Economists at Fannie Mae and the MBA differ on how low interest rates on mortgages will go next year. Fannie is also more optimistic about the outlook for unemployment.
Larger credit unions are increasingly acquiring community banks and reducing mortgage lending in local communities, according to the Independent Community Bankers of America.
Nonbank mortgage companies would continue to face reporting obligations even if earnings disclosures from public companies become less frequent, as talked about by the Trump administration.
Proposed changes to servicing rules to discourage foreclosures or require nonbanks to maintain cash buffers could add costs for borrowers, according to a report from the Congressional Research Service.
Katie Sweeney denied allegations from the Association of Independent Mortgage Experts that she steered sponsorships and contracts away from the trade group for personal gain.
The Fed cut the federal funds rate by 25 basis points this week and further cuts are expected. Even if interest rates on mortgages don’t come down much more, demand for loans is expected to increase.
The Trump administration is ramping up discussions regarding reforms to the government-sponsored enterprises but it’s still not clear what the result will be. Whether Congress will take action is also an open question.