Investors are looking for consistency from non-QM lenders as concerns about expanding credit boxes mount.

Delinquencies on non-qualified mortgages have increased, but lenders say the performance of the loans should hold up in the long run.

Originations of jumbo mortgages increased by 50% on an annual basis in the first quarter of 2026. The bulk of the volume is in non-agency jumbos, with the conforming jumbo sector also holding up. (Includes three data tables.)

The three major consumer reporting agencies are using discounted pricing and other strategies to drive adoption of VantageScore 4.0 among mortgage lenders. The score is the main competitor to FICO.

Lenders that focus on non-qualified mortgages are optimistic that originations will continue to increase this year.

David Neylan, president and chief operating officer at Guild Mortgage, said there is no quick fix to make homebuying more affordable.

Mortgages tied to Ginnie Mae accounted for 18.3% of total servicing outstanding at the end of September. Some servicing share shifted away from the GSEs, though Fannie and Freddie still dominate. (Includes two data tables.)

Some $13.26 billion of high-balance mortgages were included in agency MBS issued during the third quarter of 2025. Nine months into the year, agency high-balance sales were down somewhat on an annual basis, with the decline concentrated in sales to the GSEs. (Includes three data tables.)

Lenders are expected to increase production of prime jumbos, non-QMs and home equity loans in the coming year.

Homeowners are tapping their equity to pay off consumer credit debt and student loans.