Moderne Ventures names 9 startups for 2022 Passport Program

Companies participating in the six-month industry immersion program gain access to Moderne’s network of over 700 executives and corporations, according to an announcement Thursday.
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Meet Playhouse, the app that wants to turn Zillow scrolling into a game

Playhouse is brand new, features a price-guessing game and has recently had an infusion of venture capital. The pitch is that it’s TikTok, but for real estate. Continue reading

RenoFi lands $14M Series A to connect home renovators to lenders

The startup’s origination and underwriting platform lets homeowners borrow up to 90 percent of their home’s “future value.” Continue reading

Ellie Mae vets form SPAC to acquire mortgage and real estate startups

Southport Acquisition Corp. will look to acquire companies with $50 million to $100 million in revenues that are valued between $1 billion and $2 billion. Continue reading

Digital mortgage lender Beeline completes Series A funding round

Digital mortgage lender accesses bank, income and tax information online to provide “purchase-ready approvals” in 15 minutes. Continue reading

Hometap raises $60M to bankroll growth of its home equity business

The growing business allows homeowners to access their home equity as their property values rise — without taking on more debt. Continue reading

Better lays off 900 employees, revamps terms of SPAC merger

Company says it will be better positioned for growth as lenders shift their focus from refinancing mortgages to providing purchase loans. Continue reading

Lessen hits unicorn status with $170M Series B

The new funding round of $170 million, for a total of $214 million raised, pushes Lessen into “unicorn” status, meaning its valuation has topped $1 billion. It’s the second industry player in November to earn the title. Continue reading