GSE loan limits increase by 7.4% for 2021; non-agency forbearance rises.

After issuing $1.0 billion of expanded-credit MBS during the third quarter, Annaly is working to acquire more non-QMs. The REIT reported strong returns from the MBS.

MFA Financial took losses on non-QM sales earlier this year and obtained costly financing amid margin calls. Now the REIT is generating profits and paying off debt thanks to two MBS issuances in recent months.

The share of non-QMs that are delinquent or in a loan modification declined again in September. The impairment rate in the sector remains high, though loan holders are optimistic.

Western Alliance plans to offer warehouse lines of credit to lenders that work with Galton then retain some of the lenders’ originations.

CFPB officially extends QM patch; forbearance rate for non-agency mortgages increases; virtual forum on non-QMs.

Originating non-QMs didn’t work out so well for Sterling Bank. After finding compliance issues, the bank ended its non-QM program and started to repurchase loans sold into MBS.

The Conference of State Bank Supervisors said the new proposed standards for nonbank servicers will not only align with federal guidelines but also widen the net to include servicing of non-agency mortgages.

Ocwen settles lawsuit with Florida AG; non-agency forbearance increases; non-QM MBS pipeline filling up; Angel Oak offers 40-year IO; new non-QM lender in the market.

Some 19.2% of non-QMs in MBS were modified or delinquent as of the end of August, down 70 basis points from July. Loan performance improved even as enhanced unemployment benefits expired.