More needs to be done to close the racial and ethnic homeownership gaps, according to speakers at a conference hosted by the National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders.

The Mortgage Bankers Association said the new early-buyout securitization would provide issuers more liquidity in times of stress.

Servicing outstanding on 1-4 family mortgages increased by an estimated 0.8% during the third quarter. Ginnie servicing grew at more than twice that pace, fueled by refinance originations. (Includes two data tables.)

The Mortgage Bankers Association said HUD regulations don’t expressly prohibit convenience fees, and a retroactive administrative enforcement of an “apparent new policy” is inappropriate and misguided.

Declining interest rates through September helped increase the flow of both purchase mortgages and refinances into Ginnie MBS in November. Issuance increased by 10.1% on a monthly basis, and growth in FHA refi business outpaced VA refi activity. (Includes two data tables.)

Industry stakeholders have largely applauded the nomination of Scott Turner as secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, citing his experience and leadership.

The draft standards differ based on whether borrowers can resume their original mortgage payments or need payment relief. Comments on the proposal are due Dec. 23.

The new requirements go into effect Jan. 1. However, FHA has provided servicers alternative interim procedures through June 30.

The term sheet for Ginnie’s home equity conversion mortgage MBS 2.0 program is largely unchanged from the draft proposed earlier this year.

The pilot seeks to demonstrate how HUD could reduce the costs associated with delivering and retaining original partial claim documents.