FHFA Director Bill Pulte sees himself as an advocate for the housing market. He said FHFA is working to increase the number of homes for sale. Details were scant on the effort and on potential GSE shifts.

MBA is largely happy with changes made so far by the Trump administration. Bob Broeksmit, president and CEO of the MBA, said the administration is creating certainty, clarity and stability for mortgage companies.

VA partial claims bill passes in House; nominee for FHA commissioner expected to have industry experience; Pulte touts big find at Fannie.

In the current interest rate environment, homebuilders seem to favor offering mortgage buydowns rather than reducing prices. Officials at mortgage companies fear the buydown activity is inflating home prices.

Among other changes, Fannie and Freddie increased the cap on interested party contributions from $500 to $2,500.

Researchers say that, at any given credit score, the cross-subsidies inherent in GSE pricing favor higher-income borrowers over lower-income borrowers.

MSR investors see risks and benefits in rising costs for property taxes and insurance; child receives offer from mortgage lender.

Fitch Ratings analysts seek feedback on a framework for interpolating climate change risk into bond ratings.

United Wholesale Mortgage plans to continue to grow organically, making investments in technology. The nonbank took a large loss in the first quarter as values of mortgage servicing rights declined.

Rithm continues to post strong earnings, but officials at the REIT are frustrated by how the market treats its stock. It also has a SPAC-in-waiting and a mortgage company it would like to spin off.