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Employment in the nondepository mortgage banker and broker sector fell for the second consecutive month in February, a possible sign of growing concern about shrinking demand for mortgages.

Mortgage industry hiring and new job appointments for the week ending April 7.

Home sale prices on Oahu rose 4% in March, according to the Honolulu Board of Realtors.

Home price increases combined with rising rates drove consumer confidence in the housing market off of its all-time high.

King, Snohomish and Pierce counties all set records for home prices last month, ushering in the busy spring season with one of the biggest monthly price hikes in years for the nation's hottest housing market.

Agency mortgage-backed securities issuance increased in 2016, rising to $1.6 trillion from $1.3 trillion, while nonagency mortgage securitization issuance decreased.

Returns from funds investing primarily in government-related mortgage securities were stronger in the first quarter than they were in the fourth quarter of 2016, but aren't quite as strong as in the first quarter of 2016.

Commercial and multifamily mortgage bankers originated $490.6 billion closed loans in 2016, making it the third strongest year on record despite the pressure higher rates have put on volume.

Large banks will gain the advantage in offering online mortgages because of their greater financial resources, pricing capabilities and cross-selling ability, Fitch Ratings said.

It's almost time to get your annual property tax appraisal notice — everyone's least favorite piece of mail.