Loan Think

Lenders don't want to make loans outside the Qualified Mortgage rule's tight debt-to-income standard. Young graduates don't want to add to their hefty monthly payments. Net effect: Fewer first-time buyers.

The emotional side of financing a home is often overlooked by loan officers.

The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act played a key role in helping underwater homeowners keep their homes after the crash. But it may also have unwittingly encouraged strategic default.

Over the last year several decisions and regulatory actions suggest industry standards are soon going to become the way of life for lenders.

As interest rates increase, prepayment speeds are falling precipitously, extending the maturities of mortgage-backed securities, especially the guaranteed variety. This trend is likely to cause future declines in MBS values.

Has your company given you no training at all, some training or have they arranged for professional sales training?

The housing sector is increasingly a drag on consumption and job creation. The fault lies not with the market but with ill-considered regulations and bank capital rules.

The Affordable Housing and Community Investment programs of the Federal Home Loan Banks provide important gap financing to support other sources of financing for affordable housing.

Carl Cole was sentenced for his role in a $30 million scam in the Bakersfield, Calif. market.

Loan processors should continue the conversation that the loan officers hopefully started. Like asking, "What did you like about that house?" while trying to nail down the appraiser's contact information.