MReport, Mar. 8, 2017″There’s no question that technology is playing a larger role in the home buying experience,” said Joe Tyrrell, executive VP of corporate strategy at Ellie Mae. “As we expected, many homeowners are seeking a faster and more streamlined experience. And it’s not just a millennial phenomenon; it’s homebuyers of all ages and both genders.”
Category: Top National News

Watchdog: HUD Lacks Sufficient Oversight for Borrower-Financed Down Payment Programs
HousingWire, Mar. 8, 2017–Ben LaneAccording to the report from its Office of Inspector General, HUD “failed to adequately oversee” billions of dollars in loans that may have “questionable down payment assistance,” thereby putting the FHA’s Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund at risk because of borrowers with higher than market interest rates.

Millennials Drive Housing Confidence Higher Despite Red-Hot Prices
CNBC, Mar. 7, 2017–Diana OlickBoth buyers and sellers alike are feeling very good about the housing market this spring, even as home values hit new highs and mortgage rates move up.

Taller Buildings Proposed for More of Seattle in Exchange for Affordable Housing
Seattle Times, Mar. 7, 2017–Daniel BeekmanDowntown Seattle and South Lake Union are the next neighborhoods where Mayor Ed Murray wants to allow taller buildings in exchange for help with affordable housing.

Housing Bust Finally Easing For Generation X
Forbes, Mar. 7, 2017–Troy McMullenGeneration X suffered more than any other age cohort from the housing bust, but this group of home buyers finally showing signs of life.

Here’s How Much Rocket Mortgage Helped Quicken Loans in 2016
HousingWire, Mar. 7, 2017–Ben Lane Now that the dust is settled from Rocket Mortgage’s first year of existence, the question is just how much did the digital mortgage drive business for Quicken Loans?

Federal Reserve to Stop MBS Reinvestments in 2018–Morgan Stanley
GoRion, Mar. 7, 2017–Sam BourgiThe Federal Reserve is on course to end reinvestments of its mortgage-backed securities (MBS) holdings next year, as policymakers attempt to shrink a balance sheet that swelled following the financial crisis, analysts at Morgan Stanley recently predicted.

Mortgage Firms Ranked Among Best Employers
Mortgage Daily, Mar. 7, 2017–Sam GarciaSeveral real estate finance firms were recently named as top employers in their communities.

Small Utah Bank Fails
Mortgage Daily, Mar. 7, 2017On Friday, the Utah Department of Financial Institutions seized control of Proficio Bank, a 16-year-old organization in Cottonwood Heights.

e-Mortgages to Benefit RMBS Loans
Mortgage Daily, Mar. 7, 2017A new report indicates loans included in residential mortgage-backed securities will benefit from digital mortgages as long as legal issues are addressed.