HousingWire

• ICBA, affiliates urge CFPB to improve construction loan disclosures March 30, 2023
  The ICBA and 42 affiliated state banking associations are urging the CFPB to approve language that allows community banks to test different consumer construction and construction-to-permanent loan disclosures.
• Low inventory a challenge to housing market as rates decline  March 30, 2023
  Mortgage rates have declined for the third consecutive week, sparking hope for a good spring buying season, but low inventory levels continue to be a challenge for the housing market.
• Record keeping needs improvement: FHFA watchdog March 30, 2023
  The FHFA has been following guidance in making conservatorship decisions, but missing records should lead to new retention policies, the FHFA OIG said.
• Don’t forget to reserve your room for HousingWire Annual March 29, 2023
  Take advantage of staying at the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort and being close to all the conference sessions and networking events.
• Opinion: Don’t cut back on professional support services March 29, 2023
  Now, more than ever, title agents should be mindful of the axiom, especially when it comes to decision making and budget cuts.
• Home-equity niche will benefit from a private-label lift March 29, 2023
  The demand for home-equity loans, particularly HELOCs as well as shared-equity investment products, is now stronger than at any time since before the global financial crisis some 15 years ago.
• Hope Through Housing uses MLK Grant to fund after school programs March 29, 2023
  Hope through Housing is a non-profit organization ending generational poverty through affordable housing, educational programs and advocacy.
• FHFA to expand payment deferrals for borrowers facing hardships March 29, 2023
  The FHFA said Fannie and Freddie will now allow borrowers facing eligible financial hardships to defer up to six months of mortgage payments.
• Mortgage demand gets a boost as rates decline for three straight weeks March 29, 2023
  As the 30-year fixed rate dropped for the third straight week, homebuyers responded, giving a boost to mortgage applications. 
• Biden urged to consider Build America’s impact on affordable housing March 29, 2023
  Two dozen housing organizations, leaders and trade groups, led by the National Housing Conference (NHC), are urging Biden to exempt affordable housing development and repair from the Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) provisions.