Some 89% of default servicers expect foreclosures and real estate-owned inventories on government-insured loans to rise even though there is no major economic recession or downturn in the housing market.

HUD sought no changes in its funding request for FHA and Ginnie but has called for legislative reforms, and will seek them through the authorization, rather than the appropriations, process.

The bank is considering reentering the FHA market, which it fled in 2014 due to tougher regulations and onerous monetary penalties for violating lending rules. The exit of large banks allowed nonbanks to establish a foothold and the correspondent market to flourish in the FHA space.

FHA reforms suggested by the MBA include streamlining of servicing requirements and standardization of guidelines for downpayment assistance programs.

An Urban Institute study has called for uniformity among Fannie, Freddie, FHA, VA and USDA when considering student-loan debt in mortgage underwriting.

FHA has asked lenders and servicers to review existing guidance for originating and servicing forward loans and HECMs in presidentially declared major disaster areas.

New York’s new HECM law could further burden originators and servicers of FHA-insured reverse mortgages, a compliance attorney warned.

Four industry groups expressed support for FHA changes addressing False Claims Act liability and urged HUD to adopt as quickly as possible FHA’s revised loan-level certification.

The Senate Banking Committee has advanced Brian Montgomery’s nomination for HUD deputy secretary. Five Democrats opposed the nomination.