The reverse-mortgage market was virtually glowing last year, with production increasing 24.6% to a whopping $29.65 billion. But much of that activity was front-loaded in the first six months. (Includes three data charts.)

Originations of FHA and VA loans through the retail channel dropped a hefty 52.5% in 2022, allowing the correspondent channel to become the dominant source of government-insured lending. (Includes data chart.)

The Center for Responsible Lending and the American Enterprise Institute want FHA and VA to implement measures to discourage harmful cash-out refinancings.

The interest rate on VA’s Native American Direct Loan program has been lowered to 2.5% for the next two years.

FHA and VA originations in the fourth quarter of 2022 were the lowest since early 2019. The VA’s IRRRL program was practically wiped out, while HECMs were the least bleak corner of the market. (Includes three data charts.)

FHA is cutting annual mortgage insurance premiums, effective March 20. Lenders are seeking operational clarity on loans already in the origination pipeline.

The USDA’s Section 502 loan program could be the answer to the affordable housing crisis in towns near tourist attractions.

By targeting price cuts at low-FICO score and high-LTV borrowers, the new pricing grids of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac could increase market overlap with FHA.

Only 23 lenders made streamlined VA refinance loans during the fourth quarter of 2022 as high interest rates have made the program nearly useless for veterans.

One of the keys for lenders facing financial difficulties is to communicate early and often with Ginnie Mae, according to the agency’s chief risk officer.