Loan Think

The government-sponsored enterprises are buying conforming mortgages with as little as 3% down, but the new policy can't improve the housing market by itself.

Lenders thrive with clear communication from the top executive and an operations team offered ample support.

Upgrading communications technology is imperative, but only one way, for mortgage servicers to prepare for an onslaught of consumers accustomed to high-touch, individualized attention.

The methodologies and paths for proactive consumer outreach can vary dramatically depending on multiple risk factors that servicers must have a plan to mitigate.

As new foreign bank regulations push financial institutions to shed risk-weighted assets, companies like Barclays and RBS are reducing their roles in the mortgage-backed securities market. But reduced competition in this sector is bad for liquidity.

Incorporating bill and rental payment data into consumer credit scores would be a boon for underserved Americans. New legislation in Congress could help credit reporting agencies realize this goal.

Make a plan, define achievable goals and track your progress to maintain accountability, and you will end the year where you want to be.

To avoid alienating a consumer base increasingly expecting digital options, lenders must take the plunge and update old loan origination systems that cannot accommodate today's technology demands.

The "deceptive" in Unfair, Deceptive, or Abusive Acts or Practices includes negligence, as demonstrated by a recent Consumer Financial Protection Bureau enforcement action.

Some housing professionals have grown reluctant to participate in the Federal Home Loan Banks' Affordable Housing Program, objecting to burdensome requirements and rules that are inconsistent with other funding sources. It's time for the Federal Housing Finance Agency to make some updates.