RESPA News - Daily News

Experts talk regulatory changes, emerging AI guidance at NS3

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 14:34:36 GMT

Experts talk regulatory changes, emerging AI guidance at NS3 - At this year’s National Settlement Services Summit (NS3), experts discussed how state regulatory changes are shaping the industry, the impact of emerging technologies and offered ways to stay prepared and proactive.

FTC sues companies, alleging mortgage assistance relief scam

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:57:54 GMT

FTC sues companies, alleging mortgage assistance relief scam - The Federal Trade Commission filed a complaint against numerous mortgage assistance companies, accusing them of deceiving consumers and charging unlawful advance fees. The court granted a temporary restraining order the next day.

HUD announces ‘most competitive funding opportunity in the history of the CoC program’

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:52:47 GMT

HUD announces ‘most competitive funding opportunity in the history of the CoC program’ - The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced a new Notice of Funding Opportunity for $4.04 billion to “better serve America’s vulnerable populations through the Continuum of Care homelessness assistance program.”

NAR REACH program highlights pseudo-MLS for manufactured housing

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:37:45 GMT

NAR REACH program highlights pseudo-MLS for manufactured housing - The National Association of Realtors announced that one of the six companies selected for the 2026 REACH program describes itself as the “first comprehensive data platform purpose-built for the manufactured housing market.”

Maryland governor signs law against ‘discriminatory effects’

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:18:55 GMT

Maryland governor signs law against ‘discriminatory effects’ - The governor of Maryland signed House Bill 0573 which authorized the Department of Housing and Community Development to adopt regulations related to “affirmatively furthering fair housing.”

Representative addresses administration’s deregulatory campaign

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:11:34 GMT

Representative addresses administration’s deregulatory campaign - Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) delivered an opening statement during a recent full Housing Financial Services Committee hearing, addressing the present administration’s “aggressive” deregulatory campaign.

Connecticut, New York legislature allows sellers to ‘opt-out’ of MLS marketing, increases transparency

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 15:31:17 GMT

Connecticut, New York legislature allows sellers to ‘opt-out’ of MLS marketing, increases transparency - Connecticut adopted a new state law that creates an “opt-out” form for homesellers who wish to list their property privately, with New York in the process of doing the same. RESPA News reached out to Marx Sterbcow, managing attorney at Sterbcow Law Group, who shared what this may indicate for the industry.

NAR urges DOJ, FTC to provide guidance affirming MLSs as procompetitive

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 15:26:47 GMT

NAR urges DOJ, FTC to provide guidance affirming MLSs as procompetitive - The National Association of Realtors sent a letter to the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission, emphasizing the need for clear guidance to “reinforce procompetitive collaboration.”

HUD releases best practices to ‘add efficiency to local building processes’

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 15:22:02 GMT

HUD releases best practices to ‘add efficiency to local building processes’ - The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced the State and Local Best Practices for Home Construction Report, a series of regulatory actions for state and local governments to increase efficiency and ease regulatory barriers to housing construction and affordability.

VA announces new program to avoid foreclosure

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 15:18:34 GMT

VA announces new program to avoid foreclosure - The Department of Veterans Affairs updated its options for avoiding foreclosure, announcing the implementation of its new partial claim program which will begin accepting submissions on June 15.

FHA seeks input on its single-family minimum property requirements

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 15:00:13 GMT

FHA seeks input on its single-family minimum property requirements - The Federal Housing Administration recently issued a request for information regarding single-family minimum property requirements, seeking to modernize the program.

Wells Fargo enters $110M settlement to resolve allegations of hiring, lending discrimination

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:44:53 GMT

Wells Fargo enters $110M settlement to resolve allegations of hiring, lending discrimination - Under a $110 million settlement resolving a lending and hiring discrimination lawsuit against Wells Fargo, the bank will create a $100 million borrower assistance fund for mortgage assistance.

CFPB sued over ECOA final rule that removes disparate impact

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:41:09 GMT

CFPB sued over ECOA final rule that removes disparate impact - Four advocacy groups sued the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) regarding its recent final rule that amended Regulation B, the implementing regulation of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. The groups contend the changes to the existing prohibitions against discriminatory actions would discourage prospective applicants from applying for credit.

