As rates rose, demand for mortgages dwindled every month in Q2

Rising rates took their toll not only on refinancing but on homebuyer demand for purchase loans in June, according to an analysis of rate lock data released Monday by Black Knight. Continue reading

Homebuyers are beginning to seek smaller mortgages as rates rise

As demand picks up for government loans favored by entry-level buyers, the average purchase mortgage request has shrunk by 10 percent, to $413,500. Continue reading

Polly integrated with all 6 primary mortgage insurers

The ability to retrieve quotes from private mortgage insurers helps borrowers assess their options and streamlines the mortgage insurance process for lenders. Continue reading

The million-dollar question: Do $1M Freddie Mac mortgages conflict with affordable housing mission?

Redwood Trust, which issues jumbo loans that are off limits to Fannie and Freddie, says costlier markets are better served by private lenders. Continue reading

Flush with cash, FHA urged to lower mortgage insurance premiums

Although the FHA isn’t signalling it’s ready to reduce premiums, it’s looking at ways to expand access to mortgage credit, including downpayment assistance and support for “small-dollar” lending in underserved markets. Continue reading

What the US climate-risk review means for FHA, VA loans and more

Government agencies are looking to better quantify risks from climate change, a step with implications for government-backed home loans. Continue reading

Why sellers are shunning FHA and VA offers

FHA and VA loans are essential to first-time buyers, who account for about four out of every five FHA purchase loans. However, in today’s market, sellers are quick to dismiss offers that come with this type of financing. Here’s why. Continue reading

Mortgage insurer Enact’s IPO is back on track

With investors showing renewed confidence, Genworth Financial is ready to move forward with plans to sell part of its mortgage insurance subsidiary in an initial public offering. Continue reading