For the first time since QM standards took effect in early 2014, lenders can no longer rely on the government-sponsored enterprises to obtain QM status for a loan.

The supply of home-equity debt outstanding in the market continued to fall in the first quarter as new originations of HELOCs and closed-end seconds declined 13%. (Includes three data charts.)

The sale of mortgage franchises is picking up but there’s a headwind tied to valuations. Owners are holding out for top dollar.

The mortgage technology vendor hasn’t been profitable since its inception in 2012 and is forecasting losses going forward.

While nonbanks ranking among the top-100 lenders boosted production by 3.2% in the first quarter, depository institutions posted a 7.9% drop. (Includes two data charts.)

Time to throw away the loss-mitigation toolbox in dealing with COVID-related delinquencies? Maybe not.

Though demand for purchase mortgages is increasing, it is nowhere near levels sufficient to make up for the decline in refi activity, say lenders.

Nonbank Cornerstone Home moves to buy an FDIC-insured institution. Also, should anyone be worried about SoFi’s progress in mortgages?

Competition among the two dominant players in the wholesale channel continues to reduce the profit equation. However, margins from retail lending remain robust … for the moment.

Critics argue that community banks and small credit unions are vulnerable to rules designed for large lenders. Also, if Fannie and Freddie exit conservatorship, many of the guardrails protecting small lenders could vanish.