https://www.mortgage.news Latest mortgage news, rates, and market analysis en-us Fri, 11 Sep 2026 21:22:06 GMT https://www.mortgage.news/article/happy-birthday-anthony-frederick-celebrating-28-years-of-leadership-at-uwm-mtxci4n2 https://www.mortgage.news/article/happy-birthday-anthony-frederick-celebrating-28-years-of-leadership-at-uwm-mtxci4n2 Fri, 11 Sep 2026 19:39:46 GMT Mortgage.News celebrates UWM Senior Vice President of Sales Anthony Frederick on his birthday, recognizing his remarkable 28-year journey from the mailroom to senior leadership and his lasting impact on UWM, its sales team and the wholesale mortgage community. Opinion https://www.mortgage.news/article/fha-sets-jan-1-2027-launch-for-vantagescore-4-0-and-fico-10t-mtx52ps4 https://www.mortgage.news/article/fha-sets-jan-1-2027-launch-for-vantagescore-4-0-and-fico-10t-mtx52ps4 Fri, 11 Sep 2026 15:56:46 GMT FHA will begin accepting VantageScore 4.0 and FICO Score 10T for eligible forward mortgages with case numbers assigned on or after Jan. 1, 2027, giving lenders new credit-scoring options alongside Classic FICO. Industry https://www.mortgage.news/article/rising-mortgage-rates-are-creating-a-buyer-s-market-as-home-prices-lose-momentum-mtvoxmcr https://www.mortgage.news/article/rising-mortgage-rates-are-creating-a-buyer-s-market-as-home-prices-lose-momentum-mtvoxmcr Thu, 10 Sep 2026 15:37:58 GMT Mortgage rates are moving higher, but that does not necessarily mean the housing market is becoming more favorable to sellers. In many U.S. markets, the opposite is happening: higher borrowing costs are suppressing demand, inventory is building, sellers are cutting asking prices, and buyers are gaining negotiating leverage. The distinction is important. National home prices are not broadly falling on a year-over-year basis, but asking prices have declined, price reductions have become more common, and a growing share of buyers are purchasing homes below the original asking price. Realtor.com reported that median list prices fell 1.3% year over year in August, while 20.4% of listings received a price cut. At the same time, Freddie Mac reported that the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate reached 6.71% as of Sept. 3, up from 6.66% a week earlier and 6.50% a year ago. That combination is creating an unusual housing environment: financing is getting more expensive, but the homes that remain on the market may be increasingly negotiable. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/fhfa-studies-single-credit-reports-as-pulte-targets-fico-mortgage-costs-mtvnhfc6 https://www.mortgage.news/article/fhfa-studies-single-credit-reports-as-pulte-targets-fico-mortgage-costs-mtvnhfc6 Thu, 10 Sep 2026 14:56:33 GMT FHFA Director Bill Pulte says the agency is studying single-bureau and bi-merge credit reporting as part of a broader push to reduce mortgage costs and increase competition with FICO. Industry https://www.mortgage.news/article/fhfa-orders-fannie-mae-freddie-mac-to-open-vantagescore-4-0-to-all-lenders-mtu881to https://www.mortgage.news/article/fhfa-orders-fannie-mae-freddie-mac-to-open-vantagescore-4-0-to-all-lenders-mtu881to Wed, 09 Sep 2026 15:01:35 GMT FHFA has directed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to approve all lenders to use VantageScore 4.0, expanding the credit model beyond its initial rollout and increasing competition with FICO in the conventional mortgage market. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/higher-rates-rising-oil-prices-and-inflation-risk-put-september-mortgage-rate-expectations-back-in-f-mtsucp07 https://www.mortgage.news/article/higher-rates-rising-oil-prices-and-inflation-risk-put-september-mortgage-rate-expectations-back-in-f-mtsucp07 Tue, 08 Sep 2026 15:45:31 GMT Mortgage rates enter the second week of September under renewed upward pressure as higher oil prices, elevated Treasury yields and persistent inflation concerns complicate the Federal Reserve’s policy outlook. The average U.S. 30-year fixed mortgage rate reached 6.71% for the week ending Sept. 3, according to Freddie Mac, up from 6.66% the prior week and 6.50% a year earlier. It was the highest weekly average since July 2025. The immediate question for the mortgage industry is whether rates can stabilize below 7% or whether another inflationary shock will push borrowing costs higher. Oil prices have moved toward $100 a barrel amid escalating Middle East tensions, while the 10-year Treasury yield has approached 4.8%. That makes this week’s inflation data particularly important. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is scheduled to release the August Consumer Price Index on Friday, Sept. 11, one day after the August Producer Price Index. The Federal Reserve’s next policy meeting follows Sept. 15-16. