Starting March 5, credit bureaus can no longer sell trigger leads, a significant change in the mortgage industry that affects how lenders and servicers interact with borrowers. This change is part of a larger effort to protect consumer data and reduce unwanted solicitations, and it means that borrowers will no longer receive dozens of calls from lenders and servicers after applying for a mortgage and having their credit pulled.
The practice of selling trigger leads has been a longstanding issue in the mortgage industry, with many borrowers complaining about the numerous calls and solicitations they receive after applying for a mortgage. The change, which is mandated by law, aims to reduce this problem and give borrowers more control over their personal data. According to Mortgage Bankers Association, the costs that lenders incur in providing financing for homes are often passed on to borrowers, which can affect affordability.
The mortgage industry is also facing other changes, including updates to conforming loan limits and the introduction of new verification and waterfall products. Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation and other lenders are reminding clients that online forms and third-party sites can still resell their information, so it’s essential for borrowers to be cautious about where they click and what information they share. Meanwhile, industry experts are calling on the Administration to lower loan level price adjustments (LLPAs) and guarantee fees (GFs) to make homeownership more affordable.
The issue of affordability is a pressing concern in the mortgage industry, with many borrowers struggling to access financing due to high costs and strict lending standards. According to a recent podcast sponsored by FirstClose, a leading home equity technology platform, many financially stable, middle-income households are being priced out of homeownership in major metros due to lack of access, prompting relocations to smaller regional hubs. This trend is evident in data from MakeMyMove, which shows that many households are seeking more affordable housing options in smaller cities.
| Category | Change | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger Leads | No longer sold by credit bureaus | March 5 |
| Conforming Loan Limits | Updated to reflect market changes | March 5 |
| Verification and Waterfall Products | New products introduced to streamline processing | March 5 |
Looking ahead, the changes to trigger leads and conforming loan limits are expected to have a significant impact on the mortgage industry, with lenders and servicers adapting to the new rules and regulations. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see further updates and changes aimed at improving affordability and access to financing for homeowners.
⚡ Why it matters: The changes to trigger leads and conforming loan limits are crucial for borrowers and lenders, as they aim to improve affordability and reduce unwanted solicitations.
📊 By the numbers:
March 5: Effective date for changes to trigger leads and conforming loan limits
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🔗 Source: [Original source]*