Issuers of Ginnie Mae securities took it easy in February, producing just $38.07 billion of MBS, off 24.6% from the previous month. Purchase mortgage and refi volumes declined at similar paces. (Includes two data tables.)

The Mortgage Bankers Association and Community Home Lenders of America urged the Department of Veterans Affairs to allow for at least 180 days to implement a new partial claim program.

The Mortgage Bankers Association withheld its support for housing legislation ahead of a vote this week in the Senate, seeking changes to FHA and VA provisions. The Senate passed the bill without further amendments.

The costs of servicing nonperforming FHA loans were high enough for Mortgage Center, a Michigan-based credit union service organization, to change its strategy.

Some $87.67 billion of loans were removed from Ginnie Mae mortgage-backed securities during the fourth quarter of 2025, with about 87% of them representing borrower payoffs. (Includes two data tables.)

Some homebuyers are finding relief by assuming FHA mortgages that were originated during the pandemic.

FHA issued a waiver last week allowing borrowers to make early payments under a trial payment plan.

FHA resolves most Neighborhood Watch errors; MISMO publishes standard for FHA applications; former FHA commissioner joins VA lender’s advisory board.

VA refinance activity more than doubled in the fourth quarter and FHA refi volume was up 55%. United Wholesale Mortgage was the top lender in both government loan programs. (Includes three data tables.)

Heads of government mortgage programs discussed current and future initiatives last week at the Mortgage Bankers Association’s servicing summit.