More than a year after volatility from the coronavirus disrupted operations for many non-QM lenders, new products are being launched and underwriting standards are being relaxed.

Non-agency forbearance increases; Sachem inks $200 million repo line; review of risk-retention requirements extended; Angel Oak plans to expand its digital capabilities; Liquid Mortgage receives patent; Home Diversification Corp. for sale.

With lending volumes expected to increase, numerous non-QM lenders are working to add employees. New products are also being offered.

The "patch" that provided QM status to every mortgage eligible for sale to the GSEs is no longer in effect. With fewer incentives to originate mortgages that comply with GSE standards, lenders could boost non-agency originations.

Toorak Capital Partners expanded its securitization activities into 30-year mortgages for investment properties. Bayview Asset Management and Goldman Sachs have jumbo MBS in the market, and a number of other issuers are planning deals.

The impairment rate on securitized non-QMs fell to 7.9% at the end of May. Prepayments in the sector remain elevated as borrowers refinance.

Issuance of non-agency securities increased 81.3% in the second quarter of 2021. Volume was boosted by the spike in deliveries of GSE-eligible mortgages following regulatory changes in the agency market. (Includes data chart.)

Nearly 70% of the non-QMs originated in 2020 included an IO term, according to a new INM analysis. The top two lenders were banks. (Includes data chart.)

While many non-QM lenders suspended production last year, A&D Mortgage’s direct connection to the MBS market placed it in good stead.