(A) Without first obtaining a license pursuant to this chapter it is unlawful for a person, other than an exempt person, doing business in this State to:

(1) act as a mortgage lender or, directly or indirectly, engage in the business of a mortgage lender under any name or title; or

Terms Used In South Carolina Code 37-22-120

  • Mortgage: The written agreement pledging property to a creditor as collateral for a loan.

(2) circulate or use advertising, including electronic means, make a representation or give information to a person which indicates or reasonably implies activity within the scope of this chapter.

(B) It is unlawful for a person to employ, compensate, or appoint as its agent a loan originator unless the loan originator is licensed as a loan originator pursuant to this chapter. An exempt person is not subject to this subsection.

(C) The license of a loan originator is not effective during a period that the person is not employed by a mortgage lender licensed pursuant to this chapter.

(D) If a loan originator ceases to be employed by a mortgage lender licensed pursuant to this chapter, the loan originator and the mortgage lender by whom that person is employed promptly shall notify the commissioner in writing. The mortgage lender’s notice must include a statement of the specific reason or reasons for the termination of the loan originator’s employment. The reason for termination is confidential information and must not be released to the public.

(E) A loan originator must not be employed simultaneously by more than one mortgage lender licensed pursuant to this chapter.

(F) Independent contractors, except for exempt persons, must be licensed separately. Processors and underwriters who are independent contractors must be licensed as provided in § 37-22-110(34)(c).