Industry groups applaud House passage of 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:32:31 GMT

Industry groups applaud House passage of 21^st Century ROAD to Housing Act - The National Association of Realtors and the Mortgage Bankers Association released statements of support after the U.S. House voted 396-13 to pass an amended version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. It now goes to the Senate for approval.

Advocacy group analyzes FY 2027 appropriations for HUD programs

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:27:07 GMT

Advocacy group analyzes FY 2027 appropriations for HUD programs - The National Low Income Housing Coalition released an analysis of the 2027 budget for the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which is 8 percent less than in 2026. The group said the funding “would likely be inadequate to ensure continued assistance” for HUD to continue its level of service.

FHA streamlines assignment process for condo single-unit approval

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:22:25 GMT

FHA streamlines assignment process for condo single-unit approval - The Federal Housing Administration is making enhancements to streamline internal processes for case number assignments for units in condominium projects eligible for single-unit approval.

Senators urge HUD to rescind notice for proposed rule regarding PHA work requirements, term limit

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:15:05 GMT

Senators urge HUD to rescind notice for proposed rule regarding PHA work requirements, term limit - Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), along with 17 others, sent a letter to the Department of Housing and Urban Development urging it to rescind a recent notice of proposed rulemaking which they say would likely increase evictions, homelessness and administrative costs.

Rocket says borrowers in class action fail to show RESPA safe harbor doesn’t apply

Thu, 28 May 2026 18:09:43 GMT

Rocket says borrowers in class action fail to show RESPA safe harbor doesn’t apply - Rocket Companies filed a reply brief of its motion to dismiss a class action that alleged steering practices, claiming that the borrowers failed to demonstrate that cooperative brokerage safe harbor does not apply.

Compass, MRED argue Zillow’s alleged harm was ‘self-inflicted’ in antitrust case

Thu, 28 May 2026 17:44:58 GMT

Compass, MRED argue Zillow’s alleged harm was ‘self-inflicted’ in antitrust case - Compass, Inc. and Midwest Real Estate Data LLC filed their respective responses to Zillow’s motion for a preliminary injunction and a temporary restraining order in the parties’ recent antitrust case, arguing that Zillow’s alleged “irreparable harm” was “self-inflicted.” A judge then granted in part and denied in part the motion for a temporary restraining order.

Advocacy group secures $2.25M settlement with Chicago, resolving fair housing, civil rights allegations

Thu, 28 May 2026 17:38:55 GMT

Advocacy group secures $2.25M settlement with Chicago, resolving fair housing, civil rights allegations - Access Living announced the resolution of 2018 civil rights lawsuit that alleged the city of Chicago funded and developed tens of thousands of affordable rental housing units without the required number of accessible units.

Pending home sale rise in April

Thu, 28 May 2026 17:33:53 GMT

Pending home sale rise in April - Pending home sales in April increased by 1.4 percent month-over-month and 3.2 percent year-over-year, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Pending Home Sales report.

FHA seeks comment on drafted updates to borrower eligibility requirements

Thu, 28 May 2026 17:20:50 GMT

FHA seeks comment on drafted updates to borrower eligibility requirements - The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) posted a draft Mortgagee Letter for review and feedback which proposes new requirements for determining eligibility for borrowers with delinquent child support subject to federal administrative offset through an automated process.

Zillow seeks injunction in antitrust case against Chicagoland MLS, Compass

Mon, 25 May 2026 14:50:19 GMT

Zillow seeks injunction in antitrust case against Chicagoland MLS, Compass - Zillow filed a motion for preliminary injunction in its antitrust case against Midwest Real Estate Data (MRED) and Compass, arguing that the parties’ agreement to block Zillow’s access to MRED’s listing feeds would cause “irreparable harm.”

