Government-insured products accounted for 27.1% of total first-lien originations in the third quarter compared with a 25.3% share the previous quarter. Streamline refi programs helped increase FHA/VA market share. (Includes two data tables.)
The cost of a credit score for originations is set to increase by 41% in January. The plan prompted trade groups representing lenders to renew calls for regulators and Congress to address pricing practices for credit reporting products.
Mortgage originations typically decline from the second quarter to the third. This year, however, declining interest rates helped increase refinance production and prop up purchase-mortgage lending.
The refi boom fizzled in recent weeks as mortgage rates increased. Now it’s a waiting game for lenders and borrowers, with rates expected to go down, eventually.