After a couple of years where annual home price growth averaged 20%, analysts expect prices to flatten or even decline. And it’s possible the conforming loan limit set for 2023 will remain in place for all of 2024.

Borrowers are seeking non-QMs even as interest rates increase. However, investor demand for the loans is mixed.

In yet another cost-cutting move, loanDepot is halting 401(k) matches while some of its top brass will get raises. Meanwhile, is there relief on the way for low-balance mortgages? HUD is trying to lend a helping hand.

Home-equity originations rose sharply in the second quarter as robust housing value growth and soaring interest rates formed a perfect environment for tapping equity by way of second-lien mortgages. (Includes three data charts.)

Among the corrections currently sweeping the industry is the salary demands of loan underwriters. Executives say some can be had for half of what they earned during the boom.

The Mortgage Bankers Association barely turned a “profit” last year even though originators had a banner year. If you’re guessing the reason for the performance is COVID, move to the head of the class.

Hearings in Congress with the CEOs of seven megabanks stretched for more than nine hours across two days. The executives touted mortgage programs for minorities and listed their regulatory concerns.

Appraisal professionals accused the GSE of using unsigned, boilerplate complaints when referring appraisers to state boards for disciplinary action.

Rising rates are putting pressure on both lenders and borrowers. Meanwhile, with originations constrained consolidations should increase.

The mortgage industry’s worst kept secret? A lot of originators are losing money on new production. How long can nonbank shops live off the fat of 2020-2021? We’re about to find out.