Economists are raising red flags over former President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policy, warning that the reintroduction of steep tariffs could undo decades of global economic integration and steer the U.S. economy back toward the protectionist practices of the early 20th century. Recent estimates suggest that average U.S. tariff levels are now approaching highs not seen since 1910—a period marked by isolationism and economic volatility.
Zillow has announced a sweeping policy shift that aims to clamp down on the widespread use of “pocket listings”—properties marketed privately without being listed on a Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Starting May 1, homes that have been publicly marketed outside the MLS will no longer be allowed on Zillow’s platform. The move is being positioned as a step toward greater transparency and equal opportunity in home buying.
Mortgage rates continued to climb last week despite the Trump administration’s decision to delay certain trade tariffs, adding fresh pressure to an already strained housing market. The increase in borrowing costs came as a surprise to many industry watchers who had expected rate relief following news that some of the proposed tariffs would be postponed. Instead, the rise underscores the persistent influence of broader economic forces—especially inflation expectations and bond market volatility—on the cost of home loans.
The new director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) spent much of last week issuing orders that rescinded or terminated policies put in place during the previous administration. FHFA Director William Pulte posted the series of orders on his X.com account last week.
The new director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) took the opportunity of his swearing in to echo the Trump administration’s emphasis on government efficiency. William J. Pulte was confirmed by a 56-43 vote of the U.S. Senate last week as FHFA Director for a five-year term. Three Democrats voted with the Republican majority to approve President Trump’s nomination.
In order to simplify the disclosures for consumers and encourage more shopping, the CFPB or Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is in the process of changing the GFE. This change should be happening within the next few days, I imagine. So, I wanted to take another moment discuss this and hopefully shed some understanding and remind you of these changes soon to come.
Opinion-Editorial (Op-Ed) Disclaimer For NAMU® Library Articles: The views and opinions expressed in the NAMU® Library articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect any official NAMU® policy or position. Examples of analysis performed within this article are only examples. They should not be utilized in real-world application as they are based only on very limited and dated open source information. Assumptions made within the analysis are not reflective of the position of NAMU®. Nothing contained in this articles should be considered legal advice.
A few weeks ago we discussed some of the changes coming our way to how we do things in our industry. Here are a few more clarifications of things coming our way. The Dodd-Frank Act states that a creditor may not make a mortgage loan without first determining that the borrower has a reasonable ability-to-repay the loan.
Opinion-Editorial (Op-Ed) Disclaimer For NAMU® Library Articles: The views and opinions expressed in the NAMU® Library articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect any official NAMU® policy or position. Examples of analysis performed within this article are only examples. They should not be utilized in real-world application as they are based only on very limited and dated open source information. Assumptions made within the analysis are not reflective of the position of NAMU®. Nothing contained in this articles should be considered legal advice.
In our ever changing industry we are constantly hit with new regulations which cause us to completely change how we do things. Well, here we go again!
In order to simplify the disclosures for consumers and encourage more shopping, the CFPB or Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is in the process of changing the GFE.
Opinion-Editorial (Op-Ed) Disclaimer For NAMU® Library Articles: The views and opinions expressed in the NAMU® Library articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect any official NAMU® policy or position. Examples of analysis performed within this article are only examples. They should not be utilized in real-world application as they are based only on very limited and dated open source information. Assumptions made within the analysis are not reflective of the position of NAMU®. Nothing contained in this articles should be considered legal advice.
Last week we began discussing the importance of understanding how to read a credit report. As stated last week, no doubt we can all agree that as processors we need to know how to read and interpret information on a credit report. So let’s begin the second part:
Opinion-Editorial (Op-Ed) Disclaimer For NAMU® Library Articles: The views and opinions expressed in the NAMU® Library articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect any official NAMU® policy or position. Examples of analysis performed within this article are only examples. They should not be utilized in real-world application as they are based only on very limited and dated open source information. Assumptions made within the analysis are not reflective of the position of NAMU®. Nothing contained in this articles should be considered legal advice.
Do you find yourself feeling overloaded at times? Do you often have to work late in order to meet your closing deadlines? Do you seem to be going from one crisis file to another? If so, you may want to take a few steps back…breathe…and ask yourself, how well am I managing my time?
Opinion-Editorial (Op-Ed) Disclaimer For NAMU® Library Articles: The views and opinions expressed in the NAMU® Library articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect any official NAMU® policy or position. Examples of analysis performed within this article are only examples. They should not be utilized in real-world application as they are based only on very limited and dated open source information. Assumptions made within the analysis are not reflective of the position of NAMU®. Nothing contained in this articles should be considered legal advice.
Last week we started a two week series, offering ten tips to make you a better and more efficient processor. This week we will finish out with the last several tips. So here we go…
Opinion-Editorial (Op-Ed) Disclaimer For NAMU® Library Articles: The views and opinions expressed in the NAMU® Library articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect any official NAMU® policy or position. Examples of analysis performed within this article are only examples. They should not be utilized in real-world application as they are based only on very limited and dated open source information. Assumptions made within the analysis are not reflective of the position of NAMU®. Nothing contained in this articles should be considered legal advice.
Written By: Stacey Sprain
As an FHA originator, processor or underwriter, it’s likely that in the ongoing foreclosure market you’ll run across a HUD REO loan at some point. The purpose of this multi-part article is to provide you with some useful information to help in your endeavors.