3 Simple Ways to Stop Mortgage Marketing Before It Hits

Takeaway: Opt out of prescreened lists, register your numbers, and cut off major marketers at the start.

Why This Problem Happens

When you apply for a loan, your credit report flags you as a hot lead. Credit bureaus then sell your data as a “trigger lead,” and dozens of companies may start calling. If you’re unsure how this works, check out our article How One Credit Inquiry Turns Into a Flood of Calls before you continue.

Step 1: Opt Out of Prescreened Leads

Visit OptOutPrescreen.com or call 1‑888‑5‑OPT‑OUT (1‑888‑567‑8688). You can opt out for five years electronically or request permanent removal via mailed form. Requests usually process within 5 business days, although stoppage of offers may take weeks as pre‑bought lists clear out. Fairway’s guide highlights these details.

Step 2: Register on the Do Not Call List

Go to Donotcall.gov or call 1‑888‑382‑1222 to add your phone numbers. Legitimate telemarketers must stop within 31 days. Scams and robocalls may still slip through, but adding your number helps stop many marketing calls. See the FTC’s official FAQ.

Step 3: Reduce Junk Mail via DMAchoice

Sign up at DMAchoice.org for around $1–$2 to opt out of many commercial mail offers for up to 5 or 10 years depending on the option. Because DMA updates quarterly, mail reductions may take a few weeks. First Mid’s guide explains this well.

Bonus Tips to Protect Yourself

• Use your phone’s spam-block tools or a call‑filter app—many carriers offer them free. Report spam numbers to help others too. (See FTC advice.)
• Don't press options during automated calls—scammers use that to confirm your number is live. Instead, just hang up.
• After closing your loan, consider freezing your credit at each bureau. This won’t stop existing leads but may prevent future ones.

How Long Will It Take?

Expect a noticeable drop in calls and offers within 2–4 weeks. Some mail or residual messages may still arrive from other sources, like charities or political groups, but the biggest flood from trigger leads will subside.