National Mortgage News (Servicing) RSS

• Home equity values decline from a year ago

  While equity still sits near historic highs, price growth moderation led to shrinkage of the total amount available and a rise in underwater mortgages.

• Enterprises' NPL sales reduce bad assets to a 9-year low

  Getting a dwindling number of mortgages distressed for over a year off the books could improve the enterprises' financial position.

• How flooring choices affect mortgage appraisals

  Make the right lending decisions by being informed and knowledgeable on the impact of flooring during appraisals, upgrades, and resale evaluations.

• Roof red flags every mortgage lender should know

  Roof damage can reduce a property's value and loan security. Lenders must know the warning signs that indicate major structural and financial risks.

• Equity Prime Mortgage fires back at HUD's FHA prohibitions

  The federal regulator terminated the wholesale lender's FHA approvals in six jurisdictions because of certain elevated default and claim rate data.

• Foreclosure starts jump 17% as borrower strain mounts

  Properties with default notices, scheduled auctions and REOs are up by double digits compared to last summer as buyers are mired in a high-cost environment.

• Rate-and-term refi activity hits 2025 high mark

  Falling interest rates led to a rush in refinancing, but slowing purchase activity brought a decline in overall lock volumes, according to Optimal Blue.

• Occupancy fraud scrutiny raises questions for lenders

  Intent typically plays a key role in whether or not allegations that a borrower misrepresented a property's status can be proved, mortgage industry experts say.

• How lenders can prep for NFIP lapse, shutdown

  Mortgage lenders could face NFIP lapses and a government shutdown, but can take specific steps now to safeguard borrowers.