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/bolt-home-loans-meets-with-arive-ceo-harish-tejwani-to-discuss-growth-technology-and-broker-producti-mtlozm8a https://www.mortgage.news/article/bolt-home-loans-meets-with-arive-ceo-harish-tejwani-to-discuss-growth-technology-and-broker-producti-mtlozm8a Thu, 03 Sep 2026 15:58:29 GMT BOLT Home Loans recently met with ARIVE CEO and founder Harish Tejwani and members of the ARIVE team at Ocean Prime in Troy, Michigan, for a discussion centered on growth, mortgage technology, upcoming platform developments and ways to improve productivity. The meeting gave BOLT an opportunity to share real-world feedback, explore potential enhancements and discuss how technology can continue making the mortgage origination process more efficient for loan officers and their teams. Industry https://www.mortgage.news/article/john-williams-says-treasury-yield-surge-reflects-strong-economy-keeping-mortgage-rates-under-pressur-mtkar3ta https://www.mortgage.news/article/john-williams-says-treasury-yield-surge-reflects-strong-economy-keeping-mortgage-rates-under-pressur-mtkar3ta Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:14:42 GMT New York Fed President John Williams said Wednesday that the recent rise in long-term Treasury yields reflects a strong U.S. economy and an improving growth outlook rather than dysfunction in the bond market, while declining to signal whether he supports another Federal Reserve rate hike this month. Williams’ comments come less than two weeks before the Federal Open Market Committee’s Sept. 15-16 meeting, with financial markets increasingly pricing in the possibility of a 25-basis-point increase in the federal funds rate. For the mortgage market, the distinction matters. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate does not move in lockstep with the Fed’s overnight policy rate. Instead, mortgage rates are heavily influenced by longer-term Treasury yields and mortgage-backed securities pricing. With the 10-year Treasury yield at 4.79% and the 30-year Treasury yield at 5.27% on Sept. 1, according to U.S. Treasury data, the bond market is already creating upward pressure on mortgage borrowing costs. Freddie Mac’s latest weekly survey put the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate at 6.66% as of Aug. 27, up slightly from 6.65% a week earlier and above the 6.56% average recorded a year earlier. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/fha-va-and-usda-mortgage-rates-rise-into-september-but-stay-below-conventional-loans-mtk7ou8g https://www.mortgage.news/article/fha-va-and-usda-mortgage-rates-rise-into-september-but-stay-below-conventional-loans-mtk7ou8g Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:48:57 GMT Government-backed mortgage rates moved higher entering September, but FHA, VA and USDA loans remain priced below conventional mortgages. Here’s how the latest rates compare — and why insurance, funding fees and borrower qualifications still matter. Market Analysis https://www.mortgage.news/article/non-agency-mbs-share-hits-12-2-as-private-label-securitization-jumps-44-mtj9lwy7 https://www.mortgage.news/article/non-agency-mbs-share-hits-12-2-as-private-label-securitization-jumps-44-mtj9lwy7 Tue, 01 Sep 2026 22:54:54 GMT Private-label mortgage securitization is accelerating in 2026, with first-lien PLS volume up 44% year over year and non-agency securities accounting for 12.2% of RMBS issuance, according to the Urban Institute. Non-QM lending is driving much of the growth, even as agency-backed mortgages continue to dominate the market. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/fed-rate-hike-warning-raises-stakes-for-mortgage-borrowers-why-buyers-and-refinancers-may-want-to-ac-mtis2r7g https://www.mortgage.news/article/fed-rate-hike-warning-raises-stakes-for-mortgage-borrowers-why-buyers-and-refinancers-may-want-to-ac-mtis2r7g Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:44:06 GMT Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr’s warning that he would support another interest-rate increase if inflation fails to cool is putting fresh pressure on mortgage borrowers — and reinforcing the case for buyers and homeowners to consider locking in financing before borrowing costs potentially move higher. Barr said Tuesday that the Federal Reserve could “act decisively to raise rates” if incoming data do not provide enough confidence that inflation is moving back toward the central bank’s 2% target. The comments come just two weeks before the Federal Open Market Committee’s Sept. 15-16 meeting, where policymakers will reassess monetary policy. The warning arrives as the bond market is already moving against mortgage borrowers. The 10-year Treasury yield reached about 4.79% Tuesday, its highest level since January 2025, while mortgage rates have climbed into the mid-6% range. For consumers who have been waiting for mortgage rates to fall, the latest developments offer a reason to reconsider that strategy. Waiting for a lower rate is no longer a one-way bet. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/oil-tops-90-as-u-s-iran-strikes-rattle-markets-putting-mortgage-rates-back-in-focus-mthgka9t https://www.mortgage.news/article/oil-tops-90-as-u-s-iran-strikes-rattle-markets-putting-mortgage-rates-back-in-focus-mthgka9t Mon, 31 Aug 2026 16:34:03 GMT Renewed U.S.