The Lede

UExpress, Aug. 4, 2017--Lew SichelmanThere's nothing that ticks off homebuyers more than their lenders taking time off. They don't even like it when a lender shuts down for a federal holiday, like most businesses. In fact, according to one recent survey, they don't like delays at all.

Forbes, Aug. 4, 2017Many startups and tech companies are focusing on the growing property technology sector. JLL recently expanded its tech capabilities by launching JLL Spark, an entity focused on creating new products, investments and supporting startups in the real estate tech industry.

Politico, Aug. 4, 2017--Colin WilhelmDespite promises from the Trump administration in April that it would "protect the homeownership ... deductions," multiple sources tracking tax reform said that the cap on the mortgage interest deduction--currently set at the interest on up to $1 million of mortgage debt--could be lowered in tax reform.

National Mortgage Professional, Aug. 4, 2017--Phil HallThe National Association of Home Builders' 55+ Housing Market Index recorded a reading of 66 for the second quarter, up 11 points from the previous quarter.

National Mortgage News, Aug. 4, 2017--Brad Finkelstein (subscription)Nonbank mortgage employment rose for the fourth consecutive month in June, as loan production during the second quarter was higher than expected at the start of the year.

National Mortgage News, Aug. 4, 2017--Elina Tarkazikis (subscription)Essent Group reported second-quarter net income of $72.1 million, an improvement from the $52.3 million for the same period last year.

HousingWire, Aug. 4, 2017--Ben LaneSpecifically, the issue relates to a lawsuit from 2006 that claimed some Department of Veterans Affairs Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loans originated by Wells Fargo should not have been eligible for VA guarantees due to the bank allegedly collecting unauthorized fees with the loans.

Reuters, Aug. 4, 2017--Pete SchroederA report issued Friday by Republican staff on the House Financial Services Committee argued there was "ample evidence" that Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Director Richard Cordray could be held in contempt.

Los Angeles Times, Aug. 6, 2017--Andrew KhouriBuying a home isn't easy, especially in high-cost metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles County, where the median price of a home hit $569,000 in June. But changes in the mortgage industry are afoot, with the goal of loosening some of the strict standards established after the subprime crisis--rules some blame for impeding sales.

Washington Post, Aug. 5, 2017--Katherine ShaverFrom the Washington and New York suburbs to North Carolina's Research Triangle Park, traditional corporate campuses that have struggled since the Great Recession are trying to transform from sterile worksites into vibrant mini-towns. In addition to housing, they're adding restaurants, grocery stores, playgrounds and outdoor concert spaces--anything to draw people in and make them want to stay.

Mortgage Daily, Aug. 7, 2017Compared to a year earlier, employment in the mortgage industry has expanded. But as quarter-over-quarter headcount was down, some signs point to an increase in layoffs for the sector.

Mortgage Daily, Aug. 7, 2017Weekly mortgage business maintained the pace of the previous seven-day period. Increased refinance activity was offset by lower demand for loans to finance a residential property purchase.

Nominations for the Mortgage Bankers Association' annual Diversity & Inclusion Residential Leadership Awards will be accepted through close of business on Friday, Aug. 11.

MBA Education presents Creating a Successful Originator Rookie Training Program, a webinar taking place Tuesday, Aug. 8 from 2:00-3:30 p.m. ET.

MBA Education presents a webinar, Impact of the NYDFS Cybersecurity Regulations, on Wednesday, Aug. 9 from 2:00-3:30 p.m. ET.