Denial rates on applications for purchase mortgages in the conventional-conforming market held steady in 2022, while refi rejections jumped as interest rates increased during the year, according to HMDA data. (Includes data chart.)

Tightening of lending standards by banks in the wake of elevated interest rates has created an opportunity for nonbanks to increase their share of the home-equity lending market.

Private mortgage insurers gained market share in the agency purchase market during the first quarter, even as securitization of insured mortgages declined. (Includes two data charts.)

Loans sales by banks and thrifts outpaced originations of mortgages marked for sale for the third consecutive year in 2022. The sales boom looks to be coming to an end as loans held for sale dwindle. (Includes two data charts.)

GSEs set to adopt new credit scores in late 2025; Rocket’s credit card; new president at MISMO.

FHFA economists suggest originators may have better pricing technology than Fannie and Freddie.

Fannie Mae has announced alternative ways to determine a property valuation when a full appraisal isn’t necessary.

Applications stumbled in early February; rate locks increased in January; consulting firm opposes ICE’s planned acquisition of Black Knight; FHA ditches paper filing; Black Knight adds eNote and eVault tech.

Two recent court cases demonstrate the value in completing a comprehensive title search prior to closing a refinance mortgage.

Rocket is known for refis. Demand for refis is limited due to rising interest rates. So Rocket is taking steps to boost originations of purchase mortgages.