-Iran military action pushed oil prices higher and pressured stocks Monday, adding another potential complication for financial markets already dealing with elevated Treasury yields and inflation concerns. For the mortgage industry, the key issue is not the stock-market decline itself but the combination of higher oil prices, inflation risk and rising longer-term Treasury yields. Those forces can make it harder for mortgage rates to move materially lower, even as Wall Street remains on track for a broadly positive August. West Texas Intermediate crude rose above $85 a barrel while Brent crude moved above $90 after the United States struck two rocket launchers on Iran’s Larak Island, according to CNBC's Aug. 31 market update. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/fed-rate-hike-odds-surge-after-warsh-s-jackson-hole-speech-pushing-mortgage-rates-highere-mthdhvuz https://www.mortgage.news/article/fed-rate-hike-odds-surge-after-warsh-s-jackson-hole-speech-pushing-mortgage-rates-highere-mthdhvuz Mon, 31 Aug 2026 15:08:12 GMT Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh’s Jackson Hole remarks sharply increased expectations for a September rate hike, sending Treasury yields higher and lifting mortgage rates to a three-week high as markets reassessed the path for inflation and monetary policy. Market Analysis https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-hold-near-6-7-as-warsh-keeps-inflation-in-focus-mtd3nhtl https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-hold-near-6-7-as-warsh-keeps-inflation-in-focus-mtd3nhtl Fri, 28 Aug 2026 15:21:33 GMT Mortgage rates remain near 6.7% as new Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh emphasizes the need for clearer progress on inflation. With the Fed’s next policy decision approaching, mortgage borrowers and lenders are watching inflation, Treasury yields and labor-market data for signs of where rates could go next. Market Analysis https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-launches-mortgage-matchup-chatgpt-plugin-to-connect-borrowers-with-independent-brokers-mtboukmi https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-launches-mortgage-matchup-chatgpt-plugin-to-connect-borrowers-with-independent-brokers-mtboukmi Thu, 27 Aug 2026 15:39:22 GMT United Wholesale Mortgage has launched a Mortgage Matchup plugin for ChatGPT, giving consumers a new way to find independent mortgage brokers, compare loan originator profiles and access mortgage calculators and educational tools within an AI conversation. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/nexa-lending-acquires-umortgage-adding-2-billion-in-annual-production-mta7vyvy https://www.mortgage.news/article/nexa-lending-acquires-umortgage-adding-2-billion-in-annual-production-mta7vyvy Wed, 26 Aug 2026 14:56:48 GMT NEXA Lending has acquired UMortgage, adding more than $2 billion in annual mortgage production and roughly 275 team members. Founder Anthony Casa will join NEXA as an executive partner as the companies combine operations while allowing UMortgage teams to retain the brand through DBA arrangements. Industry https://www.mortgage.news/article/crosscountry-completes-two-harbors-deal-as-uwm-s-500m-plus-lawsuit-moves-forward-mt8s8edc https://www.mortgage.news/article/crosscountry-completes-two-harbors-deal-as-uwm-s-500m-plus-lawsuit-moves-forward-mt8s8edc Tue, 25 Aug 2026 14:50:48 GMT CrossCountry Mortgage has completed its acquisition of Two Harbors Investment Corp., gaining control of RoundPoint’s servicing platform. But the deal closes with a major legal dispute still unresolved, as UWM seeks more than $500 million over allegations that Two Harbors improperly abandoned their earlier merger agreement. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/how-mortgage-brokers-can-help-real-estate-agents-win-more-business-mt36hkx2 https://www.mortgage.news/article/how-mortgage-brokers-can-help-real-estate-agents-win-more-business-mt36hkx2 Fri, 21 Aug 2026 16:43:14 GMT For real estate agents, the mortgage professional behind a buyer can influence far more than the financing itself. A responsive mortgage broker can help agents navigate complicated borrower profiles, compare financing options across multiple lenders and keep communication moving toward closing. Mortgage brokers do not fund loans themselves in the traditional wholesale model. Instead, they act as intermediaries between borrowers and lenders, giving borrowers access to multiple lending sources and loan products. That flexibility can be particularly valuable in a competitive housing market, where financing problems, slow communication or an unsuitable loan structure can jeopardize a transaction. But real estate agents should evaluate mortgage partners on performance, communication, licensing, pricing and compliance—not simply on promises of faster closings or better rates. