Origination

Fifty-six percent of renters feel that now is a good time to buy a home, which is down from 57 percent last quarter, and down even further from 62 percent a year ago. Comparatively, 80 percent of homeowners feel now is a good time to buy.

Monthly index leveled off nationally in January but grew over the year. No regions in decline for the first time since October. Mountain and Pacific values were January’s strongest.

Although profits for processing loans dropped, mortgage lenders with servicing portfolios benefited from higher net servicing financial income in the fourth quarter of 2016 due to increases in the valuation of their mortgage servicing rights. This event was driven by rising interest rates. However, reduced profitability on the production side of the business generally outweighed servicing gains.

Despite rising interest rates, real estate sales are brisk, limited only by the supply of available listings. Demand from millennials and first-time homebuyers remains robust. Economist says this has resulted in a shrinking underperformance gap.

As risk is reduced, CoreLogic indicates that home prices have continued to rise. Previously, the CoreLogic Home Price Index (HPI) showed nationwide sales, including distressed sales, jumped 6.9 percent year over year and 0.7 percent month-over-month. Mortgage rates have continued to rise as well, and are anticipated to continue to rise during 2017.

The new VP and National Account Manager will be responsible for driving business development and delivering private mortgage insurance solutions for clients.

Unmet credit demands of U.S. consumers are partially caused by reluctance of some to even apply for credit. Survey reveals that consumers are generally more pessimistic of future approval rates, influenced by the increase in involuntary account closures. These rose to their highest level since October 2015.

Homes stayed on the market for an average of two days more in February than January.

As most Realtors know, helping a homeowner get their home in tip top condition before listing can significantly speed up a sale. In addition, consulting with buyers about their expectations and getting them pre-qualified for a loan will also expedite the process of house hunting.

Data shows that construction jobs have been increasing since November of last year.