Origination

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell says crushing inflation is the most important thing the Fed can do to reduce costs in the housing market. Some economists and policy specialists say higher rates are not the only tool at its disposal.

The term is open to interpretation and may refer to a broad range of real-estate finance activity. An "independent mortgage banker" has a narrower definition.

Proceeds could be used to support the company's loan originations as well pay down existing debt coming due in the next three years.

Home inventory on the market increased in May, but stubbornly high mortgage rates and home prices are leading to slow sales in many areas, according to reports from Redfin and Zillow.

From updates in mortgage-related court cases, to developments in AI and policy, here are the most-read stories from National Mortgage News over the past week.

Borrowers still sought opportunities in the homebuilder market with activity trending upward for over a year, even as existing inventory showed signs of expanding.

Markets appeared to welcome signs of future rate relief, with the latest Freddie Mac average falling for the fifth time in six weeks.

The 22,385 homes entering the process last month was a 3% monthly increase but a 4% annual decline.

But despite increasing anxiety over rising costs, an overall majority of consumers also express optimism about their own improving financial prospects in the upcoming year, according to Transunion.

The Federal Reserve held firm on its current interest rate levels after its latest meeting, but inflation numbers are leading to talk of potential action in third and fourth quarters.