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/pending-home-sales-drop-2-3-in-july-as-mortgage-rates-pressure-buyers-mt31nwd8 https://www.mortgage.news/article/pending-home-sales-drop-2-3-in-july-as-mortgage-rates-pressure-buyers-mt31nwd8 Fri, 21 Aug 2026 14:28:11 GMT U.S. pending home sales fell 2.3% in July to their lowest level since January, as higher mortgage rates and elevated home prices weighed on buyer demand across all four major regions. Market Analysis https://www.mortgage.news/article/sellers-outnumber-buyers-by-51-as-housing-market-shifts-further-in-buyers-favor-mt1rc3y5 https://www.mortgage.news/article/sellers-outnumber-buyers-by-51-as-housing-market-shifts-further-in-buyers-favor-mt1rc3y5 Thu, 20 Aug 2026 16:51:18 GMT Sellers outnumbered buyers by 51.3% nationally in July, according to Redfin. The number of estimated buyers fell 2.5% from June to 966,752, the lowest level in Redfin's records. There were approximately 1.46 million sellers, down 0.3% from June. 39 of 49 major metros analyzed by Redfin were buyer's markets. Miami had 154% more sellers than buyers, followed by Nashville at 151%, Houston at 130%, San Antonio at 116% and Austin at 112%. Only six major metros were seller's markets. The national 30-year fixed mortgage rate averaged 6.65% on Aug. 20, according to Freddie Mac, still well above the rates many homeowners locked in during the pandemic-era refinancing wave. The result is a market where buyers who can afford today's financing costs increasingly have something that has been scarce for years: time and negotiating power. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/homeowners-tap-record-equity-as-consumer-debt-climbs-mt1pgsrq https://www.mortgage.news/article/homeowners-tap-record-equity-as-consumer-debt-climbs-mt1pgsrq Thu, 20 Aug 2026 15:58:58 GMT Homeowners are sitting on record housing wealth while household balances for credit cards, auto loans and other non-mortgage debt continue to rise. That combination is reshaping the U.S. home-equity market. Rather than replacing an older, low-rate first mortgage with a new higher-rate loan, many homeowners are turning to HELOCs and other second-lien products to access cash while preserving their existing mortgage. U.S. mortgage holders had a record $18 trillion in home equity in the second quarter, according to ICE Mortgage Technology. About $11.7 trillion was tappable, representing equity available to 47.5 million mortgage holders while maintaining a 20% equity cushion. 54% of equity extraction in the first quarter came through second liens, according to ICE. U.S. credit card balances reached $1.263 trillion in the second quarter, while auto debt reached $1.713 trillion, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. HELOC balances rose to $459 billion, marking the 17th consecutive quarterly increase. The result is a growing market for lenders that can help homeowners access accumulated equity without forcing them to give up historically low first-mortgage rates. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/fed-minutes-put-rate-hikes-back-in-focus-as-mortgage-rates-hover-near-6-7-mt1m5a18 https://www.mortgage.news/article/fed-minutes-put-rate-hikes-back-in-focus-as-mortgage-rates-hover-near-6-7-mt1m5a18 Thu, 20 Aug 2026 14:26:01 GMT Federal Reserve minutes from the July meeting revealed growing concern about inflation and broader support for tighter monetary policy. With mortgage rates still near 6.7%, borrowers and lenders are watching upcoming inflation and jobs data for clues on whether rates could move higher or finally begin to ease. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-hold-near-6-7-as-homebuyers-face-renewed-affordability-pressure-mt06tr61 https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-hold-near-6-7-as-homebuyers-face-renewed-affordability-pressure-mt06tr61 Wed, 19 Aug 2026 14:29:23 GMT Mortgage rates remain near 6.7%, keeping monthly payments elevated as home prices stay near record highs. With pending sales and purchase applications weakening, buyers are once again feeling the squeeze from high borrowing costs and limited affordability. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/what-higher-bond-yields-mean-for-mortgage-rates-homebuyers-and-lenders-this-fall-msysicb3 https://www.mortgage.news/article/what-higher-bond-yields-mean-for-mortgage-rates-homebuyers-and-lenders-this-fall-msysicb3 Tue, 18 Aug 2026 15:00:50 GMT Higher Treasury yields are putting renewed upward pressure on U.S. mortgage rates just as the housing market enters the fall buying season. The 10-year Treasury yield reached about 4.74% on Aug. 18, while the 30-year Treasury yield climbed above 5.2%, according to market data reported Tuesday. The move comes after the Federal Reserve held its federal funds target at 3.5% to 3.75% on July 29, underscoring an important point for borrowers: mortgage rates can rise even when the Fed is not raising its policy rate. Freddie Mac's latest weekly survey put the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate at 6.67% for the week ending Aug. 13, down slightly from 6.69% but still above the 6.58% average recorded a year earlier. For homebuyers, the immediate implication is that a hoped-for decline in mortgage rates may take longer to materialize. For lenders and mortgage originators, persistent long-term yields can keep funding and secondary-market pricing under pressure while limiting the potential for a broad refinancing wave. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/builders-turn-to-rate-buydowns-and-price-cuts-as-affordability-pressures-persist-msyrnvi2 https://www.mortgage.news/article/builders-turn-to-rate-buydowns-and-price-cuts-as-affordability-pressures-persist-msyrnvi2 Tue, 18 Aug 2026 14:37:09 GMT Home builders are increasingly using mortgage rate buydowns, price cuts and other incentives to keep buyers engaged as elevated mortgage rates continue to strain affordability. With 63% of builders offering incentives in August and single-family housing starts falling sharply in July, builders are competing more aggressively on monthly payment and overall cost. