The Lede

CNBC, Aug. 9, 2019--Diana OlickMortgage interest rates have been falling since May, so borrowers, especially millennials, are rushing to refinance. Applications to refinance were up a stunning 116% this week compared with a year ago, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. That has lenders scrambling to keep up.

CNN, Aug. 9, 2019Interest rates are dropping and American mortgages are cheaper than they've been in years. The U.S. economy is strong. That's a recipe for a booming housing market--but it isn't booming at all. (MBA mention)

Wall Street Journal, Aug. 9, 2019--Laura Kusisto (subscription)U.S. mortgage rates have tumbled to their lowest level in nearly three years, but they are unlikely to provide much of a lift to the sluggish home-sales market.

National Mortgage News, Aug. 9, 2019--Bonnie Sinnock (subscription)The Federal Housing Finance Agency changed its mind again about whether to add a limited English proficiency question to the GSEs' loan application, possibly for the last time.

MarketWatch, Aug. 10, 2019--Jacob PassySome experts are hesitant to say that the declines in mortgage rates throughout 2019 will meaningfully provide a lift to the housing market.

National Mortgage Professional, Aug. 9, 2019--Phil HallFHA's Section 220 Program insures lenders against loss on mortgage default and has been used for urban rental housing in areas targeted for overall revitalization. HUD's announcement expands eligibility of mortgages insured under this program to all 8,764 Opportunity Zone localities, including those in rural areas.

UExpress, Aug. 9, 2019--Lew SichelmanOver the past decade, homebuilders have all but conceded the first-time buyer market to the resale sector. But evidence is mounting that builders are trying to get back into the game.

MBA Education presents its School of Mortgage Banking Course III, with sessions scheduled for this fall and winter.

MISMO announced release of its Business Reference Model for a 60-day member comment period through Sept. 29.