HUD secretary addresses budget proposal to end CDBG program

Mon, 25 May 2026 14:40:48 GMT

HUD secretary addresses budget proposal to end CDBG program - Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner addressed a proposed 2027 budget that ends the Community Development Block Grant program and the reasoning for HUD’s relocation in a statement before the Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

Make a Child Smile supports Kansas City children in foster care system

Mon, 25 May 2026 14:30:48 GMT

Make a Child Smile supports Kansas City children in foster care system - Attendees at this year’s National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) had the opportunity to bring comfort to Kansas City area children in the family court system through the annual Make a Child Smile community outreach event, sponsored by Qualia.

NAREB urges FHA to eliminate spousal debt requirements in mortgage applications

Mon, 25 May 2026 14:20:10 GMT

NAREB urges FHA to eliminate spousal debt requirements in mortgage applications - The National Association of Real Estate Brokers issued a call to action urging the Federal Housing Administration to eliminate outdated underwriting rules that require non-borrowing spouses’ debts to be included on mortgage applications.

HUD proposes rule to remove ‘gender identity’ from equal access regulations

Mon, 25 May 2026 14:10:22 GMT

HUD proposes rule to remove ‘gender identity’ from equal access regulations - The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced a proposed rule that would revise its equal access regulations to better align with an executive order that instructed agencies to amend agency documents, including regulations, to use the term “sex” instead of “gender.”

Representative introduces ‘GUIDANCE Act’ to restore CFPB protections

Mon, 25 May 2026 14:00:59 GMT

Representative introduces ‘GUIDANCE Act’ to restore CFPB protections - Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) announced a list of Congressional Review Act resolutions to restore critical Consumer Financial Protection Bureau guidance that were rescinded by the bureau’s acting director.

RESPert Holly Bunting talks RESPA litigation risk

Sun, 17 May 2026 22:14:39 GMT

RESPert Holly Bunting talks RESPA litigation risk - When asked what types of RESPA claims are gaining traction in class actions, RESPA expert Holly Bunting emphasized the focus on relationships between real estate brokers and mortgage lenders.

Rocket Mortgage sues UWM for $100M, alleging prohibited solicitation activity

Sun, 17 May 2026 21:20:58 GMT

Rocket Mortgage sues UWM for $100M, alleging prohibited solicitation activity - Rocket Mortgage LLC filed a lawsuit against United Wholesale Mortgage, LLC (UWM), alleging that UWM breached a non-solicitation agreement and cost Rocket millions of dollars.

Industry innovators, leaders to take the stage in Kansas City for NS3

Sun, 17 May 2026 21:00:38 GMT

Industry innovators, leaders to take the stage in Kansas City for NS3 - More than 40 speakers will take the stage over three days this week at the National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown in Kansas City, Mo.

CFPB appeals case about agency funding while lawmakers seek to roll back regulatory changes

Sun, 17 May 2026 20:19:34 GMT

CFPB appeals case about agency funding while lawmakers seek to roll back regulatory changes - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau submitted a notice of appeal challenging a lower court’s summary judgment in the case of Rise Economy, et al. v. Russell Vought, et al., regarding agency funding. A few days later, lawmakers voted on joint resolutions of disapproval seeking to roll back changes to the bureau’s regulatory guidance.

Representatives announce updated 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act

Sun, 17 May 2026 20:00:25 GMT

Representatives announce updated 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act - Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) announced that she and Chairman French Hill (R-Ariz.) reached a new bipartisan agreement to pass an improved version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act to the Senate.

Zillow sues Chicagoland MLS, Compass, alleging anticompetitive practices

Thu, 14 May 2026 17:27:54 GMT

Zillow sues Chicagoland MLS, Compass, alleging anticompetitive practices - Zillow Group, Inc. filed an antitrust and anticompetitive lawsuit against Midwest Real Estate Data LLC (MRED) and Compass Illinois, Inc., alleging that the parties conspired to compel Zillow to display their private listing network listings.

Report: Mortgage lock activity cools after strong Q1

Thu, 14 May 2026 17:14:56 GMT

Report: Mortgage lock activity cools after strong Q1 - Optimal Blue’s April 2026 Market Advantage mortgage data report found that mortgage lock activity pulled back after a strong first quarter but increased year-over-year.

What do lenders, builders and consumers really want?

