Non-agency forbearance reading increases; non-QM lenders make personnel moves; Moody’s withdraws its jumbo assessment of Quicken Loans, Regions Bank to acquire home-improvement lender.
Jumbo correspondent lending continued to make its comeback in the first quarter of 2021 after a sharp drop in volume tied to the coronavirus. Trends were mixed among lenders that focus on the retail channel. (Includes data chart.)
The non-agency market has emerged as an alternative, albeit at a higher cost, for lenders to deliver GSE-eligible mortgages backed by investment properties and second homes. However, some lenders are concerned about the adverse impact GSE restrictions could have.
Investors and borrowers alike are showing strong demand for fix-and-flip business purpose loans. Originators see volume rising and new players are entering the sector.
Non-QM impairment rate declines in April; non-agency forbearance update; Laurie Goodman appointed chair of MFA Financial’s board; White Mountain Capital boosting loan acquisitions; Synergy One offering HELOC with blockchain tech; capital raises and new financing for financing providers that allow homebuyers to make cash offers; Canopy approved by DBRS as due diligence provider.
A reduction in GSE refi business along with regulatory changes are expected to prompt an increase in originations of non-agency mortgages. The bulk of the increase could come from prime loans.
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.)