Appraisals

Diversity initiatives for home appraisers would cut down the racism and bias within the valuation process.

More defaults will lead to an increase in distressed sales, and that will drive down prices, CoreLogic said.

Remote, homeowner-assisted appraisals used amid the coronavirus could be a useful tool post-pandemic, in limited circumstances.

The government-sponsored enterprise’s seller/servicer guide is now integrated into the online portal. Freddie also improved the readability of loan-level reporting it provides, and has further changes in the works.

From guidelines for remote appraisal alternatives to the ways that forbearance affects borrowers' ability to get new loans, here are five examples of mortgage requirements that have been in flux since the coronavirus outbreak in the United States.

With inventory tight and demand compounded by a nonexistent spring home-buying season, a fifth of all buyers waived inspection or appraisal contingencies to win bidding wars, according to Redfin.

Other moves it is undertaking include business divestitures and increased dividends while defending against a takeover attempt.

After taking a deep dive in March and April due to the pandemic, housing sales throughout the Twin Cities rebounded in May, coming back strong to even make up lost ground.