The Lede

Washington Post, May 2, 2018--Kenneth HarneyFor homeowners and buyers, it's been an unexpected windfall: relief from having to pay for a traditional mortgage appraisal that usually costs between $400 and $600. But to some key players, the savings look ominous.

CNBC, May 2, 2018--Diana OlickTotal application volume fell 2.5 percent for the week, and was 3.3 percent lower compared with the same week one year ago, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

National Mortgage News, May 2, 2018--Brad Finkelstein (subscription)It wasn't unexpected that Arch MI would lose market share, but among the five private mortgage insurers that have reported so far, it is the only one that had lower new insurance written compared to the first quarter last year.

Mortgage Daily, May 2, 2018Even though new business fell from the previous quarter at Genworth Mortgage Insurance Corp., its book of business and profitability both improved.

National Mortgage News, May 2, 2018--Brad Finkelstein (subscription)In its latest effort to reach first-time homebuyers, Freddie Mac is launching a new 3% down payment program that casts aside a number of restrictions in its existing low down payment offerings.

HousingWire, May 2, 2018--Jeremiah JensenQuicken Loans announced it originated $20.5 billion in retail home loans during Q1. This keeps the creator of "Rocket Mortgage" in the top spot of retail loan originators, $4 billion in originations ahead of second place Wells Fargo.

National Real Estate Investor, May 2, 2018--David BodamerThe struggles the retail sector faces show no sign of abating. Analysts see retail as having the dimmest outlook of any of the major property sectors.

Mortgage Daily, May 2, 2018A decision handed down by a Florida appeals court bodes well for reverse mortgage lenders. At issue are the rights of non-borrowing surviving spouses.

CNN Money, May 2, 2018--Matt EganThis appears to be the first time GE has said it's exploring bankruptcy for the defunct mortgage business. WMC was reportedly the nation's sixth-biggest subprime lender when it was acquired by GE in 2004.

National Mortgage News, May 2, 2018--Bonnie Sinnock (subscription)Ocwen Financial Corp. got back in the black during the first quarter after selling New Residential Investment Corp. $110 million in economic rights to mortgage servicing.