Good Morning! Today is Monday, January 8. Israel killed a Hezbollah commander in attacks on southern Lebanon. Two journalists were also killed in an Israeli airstrike. Congressional leaders reached a spending deal to avert a partial government shutdown.
The Mortgage Note Reports
Gravy Joins Clever: Clever Real Estate has acquired Gravy Technologies, a startup that promotes homebuying and offers loyalty-as-a-service to lenders and agents.
Confidence Boost: Cooling rates are giving Americans a rosier view of 2024’s housing market, sparking optimism despite overall dour feelings about affordability.
Listen To Our Podcast: It’s time to shake off 2023 and move into 2024 with a fresh perspective. Editor Kimberley Haas spoke with industry leaders who have tips for finding success in the new year and insights into the latest technology.
In other mortgage and housing news…
Best-Of Awards: NerdWallet named Flagstar Bank the best overall mortgage lender for 2024, while PNC Bank swept the most award categories.
Bad Prospects: Last week’s strong employment report dimmed the prospects of Fed rate cuts in 2024, but the bonds market remains optimistic ahead of other inflation data.
Rents Cool: The median U.S. asking rent fell 0.8% YOY in December to $1,964, the third consecutive decline, as vacancies force landlords to drop prices.
Is NAF Poaching?: Guaranteed Rate is suing New American Funding over poaching, saying it stole at least 30 employees via illegal loan officer compensation practices.
Put On Notice: UWM sent a cease and desist to a Facebook group called “Rocket Pro TPO vs. UWM,” warning it to not defame the company.
Company News: Opteon AMC released a short-term rental appraisal product; Evergreen Home Loans named Siara Jay Branch Manager for Enumclaw, WA.