Thu, 14 May 2026 17:06:39 GMT

What do lenders, builders and consumers really want? -

The housing industry has weathered plenty of turbulence in recent years, and no one feels it more than industry professionals and consumers trying to navigate affordability pressures, inventory shortages and an ever-shifting rate environment.

A session titled, “The Referral Equation: What Lenders, Homebuilders and Consumers Expect Today,” will put that consumer experience front and center during the 2026 National Settlement Services Summit in Kansas City, Mo., May 19-21, presented by October Research. The session is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, at 9 a.m.

Mortgage servicer urged to ensure compliance with anti-noncompete law

Thu, 14 May 2026 17:03:26 GMT

Mortgage servicer urged to ensure compliance with anti-noncompete law - A Pennsylvania-based national mortgage services provider was sent a formal warning letter by the Federal Trade Commission asking the company to ensure compliance with laws banning noncompete agreements for employees.

California governor appoints former CFPB director as secretary of new consumer services agency

Thu, 14 May 2026 16:55:52 GMT

California governor appoints former CFPB director as secretary of new consumer services agency - Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.) appointed Rohit Chopra as secretary of California’s new Business and Consumer Services Agency, bringing one of the nation’s most prominent consumer protection leaders to California state government.

Veterans United says amended class action ‘adds volume, not substance’

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:18:46 GMT

Veterans United says amended class action ‘adds volume, not substance’ - Veterans filed an amended class action complaint in their antitrust suit against Veterans United Home Loans, alleging three new violations of state consumer protection laws. RESPA News reached out to Veterans United for comment.

Borrowers allege lender breached 2021 settlement agreement

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:09:01 GMT

Borrowers allege lenders breached 2021 settlement agreement - Two borrowers filed civil action against Rushmore Loan Management Services LLC and Nationstar Mortgage LLC, alleging that the lenders violated a 2021 settlement agreement.

DOJ secures $500K settlement in fair housing suit

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:03:42 GMT

DOJ secures $500K settlement in fair housing suit - The Department of Justice announced that a Kentucky owner and manager of residential rental properties agreed to pay $510,000 to resolve allegations that he violated the Fair Housing Act.

HUD’s proposed rule on mixed-status households could cost housing providers millions, non-profit says

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:00:24 GMT

HUD’s proposed rule on mixed-status households could cost housing providers millions, non-profit says - The National Low Income Housing Coalition said the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) proposed rule that would require proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible status for every resident in HUD-funded housing would “force housing providers to consider harrowing cost-cutting options.”

Ginnie Mae mortgage servicer and tech company announce partnership

Mon, 11 May 2026 15:55:24 GMT

Ginnie Mae mortgage servicer and tech company announce partnership - Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC, and Valon Technologies, Inc., announced a strategic partnership on May 7 to advance the next generation of Ginnie Mae servicing technology.

HUD takes over Little Rock public housing authority

Mon, 11 May 2026 15:46:48 GMT

HUD takes over Little Rock public housing authority - The Department of Housing and Urban Development took possession of the City of Little Rock Housing Authority in Arkansas after declaring the agency was in substantial default for failing to meet occupancy standards.

Nationstar sued for RESPA violations, escrow mismanagement

Thu, 07 May 2026 13:55:15 GMT

Nationstar sued for RESPA violations, escrow mismanagement - A borrower filed a civil complaint against Nationstar Mortgage LLC for allegedly violating RESPA by failing to respond to several qualified written requests in a timely manner and failing to properly disburse tax payments from an escrow account.

Experts analyze essential tech stacks, workflows for successful AfBA

Wed, 06 May 2026 18:34:56 GMT

Experts analyze essential tech stacks, workflows for successful AfBA - The first 90 days of operations are critical to establishing a successful affiliated business arrangement (AfBA). A panel of experts discussed the essentials for a new AfBA’s workflow and tech stack.

HUD’s contested homelessness reforms move forward

Wed, 06 May 2026 18:29:28 GMT

HUD’s contested homelessness reforms move forward - The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced that homelessness-related service providers can expect the 2026 Continuum of Care Notice of Funding Opportunity to be published by June 1. Proposed reforms to the program faced opposition in lawsuits filed by state attorneys general and by nonprofit organizations.

