Issuance of non-agency MBS with GSE-eligible loans is booming, largely due to restrictions on certain purchases by the GSEs.

Nine expanded-credit MBS hit the market in the past two weeks, with the deals largely backed by mortgages originated in recent months.

After temporarily suspending originations during the pandemic, wholesaler ClearEdge Lending is ramping up production of non-agency mortgages.

Non-agency forbearance reading increases; non-QM lenders make personnel moves; Moody’s withdraws its jumbo assessment of Quicken Loans, Regions Bank to acquire home-improvement lender.

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.

Angel Oak Mortgage, which primarily invests in non-QMs originated by affiliates of Angel Oak Companies, plans to become a public company.

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.