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-fall-to-6-67-ending-five-week-climb-msxdkhjq https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-fall-to-6-67-ending-five-week-climb-msxdkhjq Mon, 17 Aug 2026 15:14:50 GMT Mortgage rates declined for the first time in six weeks, with the average 30-year fixed rate falling to 6.67%. The modest drop offers buyers some relief, but borrowing costs remain above early-July levels. Market Analysis https://www.mortgage.news/article/berkshire-hathaway-completes-8-5-billion-acquisition-of-taylor-morrison-msxce15b https://www.mortgage.news/article/berkshire-hathaway-completes-8-5-billion-acquisition-of-taylor-morrison-msxce15b Mon, 17 Aug 2026 14:41:49 GMT Berkshire Hathaway has completed its acquisition of Taylor Morrison Home Corp., bringing the Scottsdale, Arizona-based homebuilder into a larger site-built housing platform anchored by Berkshire’s Clayton Properties Group. The transaction closed July 24, 2026, with Berkshire acquiring Taylor Morrison for $72.50 per share in cash. The deal represents approximately $6.8 billion in equity value and $8.5 billion in total enterprise value. Taylor Morrison’s shares are no longer publicly traded following the completion of the transaction. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-brokers-report-business-as-usual-after-2-05-billion-capital-plan-mst36d8j https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-brokers-report-business-as-usual-after-2-05-billion-capital-plan-mst36d8j Fri, 14 Aug 2026 15:12:50 GMT Excerpt: Mortgage brokers say UWM’s day-to-day operations remain steady following its $2.05 billion capital plan and second-quarter loss, with no major disruption reported in underwriting, processing or broker support. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/freddie-mac-sets-6-625-mortgage-modification-rate-for-aug-14-msq8im66 https://www.mortgage.news/article/freddie-mac-sets-6-625-mortgage-modification-rate-for-aug-14-msq8im66 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 15:19:01 GMT Freddie Mac will raise its mortgage modification interest rate to 6.625% effective Aug. 14, 2026. The benchmark plays a key role in certain Flex Modification calculations for eligible distressed borrowers but is separate from prevailing mortgage rates for homebuyers and refinancers. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-sues-two-harbors-for-more-than-500-million-over-failed-1-3-billion-merger-msoses99 https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-sues-two-harbors-for-more-than-500-million-over-failed-1-3-billion-merger-msoses99 Tue, 11 Aug 2026 15:00:22 GMT United Wholesale Mortgage is seeking more than $500 million from Two Harbors Investment Corp., alleging the company willfully breached their $1.3 billion merger agreement and improperly steered the deal toward CrossCountry Mortgage. UWM’s federal lawsuit claims Two Harbors undermined shareholder approval efforts and encouraged a competing bid, allegations Two Harbors has not yet answered in court. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-originates-39-7-billion-in-q2-as-revenue-rises-17-and-gain-margin-expands-msney8gj https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-originates-39-7-billion-in-q2-as-revenue-rises-17-and-gain-margin-expands-msney8gj Mon, 10 Aug 2026 15:55:49 GMT United Wholesale Mortgage originated $39.7 billion in loans during the second quarter of 2026 as revenue rose 17% and gain margins expanded. Despite a $451.9 million GAAP net loss driven largely by interest-rate derivatives, UWM’s core mortgage production and servicing businesses showed continued strength. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-delinquencies-flash-an-early-warning-as-cfpb-updates-borrower-performance-data-msj2f6ng https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-delinquencies-flash-an-early-warning-as-cfpb-updates-borrower-performance-data-msj2f6ng Fri, 07 Aug 2026 14:54:00 GMT Mortgage delinquencies are showing signs of stress among lower-income borrowers and weaker housing markets, but newer data suggest overall mortgage performance remains historically strong and far from crisis levels. Market Analysis https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-s-mortgage-engine-strengthens-as-2-05-billion-capital-partnership-adds-financial-firepower-msi0w6ul https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-s-mortgage-engine-strengthens-as-2-05-billion-capital-partnership-adds-financial-firepower-msi0w6ul Thu, 06 Aug 2026 21:25:57 GMT United Wholesale Mortgage strengthened its core business in the second quarter, holding originations steady at $39.7 billion while expanding margins, increasing revenue and growing servicing income. Although valuation losses tied to derivatives and mortgage servicing rights produced a reported net loss, UWM’s operating results and new $2.05 billion capital partnership point