LOs pivoting to non-QM, equity products: survey

A lack of housing inventory, fluctuating mortgage interest rates and home prices are the subjects that worry loan originators this year, those participating in the annual National Mortgage News Top Producers survey said. The annual survey had 327 originators participate, a number slightly smaller from last year, but the outcomes were notable.

Surprisingly, LOs seem rather unfazed by the uncertain future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, consolidation within the mortgage industry and even their job security. Of course splashy headlines, such as one lender acquiring another, get LOs talking, but it is not what keeps them up at night.

READ MORE: The Top Producers of 2025: The complete list

LOs have more concerns about boots on the ground topics, and as the mortgage market has yet to show any signs of relief for independent mortgage banks, originators increasing aim to amp up loan production across the board.

The desire to use any available tool or product to survive the tough market is reflected in NMN's survey results of the originators who produced the highest dollar volume of loans last year.  Those striving loan officers are increasingly prioritizing non-QM and home equity-related products.

Loan product prioritization

For 2025, LOs are doubling down on originating all loan products under the sun. Prioritizing the origination of non-QM loans and home equity-related products is a notable shift from the year prior.

Loan officer concerns for 2025

The majority of respondents (59%) say they are not concerned about their job security in 2025. Meanwhile, housing inventory shortages (31%), rising home prices (24%), rising mortgage rates (24%) were ranked as the main topics of worry.