DOJ secures ‘second-largest ever’ settlement in FHA, discrimination case

Wed, 06 May 2026 18:23:43 GMT

DOJ secures ‘second-largest ever’ settlement in FHA, discrimination case - The Department of Justice secured a $750,000 settlement that resolved allegations of Fair Housing Act violations regarding the failure to provide reasonable accommodation. The settlement is the “second-largest ever obtained by the department in an individual housing discrimination case.”

FHA updates environmental requirements for multifamily developments

Wed, 06 May 2026 18:20:09 GMT

FHA updates environmental requirements for multifamily developments - The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) issued a mortgagee letter to streamline requirements for lenders and developers seeking FHA-insured financing by removing outdated provisions that have increased costs.

Court dismisses Colony Ridge settlement, citing lack of consumer benefit

Mon, 04 May 2026 16:43:58 GMT

Court dismisses Colony Ridge settlement, citing lack of consumer benefit - A U.S. district court granted the Department of Justice-Colony Ridge’s joint motion to dismiss their settlement, emphasizing the agreement had no benefit for the consumers allegedly harmed.

State AG steps up enforcement of federally terminated redlining consent order

Mon, 04 May 2026 16:35:12 GMT

State AG steps up enforcement of federally terminated redlining consent order - The attorney general of New Jersey announced that her office and the Division on Civil Rights were renewing their enforcement focus on protecting residents from housing discrimination and that an amendment to the 2022 redlining settlement with Trident Mortgage LP had been secured.

HUD, USDA rescind ‘burdensome’ building codes to increase housing supply

Mon, 04 May 2026 16:26:45 GMT

HUD, USDA rescind ‘burdensome’ building codes to increase housing supply - The Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Agriculture announced the recission of building code requirements that add $20,000 to construction costs. Some trade groups expressed their support for the effort to promote new construction and increase the housing supply.

Court considers validity of communications as QWRs

Mon, 04 May 2026 16:15:35 GMT

Court considers validity of communications as QWRs - A borrower sued his mortgage servicer, alleging RESPA, Regulation X and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act violations. The servicer argued that it was not a debt collector and that the borrower did not submit a valid qualified written request.

Senators demand HUD enforce disparate impact under the FHA

Mon, 04 May 2026 16:07:03 GMT

Senators demand HUD enforce disparate impact under the FHA - Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led 31 senators in a comment letter to the Department of Housing and Urban Development opposing the rollback of a civil rights regulation implementing the disparate impact standard in housing.

RESPerts to talk regulatory changes at NS3

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 15:38:08 GMT

RESPerts to talk regulatory changes at NS3 - RESPA experts will be joining us at the National Settlement Services Summit on May 19-21 in Kansas City, Mo., to share insights on the regulatory changes that are reshaping the industry in a session entitled “The Federal Shift.”

CFPB amends ECOA, limiting use of disparate impact claims

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 15:20:10 GMT

CFPB amends ECOA, limiting use of disparate impact claims - A former Consumer Financial Protection Bureau counsel said some amendments the bureau made to the Equal Credit Opportunity Act regarding disparate impact appeared to address the agency’s concerns with the Townstone Financial redlining lawsuit.

HUD guidance clarifies that sharing school quality, crime data doesn’t violate FHA

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 15:16:13 GMT

HUD guidance clarifies that sharing school quality, crime data doesn’t violate FHA -

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development issued guidance to real estate professionals, clarifying that providing neighborhood crime rates and school quality data to prospective homebuyers is not a violation of the Fair Housing Act.

Another real estate company added to Zillow class action

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 15:11:09 GMT

Another real estate company added to Zillow class action - In a recent filing, the plaintiffs of Taylor v. Zillow sought to add EXP Realty LLC as a real estate defendant, as well as add another plaintiff to their case.

Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae add VantageScore to credit score framework

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:58:55 GMT

Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae add VantageScore to credit score framework - Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae announced that it is implementing new credit score models as part of a joint effort to create a “modernized and more competitive” framework for mortgage underwriting.

