Denial rates for most mortgage products declined on an annual basis in 2025, though denials of applications for purchase mortgages via FHA and USDA increased slightly. (Includes data table.)
Conventional-conforming mortgages accounted for 54.3% of originations in the first quarter of 2026. Rocket Mortgage was the top producer of the loans in the quarter. (Includes two data tables.)
A lawsuit seeks to block a new CFPB rule loosening anti-discrimination regulations; FHA will continue to use the tri-merge credit pull process; bill passed by House would increase fees on VA home loans to pay for expanded benefits for veterans; delinquencies stay firm in April.
Overall, FHA and VA lending declined by 8.3% on a quarterly basis in the first quarter of 2026. FHA refi volume was up, helped by loans to existing FHA borrowers. (Includes three data tables.)
Although changes to FHA’s loss-mitigation policies are expected to resolve most of the persistent re-defaults in its portfolio, FHA borrowers continue to be the most exposed to financial stressors.
Ginnie Mae President Joe Gormley addressed how he’s been filling a dual role as temporary FHA head since Commissioner Frank Cassidy went on leave from the position in April.
FHA could sustain a zero-downpayment loan option for first-time homebuyers if Congress would allow it, analysts at the Urban Institute contended in a new proposal.
Bill in House would add to IRRRL fees; FHA proposes rejecting applicants with delinquent child support obligations; FHA to automate some case number assignments for condos.
Despite the decline, the delinquency rate at the end of March was above the level seen in March 2025. Some of the increase has been pinned on FHA loss-mitigation changes, though foreclosure activity is also rising. (Includes two data tables.)