Industry attorneys have cautioned companies to remain alert even though regulators have eased certain federal mortgage servicing rules.

Lenders and servicers alike are facing huge challenges due to the coronavirus, with many rising to the operational challenge. However, when it comes to MSR sales, the picture is bleak.

Most of the banking sector's 1% drop in servicing for others is attributable to declining balances at Wells Fargo and JPMorgan Chase. (Includes data chart.)

Thanks to rates falling to new lows last week, the asset value of servicing portfolios is in question. In short, margin calls are expected.

Top-ranked servicer Ocwen Financial is trying to put its problems in the rear view mirror. But a new problem has arrived on its doorstep: Ultra low rates (again), courtesy of the coronavirus.

NewRez, Lakeview and Mr. Cooper ranked as the top bulk buyers of agency servicing in 2019. Coissuance volume was flat in the fourth quarter despite a rise in overall agency securitization. (Includes three data charts.)

Policymakers should focus on making origination and servicing attractive to banks and nonbanks alike instead of adopting additional standards that apply to non-depositories, the Mortgage Bankers Association says.

The ways in which servicers interact with borrowers can play a major role in whether the lender/servicer will retain the customer, according to a Stratmor study. Borrowers tend to like email communication.

No rate hikes in 2020? A totally “neutral” Fed? We’ll see about that. Meanwhile, non-QM lenders Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions and Citadel Servicing have bulls in their eyes.