FHA Seeks Input as FICO Plans Credit Score Inclusion BNPL use is rising among first-time buyers, but it’s often hidden from mortgage underwriting. The FHA is asking for public input by August 25, as FICO plans to include BNPL in credit scores by late 2025. With a more balanced housing

Fed Holds Steady Amid Job Growth and Mortgage Rate Drop In June, the U.S. economy added 147,000 jobs, reinforcing the Federal Reserve’s current stance to keep interest rates steady. Chair Jerome Powell signaled that rate cuts may happen later this year if inflation slows, but for now, patience prevails. Meanwhile,

Foreclosure Prevention Up, Consumer Confidence Down In Q1 2025, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac helped prevent over 60,000 foreclosures, contributing to a total of 7.1 million actions since 2008. Forbearance activity continues to decline, with only 0.13% of loans in forbearance. However, foreclosure starts and sales saw slight increases, especially

Fed Moves, Buyer Trends & Policy Shifts In this update, the Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady but signals two possible cuts later this year, as they monitor inflation and trade impacts. Meanwhile, homebuyer down payments have declined for the first time in nearly two years, though they remain stable

Privacy, Foreign Investment & Rates South Korea is ramping up its investment in U.S. mortgage-backed securities through a new deal with HUD and Ginnie Mae, showing strong foreign interest despite ongoing trade tensions. Meanwhile, the Senate has approved the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act to curb unwanted credit offers from trigger