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.

Looser pooling requirements for delivering reperforming loans to Ginnie; FHA revises policy handbook; FHA updates instructions for use of GSE model forms; FHA hiring; VA revises various forms; VA offers loan review API; CHLA calls for permanent PTAP; RHS proposes loosening loss-mitigation standards.

A proposal to streamline servicing and claim requirements for FHA mortgages is in the works, along with expanded loss-mitigation options for VA servicers. VA also plans to issue a final rule on cash-out refis.

Outlook for Wells’ participation in FHA market unclear; Biden signs legislation to improve VA appraisals; MBA calls for higher fee on mortgage assumptions; VA revises forms; FHA hosting webinar on quality assurance; Rural Housing Service updates program guidelines.

Retail lending took another precipitous drop in the third quarter. But the fall is more of a return to the norm after heady days fueled by refinances. (Includes data chart.)

VA lending took the brunt of the 3Q22 downturn as its streamlined refinance business all but disappeared. Meanwhile, UWM overtook Rocket in the FHA market. (Includes three data charts.)

VA wants to know if its loss-mitigation options are flexible and adaptable enough for transitional times.

With the FHA MMIF actuarial audit due next month, industry watchers are speculating the timing of an announcement of a potential MIP cut.

A VA Native American Direct Loan offers the same benefits as one from the VA home loan guaranty program but with no private lender in the middle, said John Bell of the VA Loan Guaranty Service.