Mortgage Credit Availability Rises Again – NMP Skip to main content

Mortgage Credit Availability Rises Again

Mar 08, 2019
The Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI) was on the rise last month, according to data released by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA)

The Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI) was on the rise last month, according to data released by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA).
 
During February, the MCAI rose 0.6 percent to 180.1. Both the Conventional MCAI and Government MCAI were up by 1.1 percent and 0.1 percent, respectively. The component indices of the Conventional MCAI had mixed results: The Jumbo MCAI increased by 2.2 percent but the Conforming MCAI fell by 0.2 percent.
 
“Credit availability increased in February as a result of new jumbo offerings brought to the market, both for agency jumbo and non-agency jumbo programs,” said Mike Fratantoni, MBA Senior Vice President and Chief Economist. “We also saw some expansion in credit for borrowers with lower credit scores and higher LTVs, although credit availability for government programs remains tighter following the scaling back of VA refinance programs.”
The Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI) was on the rise last month, according to data released by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA)

 
About the author
Published
Mar 08, 2019
CHLA: More Freddie Mac MBS Buying Could Narrow Mortgage Spreads

Trade group estimates greater Freddie participation could compress spreads another 10 to 12 basis points as Fannie has taken the lead in GSE mortgage-bond buying

Sep 23, 2026
Early Loan-Limit Race Splits Into Three Tiers

Lenders are now offering $845,000, $847,440, or $850,000 before FHFA sets the official 2027 limits

Sep 23, 2026
Better, Garg Clash Over Claimed 46% Shareholder Support

Better disputes its former CEO’s preliminary consent count as the two sides trade accusations and an Oct. 2 target date approaches

Sep 23, 2026
Fannie Changes How Rent From A Former Home Counts

Fannie now prohibits leases for departing residences and permits market-analysis tools instead of Form 1007, creating a key documentation difference from Freddie Mac

MPF Expands Eligibility For Manufactured And Renovation Loans

The Mortgage Partnership Finance Program has expanded MPF Traditional eligibility for affordable loans, manufactured homes, renovations, and lender-funded assistance

Sep 22, 2026