to a more resilient balance sheet and greater capacity to support brokers through a challenging mortgage cycle. Market Analysis https://www.mortgage.news/article/manufacturing-boom-adds-to-inflation-fears-raising-odds-mortgage-rates-stay-higher-for-longer-mshmkkil https://www.mortgage.news/article/manufacturing-boom-adds-to-inflation-fears-raising-odds-mortgage-rates-stay-higher-for-longer-mshmkkil Thu, 06 Aug 2026 14:42:31 GMT A surprisingly strong rebound in U.S. manufacturing is adding another hurdle for homebuyers and mortgage lenders hoping interest rates begin moving lower this fall. The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) reported Monday that its Manufacturing PMI climbed to 55.6 in July, the strongest reading since May 2022 and well above economists' expectations. While the report signals renewed momentum in the factory sector, it also highlights persistent inflation pressures that could keep the Federal Reserve from easing monetary policy anytime soon. For the mortgage industry, the takeaway is straightforward: a stronger economy paired with stubborn inflation increases the likelihood that borrowing costs—including mortgage rates—remain elevated. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/early-stage-mortgage-delinquencies-stay-low-but-fha-stress-keeps-servicers-on-alert-msg7r58u https://www.mortgage.news/article/early-stage-mortgage-delinquencies-stay-low-but-fha-stress-keeps-servicers-on-alert-msg7r58u Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:59:58 GMT Early-stage mortgage delinquencies remain contained, but elevated FHA delinquency rates and rising foreclosure activity are keeping servicers alert. Recent data suggest the market is not facing a broad credit crisis, though financial stress remains concentrated among government-backed borrowers and economically vulnerable regions. Market Analysis https://www.mortgage.news/article/nar-home-prices-rise-in-80-of-u-s-metro-areas-despite-higher-mortgage-rates-msg6pe5r https://www.mortgage.news/article/nar-home-prices-rise-in-80-of-u-s-metro-areas-despite-higher-mortgage-rates-msg6pe5r Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:30:36 GMT Home prices continued to climb across most U.S. housing markets during the second quarter of 2026, reinforcing homeowner equity gains while leaving affordability a challenge for many prospective buyers, according to new data from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). NAR's latest metro home price report found that median existing single-family home prices increased year over year in 80% of the nation's metropolitan areas, up from 71% in the first quarter. Nationally, the median existing single-family home price reached $434,900, a 1.5% increase from the second quarter of 2025. While higher home prices continue to pressure buyers, declining mortgage payments compared with a year ago and stronger household income growth have modestly improved affordability. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/hormuz-breakthrough-could-ease-inflation-pressure-and-support-lower-mortgage-rates-msesjgby https://www.mortgage.news/article/hormuz-breakthrough-could-ease-inflation-pressure-and-support-lower-mortgage-rates-msesjgby Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:06:18 GMT A potential agreement between the United States and Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could do more than lower oil prices—it could eventually provide modest relief for mortgage borrowers if easing energy costs help reduce inflation and Treasury yields. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Tuesday that the U.S. and Iran were in talks that could produce an agreement "today or tomorrow" to restore commercial shipping through the strategically important waterway. The comments sent U.S. crude oil prices lower as investors priced in the possibility of fewer disruptions to global energy supplies. For the housing and mortgage industries, the significance extends well beyond the energy sector. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/homebuilders-lean-harder-on-mortgage-rate-buydowns-as-buyers-push-back-on-high-payments-msesf4ya https://www.mortgage.news/article/homebuilders-lean-harder-on-mortgage-rate-buydowns-as-buyers-push-back-on-high-payments-msesf4ya Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:02:57 GMT Homebuilders are expanding mortgage rate buydowns, price cuts and closing-cost incentives as elevated borrowing costs continue to strain affordability. The strategy can lower monthly payments and support new-home sales, but buyers should compare the full loan cost, fees and future payment obligations before accepting an offer. Rates https://www.mortgage.news/article/wall-street-rally-falling-treasury-yields-offer-brief-relief-for-mortgage-rates-as-markets-watch-job-msddstg3 https://www.mortgage.news/article/wall-street-rally-falling-treasury-yields-offer-brief-relief-for-mortgage-rates-as-markets-watch-job-msddstg3 Mon, 03 Aug 2026 15:25:55 GMT Stocks surged Monday while Treasury yields fell after President Donald Trump said the United States would resume talks with Iran rather than proceed with planned military strikes, easing concerns over a broader