Lew Sichelman has been covering the housing and mortgage sectors for 52 years. His syndicated column appears in major newspapers throughout the country.
Redfin data shows rising inventory and hesitant buyers are driving deeper price reductions, reshaping negotiation dynamics and deal flow for loan originators
LegalShield data shows foreclosure inquiries up 20% year over year as borrowers shift from research to action, signaling potential rise in filings
Lenders face rising tri-merge costs, but FICO says bureau markups — not its base pricing — are driving the increase
Record pipeline of 90,000+ units and looming office loan maturities reshape urban housing supply while opening construction and adaptive reuse financing opportunities for lenders
Investors purchased nearly one-third of all houses sold in the fourth quarter of 2025, but sold more properties than they acquired
Rising stale inventory and longer days on market signal weaker demand, fewer originations, and increased pricing pressure for loan officers
Survey finds experienced agents frustrated with Zillow, MLS systems, and pocket listings, while most report little change in commissions post-NAR settlement
With nearly half of homes built before 1980, rising teardowns and limited new construction are driving demand for renovation, construction, and purchase financing
Delegated underwriting and new borrower portal aim to speed closings, reduce friction, and expand access to credit without changing program rules
Data shows short-term borrowers positioned to benefit as refinance window remains likely