November 2025

IMBs gain on sale is up, profitability isn’t

While gain on sale margins for mortgage lenders were at least stable, if not improved, in the third quarter compared to prior periods, that did not necessarily translate to improved profitability, separate reports from Morningstar DBRS and Boston Consulting Group revealed. The Morningstar report looked only at independent mortgage bankers, and the group it pulled

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Does the Fed have an ethics problem?

Key Insight: Even though ethics violations among Fed officials are uncommon, high-profile cases like that of former Fed Gov. Adriana Kugler highlights persistent questions about oversight effectiveness. Expert Quote: “When you’re in a position that’s as influential as working at the Federal Reserve, you’re governed by the law of Caesar’s wife — be above suspicion.”

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Why Buying a Home Still Pays Off in the Long Run

Why Buying a Home Still Pays Off in the Long Run

Renting can feel much less expensive and much simpler than buying a home, especially right now. No repairs, no property taxes, no worrying about mortgage rates – you just pay the bill and move on with your life. But here’s the part people don’t talk about enough: renting doesn’t help you build your financial future.

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RealPage, DOJ settle antitrust rental pricing lawsuit

Rental pricing software firm RealPage has settled its lawsuit with the Department of Justice (DOJ). The two announced the proposed settlement, which is still subject to court approval on Monday.  According to the settlement announcement, RealPage will not face any financial penalties. The company said the settlement is not an admission of liability and noted

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Will steep increases in health insurance premiums threaten U.S. homebuying?

As Congress debates whether to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies set to expire, Americans may face steep increases in health insurance premiums — a jolt that could directly threaten homebuying prospects and keep many current homeowners from staying afloat. Daryl Fairweather, chief economist at Redfin; Emma Freer, senior policy analyst for health care at

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Purchase applications drive small mortgage application increase

Despite elevated mortgage rates, mortgage applications increased 0.2% from the prior week, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA)’s weekly mortgage applications survey for the week ending Nov. 21. On an unadjusted basis, the index decreased 2% compared with the previous week. “Mortgage rates crept higher last week, with the 30-year fixed rate

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Radian is setting the pace: Modernizing RTL and DSCR lending

Business purpose lending is experiencing a period of accelerated change. Rising securitization activity, new entrants, tighter regulatory expectations, and increased investor scrutiny are helping to reshape lenders’ thinking about RTL and DSCR products. As we move toward 2026, the industry is examining both new opportunities and new pressures, prompting many to rethink efficiency, quality, and

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A slowdown in compliance? Don’t believe it!

There’s a narrative making the rounds in certain mortgage lending circles. Some are suggesting that with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau seemingly scaling back certain activities, compliance pressures may soon be easing. The current federal government shutdown seems to add credence to this story. Is it possible that after years of struggling through the downturn

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