Middle East conflict and sending oil prices sharply lower. For the mortgage industry, the decline in Treasury yields offered a potential, though likely temporary, tailwind for mortgage rates after they climbed to their highest levels in roughly a year last week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose more than 580 points, or about 1.1%, in late morning trading. The S&P 500 gained approximately 1.1%, while the Nasdaq Composite advanced 1.6%, led by technology and communication services stocks. At the same time, the benchmark 10-year Treasury yield fell roughly seven basis points to around 4.67%. Because mortgage-backed securities are closely tied to Treasury yields, a sustained decline could ease upward pressure on mortgage pricing, although mortgage rates do not move in lockstep with government bond yields. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-heads-into-second-quarter-earnings-after-44-9-billion-start-to-2026-msdd3zvm https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-heads-into-second-quarter-earnings-after-44-9-billion-start-to-2026-msdd3zvm Mon, 03 Aug 2026 15:06:37 GMT United Wholesale Mortgage enters its second-quarter earnings report after originating $44.9 billion in loans during the first quarter of 2026. Investors will be watching production volume, purchase-versus-refinance mix, gain margin, servicing-platform progress and liquidity for signs that UWM sustained its momentum through the spring market. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-in-focus-as-three-fed-officials-push-for-rate-hikes-to-fight-persistent-inflation-ms94sjy3 https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-in-focus-as-three-fed-officials-push-for-rate-hikes-to-fight-persistent-inflation-ms94sjy3 Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:02:41 GMT Three Federal Reserve officials who dissented from the Federal Open Market Committee's decision to hold interest rates steady are publicly arguing that the central bank should begin raising rates again to combat persistent inflation. Their comments underscore growing concern that inflation has remained above the Fed's 2% target for more than five years and could require tighter monetary policy. For mortgage lenders, homebuyers, homeowners, and the housing industry, the statements reinforce a key takeaway: expectations for lower mortgage rates may continue to be delayed if inflation remains stubbornly high. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-seeks-dismissal-of-rocket-mortgage-s-100-million-servicing-rights-lawsuit-ms92ysv8 https://www.mortgage.news/article/uwm-seeks-dismissal-of-rocket-mortgage-s-100-million-servicing-rights-lawsuit-ms92ysv8 Fri, 31 Jul 2026 15:11:34 GMT United Wholesale Mortgage says its refinance promotions were permitted under the parties’ contracts, while Rocket Mortgage argues that UWM is attempting to resolve disputed facts before discovery. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/fico-score-10t-gains-momentum-in-mortgage-credit-modernization-ms7markk https://www.mortgage.news/article/fico-score-10t-gains-momentum-in-mortgage-credit-modernization-ms7markk Thu, 30 Jul 2026 14:37:12 GMT New GSE loan data is giving lenders a clearer way to evaluate FICO Score 10T against legacy and competing credit models. Early findings suggest stronger risk prediction, but broader adoption will depend on lender testing, regulatory implementation and real-world portfolio performance. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-remain-uncertain-after-fed-holds-rates-steady-leaving-homebuyers-and-lenders-watching-ms7m8sev https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-remain-uncertain-after-fed-holds-rates-steady-leaving-homebuyers-and-lenders-watching-ms7m8sev Thu, 30 Jul 2026 14:35:40 GMT The Federal Reserve left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at its July 29, 2026 meeting, but the decision did little to clarify where mortgage rates are headed next. While the rate hold was widely expected, growing disagreement among Federal Reserve policymakers and rising Treasury yields continue to create uncertainty for borrowers, lenders, and the housing market. Mortgage professionals say buyers should avoid reacting to weekly rate swings and instead focus on financial readiness. Meanwhile, markets are increasingly pricing in the possibility of another Fed rate hike in September, even as mortgage rates remain below where they were one year ago. