Origination

Fidelity National Financial Inc., Jacksonville, Fla., reported net earnings of $131 million for the fourth quarter and $370 million for the full year 2010, both showing improvements over the $69 million and $222 million earned in the same periods in 2009.

I've learned over the years that my most effective executive coaching leadership clients know the "why" of what they are passionate in achieving. They get excited in my office telling me inspiring stories of their hopes and struggles. They are optimistic and forward thinking.

It appears that Wilbur Ross hit a home run on his first day out. The WL Ross & Co.-affiliated BankUnited Inc. raised $783 million in its initial public offering, more than 18% more than what it initially expected.

Existing home sales in California in December were at their highest level since May, according to the California Association of Realtors.

The dynamics of the relationships between mortgage broker and wholesaler have been changed as a result of the housing crisis.And for many on the mortgage broker side of the equation, those changes have not been for the better.

Harris Financial has hired Kevin Christopher to be director of mortgage sales. He will be responsible for leading the Harris mortgage team in its internal collaboration, service and sales capabilities to contribute to the bank's overall strategy.

The National Association of Realtors is forecasting that existing home sales will hit 5.3 million units in 2011, up 8% from last year. But back in September, NAR economists were projecting a 10.7% increase in sales.

The perception of a strengthening economy was the catalyst behind the increase in rates for the 30-year and 15-year fixed-rate mortgage this week, according to the most recent Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey.

Ally Financial Inc., which controls the nation's fifth largest mortgage banking firm, plans to go public this year and is interviewing investment bankers for its initial public offering, according to sources familiar with the plan.

Flagstar Bancorp had a good fourth quarter, according to the analysts at FBR Capital Markets, “considering the drastic strategic actions the company had to take.”