United Wholesale Mortgage faced a minor setback in its quest to have brokers account for 50% of mortgage originations. Both the retail and correspondent channels gained market share in the second quarter. (Includes six data tables.)

Rocket Mortgage is taking steps to boost its market share and production of purchase mortgages. That includes an effort to increase wholesale lending.

Home equity investments allow homeowners to receive cash in exchange for a share in home price appreciation. Activity in the sector has grown to the extent that there was a conference dedicated to HEIs last week.

Believing in its prowess as a servicing recapture expert, Rocket Mortgage is itching to buy MSR packages. In other M&A news, a distillery wants to enter the origination business. Think of the cross-selling opportunities!

Lower rates this winter could create a small boost in refi volume, but don’t expect a massive wave of refis like a few years ago.

Harris reiterates housing plan at debate; Trump vows to prohibit mortgages for undocumented residents; CFPB plans open banking rule for mortgages; Rocket to rebrand.

Originations of both non-agency and conforming jumbo mortgages increased in the second quarter. Combined, they accounted for 16.1% of first-lien originations. Meanwhile, home price appreciation is slowing. (Includes three data tables.)

The Federal Reserve is widely expected to reduce the federal funds rate on Sept. 18. The initial rate cut is already priced in to mortgage rates.

In the long run, mortgage brokers and real estate agents believe the NAR commission settlement will boost business.

Nonbanks are making money once again, which could pave the way for new nonbank IPOs. Also, some of the IPO class of 2020/2021 are trading above their out-of-the-gate prices.