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-near-7-again-what-rising-borrowing-costs-mean-for-homebuyers-and-homeowners-ms6bqhcm https://www.mortgage.news/article/mortgage-rates-near-7-again-what-rising-borrowing-costs-mean-for-homebuyers-and-homeowners-ms6bqhcm Wed, 29 Jul 2026 16:53:43 GMT Mortgage rates are climbing back toward 7%, putting renewed pressure on home affordability and influencing buyer demand. Learn what's driving the increase, how it impacts the housing market, and what buyers and homeowners should consider in today's higher-rate environment. Rates https://www.mortgage.news/article/stock-market-slides-as-oil-surges-ahead-of-fed-decision-what-it-means-for-mortgage-rates-ms66otpz https://www.mortgage.news/article/stock-market-slides-as-oil-surges-ahead-of-fed-decision-what-it-means-for-mortgage-rates-ms66otpz Wed, 29 Jul 2026 14:32:28 GMT U.S. stocks fell sharply Wednesday morning as investors reacted to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, a sharp jump in oil prices, and anticipation surrounding the Federal Reserve's latest interest rate decision. While equities sold off, mortgage professionals are focused on a different question: Will higher oil prices and renewed inflation concerns delay future mortgage rate improvements? The Federal Reserve is widely expected to leave interest rates unchanged, but investors will closely examine Chairman Kevin Warsh's comments for clues about the path of inflation, economic growth, and future rate cuts. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/affordable-housing-markets-take-center-stage-as-mortgage-rates-ease-and-buyers-search-for-value-in-2-ms50dm8a https://www.mortgage.news/article/affordable-housing-markets-take-center-stage-as-mortgage-rates-ease-and-buyers-search-for-value-in-2-ms50dm8a Tue, 28 Jul 2026 18:48:01 GMT The 2026 housing market is entering a new phase as buyers adapt to elevated mortgage rates, shifting inventory conditions, and widening differences between regional markets. The latest WSJ/Realtor.com Summer 2026 Housing Market Ranking shows that affordability, economic stability, and sustainable demand—not simply population growth or rapid appreciation—are defining America’s strongest housing markets. While mortgage rates remain a major affordability challenge, improving inflation data and expectations for slightly lower borrowing costs are creating cautious optimism. Mortgage rates are projected to average approximately 6.3% in 2026, slightly below 2025 levels, helping provide modest relief for buyers facing historically high monthly payments. The markets offering the strongest opportunities are concentrated primarily in the Midwest and Northeast, where home prices remain more closely aligned with local incomes. South Bend-Mishawaka, Indiana-Michigan, ranked the nation’s strongest housing market for the third consecutive quarter, followed by Appleton, Wisconsin, and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The ranking highlights a critical shift in housing: buyers are increasingly looking beyond headline markets and toward communities where affordability, employment strength, supply conditions, and quality of life create long-term value. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/mba-proprietary-reverse-mortgage-lending-surged-118-in-2025-as-market-diversifies-ms4ruj9e https://www.mortgage.news/article/mba-proprietary-reverse-mortgage-lending-surged-118-in-2025-as-market-diversifies-ms4ruj9e Tue, 28 Jul 2026 14:49:14 GMT The U.S. reverse mortgage market is evolving rapidly. New analysis from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) shows that proprietary reverse mortgage originations increased by 118% in 2025, signaling growing demand for private reverse mortgage products alongside the federally insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) program. While HECMs continue to dominate the reverse mortgage landscape, lenders are increasingly turning to proprietary products to serve higher-value homeowners, borrowers with unique financial needs, and consumers seeking alternatives to FHA lending limits. Mortgage https://www.mortgage.news/article/higher-mortgage-rates-begin-to-cool-housing-demand-despite-positive-home-sales-ms3f6c8j https://www.mortgage.news/article/higher-mortgage-rates-begin-to-cool-housing-demand-despite-positive-home-sales-ms3f6c8j Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:06:44 GMT The housing market remains resilient, with pending home sales still edging above last year's levels. However, rising mortgage rates are beginning to slow buyer demand, highlighting the growing affordability challenges facing homebuyers while improved mortgage spreads continue to provide critical support to the market. Housing Market https://www.mortgage.news/article/new-home-sales-edge-higher-in-june-2026-as-prices-fall-and-inventory-remains-elevated-ms3cqb37 https://www.mortgage.news/article/new-home-sales-edge-higher-in-june-2026-as-prices-fall-and-inventory-remains-elevated-ms3cqb37 Mon, 27 Jul 2026 14:58:16 GMT he U.S. housing market showed modest improvement in June 2026 as new home sales increased slightly from May, but activity remained below last year's pace. Builders continued to offer buyers more choices with elevated inventory levels, while both median and average new home prices declined compared to a year ago. Key takeaways: New home sales increased 1.6% month over month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 628,000. Sales remained 5.6% below June 2025 levels. Inventory held near historically elevated levels at 485,000 homes. Supply remained high at 9.3 months, favoring buyers. Median new home price fell to $398,300, down 2.7% year over year. Average new home price declined 6.5% year over year to $475,400. The latest report suggests builders continue adjusting pricing and inventory strategies to attract buyers facing affordability challenges and elevated mortgage rates. Housing Market