Artificial intelligence can cut down on “stare and compare” tasks. But mortgage originations are so complex, and anxiety-provoking for borrowers, that humans are essential.

The volume of mortgages classified as held for sale at banks and thrifts ticked up in the first quarter, ending a long decline. Loan sales by banks also outpaced originations of mortgages intended for sale. (Includes two data charts.)

Originations were down in the first quarter, but gain-on-sale margins improved. Having a hand in the servicing business helped some firms turn a profit.

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.)

Correspondent sales in 2022 declined by nearly 50%, in line with total originations. Among the top correspondent sellers, trends varied, based on an analysis of HMDA data. (Includes data chart.)

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.)

The unsecured debt of several nonbanks continues to trade below par, but in general has held up fairly well. However, not for loanDepot.

Mortgage repurchases by banks declined by 27% during the fourth quarter. Reserves tied to repurchases increased, suggesting that mortgage buybacks could go back up in 2023. (Includes data chart.)

A handful of homebuilder mortgage-banking operations helped improve an otherwise dreary fourth quarter for nonbank lenders. However, four companies have not posted year-end results. (Includes data chart.)