Fitch Cites CMBS Servicing Improvements

Servicers of loans in commercial mortgage-backed securities deals are using practices that have "dramatically increased" their responsiveness, according to Fitch Ratings."Dedicated surveillance teams and enhanced technology that has improved day-to-day work flow have dramatically increased servicer responsiveness to issues and improved operational efficiency," said Stephanie Petosa, a Fitch senior director. "Additionally, the advent of 24-hour borrower websites and borrower surveys has contributed to borrower satisfaction. Increasingly interactive investor websites that allow for customized portfolios and reports has also emerged as a best practice for the sector." Fitch's review of CMBS servicing, titled "Trends and Best Practices in CMBS Servicing," can be found on the rating agency's website at http://www.fitchratings.com.