Congress members demand answers on CFPB’s early termination of $25M Citibank consent order

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:55:32 GMT

Congress members demand answers on CFPB’s early termination of $25M Citibank consent order - Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) led a letter requesting answers on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s cancellation of a $25 million settlement with Citibank which addressed alleged discrimination against consumers.

RESPert Kim Morris says RESPA needs an updated perspective, not a new mission

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:37:07 GMT

RESPert Kim Morris says RESPA needs an updated perspective, not a new mission - As part of a monthly feature, RESPA News reached out to Kim Morris, one of the crafters of the 1990 revision to RESPA, to hear her take on RESPA’s creation and its relevancy today.

Did the NAR settlement impact commission trends, ‘pocket listings’?

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:29:28 GMT

Did the NAR settlement impact commission trends, ‘pocket listings’? - A recent study investigated the impact of the National Association of Realtors settlement on first-time homebuyers, particularly regarding changes in buyer’s agent commission trends and the emergence of “pocket listings.”

State AGs, MBA comment on CFPB’s recent strategic plan draft

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:22:09 GMT

State AGs, MBA comment on CFPB’s recent strategic plan draft - Over 20 state attorneys general signed a letter of comment sent to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau regarding its recent strategic plan draft, raising concerns about its ability to perform its statutory duties with a reduction in staff. The Mortgage Bankers Association also sent a letter, offering recommendations to further the bureau’s goal to provide regulatory relief.

Pending home sales rose in March

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:17:50 GMT

Pending home sales rose in March - Pending home sales in March increased by 1.5 percent from February and declined 1.1 percent year-over-year, according to the National Association of Realtors Pending Home Sales report.

NAR provides quarterly update on its strategic plan

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:12:39 GMT

NAR provides quarterly update on its strategic plan - The National Association of Realtors released its first quarterly update on the 2026-2028 strategic plan, highlighting its collaborations with multiple listing services.

DOJ, Colony Ridge enter out-of-court settlement

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:47:21 GMT

DOJ, Colony Ridge enter out-of-court settlement - Following a court hearing, the Department of Justice and lender and developer Colony Ridge, Inc. filed a joint stipulation of dismissal of their $68 million settlement agreement. RESPA News reached out to Sasha Samberg-Champion of the National Fair Housing Alliance, who spoke at the hearing, for comment.

President’s 2026 Economic Report highlights impact of deregulation on housing supply

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:30:39 GMT

President’s 2026 Economic Report highlights impact of deregulation on housing supply -

The Council of Economic Advisors announced the release of the 2026 Economic Report of the President, which addressed the steps the president has taken to reduce regulatory burdens, increase housing supply and make homeownership more accessible.

OMB director tells House committee some CDFIs push ‘harmful ideology’

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:23:53 GMT

OMB director tells House committee some CDFIs push ‘harmful ideology’ -

The House Budget Committee held a hearing on the president’s fiscal year 2027 budget request in which the Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought addressed Community Development Financial Institution funding.

FHA reiterates requirements for contacting borrowers in default

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:12:42 GMT

FHA reiterates requirements for contacting borrowers in default - The Federal Housing Administration reiterated in a release its requirements regarding initial occupancy verification and borrower contact methods for mortgages in default.

Report: Urgency in homebuying process impacts buyer psychology

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:03:45 GMT

Report: Urgency in homebuying process impacts buyer psychology - ServiceLink released its 2026 State of Homebuying Report which examines the psychological experience of recent homebuyers, finding that some buyers thought the process felt “high-stakes, fast-moving and uncertain, with pressure to make the right choice.”

Senators raise concerns about consumer data privacy in wake of CFPB’s rule recissions

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:55:40 GMT

Senators raise concerns about consumer data privacy in wake of CFPB’s rule recissions - Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) announced that she is leading a joint resolution of disapproval of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s decision to end a rule for financial institutions that aimed to keep sensitive data secure, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Elon Musk about his new payments platform, X Money.

