How to Stop Trigger Leads and Unwanted Solicitations After Applying for a Mortgage

Applying for a mortgage can be an exciting and significant step in your life, but it can also come with some unexpected challenges. One of the most frustrating aspects of the mortgage application process is the potential for being bombarded with unsolicited calls and offers from other mortgage and real estate-related companies.

This can happen if one or all three major credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, sell the information of mortgage applicants once their credit has been checked, which is known as trigger leads.

To help you maintain your privacy and reduce the number of unwanted solicitations you receive, here are three steps you can take:

1. Get on the National Do Not Call Registry
The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service that allows you to reduce the number of telemarketing calls you receive. By registering your phone number(s), you can significantly reduce the number of sales calls you receive from national companies. To register, visit www.donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222.

2. Register with DMAchoice
DMAchoice is a service provided by the Data & Marketing Association (DMA) that allows you to opt-out of receiving unsolicited commercial mail from many national companies. By registering with DMAchoice, you can reduce the amount of junk mail you receive, including offers for credit cards, magazine subscriptions, and other products and services. To register, visit www.dmachoice.org.

3. Sign up for OptOutPrescreen
OptOutPrescreen is a service that allows you to opt-out of receiving prescreened offers of credit and insurance. These offers are based on information in your credit report, and they are often sent by mail. By signing up for OptOutPrescreen, you can reduce the number of these offers you receive. To sign up, visit www.optoutprescreen.com or call 1-888-5-OPT-OUT.

Proposed Legislation to Protect Against Trigger Leads

Consumers have made it known they’d like more control over their personal information. There is proposed legislation that could help protect the privacy of mortgage applicants and prevent trigger leads.

H.R. 2656, also known as the Trigger Leads Abatement Act of 2023 was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2021. If passed, this bill prohibits credit reporting agencies from providing a credit report not initiated by a consumer if the report is being provided on the basis that the consumer has had a credit inquiry regarding a home mortgage loan.

This practice, known as producing a trigger lead, provides notice to other mortgage lenders that the consumer is seeking a mortgage loan.

While the outcome of this proposed legislation remains to be seen, it is a positive step towards protecting the privacy of consumers in the mortgage application process. In the meantime, by taking advantage of the National Do Not Call Registry, DMAchoice, and OptOutPrescreen, you can take proactive steps to reduce the number of unwanted solicitations you receive and maintain your privacy throughout the mortgage application process.

Work with a Trusted Lender to Avoid Trigger Leads

When applying for a mortgage, it’s important to work with a trusted lender who prioritizes your privacy and security. At Embrace Home Loans®, we understand the importance of protecting your personal information.

Our team of experts will guide you through the mortgage process while ensuring that your privacy is maintained every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your homeownership goals while keeping your information safe and secure.