CFPB cites DEI in push to kill $105k settlement with mortgage broker

Acting director Russell Vought claims bureau “abused its power” in redlining case against Townstone Financial that dragged on for four years, to “further the goal of mandating DEI in lending.” Continue reading

Women, Wealth and Real Estate: Pat Heller’s real estate calling

Coach Melanie Klein profiles this brokerage leader and her belief in the limitless opportunities the real estate industry provides for women. Continue reading

This Women’s History Month, make your DEI outcomes measurable

Standardize planning with a simple DEI checklist, Dr. Lee Davenport writes, and share measurable outcomes along with personal feedback and stories from each event as part of your diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. Continue reading

Redlining settlement wouldn’t resolve 1st Amendment questions

The CFPB claimed statements made by hosts of Townstone Financial’s AM radio call-in show and podcasts discouraged Black Chicago residents from applying for a mortgage. Continue reading

Fairway blasts federal regulators in $10M redlining settlement

Nation’s third biggest lender casts itself as a victim of politics, noting CFPB launched its investigation the day after Biden Administration took office. Continue reading

Park National Bank latest lender to settle federal redlining charges

The Ohio bank’s $9 million pledge to promote ownership in Black and Hispanic neighborhoods is the sixth since the DOJ launched an initiative to combat redlining in October 2021, with lawsuits generating $84 million in relief to date. Continue reading

Court tosses redlining suit sparked by mortgage broker’s radio show

Regulators alleged statements made by hosts of Townstone Financial’s call-in show discouraged “prospective” African-American applicants from seeking mortgage loans. Continue reading

Wells Fargo exiting correspondent mortgage lending business

Executives hope to reduce risk by reducing the size and narrowing the focus of bank’s mortgage business to better serve retail customers and minority communities. Continue reading

Nationwide appraisal ethics rule changes postponed until 2024

The Appraisal Foundation’s Appraisal Standards Board says it needs more time to assess proposed changes designed to close the door to discrimination. Continue reading