RESPerts analyze state AGs' current approach to RESPA enforcement

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:33:15 GMT

RESPerts analyze state AGs current approach to RESPA enforcement -

RESPA experts analyzed state enforcement and current litigation at RESPRO’s spring conference, discussing the approach of attorneys general in RESPA enforcement and what to look out for with joint ventures.

NAR takes first step to modernize its governance model

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:29:08 GMT

NAR takes first step to modernize its governance model - The National Association of Realtors announced a set of governance changes designed to modernize its committee structure, reduce duplication and better align with industry priorities.

HUD withdraws fair housing guidance documents

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:55:22 GMT

HUD withdraws fair housing guidance documents - The Department of Housing and Urban Development published a notice on the Federal Register announcing the withdrawal of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity guidance documents.

Veterans United moves to dismiss RESPA class action

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:52:40 GMT

Veterans United moves to dismiss RESPA class action - Veterans United Home Loans and Veterans United Realty filed a motion to dismiss a RESPA class action that alleged consumer steering, arguing that the plaintiffs failed to state a claim under RESPA.

HUD announces over $1B for affordable housing in tribal communities

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:49:35 GMT

HUD announces over $1B for affordable housing in tribal communities - The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Native American Programs announced over $1.1 billion in Indian Housing Block Grant funding.

UPDATED: NAR enters $52M settlement in antitrust class action

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:58:00 GMT

UPDATED: NAR enters $52M settlement in antitrust class action - National Association of Realtors (NAR) CEO Nykia Wright said the settlement of Tuccori et al. v. At World Properties et al., a 2024 antitrust class action centered on buyer-agent commissions, provides a broader level of protection for the industry than any previous NAR settlement.

State regulator intends to fine mortgage servicer $4M for alleged repeat violations

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:50:37 GMT

State regulator intends to fine mortgage servicer $4M for alleged repeat violations - A mortgage servicer faces a $4.2 million fine from the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions. It’s one of the most significant fines the department has sought outside of multi-state enforcement actions.

Court considers validity of RESPA, loss mitigation violations

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:41:06 GMT

Court considers validity of RESPA, loss mitigation violations - A borrower sued her mortgage servicer, alleging breach of contract, negligence and RESPA violations. The servicer moved to dismiss, arguing that the borrower breached the contract first and that she failed to allege actual damages under RESPA.

Fannie Mae issues AI guidance for mortgage origination, servicing

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:33:27 GMT

Fannie Mae issues AI guidance for mortgage origination, servicing -

Fannie Mae issued governance framework in a recent lender letter regarding the use of artificial intelligence in mortgage origination and servicing practices.

MBA report examines borrower outcomes following pandemic relief program

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:24:40 GMT

MBA report examines borrower outcomes following pandemic relief program -

The Mortgage Bankers Association’s Research Institute for Housing America released a report examining the impact of the $10 billion Homeowner Assistance Fund, a federal program launched in 2021 to support homeowners affected by the pandemic.

Senators introduce act to spur homeownership in rural areas

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:18:17 GMT

Senators introduce act to spur homeownership in rural areas - Sens. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) introduced bipartisan legislation that aims to support rural economic growth by helping more homebuyers qualify for rural housing assistance.

NAR enters $52M settlement in antitrust class action

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 20:09:10 GMT

REPSA attorneys talk compliant referral source compensation

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:42:22 GMT

REPSA attorneys talk compliant referral source compensation - A panel of RESPA attorneys discussed compliant strategies to compensate referral sources at RESPRO’s spring conference, emphasizing the benefits of joint ventures and affiliated business arrangements when done correctly.

NWMLS alleges Compass’s ‘coming soon’ listings deceive consumers

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:38:04 GMT

NWMLS alleges Compass’s ‘coming soon’ listings deceive consumers - In Compass, Inc. and Compass Washington, LLC v. Northwest Multiple Listing Services (NWMLS), defendant NWMLS filed a counterclaim, arguing that Compass’s private and “coming soon” listings deceive consumers, devalue NWMLS’s offerings and will soon violate state law.

