History of Mortgage broker in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 7, 2026

A mortgage broker acts as an intermediary between borrowers and lenders, finding suitable mortgage loans for individuals or businesses. They have become increasingly popular due to competitive mortgage markets, often representing the largest sales channel for lenders. Mortgage brokers connect borrowers with banks or direct lenders willing to provide specific loans. In Canada, brokers are lender-paid and typically don't charge fees for strong credit applications. In the US, regulations by state and the CFPB ensure compliance with banking and finance laws, varying by jurisdiction. These regulations exist to protect consumers and ensure fair lending practices.

1979: California Supreme Court Ruling on Fiduciary Duty

In 1979, the Supreme Court of California established fiduciary duties for mortgage brokers, setting them apart from other states in the United States.

2002: Mortgages Under 25 Years

In 2002, 95% of mortgages were under 25 years in length, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

2004: Mortgage Brokerage Industry Statistics

In 2004, a study estimated approximately 53,000 mortgage brokerage companies employed 418,700 people and originated 68% of residential loans in the United States, while the remaining 32% was handled directly by lenders.

2007: Fiduciary Duty of Mortgage Brokers

As of 2007, federal and most state laws in the United States, except for California, did not assign a fiduciary duty to mortgage brokers, potentially leading to excessive rates and fees for consumers.

2008: Commission Realignment by Australian Banks

During June to August 2008, Australian banks introduced commission re-alignments in reaction to the Subprime mortgage crisis impacting the mortgage broker commissions. Commissions can vary significantly between different lenders and loan products

2008: Mortgage Broker Market Share in Australia

In 2008, mortgage brokers introduced approximately 35% of all loans secured by a mortgage in Australia.

2009: Mortgage Market Review Commenced

In 2009, the Mortgage Market Review (MMR) began as a comprehensive review of the UK mortgage market.

2010: New Good Faith Estimate

In 2010, the government introduced a new Good Faith Estimate to help consumers compare mortgage fees from brokers and direct lenders, addressing concerns about bait and switch tactics.

March 2012: Mortgage Broker Market Share in Australia

In March 2012, mortgage brokers introduced 43% of all loans secured by a mortgage in Australia.

2012: Decrease in Mortgages Under 25 Years

Between 2002 and 2012, the percentage of mortgages under 25 years in length fell from 95% to 68%, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

2012: Mortgage Market Review Concluded

In 2012, the Mortgage Market Review (MMR) concluded, leading to significant changes in the regulated lending environment in the UK.

April 2014: Mortgage Market Review Implementation

On April 26, 2014, the Mortgage Market Review (MMR), implemented stricter affordability requirements and income/expenditure checks in the UK, also causing increased wait times for mortgages.

2016: Regulatory Changes in the UK Mortgage Market

By 2016, changes stemming from the Mortgage Credit Directive (MCD) in the UK meant that borrowers occupying less than 40% of a property, previously exempt, would be considered consumers, leading to increased regulation of these transactions.

2016: Mortgage Broker Contribution

In 2016, mortgage brokers had contributed to $2.9 billion to the Australian economy.

2017: Increased Mobile and Online Technology

As of 2017, Canada experienced a move towards mobile and online technology in the mortgage industry. For example, CIBC created a mobile app and companies aimed for consumer awareness against bank products.

2017: Mortgage Broker Contribution

In 2017, mortgage brokers had contributed to $2.9 billion to the Australian economy.

2019: Mortgage Broker Market Share and Regulatory Challenges in Australia

In 2019, the Mortgage Broker market share in Australia grew to 59%, but the sector's future faced uncertainty due to recommendations from the Hayne Royal Commission regarding commission structures. The industry successfully lobbied against the proposed upfront fee-for-service model.