Federal agencies have used the higher-priced mortgage designation as a proxy for subprime lending. Strategies vary among the biggest originators of higher-priced mortgages, including focusing on loans for manufactured homes or expanded-credit mortgages. (Includes two data tables.)
Debt service coverage ratio mortgages, residential transition loans and other alternative products include some unique features that can’t necessarily be handled well by servicing systems for standard residential mortgages.
Portfolio holdings at the government-sponsored enterprises declined across the board during the first quarter of 2025. On an annual basis, Fannie Mae increased its holdings of MBS while Freddie Mac’s mortgage holdings increased. (Includes data table.)
In the current interest rate environment, homebuilders seem to favor offering mortgage buydowns rather than reducing prices. Officials at mortgage companies fear the buydown activity is inflating home prices.
The five largest servicers in Inside Mortgage Finance’s delinquency index posted declines in delinquencies during the first quarter of 2025. Still, servicers are preparing for an increase in delinquencies. (Includes two data tables.)