Rocket moves to dismiss RESPA class action

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:34:33 GMT

Rocket moves to dismiss RESPA class action - In its motion to dismiss a class action alleging RESPA violations, Rocket Companies argued that the plaintiffs failed to state a claim.

New Ohio law requires fair housing disclosure to homesellers

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:28:18 GMT

New Ohio law requires fair housing disclosure to homesellers -

A new Ohio law that went into effect on April 3 requires real estate professionals to provide a fair housing disclosure form to sellers prior to marketing the property.

HUD announces $56M in available grants in new NOFO

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:25:08 GMT

HUD announces $56M in available grants in new NOFO - The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office of Housing Counseling announced the availability of over $56 million of funding through a new Notice of Funding Opportunity. HUD plans to award grants to around 175 housing counseling agencies, organizations and training partners.

Plaintiffs reach $8.5M settlement with RE/MAX in Batton class action

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 17:04:22 GMT

Plaintiffs reach $8.5M settlement with RE/MAX in Batton class action - The plaintiffs in the class action homebuyer commission lawsuit Mya Batton et al. v. National Association of Realtors et al. filed in support of the motion for preliminary approval of an $8.5 million settlement with RE/MAX, LLC.

CFPB argues new RIF should be allowed under NTEU injunction

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:59:21 GMT

CFPB argues new RIF should be allowed under NTEU injunction - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) filed a motion to modify the stay pending appeal in NTEU v. CFPB, arguing that CFPB adopted a new reduction in force plan that addresses the plaintiffs’ concerns.

CMLS addresses ‘coming soon’ listings

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:56:39 GMT

CMLS addresses ‘coming soon’ listings - The Council of Multiple Listing Services released a statement of support for consumer transparency and brokerage competition following the announcement of Zillow’s pre-market listings.

CFPB requests comments on information collection practices

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:53:50 GMT

CFPB requests comments on information collection practices - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau published a request for comments regarding information collection activities and ways to minimize the burden of collection.

CFPB’s draft of FY26-30 strategic plan emphasizes deregulation

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:50:56 GMT

CFPB’s draft of FY26-30 strategic plan emphasizes deregulation - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau released a draft of its four-year strategic plan, aiming to address threats to consumers, reduce regulatory burdens and strengthen the bureau’s governance.

Senator expresses concern about zombie mortgage-related foreclosures

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:44:16 GMT

Senator expresses concern about zombie mortgage-related foreclosures - Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, expressing concerns that banks are attempting to foreclose on families based on second mortgages that many homeowners believed were canceled, so-called “zombie mortgages.”

MBA announces new director of associate membership

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:18:11 GMT

MBA announces new director of associate membership -

The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) announced that Jill Ranck has joined the association as director of associate membership. In this role, Ranck will support members' business efforts while developing and executing strategies to strengthen their engagement with MBA.

Court grants stay of discovery in Zillow class action

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 17:00:33 GMT

Court grants stay of discovery in Zillow class action - A U.S. district court granted Zillow’s motion to stay discovery and case deadlines in the class action Taylor v. Zillow.

NAR provides compliance checklist for ‘coming soon’ listings

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:56:56 GMT

NAR provides compliance checklist for ‘coming soon’ listings - The National Association of Realtors (NAR) released a statement on “coming soon” listings and supplied a checklist for multiple listing service policy compliance.

Court considers servicer responsibility in responding to NOEs vs. RFIs

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:50:10 GMT

Court considers servicer responsibility in responding to NOEs vs. RFIs - A borrower sued his mortgage servicer, alleging RESPA, Truth in Lending Act and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act violations. The servicer filed a motion to dismiss, arguing the borrower failed to adequately plead damages.

Lenders report growing interest in non-traditional homes, down payment assistance programs

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:46:06 GMT

Lenders report growing interest in non-traditional homes, down payment assistance programs - HomeLight released its Lender Insights & Predictions report for the second quarter of 2026, which reported an increase in foreclosure activity.

HUD launches fair housing investigation into Washington housing program

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:42:16 GMT

HUD launches fair housing investigation into Washington housing program - The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity notified the Washington State Housing Finance Commission that it has launched an investigation into the state’s Covenant Homeownership Program.