The Lede

Reuters, Feb. 24, 2016--Ramesh, Aaradhana Despite expectations of Federal Reserve interest rate hikes, U.S. home prices are likely to rise 5 percent this year, followed by nearly as solid gains in 2017, a Reuters poll found.

Forbes, Feb. 24, 2016--Howe, Neil After months of optimism, commercial real estate forecasters have come back down to earth. The tonal shift is warranted: While rents and prices are soaring in urban areas, CRE is stagnating or even declining in terms of new investment and in most non-urban sectors.

Washington Post, Feb. 24, 2016--Harney, Kenneth Pushed by regulators and consumer groups to expand home-loan opportunities for first-time and moderate-income buyers, major mortgage players have come out with nationwide programs designed to turn renters who are creditworthy but don't have big down payments or closing-cost cash into homeowners.

CNBC, Feb. 24, 2016--Olick, Diana It didn't take much to stem the tide of mortgage refinances. A very slight inch higher in interest rates caused a more than slight drop in application volume.

Reuters, Feb. 24, 2016--Lange, Jason Ongoing strength in the U.S. job market could give the Federal Reserve justification for multiple interest rate increases this year, Richmond Fed President Jeffrey Lacker said on Wednesday.

Housing Wire, Feb. 24, 2016--Swanson, Brena Since lenders face heightened competition and a tougher operating environment in 2016, Fannie Mae surveyed lenders to see how they plan to outpace their competition and thrive in today's evolving lending market.

Reuters, Feb. 24, 2016--Freed, Dan Wells Fargo continues to face federal and state mortgage probes, even after the $1.2 billion settlement it reached in early February to resolve claims of misconduct related to mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration.

HousingWire, Feb. 24, 2016--Lane, Ben The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau wants the financial industry to think of it as "an important new friend and ally" in helping to serve the financial needs of the public, as CFPB Director Richard Cordray told the Credit Union National Association.

The Mortgage Bankers Association presents the second in a three-part webinar series discussing new Federal Housing Finance Agency/Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac representation and warranty policies. Rep and Warrant Reform Part II: Enforcement takes place Thursday, Feb. 25 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. ET.

The Mortgage Bankers Association recognizes its Select Members.