and misleading practices continue the course.  

The declaration of intent to engage solely in loan processing is detailed, as well as amendments, change of name/entity and ownership control, and additional prohibited acts and related penalties are explored. Remedial action and investigations of unsafe practices and the types of investigations in the state are explored, and lock-in agreement rules are discussed. The course concludes with a dive into other laws and regulations and recent changes for MLOs. This section details the state’s stance on electronic surety bonds, the Florida property tax system and a related constitutional amendment related to homestead exemptions and more.  

This is a stand-alone course and can be taken either on its own or in connection with other courses offered by AYPO to fulfill your CE requirements.