Securitization of mortgages for investment properties increased at Fannie and Freddie in the first quarter even as overall GSE business declined. Lenders appear to have rushed to deliver the loans before new restrictions took effect. (Includes data chart.)

A number of firms are working to increase originations of non-QMs and ramping up investments in the loans. It can be a highly profitable business, though investor demand is volatile.

As an increase in interest rates curtailed its GSE refi volume, Impac is rushing to ramp up originations of non-QMs. The firm also plans to issue its own MBS.

Some 15.5% of applications for jumbo mortgages in 2020 were denied by lenders. Among individual funders, denial rates ranged from a low of 1% to north of 50%. (Includes data chart.)

Business-purpose lender Velocity Financial increased loan production in the first quarter of 2021 but income declined. The firm, which sold fewer loans in the first quarter, issued an MBS in May.

A flurry of non-agency MBS hit the market; the number of non-agency mortgages in forbearance increases; SFA raises concerns about CFPB’s proposal to establish a partial foreclosure moratorium; SFA to set up data tape task force; Sachem Capital generates $2.2 million of net income in 1Q21; new industry hires.

As much as $20 billion of GSE-eligible mortgages could go into non-agency MBS annually due to new restrictions on GSE acquisitions of mortgages for investment properties and second homes.

Margins on originations through the wholesale channel are plummeting, with market leader UWM trying to squeeze competitors. Third-ranked Home Point was operating at breakeven levels in April.