Jumbo correspondent lending continued to make its comeback in the first quarter of 2021 after a sharp drop in volume tied to the coronavirus. Trends were mixed among lenders that focus on the retail channel. (Includes data chart.)
The non-agency market has emerged as an alternative, albeit at a higher cost, for lenders to deliver GSE-eligible mortgages backed by investment properties and second homes. However, some lenders are concerned about the adverse impact GSE restrictions could have.
Investors and borrowers alike are showing strong demand for fix-and-flip business purpose loans. Originators see volume rising and new players are entering the sector.
Non-QM impairment rate declines in April; non-agency forbearance update; Laurie Goodman appointed chair of MFA Financial’s board; White Mountain Capital boosting loan acquisitions; Synergy One offering HELOC with blockchain tech; capital raises and new financing for financing providers that allow homebuyers to make cash offers; Canopy approved by DBRS as due diligence provider.
A reduction in GSE refi business along with regulatory changes are expected to prompt an increase in originations of non-agency mortgages. The bulk of the increase could come from prime loans.
Securitization of mortgages for investment properties increased at Fannie and Freddie in the first quarter even as overall GSE business declined. Lenders appear to have rushed to deliver the loans before new restrictions took effect. (Includes data chart.)
A number of firms are working to increase originations of non-QMs and ramping up investments in the loans. It can be a highly profitable business, though investor demand is volatile.
As an increase in interest rates curtailed its GSE refi volume, Impac is rushing to ramp up originations of non-QMs. The firm also plans to issue its own MBS.
Some 15.5% of applications for jumbo mortgages in 2020 were denied by lenders. Among individual funders, denial rates ranged from a low of 1% to north of 50%. (Includes data chart.)
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