This year’s homebuyers need larger rate drops for refi benefits
A Neighbors Bank analysis found that a 0.25-point interest rate decline left the average borrower $2,424 underwater after three years.
Refinancing
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TransUnion: Mortgage, home equity lending grow despite high rates
Rate-and-term refinances climbed 44% and cash-out refis increased 15%. Home equity originations had their strongest annual growth since 2022.
The Fed could cut rates in September. Mortgage pros are skeptical of the impact
While many expect the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates at its September meeting, mortgage professionals caution that even if it happens, it won’t significantly impact the industry.
‘Dating the rate’ misled borrowers. Now they’re financially strained
An out-of-date mantra that once lured in prospective homebuyers is being criticized by mortgage originators who say clients were “misled.”
Stable mortgage rate environment reshapes how LOs engage with borrowers
In a rare period of rate stability, lenders say that borrower mindsets — not numbers — may unlock market momentum.
ServiceLink expands closing technology
The latest enhancements allow users to schedule closings in real-time with expanded options for online and in-branch appointments.
Lenders witness surge of mortgage demand this week
New American Funding’s Patty Arvielo shared that Tuesday was NAF’s best day for applications in three years. Can it continue?
Mat Ishbia’s unfiltered thoughts on the Rocket-Mr. Cooper deal
What does UWM’s Mat Ishbia think about Rocket Companies’ pending $9.4 billion deal for Mr. Cooper? “It’s fantastic,” he said.
Better announces ‘Better Forever’ borrower loyalty program
The program is designed to reward customers by waiving origination fees on future refinance or purchase loans. Customers who previously funded a loan through Better on or after Jan. 1, 2019, are automatically enrolled in the program.
Conforming mortgage share hit record low in December
At the tail end of 2024, mortgage borrowers shifted their attention away from conforming mortgages and toward refinance opportunities. A report released Tuesday by Optimal Blue found that the conforming loan share sank to historic lows in December.